Masi Lenard Fears was sentenced on Apr. 21 to more than 14 years in federal prison for distributing a lethal mixture of fentanyl and xylazine, which resulted in one death and serious injury to another person, as well as possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
The case highlights the dangers posed by street-level drug transactions involving potent substances like fentanyl, which can be deadly even in small amounts. The prosecution underscores ongoing efforts by federal authorities to address threats related to drug trafficking and public safety.
“This case is a powerful reminder that fentanyl can be mixed into any substance and even a small amount can kill you,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Fears’ hand-to-hand drug transaction took a life, and the hefty sentence in this case should serve as a warning that even street-level deals can have deadly consequences that result in prison time.” Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Atlanta Field Division, said: “Selling lethal drugs disguised as something less dangerous is not just criminal, it’s deadly... This repeat offender knowingly distributed a toxic combination of fentanyl and xylazine, resulting in one death and another life forever changed. This sentence reflects the devastating impact of that deception and our unwavering commitment to justice.”
According to court information presented by Hertzberg, Fears sold two men what they believed was cocaine or heroin at a gas station in Conyers, Georgia for $20; however, it contained fentanyl and xylazine (known as "tranq"). One man died after using the substance while another suffered serious injuries. Police later arrested Fears—already convicted three times—who was found with drugs and a loaded handgun.
Chief R. Scott Freeman of the Conyers Police Department said: “We commend our federal partners for taking decisive action... This case sends a strong message to criminals who engage in drug trafficking and illegally possess firearms: we will not stand by while you commit crimes in our city.”
Fears pleaded guilty on January 6, 2026; restitution will be determined at a later date. The investigation involved both local police and federal agents under Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative aimed at addressing violent crime with resources from the Department of Justice.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia serves approximately 7.5 million residents across north Georgia mountains, Atlanta suburbs, and bordering states including Alabama and the Carolinas according to its official website. It coordinates cases with national or international dimensions according to its official website, prioritizes prosecution of threats such as terrorism or human trafficking according to its official website, enforces federal criminal laws while collaborating with law enforcement agencies according to its official website, serves as principal law enforcement agency according to its official website, with Theodore S. Hertzberg serving as United States Attorney according to its official website.
Broader implications include continued collaboration between local police departments like Conyers PD and federal authorities against illegal drug activity within communities served by this district.
