Cordell Antonio Mendoza was sentenced on May 4 to 21 years in federal prison for selling fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose in Franklin County, North Carolina. Mendoza pleaded guilty on February 17 to conspiracy to sell and possess with intent to sell heroin and fentanyl, as well as distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.
The case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address the dangers posed by illegal drug sales in the community. According to investigators, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office found an individual dead from a drug overdose at his home in October 2024. Fentanyl labeled “Try This” was found on the victim, along with empty bindles marked “Dead on Arrival.” Authorities determined Mendoza sold the lethal dose just over an hour before the victim was discovered.
Two days after the incident, Mendoza spoke about a customer dying from using his product during a recorded call but indicated he would continue dealing drugs. In November 2024, law enforcement searched his residence and recovered more than one hundred bindles containing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.
“This sentence underscores the relentless efforts of federal and local law enforcement to deliver justice when drug trafficking leads to a tragic loss of life,” said Mark M. Zito, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in North and South Carolina. “The combined dedication of the FCSO, HSI, and the EDNC United States Attorney’s Office demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting the community. HSI will continue to pursue and hold accountable those dealers who knowingly distribute deadly fentanyl, recognizing the devastating impact these actions have on families and neighborhoods.”
Franklin County Sheriff Kevin White said: “The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has made addressing drug trafficking in our county a priority and this case and the results of it are proof that we can and will hold those individuals accountable for the tragedies they cause when dealing drugs that kill. I am grateful for our investigators and the relationships we have with HSI and the EDNC United States Attorney’s Office to partner together to enhance our efforts.”
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina (EDNC), announced Mendoza's sentencing after proceedings before Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II.
The U.S. Attorney for Eastern District of North Carolina handles federal criminal cases like this one across its jurisdiction covering forty-four counties through six courthouses including Raleigh, Fayetteville, Wilmington, New Bern, Greenville, and Elizabeth City; it employs attorneys as well as support staff working alongside law enforcement partners through initiatives such as Project Safe Neighborhoods according to its official website.
