The Maryland State Attorney’s Office has sentenced a man to the maximum prison term for distributing fentanyl disguised as oxycodone, resulting in the death of an individual.
Darrick Monte Evans faced a conviction for felony distribution of fentanyl when it was discovered that an individual who purchased what they believed to be oxycodone actually received fentanyl, according to the state attorney’s office.
The victim’s cause of death, according to the medical examiner’s office, was determined to be fentanyl intoxication. It was revealed by the state attorney’s office that the individual had purchased the mislabeled drug in March 2022.
According to the office, the victim’s phone records showed that there were text messages, phone calls, and transfers of funds made to Evans for the deal.
“There should be strict repercussions for individuals involved in the distribution of this lethal drug. Fentanyl, disguised as a prescription pill, poses a significant risk. In this heartbreaking incident, the Defendant’s unlawful behavior resulted in the loss of a precious life,” expressed State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling.
The state attorney’s office in Maryland has requested a maximum sentence of 20 years for the defendant, citing the severity of the crime. Although the state’s sentencing guidelines typically call for a 2-8 year sentence, the prosecutor is seeking a longer period of incarceration.
