Severn Man Sentenced To Over 5 Years For Selling Thousands Of Fentanyl Pills In D.C. - The BayNet

Derek Gaines, a 37-year-old resident of Severn, Maryland, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for his involvement in the distribution of fentanyl pills and cocaine. The sentencing, announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and other law enforcement officials, follows Gaines' guilty plea for unlawfully distributing over 40 grams of fentanyl. In addition to his prison term, he will also serve four years of supervised release.

Court documents reveal that Gaines engaged in multiple drug transactions with a confidential informant (CI) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The first transaction occurred on April 4, 2024, when the CI arranged to purchase two ounces of cocaine and fentanyl pills from Gaines. During the meeting, Gaines handed over the drugs in exchange for $4,000, with subsequent analysis confirming the substances involved.

Gaines continued to sell narcotics to the CI, with another transaction occurring on June 6, 2024, where he exchanged more cocaine and fentanyl pills for $6,500. A later sale on July 23, 2024, involved Gaines selling 2,000 fentanyl pills for $8,000, further solidifying his role in the distribution of these dangerous drugs.

Law enforcement efforts culminated in Gaines’ arrest on August 29, 2024, following a thorough investigation by the ATF and assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The investigation highlighted the significant risks of fentanyl distribution and the collaborative approach required to combat drug-related offenses.

The case underscores the ongoing challenges authorities face in addressing the opioid crisis and the importance of vigilant law enforcement partnerships in combating drug trafficking. The prosecution, handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emory V. Cole, reflects the commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting communities from the perils of illegal drug sales.