NEWPORT –– Federal authorities in Vermont are seeking two additional defendants in a drug case that has already charged three individuals, including connections to the fatal shooting of Kayla Wright, 29, whose body was found in the Missisquoi River last month, according to a report by Mike Donoghue of Vermont News First.
Court documents, which remain sealed, were updated last Thursday to include the two new defendants, whose names have not been released. This announcement came as part of the broader case that already involved Jakiy Tramaine-Corey Keith, 24, of Troy, along with Thomas P. Rooney, 34, and Bryanna Fields Rooney, 29. The Rooneys were previously apprehended following a raid at their residence in Troy.
The case gained public attention with the mysterious death of Wright, a local Derby woman. Wright was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds, including a fatal head injury. Although no charges have been filed in connection to her death, the investigation continues.
Keith, also known by aliases “AB” and “Anthony Borrow,” faced a recent arraignment where he pleaded not guilty to four felony charges, including drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
In addition to the Rooneys’ earlier charges, the updated indictment implicates them in the drug trafficking conspiracy, involving cocaine and fentanyl distribution. The charges extend to the use of their property on Vermont 100 for drug-related activities.
The case against the defendants also includes allegations of coordinating to distribute cocaine and fentanyl across Vermont and other areas from December 2023 to early February. A specific count against Keith relates to using a firearm in drug trafficking activities.
As the case unfolds, Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher highlighted the substantial evidence gathered, including law enforcement reports, recordings, and a traffic stop involving Keith. The government is also pursuing the forfeiture of all drug proceeds, totaling over $11,000 seized during the investigation.
A deadline of June 10 has been set for the defense to review evidence and prepare for potential pre-trial motions. The multi-agency investigation, involving state and federal law enforcement, continues as authorities seek further insights into the circumstances surrounding Wright’s death and the broader drug trafficking operations.
