PROVIDENCE — A Johnston man has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison Tuesday for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy that distributed enough of the drug to produce over two million lethal doses, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha announced.
Jonathan King, 33, admitted to federal charges of conspiracy to distribute and distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. handed down the sentence, which also includes five years of supervised release following his incarceration.
Cunha described King’s operation as a significant threat to public health in Rhode Island, emphasizing the state’s ongoing battle with opioid overdoses.
Cunha stated, “This prosecution, and today’s decade-long sentence should make one thing clear: we are determined to use every federal law enforcement tool at our disposal to stop combat significant opioid traffickers.”
Acting DEA Special Agent in Charge Stephen P. Belleau echoed the sentiment, remarking on the fentanyl crisis in Rhode Island and the importance of holding distributors accountable.
He assured that the DEA would continue to pursue Drug Trafficking Organizations vigorously.
King was also ordered to forfeit assets obtained through his illegal activities, including a Jaguar XF and $6,750 in cash, which were seized during his arrest on July 20, 2021.
It was investigated by the Rhode Island Drug Task Force, which includes members from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Cranston Police Department.
