NJ Man Convicted for Major Fentanyl and Heroin Distribution

Kenneth Strickland was found guilty of all charges in connection with a drug trafficking conspiracy in New Jersey.

NEWARK, N.J. -A Middlesex County man, Kenneth Strickland, 57, from New Brunswick, has been convicted of his involvement in a large-scale conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced that Strickland was found guilty on July 29, 2024, of all six counts in a superseding indictment. The charges include one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of heroin, along with five counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

After less than two hours of deliberation, the jury returned the guilty verdict, following an eight-day trial overseen by U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court. According to court documents and trial evidence, Strickland was part of a drug trafficking organization that operated from November 12, 2019, to June 30, 2020. This organization distributed large quantities of fentanyl in areas including Paterson and New Brunswick.

Strickland conducted 16 drug transactions with an undercover officer, selling significant amounts of fentanyl branded with labels such as “MY SHADOW,” “DEATH ROW,” and “VENOM.” These labels corresponded with the stamping tools found during lawful searches of locations in Paterson and Passaic associated with the organization. In these searches, over 350 grams of fentanyl and related drug paraphernalia were recovered.

The charge for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, along with a possible fine of $10 million. Each charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl could result in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $1 million. Strickland's sentencing is scheduled for December 12, 2024.