Derris Mayberry, a 37-year-old resident of Denver, Colorado, has been found guilty by federal juries on charges related to firearms and drug distribution. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado confirmed the conviction on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of distribution of fentanyl.
The events leading to Mayberry's arrest unfolded on March 22, 2024. During an undercover operation near the Colorado State Capitol, a woman approached an officer offering "dope" and mentioned her ability to procure fentanyl pills, referred to as "blues." This led officers to an alley where they encountered Mayberry. An audio recording captured negotiations between the undercover officer and Mayberry regarding the price and quantity of fentanyl pills. The woman then completed a hand-to-hand transaction with Mayberry before handing four fentanyl pills to the officer in exchange for $20.
Shortly after this exchange, law enforcement apprehended Mayberry at a nearby bus stop. A pat-down search revealed a loaded .22 caliber revolver in his pocket. Due to previous felony convictions, Mayberry was legally prohibited from possessing firearms. Further searches yielded additional fentanyl pills and the marked $20 bill used by the undercover officer.
United States District Court Judge Daniel D. Domenico oversaw both trials. The investigation was conducted by the Denver Police Department VICE unit alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Prosecution efforts were led by Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore O’Brien and Celeste Rangel.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community organizations. Initiated on May 26, 2021, PSN emphasizes building community trust, supporting violence prevention initiatives, prioritizing strategic enforcement actions, and evaluating outcomes.
Mayberry awaits sentencing at a future date.