A Hooks, Texas resident, Henry Wayne Milligan, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison following his guilty plea for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. The case was presided over by U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III. Milligan had sold fake prescription pills believed to contain fentanyl, leading to a fatal overdose.
Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. announced the sentence, emphasizing the region's firm stance on tackling the distribution of dangerous drugs. “The Eastern District of Texas will continue to aggressively prosecute those who distribute deadly drugs such as fentanyl in our communities."
In court, it was revealed that Milligan's sale of these counterfeit pills resulted in the victim's death. Following an autopsy, it was confirmed that fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, was the cause. Milligan, upon arrest, admitted to his role in the matter.
Texarkana, Texas Police Department’s Public Information Officer Shawn Vaughn expressed gratitude towards the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their role in the case. "We sincerely appreciate the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in prosecuting this case."
The investigation was led by Detective Daniel Linn, whose work was praised for being crucial in identifying Milligan as the fentanyl supplier. The Texas Department of Public Safety provided significant assistance in resolving the investigation.
The DEA has issued a public safety alert highlighting an increase in fake prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine. Their One Pill Can Kill campaign aims to inform the public about the dangers of counterfeit medications. This initiative urges the public to rely on medications prescribed by healthcare professionals and dispensed by licensed pharmacists.
The case was handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations Division, the Texarkana Texas Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.