Federal prosecutors in Los Angeles have filed 20 criminal cases this year against alleged drug dealers accused of selling fentanyl that resulted in fatal overdoses. These cases are part of the OD Justice Task Force's ongoing efforts, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), to investigate deaths caused by fentanyl and identify those responsible for distributing the lethal substance.
The task force collaborates with local law enforcement agencies across seven counties within California's Central District. The DEA has trained local authorities to analyze evidence that could lead to federal prosecution following an overdose death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were approximately 80,391 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2024, most linked to fentanyl.
Since its inception in 2018, the OD Justice program has seen charges filed against 163 defendants for allegedly selling drugs leading to fatal fentanyl poisonings. The charge of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
One notable case is United States v. McDevitt, where Michael McDevitt from Simi Valley faces charges related to distributing fentanyl that led to a death in Ventura County. "McDevitt has pleaded not guilty," stated Assistant United States Attorney Blake Hannah.
In another case, Alexander Nihar Biswas from Loma Linda is charged with distributing fentanyl causing a death in San Bernardino County. He awaits trial on October 20 after pleading not guilty. Assistant United States Attorney Erin C. Kiss is handling this case.
Michel Joseph Abdallah from Laguna Niguel faces multiple charges related to two fatal overdoses involving fentanyl distribution. Abdallah remains in state custody awaiting arraignment on federal charges, as reported by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa J. Lindhorst.
Other individuals charged include Jesus Erick Casillas from Lancaster and Macey Delynn Putnam formerly from Torrance, both facing similar accusations related to fatal overdoses involving fentanyl distribution.
Each indictment remains an allegation until proven otherwise in court: "An indictment is merely an allegation," reads the press release, reminding readers that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.