Two Orrville men were indicted Wednesday on charges of selling fentanyl that resulted in a fatal overdose, law enforcement officials said.
Kenneth L. Johnson, 44, and Joseph N. Carpenter, 33, were indicted on one count of distribution of fentanyl.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Johnson and Carpenter on Dec. 2, 2016, met with Drew Eberly at 316 N. Ella Street in Orrville and sold him fentanyl. Eberly subsequently overdosed and died from the fentanyl.
Carpenter told investigators that he set up the sale in which Eberly purchased $20 worth of drugs from Johnson. On Dec. 3, Johnson was also accused of distributing fentanyl a second time.
The distribution of fentanyl charge carries a sentencing enhancement stipulation because the fentanyl they allegedly sold resulted in a death. Johnson faces an additional count of distribution of fentanyl.
The count carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years.
The case will be heard in federal court in Akron. No judge has been assigned yet.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Orrville Police Department, the Medina/Wayne County Drug Task Force (MEDWAY) and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Wayne County Coroner’s Office.
Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said prosecutors will continue to seek long prison sentences for drug dealers who sell opioids and aggressive prosecution, combined with increased treatment, prevention and changes in prescribing practices are key to turning the tide on the heroin and opioid epidemic.