Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Andrew Byerly Birge, has announced the sentencing of two men involved in the April 2023 fentanyl mass poisoning incident in Kalamazoo County. James Smith, aged 42, received a 20-year federal prison sentence for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in death. Patrick Donald Martin, aged 27, was sentenced to four years for using a communication facility to commit conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in death.
“The distribution of fentanyl continues to take lives and destroy our communities and families,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Birge. “The sentences imposed on the defendants in this case reflect the seriousness of their crimes.”
On April 12-13, 2023, law enforcement responded to numerous drug poisonings in Kalamazoo that led to several hospitalizations and fatalities. The investigation traced the drugs back to Martin and then Smith. Both believed they were selling cocaine but instead sold a substance containing fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou commented on the inherent dangers of drug dealing during sentencing. She noted it was “inexplicable” that Smith continued his activities even after being aware of the consequences from the April incident.
“April 13, 2023, was a sad day in Kalamazoo County,” said Captain Mike Ferguson from the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team/Crime Reduction Team. He expressed hope that these sentences provide some closure and serve as a warning against drug peddling.
Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Detroit Field Division added: “While these sentences cannot undo the tragic loss of life we witnessed in Kalamazoo in 2023, it sends a message that we will employ every resource to make sure those responsible for drug-related deaths face consequences.”
Support services are available for individuals experiencing substance use disorder through various organizations including SAMHSA Helpline and Cope Network among others.
This case involved investigations by multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration and local police departments.
