In a federal case that has shed light on the dark underbelly of drug trafficking in Stockton, two men have admitted their roles in a criminal enterprise dealing in pills laced with lethal substances. Jamaine Dontae Barnes, 42, pled guilty to charges including running a continuing criminal enterprise and illegal firearms possession, per a statement from the U.S. Attorney's office.

Kavieo Daeshaun Lee Wiley, 28, an associate of Barnes, also entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and firearm possession in relation to drug trafficking. From September 2015 through May 2019, the operation led by Barnes produced and sold thousands of counterfeit pills, some masquerading as prescription medications but containing dangerous synthetic opioids, like fentanyl and U-47700, and others imitating Ecstasy contain illicit stimulants such as methamphetamine. Pill presses and raw materials for production were reportedly sourced from China, and money was moved internationally as part of the scheme.

Investigative efforts including wiretaps revealed an extensive network, culminating in a raid that resulted in seizure of pill presses, drugs, and firearms. The crackdown on Barnes' organization has also led to guilty pleas from seven other defendants, with sentencing dates scheduled throughout the remainder of the year. According to U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert, "This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration," with numerous other federal and local entities providing critical support, as mentioned on U.S. Attorney's office. Jamar Deontae Barnes is still awaiting trial.

Barnes faces a minimum sentence of 25 years up to life in prison, with sentencing set for December, while Wiley's charges carry a mandatory minimum of 15 years, with his sentencing set for November of the same year. These sentences will be determined under federal guidelines, and by the discretion of U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd, while considering a variety of factors relating to the case.