In a case that highlights the ongoing battle against fentanyl distribution, two Colorado men have received federal prison sentences for their roles in a fentanyl-related death. Paul Barris, Jr., 40, of Telluride, and Michael Anthony Manners, 40, of Montrose, pleaded guilty to distribution of a controlled substance containing fentanyl resulting in death, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Barris Jr. will serve 141 months while Manners faces a 160-month term in federal prison.
Federal authorities, in September 2021, traced the fentanyl that led to a woman's overdose death back to Baris, who had purchased the drug with assistance from Manners. Following their guilty pleas, the two men were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gordon P. Gallagher, the gravity of their actions weighed heavily upon the scales of justice. Acting United States Attorney J. Bishop Grewell pointed to the case as a stark reminder of the administration's priority, combating the spread of fentanyl. "Stopping illicit fentanyl distribution is a priority for the Administration, the Department of Justice, and the U.S. Attorney's Office," Grewell stated, as obtained by the U.S. Department of Justice. "Our office will relentlessly pursue drug dealers to get this scourge off our streets."
In the courtroom, the narrative unfolded as the chain of custody for the lethal fentanyl was detailed, leading to equally fatal consequences for Barris Jr. and Manners. The Drug Enforcement Agency spearheaded the investigation into the overdose, setting the stage for Assistant United States Attorney R. Josh Player to manage the prosecution. These sentencing outcomes aim to be a deterrent in the widespread opioid epidemic that continues to claim American lives.
