A Hilliard man stands accused of dealing a fatal dose of fentanyl, as a second superseding indictment was announced by the Department of Justice yesterday. 37-year-old Raymond A. McGhee, also known by the names “Red” and “Draco,” has been charged with both the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and additional counts, including drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The distribution charge alone carries a severe penalty of 20 years to life in prison if convicted.
The charges stem from a February 22nd incident, wherein McGhee allegedly distributed fentanyl that led to an overdose death. This indictment adds to previous charges from April, following a traffic stop by Columbus patrol officers. According to the U.S. Department of Justice announcement, McGhee was found with a hidden pistol and a sock laden with fentanyl and cocaine under the carpet of the vehicle's passenger side floorboard.
Officials, including United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Dominick S. Gerace II, Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco from the ATF, and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant, have all been involved in the announcement of the charges against McGhee. The case is represented by Assistant United States Attorneys Noah R. Litton and Jennifer M. Rausch.
While these charges are severe, it is essential to remember the principle that an indictment is not a conviction, and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The indictment is a collection of allegations, and it will be the responsibility of the justice system to determine McGhee's guilt, basing that decision on forthcoming evidence and legal proceedings.
