By Steve Neavling
The kingpin of a nationwide fentanyl distribution ring was sentenced to 22 years in prison after being convicted on drug trafficking charges, the Justice Department announced Wednesday.
Maurice Montain McCoy, Jr., 41, of Moreno Valley, Calif., was the leader of an organization with international ties that sold fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine across the country.
McCoy was busted after the DEA tracked down the source of a Sony PlayStation box that was used to deliver heroin. Using the UPC code on the box, agents traced its origins to a condo in Novi, Mich., which was used as a stash house.
DEA agents raided the condo in July 2017.
At the time, it was the largest fentanyl bust in Michigan history and one of the largest in the U.S.
“Fentanyl is now the leading cause of overdose deaths,” U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison said. “The number of lives saved by this seizure is inestimable. Our office will hold drug traffickers accountable for exposing our community to dangerous drugs.”
Agents also busted couriers and large-scale drug customers, who were eventually indicted and have pleaded guilty.
McCoy previously served 10 years in prison for a drug conviction in California.
“The sentencing of Mr. McCoy should serve as a reminder to those who choose to traffic poison in our communities, that they will be held accountable,” Orville O. Greene, special agent in charge of DEA’s Detroit Division, said. “Mr. McCoy, having served a prior term in federal prison, was well aware of the potential consequences of his actions. The DEA will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to target the sources of supply and their drug trafficking networks throughout the state of Michigan and elsewhere.”
