Michigan – Two individuals from Kalamazoo County have been given long federal prison sentences for their roles in a mass fentanyl poisoning in 2023 that killed seven people and sent numerous others to the hospital. Andrew Byerly Birge, the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, gave James Smith, 42, a 20-year sentence for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in death. Patrick Donald Martin, 27, was sentenced to four years for using a communication device to commit the same conspiracy.
According to the Department of Justice, The incident in question happened on April 12 and 13, 2023, when emergency workers in the Kalamazoo area rushed to deal with a dramatic spike in drug overdoses. The event overwhelmed local hospitals and devastated families. Authorities later verified that the material involved was laced with fentanyl, not cocaine as was first thought. Investigators quickly traced the source of the drugs to Martin and, ultimately, Smith.
Court records say that Smith and Martin said they didn’t know they were selling fentanyl, but it didn’t save them from harsh punishment. Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou made it clear throughout the sentencing that drug trading is never safe, especially now that fentanyl is everywhere. Judge Jarbou said it was “inexplicable” that Smith maintained selling narcotics even after he knew that his actions had led to a terrible mass poisoning.
“That tells me the consequences of your actions did not deter you,” she said before imposing the stiff sentence.
“The distribution of fentanyl continues to take lives and destroy our communities and families,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Birge. “The sentences imposed on the defendants in this case reflect the seriousness of their crimes. Our office will continue to support these investigations and prosecute these cases to seek accountability and justice for the victims.”
“April 13, 2023, was a sad day in Kalamazoo County,” said Captain Mike Ferguson, Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team/Crime Reduction Team. “We extend our condolences to the families who were deeply affected by this tragedy. Hopefully, these sentences will allow some closure to those involved. Additionally, this should send a message to drug dealers who continue to peddle deadly drugs in our community.”
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The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Andrew Lawton also weighed in, stating that while the sentences cannot bring back those lost, they show that law enforcement will use every tool available to ensure justice for victims of drug-related deaths.
For anyone struggling with substance use or seeking support for a loved one, local and national resources remain available, including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline and regional harm reduction services.
The case was the result of a multi-agency investigation by the DEA, local police departments, and the Michigan State Police, who worked together to bring those responsible to justice in the aftermath of one of the area’s most devastating fentanyl-related tragedies.