CHARGES:
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), (b)(1)(B) and 846, a Class A felony.
(2) Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B) and 846, a Class C felony.

Our client was arrested following an extensive federal investigation into an alleged drug trafficking operation spanning Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The United States Department of Homeland Security led the inquiry, utilizing multiple wire intercepts to charge our Client with conspiring to distribute over seven kilograms of cocaine and fentanyl. With federal sentencing guidelines threatening a mandatory ten-year prison sentence due to the drug weight, the stakes were high.

Attorney Kensley Barrett took immediate action, engaging in protracted negotiations with the federal government to secure a more favorable outcome. Through meticulous case analysis and strategic advocacy, Attorney Barrett successfully brokered a binding agreement removing the mandatory ten-year sentence. Under this agreement, the client's sentencing range was reduced to a minimum of five years (60 months) and a maximum of seven years (84 months) of incarceration—a significant departure from the initial sentencing guidelines.

At the sentencing hearing, the government pushed for the higher end of the range, seeking a 7-year sentence. However, Attorney Barrett presented a compelling argument emphasizing mitigating factors, the client's personal history, and legal precedent to advocate for the lowest possible sentence. His arguments prevailed, and the judge sided with the defense, imposing the mandatory minimum sentence of five years incarceration—the best possible outcome under the circumstances.

Further, as part of the negotiated agreement, the government agreed to dismiss Count 2 of the indictment related to fentanyl distribution, further reducing the severity of the client's legal exposure. This outcome not only shortened the client's incarceration period but also made them eligible for early release within a year based on earned credits and good behavior.

This case underscores the importance of experienced federal criminal defense representation. Attorney Barrett's strategic advocacy enabled our client to avoid a 10 to 11 year sentence, securing a significantly reduced term and a clearer path forward.

CASE RESULT: CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE COCAINE CHARGE REDUCED, CLIENT SENTENCED TO MINIMUM 5-YEAR TERM; CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE FENTANYL CHARGE DISMISSED on March 18th, 2025.

Practice area(s): Federal Criminal Defense, Drug Crimes

Court: United States District Court of Rhode Island