New Haven Man Charged with Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl Involved in Overdose Death

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DEVELL CONLEY, 31, of New Haven, was arrested yesterday and charged in a criminal complaint with distributing heroin and fentanyl.

This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

CONLEY appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A.L. Merriam in New Haven and was ordered detained.

As alleged in court documents, on May 5, 2017, the East Haven Police Department responded to a report of an untimely death of a 27-year-old female at a residence in East Haven. At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including three small bags that contained a substance that field-tested positive for the presence of fentanyl. Investigators also seized the victim’s cellphone. The investigation revealed that CONLEY had provided drugs to the victim shortly before her death.

The complaint charges CONLEY with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the East Haven, New Haven and West Haven Police Departments. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Caruso.