New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Distribution Charge Stemming from Shelton Overdose Death

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that COREY SENIOR, 26, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

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.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 27, 2017, the Shelton Police Department and emergency medical services responded to a Shelton residence after a report of a suspected drug overdose of a 34-year-old female.  The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including bags that appeared to have contained heroin, and a hypodermic needle.  Investigators also seized the victim’s cellphone.

On April 28, 2017, the victim’s cellphone received a text from SENIOR and an officer, posing as the victim, arranged to purchase heroin from SENIOR.  Shelton Police arrested SENIOR later that day after he arrived at the victim’s residence in possession of suspected heroin.

The investigation revealed that SENIOR had provided heroin to the victim shortly before the victim’s death.

SENIOR was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on May 16, 2017.

SENIOR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Shelton Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.