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Press Release

Halifax Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Fentanyl and Gun Possession

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. – Elijah Tyler Thorne, 25, of Halifax County was sentenced to 87 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon after complaints of drug activity led to an investigation that uncovered drugs and illegal guns in Thorne’s residence. Thorne pled guilty to the charges on October 26, 2023.

“Thorne’s illicit fentanyl operation will no longer be a thorn in the side of Halifax County. This case is just one example of our strong partnership with local law enforcement to make our communities safer by getting fentanyl and illegal guns off of our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley.

“This successful prosecution represents the ongoing commitment of our local, state, and federal partners to identify the most dangerous and prolific offenders in Halifax County,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “It is crucial for us to concentrate our resources on those individuals who cause our community the greatest harm. We appreciate our law enforcement partners and look forward to our continued work together.”

According to court records and other evidence presented in court, numerous complaints of drug activity led to an investigation into Thorne. A search warrant executed on his residence recovered marijuana, fentanyl, flualprazolam pills (a Schedule I Controlled Substance), eutylone (a synthetic cathinone similar to MDMA), and MDMA pills.  Thorne was also found to be in possession of a handgun and a 50-round drum magazine. Thorne has previous felony convictions for robbery and drug possession, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm. 

Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart prosecuted the cases.

Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:21-CR-87-BO.

Updated February 26, 2024

Topics
Drug Trafficking
Firearms Offenses