WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a New Castle County man pleaded guilty today to distribution of fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews accepted the plea.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Michael Younger, 45, came to the attention of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) due to evidence suggesting that Younger was the supplier of fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a person in early January 2021. While under investigation, Younger sold additional fentanyl to a government cooperator on February 4, 2021. During that transaction, Younger told the cooperator that another customer had died of an overdose after ingesting the defendant’s drugs, and, as a result, Younger had to change the stamp he used to brand his fentanyl. The government’s investigation revealed that the other customer did indeed die of an overdose in late January 2021. According to the plea agreement, the defendant is a career offender, meaning that Younger has two prior convictions for serious drug or violent felony offenses.
Younger faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison when sentenced on June 23, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “The proliferation of fentanyl continues to wreak havoc in Delaware communities. Fortunately, our law enforcement partners are dedicated to removing fentanyl and other illegal drugs from our streets. Through aggressive prosecution, education, and outreach, we can work together to hold drug dealers accountable and keep our communities safe.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh is prosecuting the case. The case is being investigated by the DEA together with the New Castle County Police Department.
The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to helping those who suffer from substance abuse. While COVID-19 has made access to drug addiction treatment more difficult for many, it need not remain a barrier. If you need help, drug treatment information is available any time through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Treatment Referral Routing Service, found online at dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/ or by dialing 1.888.545.2600. Don’t let the pandemic stop you from beginning treatment.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:22-cr-00004 (RGA).