BUFFALO, N.Y. — Ernest Green, also known by multiple aliases including Fire, Burn, and Dread, from North Tonawanda, NY, faces federal charges for distributing fentanyl leading to death, alongside conspiracy charges related to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Announced by U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross, this indictment carries a minimum sentence of 20 years, with the potential for life imprisonment.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler revealed that the indictment accuses Green of collaborating with others to distribute fentanyl and cocaine from 2019 until May 27, 2020. Notably, on May 27, 2020, Green’s actions purportedly resulted in the tragic deaths of three individuals, identified only by their initials: J.Y., T.M., and D.R.
Currently serving a 10-year federal sentence for a 2022 firearm possession conviction, Green faced arraignment today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.
U.S. Attorney Ross emphasized the lethal nature of fentanyl, cocaine, and other illegal narcotics, criticizing their distribution by individuals like Green, who show a disregard for human life. Ross affirmed the commitment of her office and law enforcement partners to pursue and prosecute those responsible for distributing these dangerous substances in the community.
Green is notably the fifth defendant within the past six months to be charged in relation to selling fentanyl and cocaine that has led to death or serious injury, highlighting an ongoing battle against drug-related fatalities in the region. Other individuals facing similar charges include Michael Paonessa, Darryl Sweat, Lloyd Smith, Jr., and Rashaun Cruel, each accused of distributing narcotics that have resulted in overdoses and fatalities.