Arrest Made in Montgomery County Fentanyl Overdose Case

On October 18, 2023, the Montgomery County Narcotics Enforcement Team (MOCONET) responded to an unattended death at a residence on Magnolia Reserve Loop in Montgomery County. A 34-year-old male was found deceased, and evidence at the scene suggested a possible overdose from illicit narcotics. The subsequent autopsy confirmed the cause of death as the toxic effects of Fentanyl.

MOCONET’s investigation led to the identification of James Carter-Smith, Jr. as the individual responsible for supplying the Fentanyl. An arrest warrant was obtained, and on November 17, 2023, Carter-Smith Jr. was apprehended in Houston, TX, by the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force. He is charged with Murder for providing the substance that resulted in the victim’s death and is currently held without bond at the Montgomery County Jail.

Since 2019, MOCONET, in collaboration with the Houston High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), has been working to combat Fentanyl trafficking and its association with overdose deaths in Montgomery County. The recent passage of House Bill 6 during the 88th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature allows for the charge of “Fentanyl Murder” if someone supplies or distributes Fentanyl leading to death.

Several agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, contributed to the investigation.

Sheriff Rand Henderson expressed concern over the impact of Fentanyl on the community, praising MOCONET’s dedication to bringing individuals like Carter-Smith Jr. to justice. The sheriff emphasized the commitment to the safety and well-being of citizens and highlighted the importance of the recent arrest and legislative change in combating the use of Fentanyl.

David Martinez, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Houston field office, commended the collaboration with local law enforcement and affirmed the FBI’s commitment to utilizing resources and expertise to disrupt and root out violent criminals in neighborhoods.

The arrest of Carter-Smith Jr. and the legislative measures underscore the collective effort to address the devastating consequences of Fentanyl in the community and send a clear message that such acts will not go unpunished.