Houston Man Linked to Three Fentanyl Deaths Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison

A 33-year-old Houston resident has been sentenced to 324 months (27 years) in federal prison after being convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced.

Fredrick Douglass Shelton pleaded guilty on Feb. 13. U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt handed down the sentence, which will be followed by five years of supervised release.

During the sentencing hearing, the court acknowledged the families of three individuals who died from fentanyl overdoses linked to Shelton. The judge commented on Shelton’s continued drug dealing after those deaths, noting he verbally warned customers that the drugs were “strong.” Judge Hoyt also expressed concern over Shelton’s criminal history and conduct, questioning whether there was any place Shelton could be safely housed.

“The defendant’s conduct in this case vividly illustrates his utter disregard for human life and the safety of others,” said U.S. Attorney Ganjei. “Not only was his fentanyl trafficking linked to three overdose deaths, but he also left a 10-month-old baby alone, surrounded by guns and drugs (including fentanyl), while he was out dealing.”

The investigation revealed Shelton sold large amounts of potent fentanyl to multiple individuals in the Houston area. As Shelton left his residence for another drug transaction, law enforcement conducted a search of his home. They found fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, narcotics packaging materials, and firearms scattered around the residence — including on scales, counters, and the floor.

Officers also discovered Shelton’s 10-month-old child left alone in the home, surrounded by the drugs and weapons.

Shelton remains in custody and will be transferred to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility at a later date.