A federal grand jury in Iowa has indicted five individuals on charges related to fentanyl trafficking, following an extensive investigation by local, state, and federal authorities. The arrests, carried out on December 18, 2024, also led to the seizure of significant amounts of drugs, firearms, and cash, marking a major breakthrough in efforts to combat the distribution of dangerous narcotics in the region.
The indictment in Des Moines charges Devonte Darnell Hassell, also known as “Domo,” “Dom,” and “Rose,” 28, with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl.
If convicted, Hassell faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison. Ryan Redmond, known as “Chiefy,” 31, faces similar charges and a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years with a maximum of 40 years in prison.
READ: Florida Man Arrested For Homicide In Fentanyl Overdose Death Of Key Largo Man
Kevin Stanley Harris Jr., referred to as “Rylo” and “Big Hands,” 42, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl.
Due to a prior drug felony conviction, Harris could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison if convicted.
Adonis Angel Devora, 43, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and faces up to 20 years in prison. Ricky Jamall Ellis, 30, is also charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and could face up to 30 years in prison.
The arrests and subsequent charges followed the execution of 13 federal search warrants across Des Moines and Houston, Texas, on the day of the arrests.
READ: Army National Guard Soldier From Louisiana Charged With Murder In Georgia Base Shooting
Law enforcement officials seized approximately 610 grams of a heroin/fentanyl mixture, 135 grams of methamphetamine, and 260 grams of marijuana. Additionally, authorities recovered 19 firearms and over $13,000 in cash believed to be connected to the illegal drug trade.
The investigation, which spanned several months, focused on disrupting fentanyl trafficking networks in the Des Moines area.
It involved extensive collaboration between numerous law enforcement agencies, including the Des Moines Police Department, the FBI Des Moines Central Iowa Gang Task Force (CIGTF), the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety. Additional support was provided by law enforcement agencies in Illinois and Texas.
READ: Florida Man Who Murdered Roommate, Buried Him In His Yard, Gets 35 Years
“This indictment demonstrates the collective determination of law enforcement to disrupt the flow of dangerous drugs like fentanyl into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa. The arrests and charges highlight the seriousness of fentanyl trafficking and the devastating impact such drugs have on communities.
The defendants remain in custody as they await court proceedings. If convicted, they face significant sentences reflective of the severity of the charges against them. This case underscores the continued commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect communities from the dangers posed by drug distribution and abuse.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.