A man convicted of distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of a 24-year-old Poway man was sentenced to 25 years in prison, the U.S. Attorney’s office announced.
Drug dealer Arnold Ray Walters III of San Diego, 34, has a history of drug sales convictions and firearm offenses, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Prosecutors said that Walters admitted in his plea agreement to knowingly provide a pressed blue pill containing fentanyl to another individual and that it would be provided to the victim. Walters also admitted he was aware of the potentially lethal impact of the fentanyl-based on his knowledge of other individuals accidentally overdosing on fentanyl.
U.S. District Judge Janis L. Sammartino said “this was truly a tragic case" during his sentencing hearing.
Authorities charged Walters with unlawful possession of several firearms, including an AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle.
“This is a sentence that reflects the tragic and senseless loss of a young life,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “Dealers take note, you will pay a high price for your greedy, reckless actions which are destroying lives, families, and communities. Our prosecutors and law enforcement officials are working hard to prevent more deaths and seek justice for victims.”
The prosecution's sentencing memo also indicates Walters was sentenced to nearly 15 years in prison in a separate state court case, where he pleaded guilty to assault with a deadly weapon. According to the memo, Walters pointed firearms at a man and woman, threatening to kill them. He was arrested during a standoff with police in Pacific Beach after he punched a woman in the face several times.
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