U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Lloyd Smith, a 25-year-old resident of Amherst, New York, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the distribution of cocaine and fentanyl. The charges carry a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan provided details about the case, stating that on May 27 and 28, 2023, Smith used Snapchat and text messages to communicate with an individual identified as K.W. regarding the purchase of narcotics. On May 28, Smith met with K.W. and another individual known as J.D. for the sale of these substances. After consuming the narcotics purchased from Smith, J.D. lost consciousness. Smith then moved J.D. from his vehicle to J.D.’s vehicle before leaving him there.
K.W. also lost consciousness during this incident. A good Samaritan made a 911 call leading Amherst Police to respond to the scene where they found both individuals unconscious and unresponsive in a vehicle. Fortunately, both survived after receiving medical attention.
Upon investigation by Amherst Police officers at the scene, two baggies were discovered in K.W.’s pocket which tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl; these substances were confirmed to have been sold by Smith.
The plea agreement is part of an investigation conducted by the Amherst Police Department under Chief Scott Chamberlin’s direction and the Drug Enforcement Administration led by Frank Tarentino from the New York Field Division.
Smith’s sentencing is set for November 3, 2025, before U.S District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
