Repeat Offender Gets 12 Years for Fentanyl Sales and Gun Deal in Raleigh Case
A convicted felon with a long history of violent crime will spend more than a decade behind bars after federal authorities say he continued dealing deadly drugs and firearms in Raleigh—fueling a crisis that continues to devastate communities across North Carolina.
Federal Sentence Handed Down in Fentanyl Case
A federal judge has sentenced Jeremy Hinton to 12 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to selling fentanyl, one of the most dangerous drugs fueling overdose deaths nationwide.
The sentencing took place following his April 4, 2025 guilty plea, according to officials.
Undercover Buys Led to Arrest
The case was built through an investigation by the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Authorities conducted two controlled purchases, during which Hinton:
- Sold fentanyl
- Sold a Glock 36 handgun during a second transaction
High-Speed Attempts to Evade Arrest
When law enforcement moved in to arrest him, Hinton attempted to flee—twice.
Officials say he:
- Led officers on a vehicle pursuit and initially escaped
- Later fled again, reaching speeds of over 80 mph
Despite those attempts, authorities ultimately took him into custody.
Career Offender Status Drives Sentence
Hinton was sentenced as a career offender, a designation based on his extensive criminal history.
His prior convictions include:
- Breaking and entering
- Possession of a stolen motor vehicle
- Selling cocaine
- Drug possession with intent to sell
- Discharging a firearm into an occupied home
U.S. Attorney Sends Strong Warning
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle delivered a blunt message following the sentencing:
“Fentanyl poisons our communities, killing our kids and neighbors… The only thing more deadly than fentanyl is fentanyl and guns—and that’s what this defendant was selling.”
He added that the sentence should serve as a warning:
“Drugs kill. Prison awaits.”
Agencies and Prosecution
The case was:
- Investigated by: Raleigh Police Department and ATF
- Prosecuted by: Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden
- Presided over by: Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II
Conclusion
The case underscores the ongoing battle against fentanyl and illegal firearms—two forces that continue to drive violence and loss across communities. Federal officials say they will continue targeting repeat offenders whose actions put lives at risk.