Manassas Man Pleads Guilty To Fentanyl Distribution Charge: Police

MANASSAS, VA ? A Manassas man pleaded guilty conspiracy to distribute counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and possessing a firearm during drug trafficking on Tuesday, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Authorities claimed the man sold hundreds of thousands of fentanyl-laced pills and possessed several unregistered firearms.

Authorities identified the man as Justice Edward Ansah, a 26-year-old man from Manassas. The U.S. Attorney's Office said Ansah faces a minimum of 15 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for September 14.

Officials said Ansah conspired with others to distribute counterfeit pills containing fentanyl from May 2020 to December 2021. Court documents claimed that Ansah sold hundreds of thousands pills with fentanyl to people around northern Virginia.

When he was arrested in December 2021, police said Ansah was carrying a privately-made firearm without a serial number. When police searched Ansah's homes, officers found 6,700 grams of fentanyl, over 1450 grams of cocaine, and tens of thousands of grams of marijuana and THC products, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Officers also found two more privately-made firearms, ammunition, and $28,000 in cash. Authorities said Ansah was a convicted felon who was barred from owning guns.

See also: 2 Teen Overdose Deaths Lead To Police Warning About Counterfeit Drugs

Earlier this year, two teenage boys in Woodbridge overdosed after consuming counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, police said. Authorities claimed they arrested a man who sold drugs to one of the teens.

After the overdoses, the police department issued a warning about the dangers of counterfeit pills. "Fentanyl is known to be extremely fatal, even in the smallest doses if the effects of an overdose are not recognized and treated immediately," the Prince William County Police Department said. "If you suspect a loved one is overdosing, call 9-1-1 immediately and administer Narcan, if available."

Prince William County Community Services offers support and resources for families affected by drug use and addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24/7 hotline at 1-800-662-4357.