Kennewick man who sold fentanyl gets 10 years in federal prison

KENNEWICK, Wash. – A 24-year-old Kennewick man was sent to federal prison for dealing fentanyl-laced pills meant to look like oxycodone.

U.S. District Court Judge Edward Shea sentenced Taylor Fertig to 10 years in federal prison on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. 

Fentanyl, an extremely potent opioid, is largely responsible for a spike in drug overdoses and deaths in eastern Washington, according to a news release from the Department of Justice.

Based on information shared in court proceedings, Fertig was identified as one of the area’s “first major distributors of fentanyl-laced pills that are unlawfully made to appear to be prescription oxycodone medication,” the news release said.

Judge Shea said based on the quantity of pills Fertig was selling, and the fact that he was in possession of multiple guns, a 10-year sentence was appropriate.

DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Weis said he was pleased with the sentencing.

He added, “Opioid abuse is spreading like wildfire, devastating our communities, and we will aggressively pursue those most responsible for fueling the flames.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Spokane office investigated this case in partnership with the Kennewick, Pasco and Richland Police Departments.