Crime & Safety

Meriden Man Pleads Guilty To Fentanyl Trafficking Charge

Investigators made two controlled purchases from the man, according to officials.

MERIDEN, CT — William Burruss, also known as “Cheese,” 27, of Meriden, pleaded guilty Monday in New Haven federal court to a fentanyl trafficking offense, U.S. Attorney for Connecticut David X. Sullivan announced.

Prosecutors said that members of the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force developed evidence that Burruss was selling fentanyl in and around New Haven. Investigators then made two controlled purchases from him in June 2025, according to officials.

Burruss was arrested on Sept. 9, 2025, after investigators “arranged a controlled purchase of approximately 84 grams of fentanyl from Burruss in Hamden,” according to a news release.

Find out what's happening in Meridenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Burruss pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

Burruss faces a maximum term of 40 years in prison at his sentencing, which is not yet scheduled, according to officials.

Find out what's happening in Meridenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.