Accused Fentanyl Dealers Indicted In Lorain

LORAIN, OH — Two men have been charged for reportedly selling fentanyl, crack cocaine and other drugs in Lorain County, the Department of Justice announced.

Dwayne Tayloer, 32, of Elyria, has been charged with distribution of fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine. He also faces charges related to his possession of a gun. Todd Coleman, 37, of Lorain, has been charged with distribution of fentanyl analogues and cocaine.

Taylor is accused of selling crack cocaine and a heroin-fentanyl mixture several times between May and June, the indictment says. He had approximately 6.53 grams of heroin-fentanyl on July 19, and also had a Glock 9 mm handgun and a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber handgun. He had previous drug trafficking convictions that barred him from having a weapon.

Coleman allegedly had nearly 30 grams of fentanyl analogues in June, as well, as cocaine, according to the indictment against him.

The investigations into Taylor and Coleman were led by the Elyria Police Department and FBI and the Lorain Police Department, DEA and Lorain County HIDTA.

In mid-July, Lorain County was selected for a federal anti-opioid program called Operation S.O.S. The program's focus was to disrupt distribution rings for heroin and fentanyl. "These drugs have killed thousands of our friends and neighbors and caused pain and heartbreak to their families." Northern Ohio's United States Attorney Justin Herdman said when the program was announced. "This initiative will allow us to work in a collaborative, targeted way on the enforcement side to reduce the drug supply, while continuing to partner with others in our community to help drive down demand."

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