Alleged Fentanyl Dealer Arrested, Charged In Cleveland

CLEVELAND, OH — A 26-year-old Cleveland man is facing charges for drug trafficking. Steven Riddle is accused of selling fentanyl, cocaine and using a gun to protect himself.

The 26-year-old has been indicted on one count each of distribution of fentanyl, distribution of crack cocaine and using a firearm in relation to drug trafficking. He's also being indicted for being a felon in possession of a gun.

Riddle allegedly had both fentanyl and crack cocaine in his possession on Dec. 5, 2017, the Department of Justice said. He also had a FNH 9 mm pistol. He is barred from having a gun because he has been previously convicted of drug trafficking, attempted drug trafficking, and burglary, according to the indictment against him.

The investigation into Riddle was led by the ATF, U.S. Marshal's and Cleveland Police.

Fentanyl is a synthetic heroin that has led to a large uptick in overdose deaths.

Two years ago, 2016, was one of the bloodiest in Cuyahoga County history in terms of overdose deaths. In 2015, there were 370 overdose deaths. That number spiked to 666 overdose deaths in 2016. Of the 666 deaths, 557 were the result of opiate abuse, 399 the result of fentanyl.

Photo from Shutterstock