A Detroit resident, Christopher Barton, was sentenced on Apr. 7 to 60 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal narcotics and firearm laws as part of a Homeland Security Task Force investigation, according to United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
Barton, age 26, had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine between August 2023 and August 2024. He also admitted possessing a firearm after a felony conviction. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address drug trafficking activities that cross state lines.
Court documents show Barton participated in a conspiracy based in both Detroit and New Castle, Pennsylvania. He sold controlled substances to customers in the New Castle area. On February 7, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a location in New Castle where members of the conspiracy were distributing drugs. Barton was present during the search when officers seized two pistols; his prior felony convictions prohibited him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Attorney Rivetti said he commended several agencies for their work leading up to Barton’s prosecution: “the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Mercer County Drug Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations,” as well as “Douglas County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office.”
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative established by Executive Order 14159: Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The initiative aims at eliminating criminal cartels and transnational criminal organizations through interagency collaboration focused on identifying and prosecuting crimes that contribute to violence within U.S borders.
