Tampa Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 30 Years

Tampa, Florida - Javontez Daniels (31, Tampa) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge William F. Jung to more than 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl with the intent to distribute it, and possession of ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Daniels to forfeit ammunition, an instrumentality of the offense. A federal jury found Daniels guilty on April 22, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

According to evidence and testimony introduced at trial, Daniels and a co-defendant maintained a premises to process fentanyl, which they distributed in the Middle District of Florida. Daniels had more than 250 grams of fentanyl mixtures in the stash location when it was searched in December 2024. Agents also recovered blenders with fentanyl residue, a kilo press, a mask, a vacuum sealer, and cutting agents. Daniels was apprehended by federal agents after he fled in the parking garage of his apartment complex. Daniels failed to stop his car, ultimately crashing into an agent's vehicle, and attempting to flee on foot.

During the investigation, agents learned that Daniels had conspired to deliver fentanyl to at least four individuals in Pinellas and Pasco Counties. He also discussed an overdose with his co-conspirator before arranging to deliver more fentanyl to her for distribution. Daniels also transported fentanyl for distribution to gas stations in Pasco County, where he sat to solicit customers.

Daniels was held accountable for conspiring to distribute more than two kilograms of fentanyl between October and December 2024. He was previously convicted of cocaine sales in Pinellas County and served more than four years' imprisonment before committing these offenses.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tampa Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the Sarasota Police Department, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, and the Bradenton Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha E. Beckman.