Brandon Aaron Dana, a 36-year-old from Southern Idaho, has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his role in distributing over 7,000 fentanyl pills in the Magic Valley. This sentencing was announced today by U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwitz.
In the summer of 2023, Dana was identified by law enforcement while they were investigating a drug trafficking ring led by Austin Lee. Despite moving to Arizona in April 2023, Lee continued to control his drug trafficking operations in Idaho through various associates, including Dana. On June 20, 2023, Lee instructed Dana to deliver about 7,000 fentanyl pills to someone who turned out to be an undercover officer. The deal took place in the parking lot of a gas station in Jerome, Idaho.
During the operation, Dana handed the undercover officer a red plastic oil container, which he had modified by cutting the bottom and placing the fentanyl pills inside. The entire transaction was captured on both audio and video by law enforcement.
Dana is the fifth defendant to be sentenced in this case. On February 20, 2024, U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford sentenced several other co-conspirators: Tina Morris received 97 months in federal prison, Jamie Coltrin was sentenced to 48 months, Jenika Johnson also received 48 months, and Daniel Coltrin was sentenced to 25 months. Each sentence is to be followed by three years of supervised release.
Dana’s criminal record includes at least 14 offenses, such as four previous felonies related to drug delivery, two burglaries, and an escape from custody. Judge Brailsford sentenced him to the mandatory minimum of 10 years in federal prison, a $900 fine, and five years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
“This case highlights our success in breaking up major drug trafficking networks in the Magic Valley,” stated U.S. Attorney Hurwitz. “Those involved in drug trafficking should be aware of the severe consequences they face if they bring harmful substances like fentanyl into Idaho.”
David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division, added, “Our work is crucial in stopping drug traffickers from spreading drugs and violence in our communities. The sentences in this case show the serious threat fentanyl poses and our dedication to tackling it.”
Idaho State Police Lieutenant Colonel Sheldon Kelley emphasized, “Our agencies are collaborating across jurisdictions to fight the spread of illegal drugs in our communities. Through strong cooperation, we are committed to dismantling drug networks throughout Idaho.”
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U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit praised the joint efforts of the Idaho State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mini-Cassia Drug Task Force, the Twin Falls Special Investigations Unit, the Jerome County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Pocatello Police Department for their effective work on these cases.
