Samuel Elie, a 49-year-old resident of Stamford, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for distributing narcotics, according to an announcement from David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut. U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver imposed the sentence—108 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release—during proceedings in Hartford.
Court records show that in November 2024, Stamford Police began investigating Elie after learning he was selling fentanyl, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine from his home and vehicles. Investigators conducted three controlled purchases of fentanyl from Elie in December 2024 and January 2025. He was arrested on related state charges on January 22, 2025.
A search of Elie’s residence following his arrest led to the seizure of approximately 152 grams of fentanyl, 215 grams of crack cocaine, 91 grams of powder cocaine, eight grams of methamphetamine, a gun magazine, and 50 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Elie’s prior criminal history includes felony convictions for firearm offenses, drug crimes, robbery, and other violations. He has been held in custody since his arrest.
On September 29, 2025, Elie pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl as well as a quantity of cocaine.
The investigation was carried out by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary G. Vitale prosecuted the case.
The case falls under Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime.
