Alleged drug trafficking members indicted

FLORIDA – Four people have been indicted on multiple drug charges, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida (USAO) has announced.

United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced the unsealing of an indictment charging Marcus Jamar Fowler, 32, of Tarpon Springs, a/k/a “Drastic,” and Abelardo Torres, 36, of Tampa, with conspiracy to distribute narcotics and possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance. Pierre Marquise Fowler, 34, of Port Richey, a/k/a “Durk,” and Cyion Craig Kerr, 45, of New York, a/k/a “Bling,” are charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

If convicted, each faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison.

The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit nine pieces of real property, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

According to the indictment, Marcus Jamar Fowler and Pierre Marquise Fowler conspired to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, 400 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

The indictment further alleges that Kerr conspired to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.

Torres is alleged to have conspired to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Samantha E. Beckman will prosecute it. Assistant United States Attorney James Muench is handling the forfeiture.