Samuel Elie, a 49-year-old resident of Stamford, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for distributing narcotics. The sentencing was delivered by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford. In addition to his 108-month imprisonment, Elie will also serve five years of supervised release.
According to information presented in court, Stamford Police began investigating Elie in November 2024 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 during December 2024 and January 2025. He was arrested on January 22, 2025, on state charges related to these activities.
A search of Elie’s residence following his arrest led to the discovery 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 has previous felony convictions for firearm offenses, drug crimes, robbery, and other charges. He has remained in detention since his arrest.
On September 29, 2025, Elie pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine.
The investigation into this case was carried out by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary G. Vitale prosecuted the case.
“This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.”