Courtney Linwood “Blaze” Matthews, a 40-year-old Fayetteville resident, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for leading a drug trafficking operation that distributed large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl throughout Eastern North Carolina. Matthews also admitted to laundering proceeds from the drug sales through vehicle purchases and other assets, as well as possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
“Linwood ‘Blaze’ Matthews pleaded guilty to possessing and selling enough fentanyl to kill most of Fayetteville along with 9.5 kg of heroin and 839 kg of cocaine which is 1,854 pounds and is nearly the weight of a Mitsubishi Mirage,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Blaze flooded the area with dangerous opioids and narcotics that hurt Fayetteville families. Now thanks to their tireless work, our law enforcement partners have put that fire out making the community safer.”
James C. Barnacle Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina, commented on the case: “The amount of illegal drugs ‘Blaze’ Matthews is responsible for pumping into our community is staggering. The FBI and our partners are unwavering in our fight against violent crime on our streets.”
Authorities said Matthews led an organization that worked with several co-conspirators to import and distribute significant quantities of drugs in Cumberland and Robeson counties. He had previously been convicted for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in 2008.
In September 2023, law enforcement carried out a controlled purchase of one kilogram of cocaine from Matthews and his co-defendant Anthony Mack at a property owned by Matthews in Fayetteville. By spring 2024, investigators used surveillance techniques to trace his sources and distribution network. During this period, agents seized substantial amounts of drugs, packaging materials, more than $213,000 in cash, firearms, and records indicating money laundering activities tied to vehicles and other assets.
Evidence showed that Matthews managed not only drug sales but also operated a car rental business using illicit proceeds. He directed others within his network while maintaining stash houses.
U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III handed down the sentence following an investigation by the FBI, Internal Revenue Service, Fayetteville Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Webb prosecuted the case.
