Nigel Gray, a 45-year-old resident of Raleigh, North Carolina, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Gray was convicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute significant quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. He entered a guilty plea on June 28, 2024.
“This case reflects our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—particularly those connected to cartels—and holding accountable those who fuel addiction and violence in the Eastern District,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We will continue to work hand in hand with our state and federal partners to stop the flow of deadly narcotics and pursue justice for the people of this district.”
Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte, which oversees operations in North and South Carolina, commented on the sentencing: “This sentencing marks significant progress in our relentless efforts to shield our communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.” He emphasized that through their actions, including confiscating dangerous substances like fentanyl and cocaine as well as firearms, they are enhancing community safety.
Gray’s involvement with the Sinaloa Cartel came under scrutiny when law enforcement intercepted a package containing nearly five kilograms of cocaine en route from Corona, California, to Greenville, North Carolina. The package was part of a controlled delivery operation conducted on February 27, 2023. Surveillance revealed Gray’s role in arranging its pickup.
Further investigations led agents to observe Gray meeting individuals in Raleigh and Winterville where officers seized drugs including fentanyl and cocaine. Subsequent surveillance resulted in the seizure of over two and a half kilograms of narcotics at a Dollar General parking lot in Elizabeth City.
On March 13, 2024, Gray was arrested after leaving a residence that contained drug-related materials such as a kilogram press and firearms. A search uncovered evidence linking him to wire transfers made to Mexico.
Gray has previous convictions dating back several years for various offenses including accessory after the fact (2005), possession of a firearm by a felon (2009), assault with a deadly weapon (2009), and conspiracy related charges involving heroin and cocaine (2012).
The announcement regarding Gray’s sentencing was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar following proceedings led by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The investigation involved multiple agencies including Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection among others while Assistant U.S Attorneys Timothy Severo and Katherine Englander prosecuted the case.
