Tampa Republic

Marcus and Pierre Fowler, both residents of Port Richey, Florida, have pleaded guilty to charges related to the distribution of significant quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced that Marcus Fowler (33) and Pierre Fowler (35) admitted to conspiring to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, over 500 grams of methamphetamine, and cocaine. Additionally, Marcus Fowler pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Both face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison; however, their sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to the plea agreement, the brothers began their illicit activities in 2006. Between 2020 and 2022, they distributed over 100 kilograms of fentanyl and 500 pounds of methamphetamine in the Middle District of Florida through a network of co-conspirators. In January 2023, agents intercepted more than 13 pounds of methamphetamine and three kilograms of fentanyl intended for members of the conspiracy. On February 8, 2023, law enforcement recovered over a kilogram each of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine from a stash house in Tarpon Springs along with numerous firearms—including a machine gun.

The investigation revealed that drug proceeds were used by Marcus and Pierre Fowler to purchase several properties in Pasco and Pinellas Counties. As part of their plea agreement, they have agreed to forfeit nine properties traceable to their offenses:

1. 7715 Topay Lane, Port Richey

2. 4152 Memphis Avenue, New Port Richey

3. 5606 Sunshine Park Drive, New Port Richey

4. 4330 Kibler Lane, Holiday

5. 2141 Speck Drive, Holiday

6. 4240 Oakfield Avenue, Holiday

7. 710 North Avenue, Tarpon Springs

8. 122 East Lime Street, Tarpon Springs

9. 1522 Elite Court, Holiday

The case was investigated by multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO), Tarpon Springs Police Department (TSPD), and Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO). Assistant United States Attorney Samantha E. Beckman is prosecuting the case while Assistant United States Attorney James Muench is handling asset forfeiture.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation aimed at identifying and dismantling high-level criminal organizations that pose threats within the United States using an intelligence-driven multi-agency approach.

For additional information about OCDETF: www.justice.gov/OCDETF