Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Pensacola, Florida – Terrance Josiah Fasold, a 31-year-old resident of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday, September 4, 2025, to multiple charges including possession with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, following an investigation that linked Fasold to armed narcotics offenses.
Details of the Investigation
Law enforcement initiated an investigation into Fasold concerning a stolen firearm. Officers successfully located him at the Red Roof Inn in Pensacola. Upon their approach, Fasold attempted to flee from the scene.
During his attempt to escape, Fasold discarded a bag that was later found to contain more than 40 grams of fentanyl. This act provided critical evidence in the case against him.
Evidence Uncovered
A subsequent search of Fasold’s hotel room yielded further illicit materials. Authorities discovered additional quantities of fentanyl, along with cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. Crucially, several loaded firearms were also located within the room.
Fasold’s status as a convicted felon, with multiple prior felony convictions for drug-related offenses, made his possession of any firearm illegal, intensifying the gravity of the charges.
U.S. Attorney’s Statement
United States Attorney John P. Heekin expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved. “I deeply appreciate the hard work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to get this violent drug trafficker off our streets,” Heekin stated.
Heekin further affirmed his office’s dedication to combating drug crime, citing a broader commitment. He noted that his office remains “fully committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America by targeting drug traffickers like this defendant with the full force of the law.”
Joint Law Enforcement Effort
The successful prosecution resulted from a joint investigation. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives worked together to build the case against Fasold. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.
Sentencing and Penalties
Fasold faces severe penalties following his guilty plea, including a potential sentence of up to life imprisonment. Upon release, he would also be subject to a lifetime of supervised release.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. It will take place at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, with United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II presiding.
This plea underscores the ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to combat armed drug trafficking in the Northern District of Florida. The case highlights the commitment to removing dangerous offenders from communities and upholding public safety through rigorous enforcement of drug and firearm laws.
