PITTSBURGH, PA — In a dramatic conclusion to a five-day trial, Paris Carter, a 34-year-old former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was found guilty on March 8, 2024, of conspiracy to distribute substantial amounts of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The federal jury delivered the verdict after deliberating for three hours.
Evidence presented during the trial disclosed that between January 2017 and February 2018, Carter orchestrated the illegal importation of multiple kilograms of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl directly from China. These drugs were then distributed throughout the Pittsburgh region, fueling the ongoing opioid crisis.
Profiting massively from his drug trafficking, Carter relocated to Beverly Hills, California, where he lived a life of luxury. He rented two separate homes at costs of $10,000 and $14,500 per month and leased three high-end vehicles—two Bentleys and a Mercedes Benz.
As part of his money laundering operation, Carter used others to initiate financial transactions in their names to pay for the drugs obtained from China. He also gave drug proceeds to approximately seven other individuals who used these illicit funds to purchase cashier checks. These checks were then used as down payments on his vehicles, which he arranged to lease in the name of his aunt and co-defendant, Tamara Carter, who was acquitted at trial.
The court was also informed that Carter had a prior conviction in the Western District of Pennsylvania for possession with the intent to distribute heroin, leading to a 37-month imprisonment sentence in 2011.
United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced the verdict, stating, “Paris Carter flooded the Pittsburgh area with substantial quantities of fentanyl from China and lived large on the proceeds, moving to Beverly Hills and driving multiple Bentleys. Now, he faces a minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.”
Judge Marilyn J. Horan has scheduled the sentencing for June 28, 2024. Carter could face a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $20.5 million, or both. The actual sentence will be determined based on the seriousness of the offenses and Carter’s prior criminal history.
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