New Hampshire Man Sentenced to Over 6 Years for Laced Pills

UPDATE: A New Hampshire man has been sentenced to six years and eight months in federal prison for manufacturing dangerous counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl and methamphetamine. Jerry Summers received his sentence on October 17, 2023, in federal court, marking a significant crackdown on drug-related offenses in the region.

During the hearing, Summers claimed he made “a bad decision” spurred by panic after receiving a dire health diagnosis. His arrest in 2022 revealed that he was producing fake OxyContin and Adderall pills at a Manchester location disguised as a drywall business office. Federal investigators confiscated an alarming 20,000 pills during a raid, revealing a troubling trend of counterfeit drugs flooding the market.

Prosecutors detailed how Summers manufactured “low-purity” pills containing minimal active ingredients, indicating a lack of oversight and serious public health risks. Some of the pills were completely blank, made while he learned to operate a pill press.

In an emotional plea to the court, Summers expressed regret for his actions, explaining that he panicked over his health prognosis and feared leaving nothing for his children. He stated, “I lost my way after hearing my health would cause an early death,” highlighting the personal struggles that led to his criminal activity. Summers implored the judge for a chance to redeem his image before his health deteriorates further.

As part of his sentencing, Summers will serve his time in a facility in Connecticut, selected for its ability to address his health needs while keeping him close to his family in Manchester.

This case underscores the urgent need for community awareness regarding the dangers of counterfeit drugs, especially those laced with potent substances like fentanyl, which can lead to fatal overdoses. Authorities are urging families to remain vigilant and educate themselves about the risks of illicit drugs in their communities.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and further implications arise from this significant sentencing.