QUANTICO, Va. –
An investigation led by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) resulted in the arrest and conviction of a Texas man for selling fentanyl.
Agents from CID’s Central Texas Field Office, working with the Bell County Texas Organized Crime Unit and the Killeen Texas Police Department, conducted undercover operations and were able to gather sufficient evidence against a known local drug dealer and member of a criminal street gang, Zytrell Horton, to convict and sentence him to 20 years in federal custody for distributing fentanyl.
Special Agent-in-Charge Maria Thomas said, "This case shows CID, along with our law enforcement partners, is dedicated to bringing justice to those that harm the public, and members of the Department of the Army, through the distribution of fentanyl. CID remains committed to protecting the force, and the public, from the scourge of the fentanyl epidemic.”
In April 2022, a Soldier stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, was found deceased in his on-post quarters. A preliminary investigation by Army CID suggested a drug overdose and upon closer examination it was found that the Soldier ingested counterfeit Percocet tablets that contained fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine.
Army CID is charged with investigating felony level offenses with a U.S. Army interest. Keeping illegal drugs out of the Army’s formations and keeping Soldiers, civilians, and family members safe is of utmost importance. CID does so through the employment of highly trained Special Agents and support personnel, the operation of a certified forensic laboratory, computer crimes specialists, polygraph services, criminal intelligence collection and analysis and a variety of other services associated with law enforcement activities.
You can submit anonymous tips about illegal drug use or distribution to Army CID via the Army CID Tips app at ► Army CID: Submit a Tip Now. If you, or someone you know is suffering from addiction, contact your local Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) or call 210-466-0985.