Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced the arrests of eight individuals on charges related to narcotics trafficking, sales, and gun possession on Long Island’s North Fork. The investigation was conducted by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office’s East End Drug Task Force (EEDTF) and the Southold Police Department.
“What began as a tragic fatal overdose in Albany led us to uncover a significant drug trafficking operation here in Suffolk County,” said District Attorney Tierney. “The fact that the victim’s family, amid their grief, had the presence of mind to contact law enforcement, led to the unraveling of an alleged criminal organization and the arrests of these eight individuals.”
Southold Police Department Captain Steve Grattan praised the EEDTF for its efforts. “Their recent success in combating illegal drug activity is a testament to their teamwork and dedication,” he stated.
The investigation started in August 2023 after a family reported a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in June 2023 in Albany County. It was discovered that Shawn Smiley allegedly mailed counterfeit oxycodone pills to the victim before his death. Further investigations revealed other alleged co-conspirators involved in drug trafficking operations.
On August 22, 2024, multiple search warrants were executed across various locations including Riverhead and Greenport. In these operations, law enforcement recovered drugs packaged for sale and several firearms.
The defendants are facing various charges:
- Lashawn Lawrence was charged with multiple counts including Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
- Melissa Flythe faced similar charges as Lawrence.
- Shawn Smiley was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance among other felonies.
- David Brown faced four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.
- Jamal Lawrence was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.
- Amylyn Spinelli faced one count of Conspiracy in the Fourth Degree.
- Willie Davender was charged with Criminal Possession of a Firearm.
Arraignments have been scheduled for each defendant with potential prison sentences ranging from two years to fifteen years if convicted.