Little Rock Men Sentenced for Fentanyl Distribution
Two men were handed long federal prison terms after pleading guilty to fentanyl-related crimes in Little Rock.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Drug Crime
Chief United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker sentenced Erick Williams and Cortell Randolph to federal prison for their roles in a fatal fentanyl distribution conspiracy. Both men pleaded guilty to charges linked to an overdose death in Little Rock.
Why it matters
These sentences conclude a federal case involving the distribution of lethal narcotics that led to a fatal overdose. The prosecutions highlight the application of strict federal sentencing guidelines for drug-related deaths.
Erick Williams received a 240-month sentence, while Cortell Randolph was sentenced to 292 months. Both individuals will serve three years of supervised release following their prison terms.
The players
Kristine G. Baker
She serves as the Chief United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas.
Erick Williams
The 49-year-old from Pine Bluff pleaded guilty to a fentanyl distribution conspiracy charge.
Cortell Randolph
The 48-year-old from North Little Rock pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl that resulted in a death.
The details
The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury for their involvement in a distribution network that resulted in the overdose death of an individual identified as A.M. Law enforcement officers apprehended Randolph at a hotel while he was allegedly preparing to sell additional fentanyl.
Timeline
Randolph sold fentanyl to the victim on the evening of June 27, 2023.
The victim died of an overdose on June 28, 2023.
A federal grand jury indicted the two defendants on August 1, 2023.
Williams pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on November 7, 2025.
Williams was sentenced to 20 years in prison on October 7, 2026.
Legal Context
These sentences follow the pattern set by the Controlled Substances Act sentencing enhancements for death resulting from distribution. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Arkansas utilize these statutes to secure long-term incarceration for those connected to overdose fatalities.
The closure of this case marks a resolution to a fatal event that affected the Little Rock area. Local residents can track federal case outcomes through the district court registry for updates on related enforcement activities.
The takeaway
Federal courts maintain a strict policy of no parole, meaning the sentenced individuals will serve their full terms as mandated. These cases serve as a reminder of the severe legal consequences for the distribution of substances that cause fatal overdoses.
Further reading
Learn more about local enforcement efforts in the Drug Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
