California Man Charged for Fentanyl Drone Deliveries

Christopher Patrick Laney, a 34-year-old from Lancaster, California, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses for allegedly using a drone to distribute narcotics, including fentanyl, resulting in a fatal overdose. Laney faces charges including distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, operating an unregistered aircraft for felony narcotics, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. The indictment indicates Laney used the drone multiple times between December 2022 and January 2023 to deliver drugs to a church parking lot, where another party distributed them to customers. One recipient, identified as 'J.K.', died from an overdose the day after receiving fentanyl. Authorities also found methamphetamine, fentanyl, and ghost guns at Laney's residence. If convicted, Laney could face 25 years to life in prison.