North Carolina Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Overdose Death

Dakoda Michael Drake, 27, was sentenced to 19 to 32 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter and delivery of a controlled substance after supplying fentanyl that led to the death of Julius Chance Gunter in July 2022. Emergency responders found Gunter unresponsive and administered NARCAN, but he later died from an overdose. The sentencing occurred on February 4, 2025, following a plea agreement where Drake also received additional time for a probation violation. Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell highlighted the ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl distribution, stressing its lethal impact on the community. This case reflects a broader concern regarding the dangers of fentanyl, as law enforcement continues to address drug-related fatalities. The increase in fentanyl-related incidents has prompted campaigns to raise public awareness of the risks associated with counterfeit prescription pills.