Torrance Bailey, 44, of Buffalo, New York, was sentenced to 138 months in prison for his role in a narcotics conspiracy involving large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo on June 2. U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara handed down the sentence after Bailey was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Between February 2019 and March 2024, Bailey conspired with others to sell significant amounts of cocaine. In March 2020, law enforcement executed search warrants at a Mills Street residence in Buffalo where they seized approximately 120 grams of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. According to the announcement, when police arrived at the scene, Bailey and Sherron Kye were spotted nearby; both attempted to flee upon recognizing law enforcement officers. During the attempt to escape, Bailey discarded keys belonging to the residence while Kye discarded a bag later found to contain about 100 grams of fentanyl. Authorities also found $3,512 in cash on Bailey following his arrest.
After being released under home incarceration conditions in June 2023 while awaiting trial, Bailey continued illegal activity by selling approximately 27 grams of crack cocaine in March 2024 to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. He also asked this individual to pick up around 88 grams of fentanyl from a co-conspirator’s residence; however, the request was declined.
Sherron Kye was previously convicted and sentenced for related conduct.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy C. Lynch and Evan K. Glaberson. The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Buffalo Police Department under Commissioner Erika Shields; Erie County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff John Garcia; Federal Bureau of Investigation under Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford; Drug Enforcement Administration under Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam (New York Field Division); and Homeland Security Investigations under Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone.
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