Utahn charged in fentanyl-related death, 4 others charged with drug distribution

SALT LAKE CITY — Multiple people are facing charges for their alleged involvement in drug trafficking, one of whom is accused of contributing to a person's death.

In a press release, the U.S. Attorney's Office District of Utah said five people were involved in an "organized criminal enterprise" starting on April 29, at the latest, and continuing until at least Aug. 27. Those five people include:

• Christopher Lee Washington, 53
• Natasha Annette Ashworth, 39
• Keisha Brewer-Case, 23
• Brittany Cuevas Caldwell, 38
• Keith Jerome Lewis, 59

The attorney's office alleged that the group "conspired to distribute" at least 400 grams of a substance containing fentanyl, at least 500 grams of a mixture of a substance containing methamphetamine, as well as cocaine.

According to court documents, on June 23, Washington "intentionally distributed fentanyl," leading to the death of one person, who authorities have yet to identify.

The attorney's office also stated police found 19 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine and approximately 21 grams of fentanyl powder in Ashworth's home on Aug. 27.

Each person is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to distribute cocaine, according to the attorney's office. Washington is facing an additional charge of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.

Initial court appearances have begun and are continuing throughout the month, the attorney's office stated. U.S. Magistrate Judge Daphne A. Oberg is presiding over the case.

At this time, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Salt Lake City Police Department are jointly investigating the case.