After a four-day federal trial, Arthur Joyner, 43, of Little Rock, was found guilty of distributing fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose. The jury deliberated for 45 minutes before delivering the conviction on Thursday. Joyner now faces a mandatory life sentence without parole.
The case stems from an incident on October 13, 2023, when an acquaintance asked Joyner for oxycodone pills due to a back injury. The acquaintance specifically warned Joyner about the risks of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and sent him articles explaining how fentanyl is made to look like oxycodone. Joyner replied, “they are real” and sent a photo of blue pills marked with “M” and “30,” which appeared to be oxycodone.
On October 14, Joyner sold three of these pills to the individual at a residence in Little Rock for $30. Evidence showed that the pills contained fentanyl instead of oxycodone. Testimony revealed that the buyer consumed one pill late on October 15 and another between 8 and 9 a.m. on October 16 at a hotel in Searcy. After taking the second pill, he stopped breathing within minutes and was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:23 a.m.
Joyner’s criminal history includes prior felony drug convictions as well as violent felonies. Because of this record, he is subject to a mandatory life sentence following his conviction for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. United States District Judge Brian S. Miller will set the sentencing date later; Joyner remains in federal custody until then.
In addition to imprisonment, the charge carries up to $1 million in fines under federal law.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Central Arkansas Drug Task Force led the investigation with help from Searcy Police Department and White County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Chris Givens prosecuted the case.
“This verdict reflects our commitment to holding those accountable who distribute deadly drugs in our community,” said Jonathan D. Ross, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas.
