A federal jury found Steven McCurdy, also known as Stephen McCurdy, “Kroger Man,” and “Plug Tunchii,” guilty of distributing heroin and carfentanil that resulted in a fatal overdose, according to an April 10 announcement by United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee.
The case underscores the dangers posed by opioid distribution and the legal consequences faced by those involved. Prosecutors said that on May 11, 2020, a victim identified as W.B. and a witness purchased what they believed was heroin from McCurdy. The drugs were consumed at a home in Byhalia, Mississippi. Later that night, W.B. was found unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene.
An autopsy conducted by the Mississippi Medical Examiner’s Office determined that W.B.’s death was caused by toxicity from both heroin and carfentanil. During trial proceedings, another government witness identified McCurdy as their narcotics supplier during May 2020.
Upon his arrest, McCurdy admitted to selling marijuana and narcotics but claimed no one had overdosed on his products in statements to FBI Special Agents.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 17 before Chief Judge Sheryl H. Lipman of the Western District of Tennessee. McCurdy faces a sentence ranging from at least 20 years up to life imprisonment, along with a possible fine up to $1 million and supervised release for at least three years.
“Heroin and fentanyl distribution cases resulting in death receive top priority for investigation and federal prosecution, regardless of the quantity involved or the prior criminal record of the offender,” said U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant. “We commend the outstanding investigative work of our federal and local law enforcement partners, and we hope this conviction will achieve some measure of justice for the victim’s family.”
Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Nashville Field Office said: “The FBI is committed to removing dangerous drugs from our communities and holding dealers, traffickers, and accomplices accountable for their actions… This case demonstrates the power of collaboration and our dedication to ensuring that no community is overlooked.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) together with Byhalia Police Department investigated this case; Assistant United States Attorneys Bryce H. Phillips, Wendy K. Caceres, along with Special Assistant United States Attorney Erica Ronquillo prosecuted it.
