By: Sachet A. Sullivan
A St. George man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after authorities reportedly found pure, powdered fentanyl during a search of a trailer where he had been staying in Cedar City.
Patrick Vaughn Kelly, 40, was taken into custody on multiple charges, including one first-degree felony for possession with intent to distribute, one third-degree felony for possession of a controlled substance, and one class B misdemeanor for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Authorities allege Kelly was attempting to sell powdered fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, in the area.
According to court documents filed in 5th District Court, agents with the Iron-Garfield-Beaver Narcotics Task Force received an anonymous tip that Kelly appeared to look “strung out” while staying at a residence in Cedar City. Upon arrival, agents made contact with several individuals at the home and were told that Kelly was staying in a camp trailer located in the front driveway.
When agents approached the trailer, Kelly told them they could open the door. Upon entering, agents reportedly found Kelly holding a syringe, “suggesting he had recently used or was about to use drugs,” the affidavit reads.
During the search, officers allegedly found two bags of pure powdered fentanyl, one in Kelly’s wallet and another inside the trailer. They also discovered a methamphetamine pipe and additional drug paraphernalia.
According to the affidavit, further investigation uncovered messages on Kelly’s phone suggesting he had been attempting to sell fentanyl to others in the area.
Kelly’s criminal history includes prior convictions for drug distribution.
The charges against Kelly have been enhanced due to his criminal record. Law enforcement officials argue that his release would pose a significant danger to the community, noting the lethal risks associated with fentanyl and Kelly’s history of criminal behavior.
“Patrick is from St George and living in a trailer. He could flee the court. He also is attempting to sell pure powdered fentanyl in our community. This is a huge danger to our citizens and could likely cause death” the affidavit reads.
Authorities continue to stress the dangers of fentanyl, citing its potential to cause fatal overdoses.
“Fentanyl is deadly and we have seen that first-hand in our community. The Task Force usually deals with fentanyl in pill form, but powder fentanyl is a whole other level.” said Task Force Commander Sgt. Zac Adams in an exclusive TZT interview.
Kelly is being held without bail in the Iron County Jail pending further legal proceedings.
INDIVIDUALS LISTED ON THIS PAGE HAVE BEEN BOOKED INTO IRON COUNTY JAIL AND ARE ACCUSED OF THE FOLLOWING CRIMES BUT ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL AND UNLESS PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
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Conflict Declaration:
The author of this article grew up with the suspect in St George.
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