A federal jury in Omaha, Nebraska, has convicted Clifford Wright III on multiple charges related to fentanyl distribution and firearm possession. The verdicts were delivered on June 6, 2025, following a seven-day trial overseen by Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. Sentencing is scheduled for August 29, 2025, with Wright facing a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.
Wright was found guilty of possession with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Wright is affiliated with the 29th Street Bloods gang in Omaha.
The incident leading to his arrest occurred on October 31, 2022. Wright was observed at a gas station in north Omaha engaging in what appeared to be hand-to-hand drug transactions when gunfire erupted from across the street. Surveillance footage helped identify Wright as he attempted to pursue the shooters after his own handgun malfunctioned.
Upon investigation by Omaha police and subsequent arrest on November 2, 2022, authorities discovered approximately 850 fentanyl pills and three loaded handguns in a safe linked to Wright. One handgun matched the description of the weapon he tried to use during the gas station incident.
Further examination of data extracted from Wright’s cell phone indicated ongoing drug dealings since February 2022. Communications referenced terms like “blues” and “30s,” commonly associated with illicit fentanyl pills known as “M30.” Other drugs mentioned included cocaine and ecstasy.
The case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department with support from an agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives who provided expert testimony at trial. This prosecution falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and community organizations.
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods emphasized PSN’s commitment to fostering trust within communities while strategically targeting violent crime for reduction through enhanced enforcement priorities.
