Paul “Tony” Billingsley, 66, of Omaha, was sentenced on April 17 in federal court for distributing fentanyl that resulted in a death and for another count of distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. ordered Billingsley to serve 264 months in prison for the charge resulting in death and an additional 60 months for the second count, with both sentences running concurrently. There is no parole available under the federal system. Upon completion of his prison term, Billingsley will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The sentencing follows evidence presented at Billingsley’s January trial showing that on May 6, 2024, he sold fentanyl to co-defendant Elissa Larson. Within an hour after acquiring the drugs from Billingsley, Larson distributed them to a victim who later overdosed and died; the victim was discovered by a family member.
After the overdose death occurred, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Billingsley using a confidential informant on May 24, 2024. Authorities arrested him on June 3 and found more fentanyl during his arrest.
Larson pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and received a sentence on March 27 totaling 132 months’ imprisonment along with three years of supervised release.
The investigation was carried out by the Overdose Drug Taskforce including participation from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Nebraska State Patrol, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Omaha Police Department.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska advances community well-being through coordinated law enforcement efforts that safeguard residents according to the official website. The office serves all areas within Nebraska and collaborates with federal, state and local agencies to enhance public safety according to its official website. It prosecutes federal crimes and handles civil cases involving government interests while operating facilities located within Omaha’s courthouse as well as Lincoln’s federal building as reported by its official website.
As part of its broader mission within the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website, this office works closely with law enforcement partners throughout Nebraska.
