Cincinnati, Ohio – In a sweeping federal case aimed at dismantling drug activity in Cincinnati’s West End, four men have been sentenced for their roles in a large-scale narcotics conspiracy that distributed dangerous drug mixtures throughout the neighborhood. Federal authorities said the operation trafficked highly potent substances, including heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and xylazine, contributing to the spread of deadly drugs in the community.
Kevin Deramus, 46, identified as the leader of the trafficking organization, received the most severe sentence. On February 11, he was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 294 months in prison. Investigators determined that Deramus obtained large quantities of heroin from a co-defendant and, along with a key distributor, processed and mixed the drug with fentanyl, cocaine, xylazine, and other substances before distributing it for sale.
Operation centered on stash houses and potent drug mixtures
According to the investigation, Deramus worked closely with top distributor Dorian Freeman to cut and prepare drug mixtures that were then supplied to co-conspirators operating multiple stash houses across Cincinnati. These locations served as storage and distribution points for the narcotics.
During surveillance, law enforcement agents recorded Deramus boasting about the strength of his product. At one point, he complained that the drugs were so potent that it took his “licks” longer to return and purchase more. Authorities also reported he joked that one of his testers may have overdosed due to the drug potency.
Search warrants executed at residences tied to the operation in February and March 2024 revealed the scale of the enterprise. Officers seized bulk quantities of narcotics, loaded firearms, and approximately $291,000 in cash at one stash house, underscoring the profitability and danger of the operation.
Sentences handed down and case outcomes
While Deramus received a lengthy prison sentence, others involved in the conspiracy also faced federal penalties. Co-defendant Gregory Isham was sentenced on February 11 to 57 months in prison. Damien Tribble and Edmond Hurt were each sentenced to 36 months.
Freeman has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and could receive a life sentence.
Federal officials said the sentences reflect the seriousness of the operation and its impact on public safety. The distribution of fentanyl-laced drugs continues to pose a significant risk, as even small amounts can prove fatal.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by federal and local law enforcement to target drug networks responsible for distributing highly potent narcotics. Authorities say dismantling organizations like this one is critical to reducing overdose deaths and improving safety in neighborhoods affected by illegal drug activity.
As the legal process continues for remaining defendants, officials emphasize that disrupting supply chains and holding traffickers accountable remains a top priority in the fight against the opioid and synthetic drug crisis.
