Dayton, Ohio – A Dayton man with a history of federal drug trafficking convictions has admitted to another serious drug offense involving fentanyl and methamphetamine, according to federal prosecutors.
Marcus Gullatte Sr., 38, entered a guilty plea in U.S. District Court to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. The conviction carries severe penalties, and Gullatte now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with the possibility of a life sentence.
Federal authorities said the case stemmed from drug trafficking activities that occurred throughout the summer of 2024.
According to court records, Gullatte obtained large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine from a supplier in the Dayton area. Prosecutors alleged that after acquiring the drugs, he redistributed them in exchange for cash, participating in a trafficking operation that involved highly dangerous controlled substances.
The investigation eventually led to federal charges, and a grand jury returned an indictment against Gullatte in November 2024.
Criminal activity occurred while on supervised release
Court documents reveal that Gullatte was already under federal supervision when he engaged in the drug trafficking activity.
His criminal history includes two prior federal drug trafficking convictions. In those earlier cases, he received prison sentences of 36 months and 60 months respectively.
Because the latest offense occurred while he was serving a term of supervised release, the case attracted additional scrutiny from federal authorities.
Fentanyl remains one of the most dangerous illegal drugs circulating in communities across the country. Even small amounts can be deadly, and law enforcement agencies continue to prioritize investigations involving fentanyl distribution because of its connection to overdose deaths and public safety concerns.
Methamphetamine trafficking also remains a major focus for federal investigators due to its widespread impact on individuals, families, and communities.
A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date, where the court will review federal sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors before deciding the appropriate punishment.
The case was announced by Dominick S. Gerace II and Jason Cromartie. The plea was entered before Senior U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Rose.
Federal prosecutors said Deputy Criminal Chief Tabacchi is representing the United States in the case as sentencing proceedings move forward.
With the guilty plea now entered, Gullatte awaits sentencing and could spend many years in federal prison for his role in distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Dayton area.
