Seven-Time Convicted Felon Who Trafficked Fentanyl And Caused Death Sentenced To Life Imprisonment

 Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew today sentenced Christopher A. Defilippis (43, Brandon) to life imprisonment for distributing fentanyl resulting in death and possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl.

A federal jury had found Defilippis guilty on June 7, 2021.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, between March and April 2020, Defilippis distributed heroin and fentanyl in Hillsborough County. On April 17, 2020, Defilippis distributed fentanyl, which caused a fatal overdose. Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office began surveillance on Defilippis and, on April 18, 2020, observed him distributing narcotics throughout Hillsborough County. Law enforcement officers arrested Defilippis, and found him to be in possession of fentanyl, cocaine, and packaging consistent with distribution.

The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy and determined that the use of the fentanyl had caused the victim’s death. Lab analysis also determined that the fentanyl mixtures obtained near the victim were all very similar to the narcotics seized from Defilippis.

This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.