Largest drug seizure in state history ends in conviction of Middletown man

Dwayne Fountain, a 54-year-old man from Middletown, has been convicted in connection with a massive drug trafficking conspiracy that led to the largest fentanyl seizure in Delaware’s history.

He was found guilty by a federal jury of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, four counts of possession with intent to distribute, and two counts of distribution of controlled substances.

The charges stemmed from his involvement in a drug network that spanned from Scranton, Pennsylvania to Seaford, Delaware.

Fountain was acquitted on three related charges.

The investigation – spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Delaware State Police, and Dover Police Department – revealed a Fountain orchestrated the purchase of large quantities of fentanyl and other illegal drugs, adding dangerous ingredients such as xylazine—often referred to as “tranq”—to enhance the potency and profitability of his product.

What the seizure found

Law enforcement officials uncovered more than 10.5 kilograms of fentanyl, over 200 grams of pure methamphetamine, more than 3.5 kilograms of cocaine, and nearly 3 kilograms of heroin during a series of raids.

In one of the most alarming findings, a kilogram press was discovered in a Middletown home Fountain owned, designed to press the drugs into bricks after they had been adulterated. Further evidence linked Fountain to an apartment in Bear, where he stored his inventory.

Fountain was caught on a recorded phone call acknowledging the lethal potential of the drugs he was distributing, admitting he knew they could kill people.

The case was part of a long-term investigation into a highly organized and dangerous criminal network.

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“The defendant was a savvy drug trafficker who worked with others, including those from out of state, to flood Delaware with fentanyl and other drugs,” said Shannon T. Hanson, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. “Thanks to the DEA’s investigation, we seized over 16 kilograms of illegal substances, just under $100,000 in cash, and successfully convicted a major drug trafficker. We will continue to pursue those who profit from addiction and put communities at risk.”

Chief Thomas Johnson of the Dover Police Department emphasized the importance of teamwork between federal, state, and local agencies, calling it an effective strategy to combat the drug crisis.

“The seizure of these drugs is a direct result of the tireless work of our officers and partners,” Johnson said. “It’s another example of law enforcement coming together to rid our streets of dangerous criminals.”

Colonel William D. Crotty, Superintendent of the Delaware State Police, echoed those sentiments, stating that fentanyl continues to devastate communities, but strong partnerships among law enforcement are making a significant impact.

Fountain now faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.

Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer K. Welsh and Samuel S. Frey.

This prosecution is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (, a multi-agency initiative aimed at dismantling the most significant drug trafficking organizations in the U.S.

Fountain’s conviction and the seizure of over 16 kilograms of illegal substances serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle drug trafficking networks and protect communities from the devastating effects of addiction and illegal drugs.