RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Leslie Keonte Hodges, street name, “Tay,” 36, to a year and half, in federal prison for selling fentanyl. On June 11, 2026. Hodges pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl.

“Instead of making something positive with his life, Hodges took a shortcut to make quick cash selling deadly poison. Everyone knows that fentanyl will kill you dead, quick, but he didn’t care one bit about his victims in the New Bern community,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “This case is an example of a simple lesson: Drugs Kill, Prison Awaits – Do Right.”

In early 2023, the New Bern Police Department opened an investigation into Hodges and made several drug purchases at different locations around the city. Between March and July 2023, Hodges sold 29 grams of fentanyl and 63 grams of meth.

“The New Bern Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to removing fentanyl and other illegal narcotics from our community streets,” said Patrick Gallagher New Bern Police Chief. “Through strong partnerships with the FBI and federal prosecutors with the EDNC, we continue to enhance our efforts and strengthen our mission to protect the safety and well‑being of all residents.” “The FBI’s unwavering commitment to combat violent crime is making a real impact in communities across the country,” said Reid Davis, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. “This federal prison sentence reflects the tireless efforts of our agents and our local law enforcement partners. Together, we will dismantle drug trafficking operations, hold violent offenders accountable, and continue to drive down violent crime at a historic rate."

Ellis Boyle, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The New Bern Police Department and FBI investigated the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:26-CR-00002-D-BM