Orlando Man Sentenced To Over 15 Years For Drug And Firearm Offenses

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Eric C. Falkowski (35, Orlando) to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Falkowski pleaded guilty on December 15, 2016.

According to court documents, Falkowski obtained fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, butyrl fentanyl, and other controlled substances from China in order to manufacture counterfeit prescription pills, including Xanax and Percocet. After receiving the fentanyl and other controlled substances, he would prepare and manufacture counterfeit pills using pill presses and dyes. Falkowski, and others acting at his direction, would then ship and transport parcels containing the counterfeit pills to Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and other places.

In February 2016, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Falkowski’s residence. During that search, law enforcement officers recovered more than 300 grams of fentanyl, various other controlled substances, pill presses, and dyes. In addition, officers recovered seven firearms, including a 9mm Luger Beretta pistol, a 9mm Luger Heckler & Koch pistol, a .22 caliber Ruger pistol, a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol, a 5.56 caliber NATO Sig Sauer M400 rifle, a 9mm Ruger pistol, and a .380 caliber Walther pistol. Falkowski’s fingerprints were found on the .380 caliber Walther pistol. As a previously convicted felon, Falkowski is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.