𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐘 𝐃𝐄𝐅𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐘𝐋 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆

Deltona, FL — October 16, 2025

In a decisive blow against the local opioid trade, a Volusia County jury has found Kenneth Ross Jr. guilty of Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Oxycodone, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The conviction followed a swift two-day trial, after which Circuit Judge Karen Foxman sentenced Ross to 25 years in state prison, underscoring the gravity of the charges and the community’s zero-tolerance stance on fentanyl distribution.

The case originated from a month-long investigation led by the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, culminating in the execution of a search warrant on Ross’ Deltona residence on January 9, 2025. Inside the home, detectives uncovered a substantial cache of fentanyl and oxycodone—two potent opioids at the center of the nation’s overdose crisis. In addition to the narcotics, law enforcement recovered a handgun and $25,000 in cash from Ross’ bedroom, suggesting the scale and profitability of his trafficking operation.

“This case is a prime example of your prosecutors’ efforts to attack and destroy the fentanyl trade in our communities,” said State Attorney R.J. Larizza. “Many lives were saved by removing fentanyl and one of its traffickers from the streets.”

Assistant State Attorneys Daniel Megaro and Philip Dunlop prosecuted the case, presenting evidence that painted Ross as a significant player in the local drug scene. Their successful conviction is being hailed as a victory not only for law enforcement but for families across Volusia County who have been impacted by the opioid epidemic.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, has been responsible for a surge in overdose deaths nationwide. In Florida, fentanyl-related fatalities have risen sharply in recent years, prompting aggressive action from state and local authorities. The sentencing of Ross sends a clear message: those who profit from the distribution of deadly substances will face severe consequences.

The Volusia Sheriff’s Office continues to prioritize narcotics enforcement, with Sheriff Mike Chitwood previously emphasizing the department’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and protecting vulnerable communities. The Ross case is emblematic of that mission, highlighting the collaborative efforts between investigators and prosecutors to stem the tide of opioid abuse.

As the community grapples with the ongoing challenges of addiction and overdose, officials hope this conviction will serve as both a deterrent and a reminder of the importance of vigilance, accountability, and justice.