James B. Link of Farmington, Missouri admitted on Mar. 11 to supplying fentanyl to a man who later died from an overdose, according to the U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about fentanyl distribution and its deadly consequences within local communities.
Link, age 31, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl. According to court documents, Link exchanged messages with the victim on June 14, 2025 about bringing fentanyl pills to him. Authorities said Link’s vehicle was seen leaving the victim’s residence shortly before the fatal overdose occurred. The following day, investigators interviewed Link and he admitted delivering blue and yellow pills containing fentanyl just prior to the victim’s death. Officers later found similar blue and yellow pills at Link’s home.
Sentencing for Link is set for July 9. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine or both.
The Ste. Genevieve County Sheriff’s Office, Mineral Area Drug Task Force and Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted the investigation into this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Shelton is handling prosecution.
The outcome of this case underscores law enforcement efforts against illegal opioid distribution as communities continue addressing opioid-related deaths.
