Three people indicted for fentanyl trafficking

Three people have been indicted on conspiracy to distribute fentanyl to Bemidji and the Red Lake Indian Reservation, in addition to firearm charges.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota says the investigation spanned from April to September 2024.

La’veal O’Neal Allen, 38, of Minneapolis, Marquise Javon Walker, 28, of Lakeville, and Michaela Karon McKinney, 37, of New Hope are facing indictment charges of conspiracy to distribute with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Allen is also charged with felon in possession of a firearm.

Authorities say Allen’s criminal history includes multiple felonies, including two convictions for first degree aggravated robbery, and a conviction for a predatory offender registration violation. Those convictions prohibit Allen from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time, under federal law.

“Fentanyl continues to flood communities throughout Minnesota, and unfortunately, we see some of the highest rates of overdose and addiction on our Indian reservations,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This trio of defendants has plagued the Red Lake Indian Reservation and the Bemidji area for years. No more. My office will ensure these purveyors of poison see federal justice.”  

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.