Birmingham, AL — Frederick Leonard Temple Jr., 35, of Birmingham, was convicted by a federal jury for his involvement in distributing fentanyl, possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, and illegally possessing a machine gun in furtherance of a drug-trafficking operation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Alabama announced.
Temple, also known by the street names “Cutt” and “Cutthroat,” was found guilty following a trial in the Northern District of Alabama. The conviction marks a significant victory in efforts to combat drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession.
U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona emphasized the severity of Temple’s criminal conduct, stating, “This individual posed a threat to the safety and well-being of our communities, and Friday’s verdict sends a clear message that we will not tolerate such dangerous and unlawful activities.”
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Temple distributed fentanyl on at least two occasions. A search warrant executed at his residence by the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force led to the recovery of 14 firearms, including a machine gun, high-capacity magazines, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Marcus Stankiewicz of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) emphasized the critical need to address both drug trafficking and gun violence, adding, “Drug trafficking and gun violence are major issues affecting our communities at alarming rates. Those involved in illegal firearm possession and drug distribution are being held accountable.”
Temple’s conviction is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt the dangerous cycle of drug trafficking and violence in communities across Alabama.
