LYNCHBURG, VA – Safeeyah Clement, 23, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to drug distribution charges linked to a series of overdoses, including two fatal incidents, in Lynchburg, Virginia.
The case dates back to March 2023 when Clement’s involvement in illegal drug activities led to tragic consequences. The investigation began on March 25, 2023, after a 22-year-old man was found dead in his apartment from an apparent drug overdose at WillowBrook Apartments. A search of the victim’s apartment uncovered several narcotics, and Clement, who had been present at the scene, became a key figure in the investigation.
Despite Virginia’s “safe harbor” law protecting individuals who seek help for overdose victims, the law does not cover the distribution of illegal drugs, and Clement faced criminal charges. The case escalated when another overdose occurred just days later, followed by a third fatal overdose on April 1, 2023, connected to Clement.
Investigators discovered a link between the drugs involved in the overdoses and Clement, leading to the seizure of multiple narcotics from her residence and a storage unit in Bedford County. Items seized included Fentanyl, Lorazepam, Amphetamine, Methylphenidate, Bromazolam, LSD, and Psilocyn. Further evidence from Clement’s phone revealed she had been actively selling drugs, including to the two men who died from overdoses.
In court, Clement admitted to her role in the drug trade, acknowledging that she had been caught up with the wrong crowd while pursuing a business degree. The evidence, including incriminating text messages, cemented her involvement in the deadly distribution network.
Clement was convicted on multiple charges, including distribution of controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute. On November 18, 2024, she pleaded guilty to the following:
4 counts of distribution of a Schedule I/II controlled substance
7 counts of possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I/II controlled substance
1 count of distribution of a Schedule IV controlled substance
Judge Yeatts of the Lynchburg Circuit Court sentenced Clement to 60 years in prison, with 40 years suspended, leaving her with 20 years to serve. Upon release, she will face 24 months of supervised probation and must comply with 50 years of good behavior.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of drug trafficking and the loss of life it can cause, not only for the victims but also for their families and the community.
