The acting United States Attorney is making an example of a Uintah County man who has been sentenced to federal prison for the fatal overdose of his girlfriend. 35-year-old Larry Gardner admitted that on February 3rd, 2019, his girlfriend died of an overdose after taking a combination of heroin and methamphetamine which she had requested and he had given her. He also admitted within the plea agreement that at that time he had with him a .22 caliber revolver even though he was a convicted felon. In total, Gardner will serve 84 months for his crime. This case is being used by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to send a clear message. “The United States Attorney’s Office is focused on pursuing federal criminal charges against individuals who distribute illegal narcotics that result in fatal overdoses,” shared Acting United States Attorney Andrea T. Martinez on the day of Gardner’s sentencing. “We hope that today’s sentence is a reminder to the community and narcotics dealers alike that distributing dangerous and illegal narcotics is not a victimless crime.” The FBI agrees that this is a case that can serve as a warning. “This case highlights the tragic consequences of the meth and opioid epidemic that is far-reaching in our country and here in Utah,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to doing our part to curb this crisis. When someone dies as a result of your actions, and if you illegally possess firearms, you will be held accountable.” The Uintah County Sheriff’s Office assisted the FBI in conducting the investigation. Gardner has already served 19 months while in custody and was sentenced to serve 65 months in federal prison. Utah’s United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case against Gardner. The sentencing took place on Wednesday.
