Metropolis man sentenced in fentanyl trafficking case

A Metropolis man has been sentenced in federal court after authorities intercepted fentanyl being shipped to him.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, 54-year-old Jason J. Gallo of Metropolis was sentenced to just over 5 years in prison and fined $1,500 in the case dating back to the spring of 2024. In March and April of 2024, law enforcement caught two packages of fentanyl being shipped from California to Gallo’s home in Metropolis. They said Gallo tried to get the packages on April 10th, 2024, and is accused of planning to distribute the 54 grams of fentanyl pills.

Inspector in Charge, Nicholas Bucciarelli, who leads the Chicago Division, which includes the St. Louis Domicile Office, said, “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use.  With the collaborative efforts of our federal law enforcement partners, Postal Inspectors investigate those utilizing the U.S. Mail for illicit activities, including the distribution of narcotics.  Today’s sentencing reflects the diligent investigative work by Postal Inspectors, and our law enforcement partners.”

U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said, “Fentanyl is incredibly dangerous and continues to threaten our communities. Today’s sentence sends a clear message that those who choose to traffic this lethal drug will be held accountable.”

The United States Postal Inspection Service was the lead in the investigation. They, along with the Metropolis Police Department and the Illinois State Police’s Southern Illinois Drug Task Force, collaborated on the case against Gallo. After Gallo serves his 63-month sentence, he will be on supervised release for four years.