Ogden, UT— A Utah man has been indicted on federal charges after attempting to import a potent synthetic opioid into the state. Clint James Pendleton, 29, of Provo, is facing charges of attempted possession of carfentanil with intent to distribute, marking the first federal carfentanil prosecution in Utah.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, Pendleton’s attempt to receive approximately 20 grams of the dangerous substance was intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Los Angeles International Airport on January 22, 2025.
Carfentanil, a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times stronger than morphine, is typically used as a tranquilizer for large animals such as elephants. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has warned that carfentanil is “incredibly dangerous” and is not approved for human consumption. Its lethal dose range remains unknown, and even minute amounts can prove fatal.
Court documents reveal that Pendleton had signed up for tracking updates on the package, which was en route to Payson, Utah, before being intercepted in Los Angeles. The contents of the package were opened and tested by authorities, who confirmed the substance as carfentanil, weighing approximately 20 grams.
Further investigation into Pendleton’s criminal history uncovered a notebook in which he allegedly documented transactions involving controlled substances, including prices, quantities, and tracking numbers—indicating a pattern of illicit activity.
Pendleton made his initial appearance in federal court in Salt Lake City on February 5, 2025. The case is being investigated by the FBI, with officials emphasizing the ongoing dangers of illegal drug trafficking, especially with substances as deadly as carfentanil.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by synthetic opioids and the efforts of law enforcement to intercept dangerous drugs before they reach local communities.