United States Drug Enforcement Administration

BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing fentanyl for distribution in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux of the Houston Division and U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs.

Harry Francis Lowenthal, 66, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on November 12, 2024.

According to information presented in court, Lowenthal was arrested following an investigation into fentanyl distribution.  During the arrest, Lowenthal was found in possession of a white powdery substance and later admitted to possessing cocaine and fentanyl and to selling heroin.  During a search of his residence, officers discovered a firearm, $5,000.00 cash, and a small amount of suspected heroin and fentanyl along with indicators of drug trafficking, including plastic baggies, a digital scale and lactose powder commonly used to “bulk up” drugs. A lab analysis of the drugs confirmed that it consisted of approximately 19 grams of a fentanyl/heroin mix.    

“Fentanyl, even in small amounts, is a potent synthetic opioid, approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “Today’s sentence should send a clear message that this Office, working closely with our state and federal law enforcement partners, will continue to prosecute and seek to hold accountable drug dealers who distribute this poison and exploit addictions in the Eastern District of Texas.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beaumont Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy L. Coleman with assistance from the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office.