Florida monster busted for selling meth and fentanyl while toddler overdosed under his roof
Florida – Federal prosecutors have filed multiple charges against a 31-year-old St. Petersburg man in a case that centers on drug sales, firearms, and the fentanyl overdose of a one-year-old child.
According to a criminal complaint, Rayshawn Smith is accused of distributing controlled substances resulting in great bodily injury, carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, distributing drugs, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
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Authorities said that, if he is convicted on every count, he could face a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe.
Investigators allege that over a period stretching from May 13, 2025, through January 14, 2026, Smith sold several types of illegal drugs to a confidential informant.
The substances mentioned in the complaint include methamphetamine and fentanyl, two drugs that have remained at the center of many overdose and trafficking investigations.
The most serious allegation in the case involves a child. Prosecutors say that on November 13, 2025, while the one-year-old was in Smith’s sole care and custody, the child ingested fentanyl and suffered an overdose.
The complaint states that the emergency was so severe that life-saving treatment was required at a hospital.
The investigation later moved to Smith’s residence. On January 14, 2026, law enforcement officers carried out a search warrant at the home and reported finding drugs, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
Smith was arrested separately, in his vehicle, at another location. When officers searched the car, authorities say they discovered more drugs along with materials used for packaging them.
The case brings together allegations of drug trafficking and weapons possession, while also underscoring the devastating danger fentanyl can pose, especially to children. In even the smallest amount, the drug can trigger a medical emergency with frightening speed.
The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. Petersburg Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yara Dodin.
