West Haven Man Gets More Prison Time for Violating Supervised Release

Devell Conley sentenced to 21 additional months after multiple violations while on supervised release for drug distribution case

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Devell Conley, a 39-year-old West Haven man, was sentenced to 21 additional months in prison after violating the terms of his supervised release connected to a previous drug distribution case that resulted in a woman's overdose death. Conley was arrested multiple times while on supervised release for drug-related offenses and also tested positive for controlled substances, possessed a device to defeat drug tests, and provided fake paystubs to his probation officer.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of supervised release and the ongoing struggle to address the opioid crisis, as repeat offenders continue to cycle through the criminal justice system. It raises questions about the effectiveness of current approaches to rehabilitation and reintegration of non-violent drug offenders.

The details

Conley was originally sentenced in May 2019 to 78 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine. Investigators found that he had provided drugs to a 27-year-old East Haven woman shortly before she died of an overdose. After being released from prison in January 2023, Conley was arrested twice more - in August 2023 in New Haven for possession with intent to distribute, and in November 2024 in West Haven for sale of a narcotic substance. He pleaded guilty in state court in both cases.

  • Conley was sentenced in May 2019 to 78 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.
  • Conley was released from prison in January 2023.
  • Conley was arrested in New Haven in August 2023 and charged with possession with intent to distribute.
  • Conley was arrested in West Haven in November 2024 and charged with sale of a narcotic substance.
  • Conley has been detained in federal custody since January 29, 2026.

The players

Devell Conley

A 39-year-old West Haven man who was convicted of distributing drugs that led to a woman's death and was sentenced to additional prison time for violating the terms of his supervised release.

Janet C. Hall

The U.S. District Judge in New Haven who sentenced Conley to 21 additional months in prison for the supervised release violations.

David X. Sullivan

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut who announced Conley's sentencing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Conley is awaiting sentencing in the New Haven case related to his August 2023 arrest for possession with intent to distribute.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing the opioid crisis and the difficulties in rehabilitating and reintegrating non-violent drug offenders, as repeat offenders like Conley continue to cycle through the criminal justice system despite being on supervised release.