Duxbury Man Charged in Federal Drug Trafficking Indictment

Accused of distributing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine across multiple towns

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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A 40-year-old Duxbury man named Justin Tatum, also known as "JD", has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances including fentanyl, fentanyl analogue, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Tatum was also charged with money laundering conspiracy along with an alleged co-conspirator, Trinity Norman of Plymouth.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing opioid crisis and the efforts by federal authorities to target high-level drug traffickers distributing dangerous synthetic opioids like fentanyl across multiple communities. Tatum has a prior conviction for cocaine trafficking, underscoring the challenge of repeat offenders and the need for comprehensive addiction treatment and prevention programs.

The details

According to court records, in December 2024 several cooperating sources told investigators that Tatum was selling fentanyl and cocaine in the greater Plymouth area. Investigators then conducted controlled purchases of drugs from Tatum, and intercepted him on court-authorized wiretaps allegedly discussing the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. On July 14, a search of Tatum's home and a location in Middleborough resulted in the seizure of large amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

  • In December 2024, several cooperating sources told investigators that Tatum was selling fentanyl and cocaine.
  • Between April and July, Tatum was intercepted on court-authorized wiretaps allegedly discussing the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine.
  • On July 14, a search was executed at Tatum's house and a location in Middleborough where large amounts of drugs were seized.

The players

Justin Tatum

Also known as "JD", a 40-year-old Duxbury man who was indicted on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances including fentanyl, fentanyl analogue, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

Trinity Norman

Also known as "Trin", a 41-year-old Plymouth resident who was indicted along with Tatum on one count of money laundering conspiracy.

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What’s next

Tatum is scheduled to be arraigned on Feb. 12 in federal court in Boston. The judge will also decide whether to allow Norman, who was arrested on Feb. 2, to be released on conditions.

The takeaway

This indictment underscores the persistent challenge of combating the opioid epidemic, as repeat offenders like Tatum continue to distribute deadly drugs like fentanyl across multiple towns. Comprehensive addiction treatment and prevention programs, along with aggressive enforcement targeting high-level traffickers, will be crucial to addressing this public health crisis.