Schenectady Man Indicted for Fentanyl, Cocaine Distribution Causing Death

Kristoffer Jackson faces 20 years to life in prison for overdose fatality

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kristoffer Jackson, a 39-year-old Schenectady resident, has been indicted for distributing fentanyl and cocaine that led to a fatal overdose. The indictment was announced by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and DEA Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing opioid crisis and the DEA's efforts to combat the distribution of dangerous drugs like fentanyl, which have contributed to a rise in overdose deaths across the country. Prosecuting drug dealers who sell substances that lead to fatalities is a key strategy in addressing the crisis.

The details

Jackson was arraigned last week in Albany and ordered detained pending trial on March 10. If convicted, he faces 20 years to life in prison and supervised release of at least 3 years. The DEA and Schenectady Police Department are investigating, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa prosecuting.

  • Jackson was arraigned last week in Albany.
  • The trial is scheduled for March 10.

The players

Kristoffer Jackson

A 39-year-old Schenectady resident who has been indicted for distributing fentanyl and cocaine that led to a fatal overdose.

John A. Sarcone III

First Assistant United States Attorney who announced the indictment against Jackson.

Farhana Islam

DEA Special Agent in Charge who announced the indictment against Jackson.

Mikayla Espinosa

Assistant U.S. Attorney prosecuting the case against Jackson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Drug traffickers who flood our communities with dangerous controlled substances are not just dealing drugs—they are dealing death.”

— John A. Sarcone III, First Assistant United States Attorney

“The DEA remains steadfast in our mission to protect the public and make America Fentanyl Free.”

— Farhana Islam, DEA Special Agent in Charge

What’s next

The trial for Kristoffer Jackson is scheduled for March 10.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the distribution of deadly drugs like fentanyl, which have contributed to the opioid crisis and resulted in a rise in overdose deaths across the country. Prosecuting drug dealers who sell substances that lead to fatalities is a key strategy in addressing this public health emergency.