Walker County Woman Sentenced to 20 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking

A Walker County woman, Mary Louis Harvey, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison, with five years to be served in confinement, after pleading guilty to trafficking fentanyl. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid linked to a surge in overdose deaths across Northwest Georgia.

Harvey’s conviction resulted from an investigation by the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force (DTF). On June 5, 2024, DTF agents conducted a visit to Harvey’s residence based on credible intelligence regarding drug activity. Harvey voluntarily directed agents to her bedroom, where fentanyl-laced materials were found hidden inside a dresser. While in custody, she disclosed another stash location, leading to the recovery of additional contraband.

In total, agents seized 11 grams of fentanyl. A forensic examination of Harvey’s phone uncovered messages consistent with ongoing drug deals.

Harvey was charged with Trafficking in Fentanyl and subsequently entered a guilty plea. She received a sentence of 20 years, with the initial five years to be served in the Georgia Department of Corrections. Chief Assistant District Attorney Lynsay Chapman prosecuted the case.

District Attorney Clay Fuller issued a strong statement regarding the sentencing: “If you’re trafficking fentanyl in Walker County, get ready for prison because that’s where you belong when you are pushing that poison into our communities. Fentanyl kills, and we are done playing games with those who profit from it. Thanks to the DTF, another trafficker is off the streets.”

The case highlights District Attorney Fuller’s commitment to aggressively prosecuting fentanyl-related crimes and protecting Northwest Georgia from the deadly opioid crisis, noting that fentanyl overdose is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45.