KC Reporter

A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking and illegal firearm possession. Lawrence A. Andrews, 51, received the sentence from U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips.

Andrews pleaded guilty on March 4, 2025, to charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He admitted to possessing approximately 19 grams of fentanyl pills and a SCCY, Model CPX-2, 9mm pistol on August 8, 2023.

The arrest occurred when officers from the Kansas City Police Department stopped Andrews' vehicle. A search revealed the firearm and fentanyl along with other drugs including PCP, cocaine in both base and salt forms, and methamphetamine.

Andrews has a criminal history with prior felony convictions for stealing, possession of controlled substances, drug trafficking in the second degree, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings is prosecuting the case which was investigated by the Kansas City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. The program focuses on fostering trust within communities, supporting violence prevention organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.