A Dayton man will serve the next 12 years in federal prison after confessing to distributing large amounts of fentanyl from a facility near a public high school.
Clifford Bernard, 48, was sentenced to 144 months in prison in the United States District Court for trafficking fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a school zone. Federal investigators announced the sentencing after conducting a protracted investigation into narcotics activity at his Dayton residence.
According to court records, Bernard had and distributed about one kilogram of fentanyl between July and September 2024. Authorities found that he engaged in illegal activity at his Angier Drive residence, located within 1,000 feet of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School.
Investigation Led To Major Drug Seizure
Bernard was arrested in October 2024 after federal authorities gathered evidence on the drug trafficking scheme.
During his arrest, authorities discovered around $5,000 in cash on him. A further search of his home revealed additional evidence, which prosecutors later utilized in court.
Agents seized nearly a kilogram of fentanyl from the house. Investigators also found a loaded weapon, as well as many high-value personal belongings such as jewelry and a classic Pontiac Firebird.
The discovery of fentanyl was especially significant given the drug’s strength and the risks it poses to communities. Fentanyl trafficking is one of the most serious public safety dangers to cities around the country, according to federal officials.
Guilty Plea And Sentencing
Bernard eventually admitted his involvement in the offense.
In February 2026, he pleaded guilty to possessing 400 grams or more of fentanyl with the intent to distribute in a school zone.
Federal prosecutors stated that the conduct was particularly significant because the drug activity took place near a school, where children and families frequently congregate.
US District Judge Michael J. Newman imposed the sentence on June 5.
The case was announced by Dominick S. Gerace II, US Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Cincinnati Division.
Kelly Rossi, Assistant United States Attorney, prosecuted the case on behalf of the federal government.
The investigation and subsequent punishment demonstrate federal law enforcement agencies’ continuous efforts to target fentanyl trafficking networks and remove harmful substances from communities. Officials say fighting the spread of fentanyl is a high priority, especially when illegal drug activity occurs near schools and other places frequented by young people.
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