Bradenton Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison
A Bradenton man has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison following a joint investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with support from the Bradenton Police Department.
Alexis Soto Escalante, 20, received his sentence on Thursday for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of cocaine. He had entered a guilty plea on April 11, 2025.
The investigation stems from a May 22, 2024 drug transaction, during which Soto Escalante supplied 55.9 grams of fentanyl to co-defendant Traveous Anderson. Anderson was arrested shortly after the handoff, and agents recovered the fentanyl during that encounter.
Later that same day, Soto Escalante was taken into custody after he attempted to collect payment for the delivery. A search of his vehicle revealed 641 grams of cocaine and 3.7 grams of fentanyl. A subsequent search warrant executed at his residence uncovered an additional 14.03 grams of cocaine and a firearm.
Anderson’s case remains pending as he awaits trial for his alleged role in the drug distribution operation.
Federal authorities continue to prioritize investigations targeting fentanyl distribution due to the substance’s significant role in the ongoing overdose crisis.
