Lincoln Woman Sentenced on Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy and Possession Charges

United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Stephanie Marie Bartels, 32, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on Friday, May 8, 2026, in federal court Lincoln for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Bartels to 70 months' imprisonment on each count to run concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system. After Bartels's release from prison, she will begin a four-year term of supervised release. She will also forfeit any interest she has in $19,739.00 in U.S. currency.

Information provided to law enforcement indicated that between December of 2023 and June of 2024, Bartels and her co-defendant, Xavier Blanton, were involved in the distribution of fentanyl pills in the Lincoln area.

Between April and June of 2024, a confidential informant and an undercover officer working with the Lincoln Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force made six purchases of fentanyl pills from Bartels and Blanton. On June 27, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Bartels's and Blanton's Lincoln apartment. During the search, investigators found 107 grams of fentanyl pills, along with cocaine, marijuana, and a total of $19,739.00 in cash.

Blanton pleaded guilty on October 22, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana with a prior serious drug felony. His sentencing is scheduled for July 23, 2026.

This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.