Man signs plea deal for role in international fentanyl ring

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A man accused of playing a major role in an international fentanyl trafficking operation that led to overdose deaths in several states has signed a federal plea agreement in North Dakota.

Daniel Vivas Ceron, a Colombian national who allegedly ran his part of the enterprise from a Canadian prison, will plead guilty to three counts, including conspiracy to import controlled substances resulting in serious bodily injury and death. He faces life in prison.

More than 30 people, including five Chinese nationals, have been charged. Deaths from the drugs were also reported in North Carolina, New Jersey and Oregon.

The investigation began following 18-year-old Bailey Henke’s death in 2015. Authorities say Henke overdosed on fentanyl supplied by a man who received his drugs from Vivas Ceron.

A Friday plea hearing is scheduled in Fargo.