local
Former Texas Tech professor pleads guilty to running fentanyl trafficking conspiracy
By Chelsea Collinsworth at KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS)
· July 7, 2026
· 1 min read
LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A former Texas Tech University marketing and supply chain management professor plead guilty to his role in a fentanyl distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced51-year-old Daniel Taylor was federally charged i...
Key takeaway Taylor faces a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years in federal prison and a $5,000,000 fine.
Why this matters in The Midland
The guilty plea of a former Texas Tech professor in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy case has significant implications for the Permian Basin community. As the region grapples with the ongoing opioid crisis, this case highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and local institutions. The fact that a university professor was involved in such a conspiracy raises concerns about the potential for drug trafficking to infiltrate seemingly respectable circles. Midland residents should be aware that the consequences of fentanyl distribution can be devastating, as evidenced by the eight overdoses attributed to the defendant's actions. With sentencing pending, the community will be watching to see how the court addresses this serious offense, and whether the punishment will reflect the severity of the crime. The case also underscores the importance of universities and colleges in the region taking proactive steps to prevent drug trafficking and promote a safe and healthy environment for students and faculty.
About this story
Original reporting by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . The Midland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 7, 2026 ·
Source: KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A former Texas Tech University marketing and supply chain management professor plead guilty to his role in a fentanyl distribution conspiracy, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced51-year-old Daniel Taylor was federally charged i...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 7, 2026 by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) and curated for The Midland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Chelsea Collinsworth at KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS). To learn more about how The Midland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Midland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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