DA: Man convicted of manslaughter in connection with fentanyl overdose

Written by: A. Smith

Published November 7, 2025 @ 12:35 PM ET

NEWTON COUNTY, Ga. – A Newton County man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of involuntary manslaughter in connection with a deadly fentanyl overdose.

Authorities said James Nail Jr. died on Dec. 30, 2022, after taking fentanyl laced with xylazine. Matthew Burley was later identified as the person who supplied the drugs.

During a search of Burley’s home, police reportedly found at least six grams of fentanyl. Burley was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, distribution of fentanyl, and trafficking fentanyl.

In addition to his prison sentence, Burley was ordered to serve 15 years of probation following his release.

The case highlights the ongoing dangers of fentanyl in Newton County and across Georgia, where overdoses have risen sharply in recent years.