Man known as ‘Flatbed’ Fred sentenced to prison

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) – A Columbus County man could spend at least 18 years behind bars after being found guilty on drug charges.

A judge sentenced “Flatbed” Fred Schumann to 225-282 months behind bars and a mandatory fine of $500,000.

A jury found Schumann guilty in Columbus County Superior Court to eight counts of Trafficking Opium or Heroin.  Schumann represented himself.

On Febuary 25, 2013, Schuman sold 30 Lorcet pills to an undercover informant working for the Columbus County Sheriff’s Department.  This undercover operation was recorded using hidden audio equipment and was played for the Jury during the trial.

Then again on March 22, 2013,  Schuman sold 50 Lorcet pills to the same undercover informant. This was also recorded using hidden audio equipment and was played for the Jury.

During both of these transactions, Schumann discussed how quickly he “sold” his prescription pain medication each month.  Schumann sold his Lorcet pills for $6 per tablet.

“Mr. Schumann was a drug dealer in our community who distributed dangerous, high addictive pain medication to others for profit,” stated Assistant District Attorney Heath Nance.  “I appreciate the hardwork and commitment of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Department, and especially the Vice Narcotics Unit in bringing Mr. Schumann to justice.”  “Their efforts resulted in a substantial prison sentence for a drug dealer in our community.”