MARION, Va. (WJHL) — A Marion, Va. man was sentenced to serve 4 years in prison for his role in trafficking and distributing fentanyl on Tuesday.

A news release from Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip Blevins’ office said Steven Enfield, 48, was convicted of distribution of a weapon of terrorism, trafficking controlled substances across state lines, possession with the intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance and conspiracy.

According to the release, a plea offer was not extended to Enfield, but he still entered an open guilty plea to his charges. The release said that the court decided that Enfield’s guilty plea “constituted acceptance of responsibility” and modified the sentencing guidelines.

During Enfield’s sentencing hearing Tuesday, the release said that Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Blevins urged the court to impose a 20-year sentence against Enfield, which he said “reflects the grave harm caused by the defendant’s actions and the lethal threat fentanyl poses.”

The release said Blevins told the court that Enfield “possessed enough fentanyl to be lethal to 8,000 citizens.” Ultimately, the court sentenced Enfield to serve 4 years incarcerated, with 36 years suspended.

“I respect the Court’s decision and acknowledge the delicate balance it must strike,” Blevins said in the release. “I continue to believe that those who deal in fentanyl deserve significant time in prison. My office will not waiver in our commitment to protecting this community and will continue to not negotiate with drug dealers and seek lengthy prison sentences for individuals who peddle poison and perpetuate addiction in this county.”