District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Homeland Security Task Force: Waterbury Man Charged with Drug Distribution and Firearm Possession OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ENRIQUE DELLVALLE-PEREZ, 39, of Waterbury, has been charged by indictment with drug distribution and firearm offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, an investigation determined that Dellvalle-Perez was distributing cocaine and crack cocaine in and around Waterbury. On September 25, 2025, a court-authorized search of Dellvalle-Perez’s residence on Bucks Hill Road in Waterbury revealed more than four kilograms of cocaine, a loaded Glock 27 semi-automatic pistol, and other items. Dellvalle-Perez was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on that date.
It is further alleged that Dellvalle-Perez’s criminal history includes state felony drug convictions.
On March 24, 2026, a grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Dellvalle-Perez with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years; and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Dellavalle is currently released on a $150,000 bond.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
This investigation includes members of the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force, which is composed of participants from the DEA, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Connecticut State Police, and the New Haven, Waterbury, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, Middletown, and Shelton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan J. Guevremont and Justyn P. Stokely.
Danbury Man Admits Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that MARK EDWARDS, 61, of Danbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to an offense related to the filing of false tax returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, since approximately 1998 Edwards has owned and operated “Mark Edwards Roofing and Siding, LLC,” a roofing and construction business. Beginning at least as early as 2018, Edwards failed to keep accurate records or perform bookkeeping for his business, and during the preparation of his income tax returns he provided his tax preparer with handwritten income and expense figures that substantially underreported his income. On his federal income tax returns for the 2019 through 2023 tax years, Edwards underreported his gross receipts by at least $1.3 million, resulting in a tax loss to the IRS of $368,334.
Edwards pleaded guilty to aiding in the preparation of a false tax return, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years.
Edwards is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.
This investigation has been conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Stamford Man Charged with Distributing Crack While Released on Bond in Another Federal CaseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DANNY TURKVAN, also known as “Smooth” 54, of Stamford, has been charged with distributing crack cocaine after he had been sentenced in another federal case and prior to reporting to prison.
On August 13, 2025, Turkvan was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 46 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his participation in a southwestern Connecticut narcotics trafficking conspiracy. Turkvan, who was released on a $150,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on October 16, 2025.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, an investigation revealed that Turkvan continued to distribute narcotics after his August 2025 sentencing. Stamford Police arrested Turkvan on state charges on October 11, 2025, and seized crack cocaine that he intended to distribute.
On March 3, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Turkvan with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and for committing the offense while on pre-trial release, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of up to 10 years.
Turkvan has been detained since his arrest. He appeared yesterday in Bridgeport federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
This investigation is being conducted by the Stamford Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
Bridgeport Man Pleads Guilty to Drug-Related Firearm Possession ChargeRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ORONDE JEFFERSON, 42, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 20, 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department observed Jefferson outside a known drug location on Maple Street interacting with individuals engaging in suspected drug sales. Jefferson was arrested on state charges after he was searched and officers found him in possession of 32 individual glassine folds of fentanyl, a ziplock bag containing 71 capsules of crack cocaine, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun equipped with a loaded high-capacity magazine.
Jefferson was arrested on related federal charges on May 9, 2025.
Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for June 11, at which time Jefferson faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Jefferson is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department. The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary G. Vitale.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Norwich Man on Federal Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JAVON MORSE, 30, of Norwich, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to cocaine distribution and firearm possession offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 13, 2017, Morse was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking cocaine. He was released from prison in January 2021.
On October 14, 2024, while on federal supervised release, Morse fled from Norwich Police during a traffic stop. After he fled, Morse went to a storage facility where he maintained a storage unit. As Norwich Police again attempted to stop Morse’s vehicle, Morse threw a backpack from the vehicle and sped away. Morse’s vehicle became disabled a short distance away and he was taken into custody. Morse possessed $2,356 in cash at the time of his arrest.
A search of the backpack Morse discarded revealed nearly a kilogram of cocaine, numerous narcotic pills, items used to process and package narcotics, and other items. A search of Morse’s storage unit revealed four handguns, including two “ghost guns;” loaded gun magazines, including high-capacity magazines; ammunition; and other items. A subsequent search of Morse’s vehicle revealed approximately 10 pounds of marijuana, narcotic pills, quantities of methamphetamine and crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics, and $4,449 in cash.
Morse, who has been detained in federal custody since December 12, 2024, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. He faces additional penalties if he is found to have violated the conditions of his supervised release.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 30.
This investigation has been conducted by the Norwich Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Drug-Related Firearm Possession OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HARRY WHITLEY, 23, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 4, 2024, Whitley, who had an active state arrest warrant and was on probation, was observed participating in a suspected drug transaction in New Haven. Whitley was arrested a short time later in Waterbury. At the time of his arrest, he possessed fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone, and a Glock 17 9mm semiautomatic pistol with an extended magazine and a Glock-style machine gun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock switch.”
Whitley’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for firearm possession and larceny offenses.
The charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for June 11.
Whitley has been detained since his arrest.
This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Lembo and Nathan Guevremont.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Mail Thief Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MARQUIS WILLIAMS, 49, last residing in Colchester, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 27 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release that followed a prior federal conviction related to his operating a mail theft, identity theft, and bank fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2018 and 2019, Williams and his then-girlfriend stole mail from hundreds of residential mailboxes in Connecticut and used information contained in the mail to steal identities, produce fake identification, forge checks, and cash or deposit checks stolen from the mail. More than 70 bank fraud victims were identified during the investigation. Williams pleaded guilty and, in April 2023, was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 78 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release.
On September 9, 2025, approximately one month into his five-year term of supervised release, Williams was arrested by the Old Saybrook Police Department following a traffic stop and charged with driving under the influence and operating a motor vehicle under suspension. During a search of his vehicle, officers found approximately 132 pieces of mail that Williams had recently stolen from mailboxes in Old Saybrook, Guilford, Milford, and Old Lyme.
Williams has been detained in federal custody since September 22, 2025. He will be on supervised release for 33 months when he completes his 27-month prison term.
Williams’ criminal history also includes a federal conviction in 2002 for conspiracy, identity fraud, and credit card fraud offenses for which he was sentenced to 51 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the Old Saybrook Police Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon.
Individuals who believe they are a victim of mail theft may file a complaint by calling 877-876-2455 or by visiting https://www.uspis.gov/report.
Indictment Charges Mexican National with Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging JULIO CESAR FERNANDEZ-SALAZAR, 44, a citizen of Mexico, with unlawful reentry of a removed alien.
As alleged in court documents, Fernandez-Salazar has used numerous aliases, including Julio Fernandez, Julio Cesar Salazar, J. Cesar Fernandez-Salazar, Paulo Cesar Salazar, Alejandro Lugo, Jorge Ortigoza, and Julio C. Fernandez-Salazar. Fernandez-Salazar was first convicted of an immigration violation in October 2007 in the District of Arizona, was sentenced to 45 days of imprisonment, and was voluntarily returned to Mexico. In June 2009, after he returned to the U.S. and was convicted in Tempe Municipal Court in Arizona of failure to appear and driving with a suspended license, Fernandez-Salazar was deported to Mexico. In July 2009, U.S. Border Patrol encountered and arrested Fernandez-Salazar near the U.S./Mexico border and he was again deported to Mexico.
It is further alleged that Fernandez-Salazar illegally reentered the U.S. and, in April 2017, was convicted in Maricopa County of unlawful imprisonment and solicitation to commit misconduct involving weapons. In April 2018, he was convicted in the U.S. District Court in Arizona of unlawful reentry and was again deported to Mexico.
It is further alleged that on November 27, 2024, Fernandez-Salazar was arrested by the Connecticut State Police in Colchester and charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and other offenses. He was subsequently released on bond.
On July 18, 2025, the U.S. District Court in New Haven issued a criminal complaint charging Fernandez-Salazar with unlawful reentry. He was located and arrested in Arizona on February 25, 2026, and has been detained since that date. The indictment was returned on March 17, 2026.
If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Fernandez-Salazar faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Lembo.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Twice Deported Ecuadorian National Previously Convicted of Sex Abuse, Other Offenses, Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSE RAUL MAITA, 55, a citizen of Ecuador, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with unlawful reentry of a removed alien.
As alleged in court documents, in June 1996, Maita was granted status as a legal permanent resident in the United States following approval of an application based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen. In February 1998, Maita was convicted in Westchester County Court in New York of sexual abuse first degree involving sexual contact by forcible compulsion. The victim of the offense was nine years old. Maita was sentenced to five years of probation and was required to register as a sex offender. In November 2000, Maita was convicted in New York of failure to register as a sex offender. In August 2001, he was convicted of driving while intoxicated and for violating his probation stemming from his sexual abuse conviction. Maita’s probation was revoked and he was sentenced to one year of incarceration. In October 2003, Maita was deported to Ecuador.
It is further alleged that Maita illegally reentered the U.S. and, in November 2006, he was convicted in Westchester County Court of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. In April 2007, he was convicted in New York of failure to register as a sex offender. In April 2008, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Maita and, in October 2008, he was convicted in the Southern District of New York of unlawful reentry. In August 2009, Maita was again removed to Ecuador.
It is further alleged that, on September 20, 2025, Maita, who identified himself as “Jose P. Maita” and provided a false date of birth, was arrested by the Connecticut State Police in Southbury on charges of illegal operation of a motor vehicle without a license and illegal operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Maita was subsequently released on bond.
On November 4, 2025, the U.S. District Court in New Haven issued a criminal complaint charging Maita with unlawful reentry. He was located and arrested this morning in Waterbury.
Maita appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was ordered detained.
If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Maita faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for 2 Gunpoint Robberies in BridgeportRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DERRICK RIVERA, 22, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 144 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release for committing two armed robberies of Bridgeport businesses in 2022.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 11, 2022, Rivera, brandishing a firearm, entered a barbershop located on Wood Avenue in Bridgeport. Rivera then robbed an employee and two customers of cash and fled the barbershop.
On November 25, 2022, Rivera robbed a restaurant located on Wade Street in Bridgeport. During the robbery, Rivera pointed a firearm at the owner, who was behind the register, and demanded cash. Rivera reached across the counter, grabbed the cash and, while fleeing, fired twice in the direction of the owner and other employees. One of the bullets passed through the digital display of the cash register. Shattered pieces of glass and plastic from the register and a shell casing caused injuries to the owner’s face, eye, hand, and stomach.
In a victim impact statement, the restaurant owner stated that the trauma he suffers from the robbery and shooting forced him to sell the restaurant.
Rivera has been detained since his arrest on November 25, 2023. On October 23, 2025, he pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery) and one count of carrying, using, and count of discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
This matter was investigated by the Bridgeport Police Department, the Stratford Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NICHOLAS KINGSLEY, 42, of Agawam, Massachusetts, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 110 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for firearm possession offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation into Chinese companies suspected of importing firearms parts, including machinegun conversion devices (“MCDs) and silencers. During the investigation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) flagged several packages containing MCDs and silencers that were addressed to Kingsley’s residence in Agawam. U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted and searched one of the packages addressed to Kingsley and found three silencers and four MCDs. On April 8, 2024, HSI executed a search warrant at Kingsley’s residence and found a small amount of narcotics, but no firearms. Kingsley was arrested on state drug charges and released on bond.
On April 16, 2024, Enfield Police arrested Kingsley after they stopped a vehicle in which Kingsley was a passenger and found three privately made firearms (“ghost guns”), a silencer, an extended magazine, a Glock MCD, and 45 rounds of ammunition. On April 18, 2024, while Kingsley was detained in state custody, HSI special agents conducted a search of his vehicle in Agawam and seized 14 firearms, several Glock MCDs, magazines, body armor, and approximately 3,000 rounds of various caliber ammunition. A subsequent search of Kingsley’s phones revealed evidence of purchases of MCDs and firearms, including a conversation between Kingsley and a Chinese company discussing an order of MCDs.
Kingsley’s criminal history includes felony convictions for drug, firearm, assault, and larceny offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Kingsley has been detained since his arrest. On December 22, 2025, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms by a felon, unlawful possession of a machine gun, and unlawful possession of a weapon in violation of the National Firearms Act.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Enfield Police Department, and the Agawam Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Lembo.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ELI SAMUEL O’FARRILL-FERNANDEZ, also known as “Maple,” 48, of New Britain, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and New Britain Police Department investigated a drug trafficking organization, headed by Wilfredo Ortiz, that was operating out of Supreme Automotive, a car dealership located on Main Street in New Britain. The investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical and electronic surveillance, and several controlled purchases of narcotics, primarily cocaine, from Ortiz and other members of the conspiracy.
Investigators identified O’Farrill-Fernandez as a supplier of cocaine to Ortiz. On September 24, 2024, O’Farrill-Fernandez supplied Ortiz with approximately two kilograms of cocaine, and on October 12, 2024, he delivered four kilograms of cocaine to Ortiz at Supreme Automotive.
O’Farrill-Fernandez, Ortiz, and other members of this drug trafficking organization were arrested on November 14, 2024. In association with the arrests, investigators conducted court authorized searches of Supreme Automotive and residences and other locations connected to the organization and seized more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 200 grams of fentanyl, approximately 30 grams of heroin, a kilogram press, seven firearms, ammunition, approximately $75,000 in cash, and 26 vehicles. A search of O’Farrill-Fernandez’s residence on Maple Street revealed numerous items used to process and package narcotics, including multiple metal press plates used for pressing narcotics into kilogram size bricks.
O’Farrill has been detained since his arrest. On November 17, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Wilfredo Ortiz pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on March 9, 2026, was sentenced to 135 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Police, and the New Britain, Hartford, West Hartford, Waterbury, Naugatuck, East Hartford, Brookfield, Milford, Norwich, Orange, North Haven, Meriden, Berlin, and Manchester Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth, Reed Durham, and David Nelson.
Dominican National Previously Convicted of Drug Trafficking Offense Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, today announced that YUNIOR BENAVIDES, 49, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in 2009, Benavides and others were charged with federal offenses related to their participation in a Hartford area narcotics distribution conspiracy. He pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment and, in November 2013, was deported to the Dominican Republic. Benavides subsequently illegally reentered the U.S. On March 6, 2026, HSI agents stopped a car in West Hartford in connection to a drug trafficking investigation. Benavides, the driver of the car, was identified as being unlawfully present in the U.S. and was taken into custody.
Benavides appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.
If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Benavides faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
West Haven Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child Sex Abuse Material through Telegram AppRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ADAM C. SALGADO, JR., 32, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 72 months of imprisonment and seven years of supervised release for receiving and possessing child sex abused material.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a cloud-based storage company that provides services for wireless customers made multiple CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) that a user, identified as Salgado, had videos of child sexual abuse stored on the account. Subsequent investigation revealed that Salgado had a history of downloading and deleting the encrypted messaging app Telegram, which he used to connect with others who traded in child sex abuse material and to view and download hundreds of child sex abuse images and videos.
Salgado was arrested on June 5, 2024, in Texas where he was serving in the U.S. Army. On November 10, 2025, he pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography.
Salgado, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 16.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the Middletown Police Department and the Army Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel George.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Columbia Woman Who Coerced Minor Boy to Engage in Sex Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALYSON CRANICK, 44, of Columbia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 240 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for coercing a minor boy to engage in sexual activity.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Cranick, first using text messaging and Snapchat, and then using the internet chat service Discord, coerced an 11-year-old boy to engage in sexually explicit conduct with her. Several times during the summer and into the fall of 2022, Cranick induced the minor victim to leave his house after midnight to meet up with her. Cranick sexually assaulted the minor victim during these meetings.
Between July and October 2022, Cranick exchanged more than 4,700 messages with the minor victim on Discord.
Cranick was arrested on related state charges on November 14, 2023, and has been detained since November 28, 2023. She was federally charged in July 2024. On November 18, 2025, she pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force and the Connecticut State Police’s Eastern District Major Crime Unit. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force includes federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel E. Cummings and Katherine E. Boyles through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Tolland for its close cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to More Than 8 Years in Prison for Gunpoint Robberies of Retail Stores, Amazon Delivery TruckRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICKYEEM PROFIT, 22, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 102 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his participation in the violent armed robberies of multiple retail stores and an Amazon delivery truck in December 2022.
According to court documents and statements made court, Profit and others committed gunpoint robberies of Omega Deli, located at 999 Maplewood Avenue in Bridgeport, on December 15, 2022; Milford Convenience & Tobacco, located at 784 Boston Post Road in Milford, on December 21, 2022; an Amazon delivery truck and merchandise in Bridgeport on December 23, 2022; and Smoke Shop, located at 2175 Boston Avenue in Bridgeport, on December 23, 2022. In addition, Profit’s associates committed a gunpoint robbery of Cumberland Farms, located at 1290 West Broad Street in Stratford, on January 2, 2023.
During the store robberies, Profit and his accomplices entered businesses with firearms, threatened employees, forced victims to the ground, and stole money and property. At Milford Convenience & Tobacco, Profit stepped on a victim while holding a gun to her head. During the Amazon truck robbery, Profit and his accomplices forced the driver into the back of the truck at gunpoint where they assaulted him.
Profit has been detained since his arrest on January 2, 2023. On October 2, 2025, he pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (“Hobbs Act robbery”) and one count of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bridgeport Police Department, the Stratford Police Department, and the Milford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.
Brazilian National Unlawfully Residing in U.S. Charged with Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, today announced that MAX MOTA PINHO, 45, a citizen of Brazil residing in Stamford, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with possession of child pornography.
As alleged in court documents, a cloud-based storage company that provides services for wireless customers made multiple CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) that a user, subsequently identified as Pinho, had videos and images of child sexual abuse stored on the account. Subsequent investigation confirmed that child sex abuse material was stored on Pinho’s account.
Pinho was arrested yesterday at his Stamford residence. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport and was released on a $50,000 bond. Pinho, who overstayed a tourist visa issued in 2003, was then taken into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.
Possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Stamford Police Department, the Watertown Police Department, and the Westport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS SALAMAN, also known as “Bebe,” 44, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 168 months of imprisonment and eight years of supervised release for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2021, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force learned that Salaman was distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout New Haven. Between November 2021 and March 2022, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of fentanyl from Salaman, his associate Jesus Seguinot, and their associates.
Salaman has been detained since his arrest on April 5, 2022. On December 19, 2024, a jury found Salaman and Seguinot guilty of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and Salaman guilty of three counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
The government learned that while Salaman was detained, and during the trial itself, he worked with others to make several threatening social media posts to intimidate individuals who were cooperating with the government and testifying at his trial.
Salaman’s criminal history includes convictions for reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, assault and firearms offenses, and criminal contempt.
On July 30, 2025, Seguinot was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment.
This investigation was conducted by FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, including members from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER PURVIS, 29, was sentenced today to 60 months of imprisonment, consecutive to federal and state sentences that he is currently serving, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 7, 2022, New Britain Police attempted to stop a car in which Purvis was an occupant. As officers approached the car, Purvis accelerated at a high rate of speed. The car crashed a short time later and Purvis and others ran from the scene. A search of the car revealed quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen. Analysis of the firearm and drug packaging revealed the presence of Purvis’ DNA.
Purvis pleaded guilty on August 8, 2025.
Purvis is currently serving a 72-month federal sentence for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in northern Vermont, and a concurrent six-year Connecticut state sentence for firearm and threatening offenses.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the Bristol Police Department. The Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, Middletown, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Christopher Lembo.
Previously Deported Jamaican National Sentenced to Prison for Passport Fraud OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARLON DAMIAN WHITE, also known as Damian Marlon White, 47, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to six months of imprisonment for making a false statement in a U.S. passport application.
According to court documents and statements made in court, White was admitted to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident in 1995. In subsequent years, he was convicted of various offenses, including a state conviction in New York for assault in the second degree, and a federal conviction in the Southern District of New York for a narcotics distribution offense for which he was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment. After his federal conviction, White lost his status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. and, in February 2006, was deported to Jamaica.
White returned to the U.S. and, on May 6, 2024, used a false name, false birth date, and false place of birth to apply for a U.S. passport in Hartford. During the application process, White provided a counterfeit birth certificate and driver’s license falsely representing that he was born in and resided in California.
White has been detained since his arrest on October 9, 2025. He pleaded guilty to the offense on December 15.
White will be removed to Jamaica when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAFAEL ORLANDO GARCIA, 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl and cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force identified Garcia, who has a prior federal conviction, as a significant Hartford-area narcotics trafficker. Between February and April 2025, investigators made three controlled purchases of narcotics from Garcia. Investigators purchased approximately 36 grams of fentanyl and 28 grams of cocaine on February 28, approximately 80 grams of fentanyl on March 12, and approximately 100 grams of fentanyl and 280 grams of cocaine on April 1.
Garcia was arrested on April 8, 2025. On October 15, 2025, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl and cocaine; possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl; and possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine.
Garcia, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on May 11.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean P. Mahard.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ANGEL ECHEVARRIA, also known as “Frenchie” and “Gordo,” 30, of Bridgeport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department investigated an open-air drug market that was operating in the area of Noble Avenue and Shelton Street in Bridgeport. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance, and controlled purchases of narcotics. Between March and September 2024, investigators made 11 controlled purchases of narcotics, primarily fentanyl, from various sellers, including Echevarria. At the time, Echevarria had pending state firearm possession and narcotics distribution charges and was released on bond.
Echevarria has been detained in state custody since September 11, 2024. On October 27, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department. The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.
Two Admit Roles in Scheme Involving Millions of Dollars Stolen from Victims of Online ScamsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that two men have pleaded guilty in Hartford federal court to conspiracy charges related to receiving, moving, and converting millions of dollars stolen from victims of online scams.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Richard Fasanella, a U.S. citizen who resided in Venezuela, connected with others who used various online scams, including romance scams, to defraud dozens of primarily elderly victims of millions of dollars. Between approximately 2018 and 2024, Fasanella opened numerous bank accounts in his own name and in the name of various sham companies, and he directed associates, including John J. Intoci, to open bank accounts in the name of various sham companies that Fasanella ultimately controlled. Fasanella, Intoci, and others used these bank accounts to deposit nearly $9 million in checks, cash, and money orders that had been mailed to them from scam victims. Fasanella, Intoci, and others kept a percentage of these funds for themselves, and Fasanella, with the assistance of Intoci and others, moved the remaining money to other bank accounts or financial institutions, and ultimately to the cryptocurrency wallets of the scam operators.
On several occasions, bank employees and law enforcement informed Fasanella that the money he received was from scammed victims, and Fasanella had several accounts closed and had money seized by law enforcement due to fraud. However, he continued to launder money for scammers he met on the internet.
Fasanella, 56, was deported from Bogota, Colombia, and has been detained since January 26, 2024. On March 3, 2026, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering and illegal monetary transactions, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26.
Intoci, 65, of Spring Hill, Florida, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. He was arrested on January 16, 2025, and is currently released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for May 29.
This investigation is being conducted the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Global Illicit Financial Team (GIFT); and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and Migración Colombia. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá provided assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Cherry and Stephanie Levick.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Fraudulently Collecting Social Security, Unemployment, and Food Stamp BenefitsRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RICARDO SANTIAGO, 60, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 57 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for fraudulently obtaining Social Security, unemployment, and Food Stamp benefits.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between 2002 and 2024, Santiago held jobs with more than 20 employers and earned income totaling more than $580,000. Santiago concealed his income from federal and state government agencies by providing to employers false identification, including a Social Security number and card belonging to another individual, and, in at least one instance, a false Social Security card.
In 2002, Santiago applied for Retirement Survivors Disability Insurance (RSDI) benefits, representing to the Social Security Administration that he was unable to work due to disability. As a result, he began receiving RSDI payments in September 2002. In 2017, Santiago completed paperwork to maintain his benefits in which he asserted that he remained disabled and had not worked for the past two years. Santiago ultimately collected more than $316,000 in RSDI payments to which he was not entitled.
In February 2017, Santiago submitted to the Connecticut Department of Social Services (CT-DSS) an application for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (“Food Stamps”), representing to the CT-DSS and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that he earned no income from employment. He began receiving SNAP benefits in March 2017 and subsequently completed forms to renew his SNAP benefits on which he again represented that he had no change in his income and that he earned no money from employment. Santiago made more than $18,000 in purchases with SNAP benefits to which he was not entitled.
In April 2020, Santiago applied to the Connecticut Department of Labor (CT-DOL) for Unemployment Insurance benefits. On the application, Santiago used a Social Security number belonging to another individual, and he represented to the CT-DOL and U.S. Department of Labor that he was unemployed but available for work and physically able to work. He subsequently completed weekly certifications making the same representations. From April 2020 through February 2021, Santiago received more than $36,000 in payments to which he was not entitled.
Judge Oliver ordered Santiago to pay $371,686 in restitution.
Santiago was arrested on May 7, 2024. On February 24, 2025, he pleaded guilty to wire fraud.
In September 2025, while released on bond and awaiting sentencing, Santiago staged his and his daughter’s drowning in the Connecticut River and attempted to flee. Hartford Police located Santiago and his daughter in Hartford on September 20, 2025. Santiago has been detained since that date.
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, and the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan J. Guevremont.
Felon Found with Gun Fitted with Glock Switch in Hartford Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DASHAWN DWYER, 31, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 11, 2024, Hartford Police officers attempted to stop Dwyer, who had absconded from state parole and was being sought, as he drove a vehicle on Albany Avenue. Dwyer accelerated, drove recklessly down side streets, and eventually jumped from the moving vehicle and fled on foot. The vehicle came to rest against a fence on Main Street. Dwyer was apprehended a short distance away, and a search of his vehicle revealed a 9mm Glock pistol with a loaded extended magazine, and which was equipped with a machinegun conversion device (“switch”); distribution quantities of cocaine and crack; and $10,257 in cash.
Dwyer’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for robbery, assault, and narcotics offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for June 3, at which time Dwyer faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. Dwyer has been detained since his arrest.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reed Durham and Sean P. Mahard.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Bristol Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Narcotics from New Britain Car DealershipRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILFREDO ORTIZ, also known as “Will” and “P,” 45, of Bristol, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 135 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics from a car dealership in New Britain.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and New Britain Police Department investigated a drug trafficking organization, headed by Ortiz, that was operating out of Supreme Automotive, a car dealership located on Main Street in New Britain. The investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical and electronic surveillance, and several controlled purchases of narcotics, primarily cocaine, from Ortiz and other members of the conspiracy. Three controlled purchases from Ortiz involved more than a kilogram of cocaine. Intercepted communications also revealed Oritz’s connection to firearms.
Ortiz and other members of this drug trafficking organization were arrested on November 14, 2024. In association with the arrests, investigators conducted court authorized searches of Supreme Automotive and residences and other locations connected to the drug trafficking organization and seized more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 200 grams of fentanyl, approximately 30 grams of heroin, a kilogram press, seven firearms, ammunition, approximately $75,000 in cash, and 26 vehicles.
Ortiz has been detained since his arrest. On November 10, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
In 1999, Ortiz was sentenced in New Britain Superior Court to 27 years of imprisonment for murder and robbery offenses stemming from a convenience store robbery in August 1998 during which a codefendant shot and killed one employee and wounded another employee.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Police, and the New Britain, Hartford, West Hartford, Waterbury, Naugatuck, East Hartford, Brookfield, Milford, Norwich, Orange, North Haven, Meriden, Berlin, and Manchester Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth, Reed Durham, and David Nelson.
Attorney Pleads Guilty to Tax Offenses, Agrees to Pay $2.8 Million in RestitutionRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that MICHAEL SIMES, 50, of Newtown, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to offenses related to his failure to file tax returns, and acknowledged that he failed to pay more than $3.1 million in taxes, penalties, and interest owed.
According to court documents and statements made in court, for the 2013 tax year and the 2016 through 2022 tax years, Simes, an attorney, failed to file U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, resulting in a tax loss to the IRS of $1,876,307 on gross income of more than $5.6 million. For the 2016 through 2020 tax years, Simes requested filing extensions until October of each year, but still failed to file and pay the taxes he owed.
In addition, Simes filed tax returns for the 2012, 2014, and 2015 tax years, but he paid only a fraction of taxes reported as due, thereby incurring substantial penalties and interest.
Simes has agreed to pay restitution of the presently outstanding balance of $2,871,676.
Simes pleaded guilty to three counts of failure to file a tax return. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for June 8, at which time Simes faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three years. Simes is released on a $40,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Trumbull Man Admits Defrauding Amazon of More Than $3.5 MillionRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that AMEER NASIR, 25, of Trumbull, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to an offense related to his defrauding Amazon.com, Inc. (“Amazon”) of more than $3.5 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Amazon Logistics, an Amazon subsidiary, contracts with various interstate trucking businesses to transport both empty trailers and trailers containing heavy loads of freight between cities and between warehouses and fulfillment centers operated by Amazon. Nasir registered 23 trucking businesses with Amazon Logistics. One of the accounts was created in the name of Nasir’s business, Pak Express Transport, LLC, and others were created under false names or by fraudulently using the names and identifying information of other trucking or transportation companies without the knowledge of the operators of those companies. Between approximately December 2019 and February 2021, Nasir used these accounts to sign up for more than 1,000 transportation assignments with Amazon Logistics, manipulated information in Amazon Logistics’ transportation management system to misrepresent that he had completed trailer movements when he had not, and submitted fraudulent invoices to Amazon Logistics that were subsequently paid. Through this scheme, Nasir defrauded Amazon of more than $3.5 million.
Nasir was arrested on May 8, 2025.
Nasir pleaded guilty to wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He has also agreed to pay restitution of $3,547,090.93.
Nasir is released on a $300,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for May 29.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from Amazon. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.
Ghanaian National Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding UConnRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DICKSON ALORWORNU, also known as “Dixon Al,” 36, a citizen of Ghana residing in Greenwich, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for operating a tuition refund scheme using stolen identities.
According to the evidence presented during Alorwornu’s trial, in December 2017, Alorwornu used other individuals’ identities to submit two non-degree student applications to the University of Connecticut (“UConn”). He then used credit card information that had been stolen from three victims to fund the two student accounts with a total of more than $62,000 in fraudulently obtained funds. In early 2018, Alorwornu withdrew from the courses and requested that UConn refund the money he had deposited. UConn subsequently transferred approximately $46,000 to bank accounts Alorwornu controlled.
The investigation revealed that email accounts that Alorwornu used to defraud UConn were also used to defraud other universities of more than $500,000.
Alorwornu was arrested on February 1, 2023. On October 29, 2024, a jury found him guilty of two counts of wire fraud.
Alorwornu’s criminal history includes a conviction in New York in 2017 for an offense involving his using stolen credit cards and other individuals’ personal identifying information.
Alorwornu, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 20.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the UConn Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Chang and Elena Coronado.
Torrington Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRIAN MARTINEZ RIVERA, 29, of Torrington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation led by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force identified Joseph Giovanni Soto as the leader of a cocaine trafficking operation that involved the shipment of parcels containing kilogram quantities of cocaine from U.S. Post Offices in Puerto Rico to various “drop addresses” in New Britain and Meriden, Connecticut, as well as addresses in Holyoke and West Springfield, Massachusetts. The organization used “runners” to pick up the parcels from the drop addresses and deliver them to Soto’s residence in Bloomfield and the residence of Soto’s uncle, Ramon Soto, in New Britain. Typically, Ramon Soto, at Joseph Soto’s direction, then delivered the cocaine to individuals in the Bronx, New York, and elsewhere, in return for payment.
During the investigation, task force members intercepted and seized 10 suspicious parcels, each of which contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine, and identified approximately 280 suspicious parcels likely containing kilogram quantities of cocaine that had been delivered to the various drop addresses.
Joseph Giovanni Soto was arrested on May 1, 2023. In August 2023, investigators saw a reemergence of suspicious parcels coming from Puerto Rico to the New Britain and Meriden areas, and then to a Waterbury address where Jatniel Morales Gonzalez was living. Investigators determined that Morales Gonzalez and Soto had worked together prior to Soto’s arrest, and that Morales Gonzalez had assumed control of the Connecticut side of the cocaine trafficking network after Soto’s arrest. Investigators identified several new drop addresses for suspicious parcels and observed Morales Gonzalez, Martinez Rivera, and others retrieving the parcels and bringing them to Morales Gonzalez’s residence before they were ultimately delivered to the Bronx. During this part of the investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service identified more than 90 additional suspicious parcels, 11 of which had been shipped to Martinez Rivera’s residence in Torrington. Court-authorized searches of four seized parcels found that they each contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine.
Martinez Rivera was arrested on December 19, 2024. On August 21, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. He has been detained since October 2, 2025, when his bond was revoked.
Joseph Giovanni Soto, Ramon Soto, and Morales Gonzales pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison terms of 14 years, 10 years, and 10 years, respectively.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Connecticut State Police, the Hartford Police Department, and the Plainville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Levick and Konstantin Lantsman.
Colombian National Sentenced to 42 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Nationwide Jewelry Theft RingRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EDIXON RINCON PUENTES, 45, a citizen of Colombia last residing in Los Angeles, California, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 42 months of imprisonment for his involvement in an organized jewelry theft ring that targeted mall-based stores and kiosks across the country.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from May 2023 through April 2024, Rincon Puentes and several other Colombian nationals burglarized jewelry stores and kiosks in malls in Connecticut and other states and then transported the stolen property or the proceeds from it across state lines. Before the burglaries, the co-conspirators surveilled the stores and kiosks to formulate game plans and, as part of that reconnaissance, posed as legitimate customers to examine the desired merchandise and assess the establishment’s security measures.
Rincon Puentes, who primarily served as a lookout and driver, and his co-conspirators burglarized jewelry establishments at the Connecticut Post Mall in Milford, Connecticut, on October 5, 2023; in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, on October 27, 2023; and in Henrico, Virginia on November 4, 2023. Other members of the conspiracy burglarized additional jewelry establishments in New Jersey, Ohio, Indiana, New York, and Illinois, and Virginia. Rincon Puentes and his associates also cased jewelry stores and kiosks in other states.
Losses from the burglaries exceed $4.4 million, and the total loss from the three burglaries Rincon Puentes participated in is $938,148.
To date, none of the stolen jewelry has been recovered by law enforcement. The investigation revealed that much of the stolen jewelry was sold to the owner of a jewelry store in Queens, New York, who then sold it to others, including those he knew would melt down the gold.
Rincon Puentes has been detained since July 17, 2024. On November 8, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI New Haven’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force with the assistance of the Milford (Conn.) Police Department, the Hamilton Township (N.J.) Police Division, the Delaware State Police, the Henrico County (Va.) Police Division, the New York State Police, the New York Police Department, the Pensacola (Fla.) Police Department, the Paterson (N.J.) Police Department, the Mentor (Ohio) Police Department, the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department, the Greece (N.Y.) Police Department, and the Lombard (Ill.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Huang and Conor M. Reardon.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, and FBI Field Offices in New York, Dallas, Miami, and Tampa for their assistance.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
Peruvian National Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTIAN MAXIMO CASTANEDA NEGRETE, 47, a citizen of Peru, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to six months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2001, Castaneda Negrete was admitted to the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa lasting for a period not to exceed one year. In February 2004, Castaneda Negrete was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court in New Britain of burglary in the first degree and unlawful restraint, and was sentenced to six years of incarceration, suspended after nine months. In March 2012, Castaneda Negrete was removed to Peru. Castaneda Negrete illegally reentered the U.S. and, on November 20, 2024, was arrested by the Hartford Police Department and charged with sexual assault in the second degree.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Lembo.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Felon Sentenced to Additional Prison Time for Possessing Shotgun and Ammunition while Awaiting Trial in Another Federal CaseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MIGUEL RIVERA, also known as “Macho,” 33, of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 40 months of imprisonment, consecutive to a 60-month prison term that Rivera is currently serving, for unlawfully possessing a shotgun and ammunition as a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of July 5, 2020, Waterbury Police officers responded to a shots-fired complaint in the area of William Street and Laurel Street in Waterbury. When officers arrived on William Street, Rivera, who was wearing a body armor vest, attempted to flee by climbing over a fence. Rivera was apprehended, and a search of the area from which he had run revealed a Romarm/Cugir, AK Type Model, 7.62 x 39mm caliber, semiautomatic rifle containing a fully loaded 30-round magazine. Rivera also possessed one round of ammunition in his pocket.
On June 21, 2022, while he was released on bond and awaiting trial, Rivera unlawfully possessed a stolen 12-gauge shotgun, ammunition, and two Kevlar bullet proof vests.
Rivera’s criminal history includes convictions for felony firearm, robbery, and burglary offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
On October 19, 2023, a jury found Rivera guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon related to his criminal conduct in July 2020. On November 22, 2024, he was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 60 months of imprisonment for that offense.
On December 1, 2025, Rivera pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon related to his criminal conduct in June 2022.
Rivera has been detained since July 13, 2022.
This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Waterbury Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patricia Stolfi Collins.
California Man Who Trafficked Narcotics to Connecticut Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JONATHAN GARCIA, also known as “Gordo,” 37, of Long Beach, California, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 78 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics into Connecticut.
In 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force began investigating a large-scale drug trafficking organization that was distributing kilogram quantities of fentanyl and cocaine in Connecticut. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, physical and electronic surveillance, controlled purchases of narcotics, and other investigative techniques, revealed that the organization was receiving narcotics from sources in California via Mexico. In February 2023, investigators seized two parcels that were mailed by a member of the organization from a post office in West Hartford to addresses in southern California. One of the packages contained approximately $6,500 in cash and two new Apple iPhones, and the second package contained approximately $38,300 in cash.
The investigation further revealed that that members of the Loose Cannonz motorcycle club, based in East Hartford, were receiving shipments of fentanyl and cocaine for distribution in the Hartford area.
During the investigation, law enforcement learned that Garcia and another individual were coordinating the shipment of kilogram-quantities of narcotics from Mexico to Connecticut. Garcia sometimes traveled to Connecticut to facilitate the transactions and to collect drug proceeds.
Garcia was arrested on October 24, 2023. On August 11, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Garcia, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on April 22.
Garcia’s criminal history includes a federal cocaine trafficking conviction in the Central District of California in 2017.
This investigation has been conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reed Durham and Robert Dearington.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, announced that JOSE NUNEZ, 26, of Santa Clarita, California, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to receipt of child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2024, Nunez began chatting on Roblox, a gaming and chat platform, with a 13-year-old minor female from Connecticut. The conversation transitioned to text messaging, where Nunez sent the victim several sexually explicit photos of himself. As the conversation progressed, Nunez requested sexually explicit photos of the minor female, which he received on his smartphone.
On August 7, 2024, HSI special agents arrested Nunez and seized his smartphone. A search of the phone revealed evidence of his conversations with the minor victim and sexually explicit images of the minor victim.
Nunez pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Nunez has been detained since his arrest. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This investigation has been conducted by HSI and the Cromwell Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings with the assistance of the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Middlesex.
This case is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Mexican National Sentenced to Prison for Distributing Cocaine in New HavenRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MARTIN ONOFRE-MENDEZ, 50, a citizen of Mexico last residing in New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 20 months of imprisonment for a cocaine trafficking offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the DEA New Haven District Office Task Force learned that Onofre-Mendez was distributing narcotics from a restaurant on Grand Avenue in New Haven. Between May and September 2024, investigators made multiple controlled purchases totaling approximately 600 grams of cocaine from Onofre-Mendez. Investigators observed Onofre-Mendez’s associate, Eygner Huezo, supplying him with cocaine immediately before two of the purchases.
Onofre-Mendez was arrested on October 1, 2024. On that date, investigators seized 225 grams of cocaine from Onofre-Mendez and 480 grams of cocaine from a location he used to store drugs.
Onofre-Mendez has been detained since his arrest. On September 19, 2025, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Onofre-Mendez will be removed to Mexico when he completes his prison term.
Huezo, 36, a citizen of El Salvador last residing in New Haven, pleaded guilty to a related charge on November 10, 2025, and awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force and the New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. Keefe.
Indictment Charges Investment Advisor with Defrauding Financial Services Companies of $3.3. MillionRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an 11-count indictment charging ANDREW M. KOMAROW, 36, of Avon, with offenses related to his alleged defrauding of three financial services companies of approximately $3.3 million.
The indictment was returned on February 4, 2026. Komarow appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport, pleaded not guilty to the charges in the indictment, and was released on a $50,000 bond.
As alleged in the indictment, Komarow, an investment advisor and broker-dealer who serviced a range of clients, defrauded three financial services companies by taking advantage of credit extended by the financial services companies and exploiting the delay in time from when he initiated Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) fund transfers, also known as electronic fund transfers or “EFTs,” between his personal bank accounts and his personal brokerage accounts, to the time when the transactions were posted and cleared by the financial services companies. Between approximately October 2022 and February 2023, Komarow initiated approximately $8.9 million in EFT/ACH transfers from his bank accounts to multiple, often newly opened, brokerage accounts despite having insufficient funds in his bank accounts to support the transfers. He then used the brokerage accounts to conduct high-risk, short-term options trading in an attempt to make immediate profits to cover his insufficient funds. Through this scheme, the three financial services companies suffered total losses of $3,352,407.
The indictment charges Komarow with 10 counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count, and one count of securities fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS TORRES ORTIZ, 25, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation led by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force identified Joseph Giovanni Soto as the leader of a cocaine trafficking operation that involved the shipment of parcels containing kilogram quantities of cocaine from U.S. Post Offices in Puerto Rico to various “drop addresses” in New Britain and Meriden, Connecticut, as well as addresses in Holyoke and West Springfield, Massachusetts. The organization used “runners” to pick up the parcels from the drop addresses and deliver them to Soto’s residence in Bloomfield and the residence of Soto’s uncle, Ramon Soto, in New Britain. Typically, Ramon Soto, at Joseph Soto’s direction, then delivered the cocaine to individuals in the Bronx, New York, and elsewhere, in return for payment.
During the investigation, task force members intercepted and seized 10 suspicious parcels, each of which contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine, and identified approximately 280 suspicious parcels likely containing kilogram quantities of cocaine that had been delivered to the various drop addresses.
Joseph Giovanni Soto was arrested on May 1, 2023. In August 2023, investigators saw a reemergence of suspicious parcels coming from Puerto Rico to the New Britain and Meriden areas, and then to a Waterbury address where Jatniel Morales Gonzalez was living. Investigators determined that Morales Gonzalez and Soto had worked together prior to Soto’s arrest, and that Morales Gonzalez had assumed control of the Connecticut side of the cocaine trafficking network after Soto’s arrest. Investigators identified several new drop addresses for suspicious parcels and observed Morales Gonzalez, Torres Ortiz, and others retrieving the parcels and bringing them to Morales Gonzalez’s residence before they were ultimately delivered to the Bronx. During this part of the investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service identified more than 90 additional suspicious parcels, 24 of which had been shipped to Torres Ortiz’s residence in New Britain. Court-authorized searches of four seized parcels found that they each contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine.
Torres Ortiz was arrested on December 19, 2024. On September 19, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Torres Ortiz, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 21.
Joseph Giovanni Soto, Ramon Soto, and Morales Gonzales pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison terms of 14 years, 10 years, and 10 years, respectively.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Connecticut State Police, the Hartford Police Department, and the Plainville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Levick and Konstantin Lantsman.
Waterbury Man Charged with Cocaine and Firearms Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo today announced that JAN PAUL BAERGA-MARIANI, 31, of Waterbury, has been charged by indictment with narcotics and firearms trafficking offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, between October 2025 and January 2026, undercover ATF agents purchased a total of approximately one kilogram of cocaine and six firearms from Baerga-Mariani. Baerga-Mariani was arrested on February 10, 2025. On that date, a court-authorized search of his residence on Wood Street in Waterbury revealed a 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen in North Carolina in December 2025, a loaded firearm magazine, additional rounds of 9mm ammunition, a small quantity of cocaine, several vacuum-sealed bags of marijuana, and other items.
On February 17, 2026, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Baerga-Mariani with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a minimum mandatory term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
Baerga-Mariani has been detained since his arrest. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Maria E. Garcia in New Haven and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. A charge is only an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Waterbury Police Department with assistance from the Connecticut State Police, Bloomfield Police Department, Windsor Police Department, and the Connecticut Center for Digital Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OTILIO GREEN, 44, of Hamden, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to a child exploitation offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between January and March 2025, Synchronoss, a cloud storage provider for Verizon Wireless, submitted eight CyberTipline reports documenting 43 images and five videos of suspected child pornography uploaded to an account associated with Green. A subsequent court-authorized search of Green’s cloud storage account revealed additional images and videos of suspected child sex abuse material. The investigation further revealed that, for at least two years prior to his arrest on April 4, 2025, Green used the Telegram app, which he accessed through a hidden folder on his cellphone, and other online platforms to communicate with others to receive numerous sexually explicit images and videos depicting children.
At the time of the offense, Green was employed as an officer with the Yale University Police Department.
Green pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Green, who is released on a $200,000 bond, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26.
This investigation is being conducted by HSI New England, the Connecticut State Police, and the Connecticut Center for Digital Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of New Haven for its assistance in the prosecution of this case.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison for Role in Southwestern Connecticut Drug RingRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TERRELL WILLS, 52, of Bridgeport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 54 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics in southwestern Connecticut.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Rodney Canada as the leader of a drug trafficking organization that was distributing large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Stamford and elsewhere in southwestern Connecticut. An investigation in 2024, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Canada and others orchestrated the street level distribution of narcotics through other members of the conspiracy. Investigators intercepted more than 5000 text messages and calls in which Canada coordinated his drug trafficking activities.
Wills, who formerly resided in Darien, was a trusted associate of Canada who primarily distributed cocaine. He also managed cash for the drug trafficking organization, and acted as a middleman between Canada and other drug sellers.
Wills, Canada, and other members of the conspiracy were arrested on May 14, 2024. On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches at locations in Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Darien, and seized approximately three kilograms of cocaine, nearly 400 grams of raw fentanyl, more than 500 bags of fentanyl, five firearms, a bulletproof vest, and seven vehicles.
On October 10, 2025, Wills pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Wills’ criminal history spans approximately 30 years and includes numerous convictions, including a federal narcotics trafficking conviction in March 2014 for which he was sentenced to 48 months in prison.
Wills, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 24.
Canada pleaded guilty and, on December 15, 2025, was sentenced to 110 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments. The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone.
Preston Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOEL HUNTSMAN, also known as “Jay Huntsman, “Joel Feser,” and “Jay Blackburn”, 37, of Preston, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 84 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for distributing child sex abuse material.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2022, a police officer in New Albany, Ohio, conducting an online undercover investigation observed multiple users, including a user subsequently identified as Huntsman, posting child pornography in a private group chat using the Kik mobile messenger application, and referred the Huntsman matter to the Connecticut State Police. Also in June 2022, Kik submitted a CyberTip related to Huntsman to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”). On November 2, 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted a court-authorized search of Huntsman’s residence and seized multiple items, including two mobile phones. Analysis of the seized phones revealed child sex abuse images and videos.
Huntsman has been detained since his arrest on January 26, 2023. On September 9, 2025, he pleaded guilty to distribution of child pornography.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the New Albany (Ohio) Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel E. Cummings and Nancy V. Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CHRISTOPHER SANTIAGO-ROSADO, 32, of Bridgeport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department investigated an open-air drug market that was operating in the area of Noble Avenue and Shelton Street in Bridgeport. Between March and September 2024, investigators made 11 controlled purchases of narcotics from various sellers. The investigation, which also included court-authorized wiretaps and physical surveillance, revealed that Santiago-Rosado and others supplied fentanyl to the drug sellers.
Santiago-Rosado was arrested on February 13, 2025. On November 3, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Santiago-Rosado, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 26.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department. The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.
Former Connecticut Resident Sentenced to 90 Months for Operating $4 Million Investment Fraud Scheme, Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN A. MASANOTTI, JR., 71, of Bonita Springs, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 90 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for offenses stemming from an investment fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Masanotti, who formerly resided in Darien, Connecticut, was the owner and managing member of Middlesex Mortgage Group, LLC, also known as Middlesex Group, LLC (“Middlesex”), based in Darien. Through Middlesex and while acting as an investment advisor, Masanotti purported to manage a pooled investment vehicle on behalf of investors. Masanotti claimed to clients and potential clients that invested funds were going to be, and were in fact, pooled together and invested in foreign currency and other investments. Between approximately 2016 and 2023, Masanotti defrauded 14 clients of a total of more than $4 million by using their money for personal expenses, and to pay returns to other clients. Masanotti provided clients with fraudulent monthly account statements from Middlesex that showed fake investment profits.
In addition, for the 2016, 2017, and 2019 through 2022 tax years, Masanotti failed to report to the IRS more than $3 million in income, resulting in a tax loss of nearly $1 million.
Masanotti also made false statements to the FBI during the investigation and filed false records in an attempt to obstruct the investigation.
Masanotti has agreed to pay $4,361,632 in restitution to the victims of his crime, and to cooperate with the IRS to pay all back taxes, penalties, and interest.
Masanotti was arrested on May 9, 2024. On October 1, 2025, he pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. Released on a $100,000 bond, he is required to report to prison on March 19.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; with the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.
New York Man Who Used TikTok and Snapchat to Prey on Girls Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMES PAGLIARO, 27, of Middletown, New York, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to multiple child exploitation offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in approximately October 2024, Pagliaro began messaging a 15-year-girl (“minor victim”) in Connecticut on TikTok. In December 2024, the minor victim told Pagliaro that she was 15 years old, and they began text messaging. In January 2025, Pagliaro traveled to Connecticut at least three times to engage in sexual conduct with the minor victim.
In February 2025, a forensic examination of the minor victim’s iPhone revealed hundreds of sexually explicit images and videos of the minor victim, and more than 11,000 text messages and more than 300 iOS and FaceTime calls between Pagliaro and the minor victim. In the messages, Pagliaro instructed the minor victim to perform specific sex acts, including sadistic and masochistic conduct. Pagliaro also asked the minor victim to recruit another minor to engage in sexual conduct with him.
The investigation further revealed that Pagliaro also exchanged sexually explicit messages, images, and videos with a 15-year-old girl in the United Kingdom, a 15-year-old girl in New Jersey, and a 16-year-old girl in Florida. He also initiated contact with thousands of other minors on TikTok and Snapchat. In March 2025 alone, Pagliaro sent messages, many of which were sexually explicit, to approximately 600 Snapchat users who appeared to be minors, and sent sexually explicit images of himself to at least 68 of those Snapchat users.
Pagliaro, who has been detained since his arrest on March 19, 2025, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life; and traveling to engage in sexual activity with a minor, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for May 8.
This investigation has been conducted by HSI New England, HSI New York, the Orange County (N.Y.) Sheriff’s Office, and the Danbury, Ridgefield, and Watertown Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Wolcott Man Indicted for Cryptocurrency Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, today announced that ELMIN REDZEPAGIC, 24, of Wolcott, has been charged in a 21-count indictment offenses related to an alleged cryptocurrency fraud scheme.
As alleged in the indictment, between approximately May 2021 and March 2025, Redzepagic held himself out to investors as a cryptocurrency investor who earned high rates of return. Once Redzepagic had victims’ initial investment, he told them they had earned a substantial profit but had to pay additional fees (“gas fees”) to withdraw it. Redzepagic claimed to work as part of a team that included someone known as “The Chef,” who supposedly led the operation and determined who, how, and when investors would receive their profits. In fact, Redzepagic did not invest victims’ funds in cryptocurrency but instead transferred the funds to Stake.com, an offshore gambling platform that Redzepagic used to receive and hold proceeds of the scheme, to generate cryptocurrency addresses for victims to use to transfer Bitcoin to him, and to make large “lulling” payments to victims throughout the course of the scheme.
It is alleged that Redzepagic lost victims’ funds gambling on Stake.com, causing a net loss of a total of approximately $950,000 to multiple victims.
It is further alleged that when Redzepagic was interviewed by IRS Criminal Investigation agents in September 2023, he made several false statements.
On January 20, 2026, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Redzepagic with seven counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; 11 counts of international money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; and three counts of making a false statement to IRS Criminal Investigation agents, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years on each count.
Redzepagic, who recently resided in Florida, appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farris in Hartford, pleaded not guilty to the charges in the indictment, and was released on a $500,000 bond.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Wines.
Norwalk Man Convicted of Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal jury in New Haven today found CHRISTOPHER MILES, 40, of Norwalk, guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to the evidence introduced during the trial, in the early morning hours of September 13, 2023, Miles inadvertently left a loaded Glock 9mm pistol inside the restroom of a restaurant in Norwalk. After a restaurant employee discovered the firearm while cleaning the restroom, the restaurant manager contacted Norwalk Police. Analysis of surveillance video from the restaurant confirmed that Miles had entered the restroom shortly before an employee discovered the firearm, and also shows Miles returning to the restaurant in an attempt to retrieve it. Subsequent analysis of the firearm revealed the presence of Miles’ DNA.
Miles’ criminal history includes state convictions for assault in the first degree, possession with intent to distribute narcotics, and sale of a narcotic substance. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
At sentencing, Miles faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
Miles has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on November 21, 2023.
This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Norwalk Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Scientific Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Gresham and Rahul Kale.
Hartford Man Who Robbed Victims after Advertising Vehicle Sales Online Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FREDERICK WRIGHT, 34, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 180 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for committing several armed robberies of individuals who responded to his Facebook Marketplace posts advertising the sale of a vehicle.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Wright operated a robbery scheme in which he would post a vehicle for sale on Facebook Marketplace. He then arranged to meet a potential purchaser, allowed the purchaser to take a test drive of the vehicle, and then negotiated a price. Once the purchaser handed over cash for the vehicle, Wright would brandish a firearm, threaten to shoot the victim, and steal the cash and, at times, other valuable items from the victim. During this scheme, between July 2020 and November 2020, Wright and others robbed at least five victims in Windsor and Bloomfield.
Wright was arrested on November 24, 2020. On that date, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of Wright’s Hartford residence and seized a loaded 9mm semiautomatic pistol that he and others used during the robberies.
Wright’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for attempted robbery in the first degree and failure to appear, and he was on state special parole when he committed the robberies in 2020.
Wright has been detained since his arrest. On February 1, 2022, he pleaded guilty to three counts of obstruction of interstate commerce by robbery, two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Judge Shea ordered Wright to pay $14,429 in restitution to the victims of his crimes.
This matter was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Konstantin Lantsman.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan encouraged those who sell and purchase items online, and need to meet an individual in person to complete the sale, to use a visible, monitored location. Contact your local police department to see if it offers a monitored meeting location, or search online for a nearby monitored location.
Salvadoran National Who Illegally Reentered U.S. is SentencedRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FREDDY ALEXANDER MORALES TEJADA, 25, a citizen of El Salvador last residing in Vernon, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to nearly four months of imprisonment, time already served, for illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2023, Morales Tejada was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court of carrying a pistol without a permit and failure to appear in the first degree. In February 2024, he was deported to El Salvador. Morales Tejada unlawfully reentered the U.S. and was found in South Windsor on May 19, 2025, when he was arrested for engaging in a police pursuit, reckless driving, operating motor vehicle without license, and illegal operation of motor vehicle under suspension.
Morales Tejada was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 23, 2025. On November 10, 2025, he pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the U.S.
Morales Tejada, who has been detained since his federal arrest, will remain detained pending his removal to El Salvador.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Milford Man Who Threatened Federal Law Enforcement Officer is SentencedRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HAMILTON CLARK SMITH, 61, of Milford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 43 days of imprisonment, time already served, and one year of probation for threatening a federal law enforcement officer.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 10 and 11, 2023, Smith sent a series of threatening text messages to a Deputy U.S. Marshal, including threats to harm and kill the Deputy U.S. Marshal, and to harm the Deputy U.S. Marshal’s family.
Smith was arrested on January 12, 2023, and was detained until February 16, 2023, when he was released on bond. On April 22, 2024, he pleaded guilty to making repeated harassing communications.
This investigation was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.