Castro Gang Leader Bayron Castro Sentenced for Narcotics Ring

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced the convictions and sentences for all 31 defendants charged in a major drug trafficking operation led by Bayron Castro, also known as ‘Hov’. The ring operated across multiple counties in Central New York, distributing large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine.

The investigation resulted in the seizure of over 150,000 packets of fentanyl and heroin, valued at more than $500,000, along with nearly a pound of methamphetamine and one-quarter kilogram of cocaine. Castro was sentenced to 12 years in state prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision.

Castro’s operation, known as the ‘Castro Group’, was led by him and included several alleged members of the Bricktown gang. The group sold narcotics to customers across Onondaga, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Jefferson, and Cortland counties. Luis Miguel Joaquin, a supplier in Bronx County, was also sentenced for selling fentanyl.

The ‘Pettiford Group’, led by Edward Pettiford, also known as ‘Buster’, was involved in the trafficking of narcotics and methamphetamine. Malik Evans, an alleged Bricktown member, was distributing in Onondaga and Oswego counties and was supplied by Henry To.

Attorney General James emphasized the ongoing efforts to protect New Yorkers from opioids and expressed gratitude to law enforcement partners for their support in this investigation.

The sentencing comes after the 31 individuals were charged with 192 crimes related to drug trafficking and weapons offenses. All defendants have pleaded guilty and forfeited over $25,000 connected to their activities.