Nolberto Martinez Sentenced to 30 Years for Gulf Cartel Cocaine Distribution

Nolberto Martinez, a member of the notorious Gulf Cartel and known as ‘Negro’, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, as well as distribution of cocaine. The sentence was imposed by Senior United States District Court Judge W. Louis Sands.

Martinez, 31, of Bronwood, Georgia, was convicted following a 20-day jury trial in September 2013. The evidence at trial showed that Martinez played a significant role in the Gulf Cartel’s cocaine distribution network in Middle Georgia from 2007 to October 2011.

This operation was responsible for distributing over 500 kilograms of cocaine across Berrien, Colquitt, Dougherty, Tift, Lowndes, Terrell, Turner, Seminole, Ware, and Calhoun counties. The cartel used specially-equipped vehicles with hidden compartments to transport the drugs from Matamoros, Mexico.

Several other members of the drug conspiracy have already received lengthy sentences for their roles in the operation. These include Carlos Johnson and Kelvin Johnson, both sentenced to life imprisonment; Bobby Taylor, who received a 30-year sentence; and Gary Lockett, who was given 21.8 years.

United States Attorney Michael Moore emphasized the impact of drug trafficking on the community, stating that ‘these organizations will find no safe haven in Middle Georgia.’ The Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division, John S. Comer, praised the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies that led to the dismantling of the cartel.

Director Vernon Keenan of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation highlighted the commitment of local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in their ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Georgia.