A shocking case of drug trafficking has come to light in New Jersey, with 64-year-old Jose Migel Cleto of Manhattan, New York, admitting to distribution and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Cleto pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court to an information charging him with one count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
The guilty plea stems from an incident in April 2022, where Cleto distributed, and possessed with the intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl to a man in a commercial parking lot in Fort Lee, New Jersey.
Cleto’s actions have severe consequences, with the defendant facing a maximum punishment of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of up to $1 million. Sentencing is scheduled for June 21, 2023, and it remains to be seen how the court will rule.
The investigation leading to Cleto’s guilty plea was conducted by special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincent D. Romano of the U.S. Attorney’s Office General Crimes Unit in Newark.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the guilty plea, highlighting the importance of bringing those who engage in illicit drug activities to justice. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and distribution in the United States.
The admission of guilt by Cleto is a significant development in the case, and it will be interesting to see how the sentencing plays out. As the case continues to unfold, it is clear that the consequences of engaging in such activities will be severe. The public can expect a continuation of efforts to crack down on drug trafficking and distribution, with law enforcement agencies working tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.
RELATED: Jose Migel Cleto Admits Fentanyl Distribution in New Jersey
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- Four Bergen County Residents Charged in Fentanyl, Heroin Trafficking Ring · New Jersey
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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