Bernardo Tovar, Fentanyl Conspiracy and Firearm Offense, New York 2023

ALBANY, New York – In a shocking turn of events, a Montgomery County felon has pleaded guilty to a fentanyl conspiracy and firearm offense in New York. Bernardo Tovar, 34, of Amsterdam, New York, admitted to being involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy that spanned several months.

According to court documents, Tovar conspired to distribute counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, as well as cocaine and methamphetamine, from May 2022 to December 2022. The combined amount of fentanyl that he distributed exceeded 160 grams.

Tovar’s guilt was confirmed during a search of his apartment on December 7, 2022, where authorities found fentanyl pills, cocaine, methamphetamine, and a loaded handgun. The handgun was allegedly used to protect his drugs and drug proceeds.

Tovar, who has a prior violent felony conviction for attempted robbery, faces a minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 8 years and up to life. Sentencing is scheduled for March 20, 2024, before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping is prosecuting the case.

Tovar’s guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of combating drug trafficking in our communities. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Defendant: Bernardo Tovar, age 34, of Amsterdam, New York.

Criminal charges: Fentanyl conspiracy, possessing and intending to distribute fentanyl pills, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

City and state: Amsterdam, New York.

Exact date: May 2022 to December 2022 (crime date), December 7, 2022 (search date), March 20, 2024 (sentencing date).

Sentence or outcome: At least 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 8 years and up to life.

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