⏱ 2 min read
A massive narcotics conspiracy has been busted in Buffalo, NY, with 13 defendants charged in two separate indictments. The defendants, including Terrence Phillips, Alexis Rivera, and Jamel Joshua Cunningham, are accused of conspiring to sell cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl, as well as marijuana, in Buffalo and Cheektowaga. The alleged drug trafficking activities began in September 2025 and involved the use of residences on West Avenue in Buffalo and Cleveland Drive in Cheektowaga. The defendants also allegedly utilized firearms in their operations.
The first indictment charges nine defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years. Some defendants are also facing additional charges, including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The second indictment charges four defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 kilograms or more of marijuana, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The defendants named in the second indictment are Omar Ali, Kairo Machado-Arguedas, Luthor Jones, and Ahmad Elabed.
The investigation and arrests were likely the result of a joint effort by law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA, and ATF. The defendants will face serious penalties if convicted, including lengthy prison sentences and significant fines.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: New York
- Location: NY
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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