SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The U.S. Department of Justice announced the sentencing of six individuals for their roles in a massive drug trafficking operation that left several dead, including banker Maurice Spagnoletti. The defendants, all members of a notorious enterprise, were found guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The operation, which spanned from 2000 to 2014, was carried out in the municipalities of San Juan, Trujillo Alto, Guaynabo, and Bayamón. The defendants, led by Luis Carmona-Bernacet, a.k.a. “Canito Cumbre,” used firearms to carry out their crimes, resulting in the deaths of several victims, including William Castro-Vidot and Maurice Spagnoletti.
On June 5, Carmona-Bernacet, 35, was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the conspiracy. Two other defendants, Yadiel Serrano-Canales, a.k.a. “Motombo,” 32, and Rolando Rivera-Solis, 40, also received life sentences for their involvement in the conspiracy.
In addition to the life sentences, two other defendants, Alan Lugo-Montalvo, 38, and Fabiany Almestica-Monge, 45, were sentenced to 360 months (30 years) and 540 months (45 years) in prison, respectively. Alex Burgos-Amaro, the last defendant to be sentenced, received 180 months (15 years) in prison for his role in the conspiracy.
The successful prosecution of the case was the result of exhaustive investigative work by the FBI and state and federal law enforcement partners. The sentences imposed send a message that the U.S. justice system remains a powerful tool to bring perpetrators of violent crime to justice and closure to victims’ families.
The case serves as a testament to the undying dedication of law enforcement agents, prosecutors, and brave citizens who worked together to ensure justice was served. The FBI investigated the case with the assistance of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico played a key role in securing the convictions.
Related Federal Cases
- Puerto Rican Men Face Life for Drug Smuggling in Buffalo · Puerto Rico
- Puerto Rican Gang Members Face Six Murder Counts in NYC · Puerto Rico
- Utica Man Sentenced to Life for Cocaine Trafficking, Money Laundering · Puerto Rico
- Attorney General James Warns of Fake Bad Bunny Tickets · Puerto Rico
- Bad Bunny Ticket Scam Targets NY Fans · Puerto Rico
Key Facts
- State: Puerto Rico
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News