Rochester, NY – Ronald Walker, 43, of Corona, New York, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a massive cocaine and heroin trafficking operation. Walker was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and one kilogram or more of heroin, as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank H. Sherman, Walker was part of a conspiracy that began in 2005 and continued until August 2012. During this time, Walker arranged for the distribution of quantities of cocaine and heroin to individuals who were transporting the drugs to Rochester and distributing them.
The conspiracy involved at least 40 kilograms of cocaine and one kilogram of heroin. In addition, Walker laundered drug proceeds by placing at least $911,000 in cash in safe deposit boxes opened by other individuals to conceal the proceeds.
In August 2012, authorities seized the cash from these safe deposit boxes, as well as approximately $615,000 in cash from two residences connected to Walker. Walker agreed to forfeit all of that cash, as well as a 2012 Range Rover vehicle, articles of jewelry and two properties located in Corona, New York, and Union City, Georgia, as proceeds of his illegal activities.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Brian R. Crowell, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Division, investigators with the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief James M. Sheppard, and Special Agents of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Toni Weirauch, New York Field Office.
Walker’s conviction and sentencing are a major blow to the cocaine and heroin trade in Rochester and the surrounding area. The investigation and prosecution of Walker’s conspiracy demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to disrupting and dismantling organized crime groups.
The case is a prime example of the impact that can be made when law enforcement agencies work together to take down major players in the drug trade. The forfeiture of over $2.5 million in assets is a significant blow to Walker’s illicit activities and a testament to the effectiveness of the investigation and prosecution.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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