A Dunkirk man has been convicted of selling cocaine in Western New York.
Michael Pacheco, 27, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 500 grams or more cocaine. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $10,000,000 fine.
Pacheco, also known as Michael Dominguez, conspired with co-defendant Fred Santiago to distribute kilogram quantities of cocaine in and around the Western District of New York. Pacheco obtained cocaine from Santiago for sale and distribution to others.
During the time of the conspiracy, Pacheco made at least two undercover drug sales to law enforcement officers on April 19, 2017, and April 26, 2017. On May 2, 2017, Pacheco was arrested and found with cocaine on his person, which was intended for sale.
The investigation was conducted by the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, under the direction of Cattaraugus County Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division; the Evans Police Department, under the direction of Chief Douglas Czora; the Dunkirk Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Ortolano; and the Chautauqua County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Joseph Gerace.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 20, 2018, at 3:30 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
Pacheco’s guilty plea marks a significant blow to the cocaine trafficking ring in Western New York. The investigation and subsequent conviction demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to eradicating the scourge of narcotics in the region.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan A. Tokash is handling the case, which is a testament to the dedication of federal prosecutors to upholding the law and protecting the community.
Related Federal Cases
- Royalty Tobacco Shut Down by NY AG for Repeatedly Illegally Selling Vapes to Minors · New York
- Michael Danzey Sentenced for Leading Fentanyl & Cocaine Ring · New York
- Sununu Declares War on Trump’s GOP Grip · New Hampshire
- Wall Street Bailout: NY & CA Lose $2 Trillion · North Carolina
- “K Money” Crumbles: Wall St. Pretender Admits $2M Scam · New York
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News