Edward Mighty, Cocaine Trafficking, New York 2015

In a major blow to Rochester’s narcotics trade, nine individuals have been charged with cocaine trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. Edward Mighty, Seymour Brown, Andre Taylor, Ricardo Bailey, Robert Wilson, Kenneth Harper, Desmond Bice, and Christopher Samuels, all of Rochester, NY, were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base.

The charges also include using a telephone to facilitate drug trafficking, distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In addition, Winifredo Gonzales, of Brooklyn, NY, was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The cocaine distribution conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, and a $10,000,000 fine. The possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking charge carries a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $250,000 fine.

According to the complaint, Edward Mighty is one of the leaders of a Rochester-based drug trafficking organization. Mighty obtained kilogram quantities of cocaine from Winifredo Gonzales in Brooklyn. The cocaine was transported to Rochester and processed, re-packaged, and distributed in various quantities of both powder and crack cocaine through multiple sellers in the Rochester area.

Mighty had individuals who worked for the drug trafficking organization utilize their cell phones to conduct the drug business, including Andre Taylor, Seymour Brown, and Ricardo Bailey. Mighty’s organization supplied numerous upper and mid-level cocaine distributors, including Robert Wilson and Wilson’s partner Kenneth Harper. Wilson further supplied, among other individuals, Desmond Bice. Christopher Samuels worked with Bice in further distributing the cocaine.

On February 10, 2015, officers executed a search warrant and arrested Winifredo Gonzales at a residence in Brooklyn. Officers recovered 17 kilograms of cocaine and two handguns, including an UZI 9mm pistol. Officers also seized approximately $70,000 in U.S. currency.

Edward Mighty and Ricardo Bailey were taken into custody. A later search of the car recovered one kilogram of cocaine. Andre Taylor fled on foot running through the snow-covered backyards and was taken into custody a short distance away.

The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola.

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