Rochester, NY – In a shocking turn of events, Francis C. Bynoe, 35, a Rochester resident, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassie M. Kocher, who is handling the case, stated that on September 29, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bynoe’s Rochester residence, seizing four firearms, ammunition, quantities of cocaine and a substance containing fentanyl, heroin, and para-fluorofentanyl (a fentanyl analogue), and items commonly used to cook cocaine into cocaine crack.
In April 2012, Bynoe was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and as a result is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
The case against Bynoe is a stark reminder of the dangers of gun violence and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. As a convicted felon, Bynoe was already prohibited from possessing a firearm, yet he continued to engage in illegal activities.
Bynoe’s sentencing is scheduled for April 6, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Geraci. The outcome of this case will serve as a warning to others who think they can break the law with impunity.
Barbara Burns, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is available to comment on the case. She can be reached at (716) 843-5817 or (716) 551-3051.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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