Hubert Ramon Santiesteban, Cocaine Possession and Distribution Conspiracy, Florida 2023

In a shocking turn of events, Sebring resident Hubert Ramon Santiesteban, 55, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and attempt to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. This brazen crime has left law enforcement officials stunned and concerned for public safety.

The charges stem from an investigation by the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA Miami Field Division. On April 2023, detectives witnessed Santiesteban and his co-conspirator preparing for a transaction at Santiesteban’s residence. During a FaceTime call, the duo showcased large amounts of U.S. currency they planned to use to purchase 30 kilograms of cocaine.

A search of Santiesteban’s residence and property yielded a staggering $418,000 hidden in a van on the property. This significant discovery highlights the severity of the crime and the extent of Santiesteban’s involvement.

The court record paints a damning picture of Santiesteban’s actions. His willingness to engage in such a high-stakes transaction, coupled with the large sum of money discovered on his property, leaves little doubt about his guilt.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 12, before U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon. Santiesteban faces up to life in federal prison and up to a lifetime of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The investigation and prosecution of Santiesteban serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of cocaine trafficking and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat it. The community can rest a little easier knowing that those responsible for such crimes will be held accountable.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hudock is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the DEA Miami Field Division and the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case no. 24-cr-14034.