Joel Antonio Alonzo, Fentanyl Trafficking, California 2023

Jagged streets of New York City’s Lower East Side were once home to a $1.2 million fentanyl trafficking operation, led by Joel Antonio Alonzo, 35.

According to the United States v. Alonzo federal case, filed in the District Court of the Southern District of New York (1:25-cr-00305), Alonzo is accused of masterminding a significant fentanyl trafficking network.

The indictment, unsealed on May 14, 2025, alleges that Alonzo and his accomplices distributed over 10 kilograms of fentanyl, resulting in numerous overdose deaths.

Alonzo, a New York City resident, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, as well as possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

The case against Alonzo was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Chen, with assistance from Joe Zabel and Michael Arthus.

The gritty details of Alonzo’s alleged fentanyl trafficking operations have sent shockwaves through the city’s underworld, with law enforcement officials hailing the indictment as a significant blow to the drug trade.

Alonzo’s case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of fentanyl trafficking, which has claimed countless lives in recent years.

As the trial approaches, residents of New York City can only hope that justice will be served and the streets will be one step safer.

The full extent of Alonzo’s involvement in the fentanyl trafficking operation remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the people of New York City deserve better than to live in fear of deadly street gangs.

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