Juan Carlos Merced Moreno, Fentanyl and Narcotics Trafficking, New Jersey 2022

A New York man has admitted his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in New Jersey, with some of the controlled substances transported from Manhattan locations.

Juan Carlos Merced Moreno, aka ‘Samuel,’ 45, of Manhattan, New York, pleaded guilty by videoconference on Dec. 20, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to a superseding information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, and 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, Moreno admitted that from November 2020 through January 2021 he conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. He admitted participating in the conspiracy from locations in Manhattan and that some of the controlled substances were transported to New Jersey.

The conspiracy charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a maximum $5 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for May 8, 2023.

U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office National Security Unit in Newark, Homeland Security Investigations, the New York City Airport Border Enforcement Security Taskforce, the New York Police Department, and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Levin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office National Security Unit in Newark.

Moreno’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the narcotics trafficking ring, which was operating in New Jersey and other parts of the country. The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement to disrupting and dismantling organized crime groups that threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.

Moreno’s sentence will be determined by the court at a later date. He remains in custody pending sentencing.

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