Maikel Gonzalez, Heroin Trafficking, New York 2017

Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking Conspiracy

Buffalo, NY – Maikel Gonzalez, 20, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $1,000,000 fine.

Between January 2015, and September 28, 2015, Gonzalez conspired with Daniel Molina Rios, Orlando Rios, Jose Andujar, Luis Montanez, and others to distribute heroin on the West Side of Buffalo.

The investigation utilized undercover purchases conducted by the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET) and the Buffalo Police Department.

Gonzalez was a street-level distributor or “runner” in a heroin trafficking ring operated by Daniel Molina-Rios.

The organization acquired heroin from the New York City area for distribution in Buffalo but also had an alternate heroin source locally.

A total of 14 defendants have been indicted in connection with this case, and Gonzalez is the sixth to be convicted.

Charges are pending against the remaining defendants.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET), and the Buffalo Police Department.

Gonzalez is scheduled to be sentenced on October 2, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. before Judge Arcara.

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