Juan Hernandez Sentenced to 12.5 Years for Firearm Possession and D…

PUEBLO – Leonard Cordova, 44, is headed to federal prison for over a decade after pleading guilty to a string of serious crimes. Cordova was sentenced to 151 months – 12 years and 7 months – for illegally possessing firearms, firing at people, and pushing drugs onto the streets of Pueblo. The case lays bare the ongoing struggle to keep repeat offenders off the streets and the dangers they pose to the community.

The trouble started in September 2021. Cordova first opened fire on a driver near his home on September 12th, then a week later, he shot at two people in another vehicle while driving his own. Both incidents left victims wounded and seeking medical attention. Though arrested on local charges after each shooting, Cordova was released on bond, only to continue posing a threat.

Federal agents finally stepped in, with the FBI arresting Cordova in April 2022. The feds uncovered more than just the shootings. Cordova admitted to distributing 221 grams of methamphetamine in October 2020, and 98 grams of heroin in February 2021. This wasn’t a one-time lapse in judgment; it was a pattern of dangerous behavior and criminal activity.

Cordova pleaded guilty in March 2023 to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and two counts of distributing a controlled substance. Judge Regina M. Rodriguez didn’t mince words during sentencing, recognizing the need to remove individuals like Cordova from society. The 12.5-year sentence should keep him locked up and away from Pueblo’s citizens for a significant period.

This case wasn’t solved in a vacuum. The FBI, DEA, and Pueblo Police Department all worked together to build a solid case against Cordova. The collaborative effort highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in tackling violent crime and drug trafficking. Federal prosecutor Cole Finegan praised the teamwork, stating it was critical to making Pueblo a safer place.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek emphasized the need for continued partnerships with local law enforcement to target repeat offenders. DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge David Olesky echoed that sentiment, stressing the importance of disrupting the flow of drugs into the community. Cordova’s sentence sends a clear message: those who choose violence and drug dealing will face serious consequences.

The investigation underscores the effectiveness of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime through targeted enforcement and community partnerships. The feds are determined to focus on the most dangerous offenders and work with local agencies to improve public safety.

This case number is not publicly available. For media inquiries, contact the District of Colorado main office. Stay connected with the latest federal crime news on our social media channels.