Leonard Cordova, a resident of Pueblo, has recently been sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and distributing drugs. The sentencing comes after Cordova pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as two counts of distributing a controlled substance. According to the plea agreement and criminal complaint, Cordova fired shots at individuals on two separate occasions in September 2021, resulting in injuries. The FBI arrested Cordova in 2022, and he eventually pled guilty in federal court in March 2023. In sentencing Cordova, United States District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez recognized the importance of removing dangerous individuals like Cordova from the streets. The case was investigated by the FBI, DEA, and Pueblo Police Department, highlighting the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety.
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Case Background
Summary of the case
In the case of Leonard Cordova, a 44-year-old resident of Pueblo, he has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison. Cordova pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as two counts of distributing a controlled substance. The case involves incidents of gun violence and drug distribution in the Pueblo area.
Incidents leading to arrest and charges
On September 12, 2021, Cordova fired multiple shots from a handgun at an individual driving down the street near his residence in a residential neighborhood in Pueblo. He was subsequently arrested on local charges but was released on bond. A week later, on September 19, 2021, Cordova fired shots at two individuals in another moving vehicle while driving his own vehicle in Pueblo. The victims were hit by the gunfire and sought medical treatment at a local hospital. Cordova was again arrested on local charges but was released on bond.
Plea agreement and admission of guilt
Cordova was arrested by the FBI on April 15, 2022, after being charged in the District of Colorado by a criminal complaint on April 13, 2022. He was ordered to be detained pending trial. On March 7, 2023, Cordova pleaded guilty in federal court. As part of his plea agreement, Cordova, a previously convicted felon, admitted to unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition during the September 2021 shootings. He also admitted to distributing 221 grams of methamphetamine on October 19, 2020, and 98 grams of heroin on February 19, 2021.
Sentencing by Judge Regina M. Rodriguez
On July 12, 2023, United States District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez sentenced Cordova to 151 months (12.5 years) in federal prison. This sentencing ensures that Cordova will no longer pose a threat to the Pueblo community. United States Attorney Cole Finegan expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the FBI, DEA, and Pueblo Police Department in their work to make Pueblo a safer place.
Law Enforcement Collaboration
Investigating agencies
The investigation into Leonard Cordova’s criminal activities involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Pueblo Police Department. These agencies worked together to gather evidence, make arrests, and build a strong case against Cordova. Their collaboration showcases the effectiveness of coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies in combating violent crime and drug-related offenses.
Key officials’ statements
United States Attorney Cole Finegan commended the collaborative efforts of the FBI, DEA, and Pueblo Police Department in making Pueblo a safer place. He acknowledged the hard work and dedication of these partner agencies in bringing violent, drug-dealing felons like Cordova off the streets.
FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek emphasized the importance of federal partnership with local law enforcement to remove repeat offenders like Cordova from the community. He affirmed the FBI’s commitment to working with the Pueblo Police Department to achieve shared goals.
DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge David Olesky highlighted the connection between drug-related activity and gun violence. He emphasized the DEA’s commitment to prioritizing cases involving firearms and drug trafficking to make communities safer.
Appreciation for partner agencies
The United States Attorney’s Office expressed gratitude to the 10th Judicial District Attorney’s office for its assistance with the case. The collaboration between federal and local prosecutors strengthens the prosecution process and ensures a comprehensive approach to justice.
The successful resolution of the Leonard Cordova case is a testament to the effective collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies. The joint efforts of the FBI, DEA, and Pueblo Police Department serve as an example of the benefits of cooperation in combating violent crime and protecting communities.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
Overview of the program
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. Its core principles include fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting violence prevention efforts by community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
Department’s violent crime reduction strategy
On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy to strengthen and enhance PSN. The strategy focuses on developing trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based organizations, setting enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes. By implementing this strategy, the Department aims to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer.
Case connection to PSN
Leonard Cordova’s case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. The charges against Cordova, including being a felon in possession of a firearm and distributing controlled substances, align with the program’s goal of reducing violent crime and gun violence. The successful prosecution and sentencing of Cordova contribute to the overall objectives of PSN and demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in making communities safer.
Case Details
Case number
The case number for Leonard Cordova’s federal case is 22-cr-132.
Updated information
As of July 14, 2023, Leonard Cordova has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for his crimes. This update reflects the culmination of the judicial process and the resolution of the case. Cordova’s sentencing ensures that he will be removed from the streets and unable to pose a threat to the safety of the community.
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Related Content
Press release on another federal case
The District of Colorado’s press release on June 28, 2023, announced the sentencing of Jerome Bravo, a Denver resident, to 27 years in federal prison for 10 armed bank robberies. This case highlights the commitment of law enforcement to bring perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
Press release on a separate drug trafficking case
On June 28, 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado issued a press release on the sentencing of Carlos Quijano-Ruiz, a Mexican national, to five years in federal prison for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy and money laundering. This case demonstrates the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes.
Press release on Pueblo bank robberies
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado issued a press release on June 21, 2023, announcing the charging of three Pueblo residents in connection with a series of bank robberies. This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in criminal activities, ensuring the safety and security of the community.
Contact Information
District of Colorado main office address
The main office of the District of Colorado is located at: 1801 California Street Suite 1600 Denver, CO 80202
Media inquiries contact information
For media inquiries, please contact: Email: usaco.publicaffairs@usdoj.gov Tel: (303) 454-0100 Fax Line: (303) 454-0400
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In conclusion, the case of Leonard Cordova highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating violent crime and drug-related offenses. The successful prosecution and sentencing of Cordova demonstrate the effectiveness of Project Safe Neighborhoods in making communities safer. The commitment and dedication of the FBI, DEA, Pueblo Police Department, and other partner agencies are instrumental in achieving justice and ensuring the safety of the public.
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