Puerto Rican Men Face Life for Drug Smuggling in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. – A grim tale of drug trafficking unfolded in Buffalo as Wendell Delgado-Sanchez and Jairo Figueroa-Suarez, both from Puerto Rico, faced the music for their involvement in a major cocaine conspiracy. The duo has pleaded guilty to charges that could land them in prison for life.

Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr., announced the plea today before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Delgado-Sanchez and Figueroa-Suarez admitted to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. But it’s the added charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime that could send them away for life.

The investigation took an intriguing turn on March 5, 2015, when the duo sold 71 grams of cocaine to an informant at a Buffalo apartment. The law enforcement officers then executed a search warrant, uncovering a treasure trove: 1,368 grams of cocaine stashed in a safe and a Jiminez Arms, model J.A. Nine, 9mm luger pistol.

But the evidence didn’t end there. Surveillance video from February 27 to March 5 showed Delgado-Sanchez and Figueroa-Suarez actively involved in the drug trade, mixing, weighing, and packaging cocaine for distribution. Customers were also seen completing transactions with the defendants.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation, with Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt overseeing the New York Field Division’s efforts. Both men are set to face sentencing before Judge Vilardo on May 11, 2017, and May 15, 2017, respectively.

These convictions serve as a stark reminder of the relentless battle against drug trafficking in our communities. The justice system will not tolerate such sinister activities, and these Puerto Rican men are now facing the dire consequences of their actions.

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