ROCHESTER, N.Y. – In a stunning verdict, David L. Rivera-Ruiz, 31, has been convicted of possession of a machinegun, marking the culmination of a relentless investigation into his involvement in drug trafficking.
The jury found Rivera-Ruiz guilty of possessing the machinegun, as well as firearms and ammunition, all in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The charges also include being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Each charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years in prison, with life imprisonment as the maximum sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas E. Gregory and Brandon Gonzalez led the prosecution against Rivera-Ruiz, detailing how on October 27, 2022, the defendant had in his possession a machinegun and a 9mm semiautomatic pistol equipped with a conversion device. Additionally, he was found to possess quantities of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to sell.
Rivera-Ruiz’s criminal history dates back to September 2016 when he was convicted of felon gun crimes in Camden County, New Jersey. This conviction bars him from legally possessing firearms and ammunition.
The investigation into Rivera-Ruiz’s activities was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, directed by Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, and the Rochester Police Department, under Chief David Smith.
Sentencing for Rivera-Ruiz is set for October 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford, who oversaw the trial.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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