Rochester Man Convicted in Marijuana Conspiracy
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – In a shocking turn of events, a Rochester man has been convicted of his role in a massive marijuana conspiracy that spanned over three years.
According to court documents, 30-year-old Joseph Schmidt pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who is handling the case, stated that between January 2008 and July 2011, Schmidt, along with several other individuals, distributed significant quantities of marijuana which was obtained from various sources, including the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation in the Northern District of New York.
The defendant also maintained sophisticated indoor marijuana grow operations at residences on Crystal Valley Overlook, in Henrietta, New York, and Culver Parkway, in Rochester, both of which were searched by police in July 2011. As part of his plea, Schmidt will forfeit the Henrietta home, as well as cash and 10 firearms.
Schmidt was arrested on February 5, 2013, along with six other defendants. He is the first to be convicted. The investigation, which was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, involved a multi-agency task force that included officers and investigators from the Rochester Police Department and the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team.
The case is a prime example of the ongoing struggle against marijuana trafficking in our community. The Rochester Police Department and its partners are committed to keeping our streets safe and free from the scourge of illegal drugs.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 15, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Siragusa. The outcome of the case will serve as a warning to those involved in marijuana trafficking that they will be held accountable for their actions.
The conviction is a significant achievement for law enforcement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the agents and officers involved in the investigation.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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