Roman Batista, Cocaine Smuggling, Florida 2023

Kissimmee Man Sentenced for Smuggling Cocaine

Orlando, Florida – In a significant blow to the illicit drug trade, Roman Batista (38, Kissimmee) has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for importing cocaine into the United States.

Batista had pleaded guilty on September 25, 2023, to charges of cocaine smuggling.

According to court documents, on July 10, 2023, Batista flew from the Dominican Republic to the Orlando International Airport. After securing his checked luggage from the baggage claim area, Batista was referred for a bag examination.

Customs and Border Protection Officers conducted an examination of Batista’s luggage wherein 2,994 grams of cocaine was located hidden in a speaker.

“CBP is focused on attacking every link in the global illegal narcotic trafficking chain. The diligent work by our CBP Officers prevented these illicit drugs from ever finding their way on to the street of Orlando or beyond,” stated Miami/Tampa Director of Field Operations Carlos Martel.

“This sentencing is a testament to Homeland Security Investigations’ commitment to stop those who exploit our nation’s travel system to further their illicit narcotic distribution networks,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “The outstanding law enforcement partnership we have with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Orlando International Airport has ensured this criminal will now face the consequences of his actions.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.

Batista, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for his role in the cocaine smuggling operation. The exact date of the crime was July 10, 2023.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/kissimmee-man-sentenced-smuggling-cocaine-dominican-republic-florida