Rosendo Flores Angulo Pleads Guilty in Heroin Distribution Death Case

ALBUQUERQUE – Mexican national Rosendo Flores Angulo, 39, has entered a guilty plea in federal court for his role in a heroin distribution conspiracy that resulted in the tragic death of a user. Angulo, who resided in Albuquerque prior to his arrest, admitted to distributing heroin in the city during 2014 and 2015.

His co-defendant, Curtis Hutchinson, 31, from Edgewood, previously pleaded guilty for conspiring with Angulo. The case highlights the dangerous nature of heroin use, as a mere quarter-gram dose was lethal in this instance.

In response to the guilty plea, U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez emphasized the severity of New Mexico’s opioid crisis and the commitment to tackle the issue through arrests and criminal prosecutions. Special Agent in Charge Will R. Glaspy of DEA’s El Paso Division echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of accountability for those perpetuating the epidemic.

This case began on September 18, 2015, when Angulo was charged with heroin trafficking based on sales to undercover agents. Both men were later indicted and charged with participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy, distribution, and ultimately, the death resulting from drug use.

Angulo’s plea agreement reveals his role as a mid-level dealer supplying low-level dealers and users. The incident of April 29, 2015, where Angulo supplied heroin to Hutchinson, who then sold it to the deceased user, underscores the deadly consequences of the illegal drug trade.

The guilty plea by Angulo is another step in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and its devastating effects on communities across New Mexico.