Ruben Torres, Heroin and Crack Cocaine Distribution, Connecticut 2023

Ruben Torres, a 26-year-old Hartford gang member, has been sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for distributing heroin and crack cocaine in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood.

According to court documents, Torres was a member of the Orange Street Killas (OSK), a gang that operated in the area of Orange, Cherry, and Arbor Streets. The investigation, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division, targeted gang violence and narcotics trafficking in the neighborhood.

The investigation revealed that Torres sold heroin and crack cocaine to drug users and distributors, and also discussed firearms and planned a violent act with his associates. On October 8, 2016, investigators intercepted Torres and others on calls discussing firearms and planning a violent act. The next day, a man was chased and shot multiple times in front of 7-9 Cherry Street, and minutes after the shooting, Torres and others referenced the shooting on the wiretap.

On January 26, 2017, Torres sold 600 bags of heroin, approximately one-half ounce of crack cocaine, and 34 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition to an undercover officer. He was arrested on February 10, 2017, and a search of his residence revealed approximately 260 bags of heroin, drug paraphernalia, assorted ammunition, a gun holster, a gun cleaner kit, and $1,379 in cash.

Torres has been detained since his arrest, and on November 8, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming is prosecuting the case.

The investigation resulted in charges against 16 individuals, and the case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

Torres will serve 78 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release. The investigation highlighted the ongoing gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood, and the need for continued law enforcement efforts to address these issues.

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