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Seth Michael Bertolini, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Drug Trafficking, California 2014
A 44-year-old Butte County man has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and drug trafficking, federal prosecutors announced. Seth Michael Bertolini, of Chico, pleaded guilty to the charges in federal court, said U.S. Attorney Benjamin Wagner.
The case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Chico Police Department, and the Butte County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
According to court documents, on June 4, 2014, law enforcement officers stopped Bertolini in Chico after they noticed his car’s radio system playing too loudly. Bertolini was seen emerging from his car appearing animated and agitated, and he initially squared off to fight before turning and fleeing. After a foot pursuit, officers arrested Bertolini and found over 35 grams of packaged heroin on his person and in his car, as well as a fully loaded Smith & Wesson .32 caliber revolver.
A later search of Bertolini’s residence revealed more heroin, trafficking paraphernalia, and another gun. Bertolini, who has suffered multiple prior felony convictions, faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for the gun offense and up to 20 years in prison for the drug trafficking offense.
Bertolini is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16, 2015, by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Bertolini’s guilty plea marks a significant victory for law enforcement in their efforts to combat drug trafficking and gun violence in Butte County. The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences faced by those who choose to engage in such activities.
The investigation and prosecution of Bertolini were a collaborative effort between federal and local law enforcement agencies. The FBI, Chico Police Department, and Butte County Sheriff’s Office worked together to bring Bertolini to justice.
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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