PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Providence resident previously
convicted in state court on drug trafficking charges pleaded guilty in federal
court today to federal drug trafficking and firearm charges and faces up to 70
years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha and
Daniel J. Kumor, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Jose A. Fuentes, 43, of Providence, pleaded guilty to three
counts of distribution of heroin and one count of being a felon in possession
of a firearm. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2014.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge Mary M. Lisi,
Fuentes admitted to the court that on March 5, 2012, and March 16, 2012, he
sold a total of more than 14 grams of heroin to an undercover ATF agent.
Additionally, Fuentes admitted to the court that on October 12, 2012, he traded
with an undercover ATF agent .77 grams of heroin and $100 in cash for a
semi-automatic handgun. Fuentes was arrested by ATF agents immediately after he
took possession of the firearm.
According to information presented to the court, Fuentes was
convicted in Rhode Island state court in August 2009 of delivery of heroin, and
was on probation at the time of his arrest by ATF agents.
Distribution of heroin is punishable by a statutory penalty
up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Felon in
possession of a firearm is punishable by a statutory penalty of 10 years
imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Paul F. Daly,
Jr., with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment