David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RICARDO AQUINO, also known as “Ricky,” 23, of Ferry Street, New Haven, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”), and quantities of cocaine and heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2011, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Haven Police Department’s Tactical Narcotics Unit, began an intensive investigation into drug dealing in the vicinity of 36 Maltby Place in the Fair Haven section of New Haven.  The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, law enforcement surveillance, and controlled purchases of crack cocaine and cocaine from a number of individuals, revealed that, between May and November 2011, AQUINO participated in a drug conspiracy involving 200 grams of crack cocaine and more than one kilogram of powder cocaine.  AQUINO also was aware that some of his co-conspirators sold heroin.

On November 4, 2011, a search of AQUINO’s residence, place of employment and vehicle revealed gross weights of approximately 365 grams of cocaine and approximately 22 grams of crack cocaine, as well as drug packaging materials.

AQUINO is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on May 9, 2012, at which time AQUINO faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years and a fine of up to $5 million.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Haven Police Department’s Tactical Narcotics Unit.  The Stamford Police Department has provided critical assistance to the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Marc H. Silverman.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:

U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722
thomas.carson@usdoj.gov

 

 

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