BREAKING: A federal indictment has just charged 15 individuals in Connecticut with trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in a significant drug operation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that a grand jury returned the indictment on September 26, 2023, in federal court in New Haven, alleging these individuals were part of a narcotics distribution network in southern Connecticut.
Among those indicted are prominent figures like Damien Hazel, 26, and Yanishka Arroyo-Rivera, 22, both of Bridgeport. Others include Nicholas Vega, 25, of Ansonia, and Omar Viera, 32, of Waterbury. The investigation led by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force revealed that Hazel allegedly directed a narcotics operation that transported large quantities of drugs from New York City and Puerto Rico.
Federal authorities reported that the organization reportedly procured kilogram quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, shipping them through the U.S. Mail to various addresses in Connecticut. During the investigation, the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service seized packages containing a total of at least 16 kilograms of cocaine, with more suspected shipments identified.
Arrests were made on September 10, 2023, when Hazel and 13 co-conspirators were taken into custody. Two days later, Roberto Dejesus, 50, of Bridgeport, was also arrested. During these operations, authorities seized firearms and ammunition from locations linked to the suspects, heightening the urgency surrounding this case.
David X. Sullivan, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, stated,
“As alleged, this organization trafficked a significant amount of fentanyl and cocaine into our state… The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to targeting and prosecuting those who are profiting from it.”
The indictment charges each individual with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. If convicted, Hazel and several others could face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Meanwhile, others could face a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years.
The seriousness of this case highlights the ongoing battle against illegal narcotics, which continues to impact communities across Connecticut. The public can expect further updates as this situation develops.
As authorities intensify efforts to combat drug trafficking, residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The collaborative work of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies aims to remove dangerous drugs from the streets and ensure community safety.
