U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg | U.S. Department of Justice
A federal jury in Tampa, Florida, has convicted Javier Mares, a 44-year-old resident of Bradenton, on charges related to drug trafficking and firearm offenses. United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced the verdict, stating that Mares was found guilty of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and over 50 grams of methamphetamine, as well as possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Mares faces a minimum sentence of 15 years up to life in federal prison. The date for his sentencing hearing has not been set.
The investigation into Mares began in 2023 by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bradenton Police Department. Authorities suspected that Mares was distributing large quantities of narcotics from his auto shop business in Bradenton. A confidential informant made several controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Mares' brother, who was seen leaving and returning to the auto shop around the time of these transactions.
On June 27, 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at the auto body shop where they found Mares along with a juvenile present. Inside the shop, authorities discovered a safe containing packaged methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and drug distribution paraphernalia under Mares' desk. A fingerprint belonging to Mares was identified on a baggie containing 380 grams of methamphetamine within the safe; analysis showed it was 96% pure. Additionally, agents located a loaded firearm next to collectible $2 bills in the desk drawer near the floor safe.
During an interview with agents, Mares acknowledged ownership of the office but denied knowledge about the safe's owner or having access to it through keys or codes. He admitted owning the $2 bills but claimed ignorance regarding the loaded gun beside them.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale following investigations conducted by multiple agencies including DEA, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Bradenton Police Department, and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at identifying and dismantling high-level criminal organizations posing threats within U.S borders using collaborative intelligence-driven strategies led by prosecutors across various agencies.
