Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced the guilty plea of Angel Benitez from Hartford to charges related to drug distribution and firearm possession. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford.
The investigation, led by the DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, identified Benitez and a co-conspirator illegally distributing oxycodone pills. These pills were originally prescribed to Benitez's co-conspirator. Controlled purchases were made from Benitez and his co-conspirator during August and September 2024.
Benitez was taken into custody on November 6, 2024. A subsequent search of his home uncovered a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol, which had been reported stolen in West Hartford.
Benitez has a criminal background that includes previous convictions for state assault, burglary, and larceny. Under federal law, felons are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition that have traveled through interstate or foreign commerce.
He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a charge that holds a possible maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. He also pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, which carries a potential maximum sentence of 15 years. Sentencing is set for June 20.
Since his arrest, Benitez has remained in custody.
The DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, including personnel from the DEA and various Connecticut police departments, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins is prosecuting the case.
