Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, along with Frank A. Tarentino, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA's New York Division, announced that Pedro Marte has been presented in White Plains federal court. Marte faces charges related to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton stated: "As alleged, Pedro Marte turned a New Rochelle hotel room into a dangerous drug lab. A law enforcement investigation revealed that Marte possessed large quantities of cocaine and deadly fentanyl. We should all be able to stay in a hotel without worrying about exposure to dangerous and potentially lethal drug trafficking."
DEA Special Agent Frank A. Tarentino added: "Pedro Marte’s use of his hotel room as a clandestine drug lab not only placed the lives of innocent guests in danger but was reckless and unconscionable. We are thankful to our law enforcement partners and our first responders for their quick actions."
The complaint alleges that on April 6, 2025, authorities responded to an incident at a New Rochelle hotel where they found damage to multiple rooms and evidence of a significant fire. Equipment consistent with a clandestine drug lab was discovered in the room rented by Marte. Further investigation led officers to find approximately three kilograms of cocaine and 12.2 grams of fentanyl.
Marte, aged 47 from New York City, is charged with one count each for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. The cocaine charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, while the fentanyl charge carries up to 20 years.
Clayton commended the work of the DEA, New Rochelle Police Department, and Fire Department on this case being managed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carmi Schickler from the Office’s White Plains Division.
It is emphasized that these charges are accusations, and Pedro Marte is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
