Zaid Mendoza, also known as Diamond, pleaded guilty on Mar. 11 to narcotics conspiracy and three counts of sex trafficking by force, according to U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. Mendoza, 47, from Jamestown and Falconer, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and could receive up to life in prison.
The case highlights the intersection of drug trafficking and sex trafficking crimes in the region. Authorities say Mendoza managed a drug operation between 2020 and December 2022, using associates to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin for profit. His West Main Street residence was used for manufacturing and distributing drugs.
Law enforcement recovered significant quantities of drugs during their investigation. On October 6, 2022, officers stopped a vehicle with Mendoza inside and found methamphetamine with the driver and about 25 grams of fentanyl on Mendoza himself. Later that year, a search warrant at his home led to the seizure of cash, more drugs—including fentanyl and methamphetamine—a semi-automatic pistol, and a large capacity magazine.
Mendoza's plea also covers multiple incidents involving victims who were addicted to drugs. In one instance dating back to 2000, he exchanged drugs for sex with Victim 1 on three occasions. In spring 2022, he met Victim 2 at a drug house; she later engaged in sexual activity with him in exchange for drugs at a motel in Jamestown on several occasions.
Between October and December 2022, Mendoza conspired with others to force two additional victims into commercial sex acts while providing them shelter, food, clothing, and daily fentanyl doses at his residence. The proceeds from these acts went directly to Mendoza. Investigators said customers were solicited through the website "Skipthegames.com".
Charges remain pending against co-defendant Kelvin Thomas while Cora Waddington has already been convicted and is awaiting sentencing. The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Jamestown Police Department Metro Drug Task Force; Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office County Drug Task Force; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; and Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencing for Mendoza is scheduled before Judge John L. Sinatra Jr. on September 9.
