Josue Muniz, 35, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty on April 7 in New Haven federal court to charges related to distributing fentanyl and cocaine. The announcement was made by David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and Stamford Police Chief Timothy Shaw.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address narcotics trafficking in Connecticut communities. According to court documents and statements made in court, authorities began investigating Muniz in 2024 after learning he was involved in trafficking fentanyl and cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley. Investigators conducted several undercover drug purchases from Muniz during November and December of that year.
Muniz was arrested on December 20, 2024 at a car dealership in Milford where he worked following a coordinated narcotics purchase by investigators. At the time of his arrest, he had approximately 58 grams of fentanyl. Subsequent searches of his vehicle and residence led officers to additional quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine.
Muniz admitted guilt to possession with intent to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl as well as an unspecified amount of cocaine. This offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment with a maximum possible sentence of forty years. No sentencing date has been set yet.
Authorities said Muniz has prior state felony convictions for narcotics offenses and has remained detained since his arrest. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Stamford Police Department, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lembo is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America—a national initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protecting communities from violent crime.
