Ricardo Delgado II, 51, sentenced to six decades for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in Michigan’s Saginaw-Bay region, a blow to organized drug crime.
Massive Drug Ring’s Leader Gets 60 Years in Federal Prison
A Detroit-based drug trafficker, Ricardo Delgado II, was sentenced to 60 years in federal prison on Wednesday for spearheading a massive cocaine and fentanyl distribution operation across the Saginaw-Bay region. U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Ludington imposed the sentence after Delgado, 51, was found guilty by a jury in June on charges including conspiracy to distribute narcotics, illegal firearms possession, and possession of a machinegun.
Evidence presented in court detailed Delgado’s control over a large-scale trafficking network that smuggled vast quantities of cocaine and fentanyl from Mexico into Michigan communities. During a raid on his residence, law enforcement seized over 13 kilograms of cocaine, two kilograms of fentanyl, 12 firearms—among them two machineguns—two silencers, and more than $200,000 in cash.
Investigation Thwarts Planned Retaliation
Law enforcement’s efforts extended beyond narcotics, as FBI agents, through a court-authorized wiretap, uncovered Delgado’s plans to retaliate against a subordinate who had stolen drugs from him. This plot was thwarted by authorities, preventing further violence.
“This defendant endangered countless individuals by trafficking in large quantities of deadly fentanyl and cocaine,” said U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison. “This sentence should serve as a stark warning that our office will zealously pursue those who seek to bring illegal drugs and violence into our community.”
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, highlighted the dual danger Delgado posed through drug trafficking and illegal weapons possession. “The sentencing of Ricardo Delgado marks a critical milestone in our ongoing efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis and protect the public,” Gibson emphasized.
Extensive Law Enforcement Collaboration
The case reflects the power of cooperative law enforcement efforts, with contributions from the FBI’s Detroit Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and various local Michigan police departments, including Bay City, Saginaw, and Midland. The Bay Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (BAYANET) and the Strike Team Investigative Narcotics Group (STING) were also integral to dismantling the operation.
“The FBI Michigan remains firmly committed to addressing the dual threats of illegal firearms trafficking and drug distribution that endanger the safety of our communities. Through collaborative efforts with our local and state law enforcement partners, we continue dismantling criminal networks and disrupting the flow of harmful substances. I sincerely thank the dedicated professionals at FBI Michigan, the Bay City Department of Public Safety, the Saginaw Police Department, the Bay Area Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Michigan State Police. Our collective determination to safeguard Michigan residents and uphold justice remains unwavering as we work to hold those who threaten public safety accountable.” stated Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan
Delgado’s conviction and lengthy prison term mark a significant victory against drug-related violence and the devastation of opioid addiction in Michigan. The case underscores law enforcement’s dedication to cracking down on both the importation of deadly substances and the illegal weaponry that accompanies organized drug crime.
Related Context: Ongoing Fentanyl Crisis and Community Impact
The sentencing comes amid rising concerns over the widespread distribution of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for a surge in overdose deaths nationwide. Michigan remains at the forefront of the battle, with officials emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance against such networks.
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