By: Richard L. Smith
Carlos Santiago, 49, of East Orange, New Jersey, has admitted to multiple charges related to drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Santiago pleaded guilty in Newark federal court before U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiarz to possession with intent to distribute substantial amounts of fentanyl and cocaine, along with the possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
Federal officials said in a statement the legal proceedings stem from an incident on October 24, 2022, when federal agents caught Santiago transferring drugs from a storage unit to his vehicle in Newark.
Upon searching the storage unit, agents found several kilograms of fentanyl and cocaine and one firearm.
Further searches at Santiago’s residence in East Orange led to the discovery of additional drugs and five more firearms.
Prior convictions in Essex County for drug offenses and resisting arrest were noted, heightening the severity of Santiago’s charges.
Santiago is now facing severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum of 10 years and the potential for life in prison for distributing more than 400 grams of fentanyl, with a possible fine up to $10 million.
The cocaine distribution charge could lead to a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison, accompanied by a $5 million fine.
Additionally, Santiago's firearm possession could attract a maximum of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The sentencing is scheduled for September 5, 2024, which will conclude a case highlighting intense federal crackdowns on both drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession.