By: Richard L. Smith
Two individuals from Essex County, New Jersey, found themselves facing federal charges today, announced U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
Federal officials said Carlo M. De Leon De Jesus, 26, and Victor Gonzalez, 36, both hailing from Newark, were charged with unlicensed dealing in firearms and trafficking firearms in interstate commerce.
Additionally, De Jesus faces a conspiracy charge related to the sale of fentanyl.
The charges were brought against both defendants through a federal complaint, with each facing one count of dealing firearms without a license, one count of transferring firearms to an out-of-state resident, and one count of firearms trafficking.
De Jesus, however, carries an additional charge of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Following their court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court, both defendants were detained.
As outlined in court documents and statements, De Jesus faces four separate counts in the case, encompassing dealing firearms without a license, transferring firearms to an out-of-state resident, firearms trafficking, and the conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
These activities are alleged to have taken place between July and September of 2023.
During the specified time frame, De Jesus is accused of selling four firearms, which included two rifles and a semi-automatic handgun.
Furthermore, he allegedly dealt a substance that later tested positive for fentanyl. Gonzalez, his co-defendant, is accused of selling a firearm without a serial number in September 2023.
The charges related to dealing firearms without a license and transferring firearms to an out-of-state resident carry a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The count of firearms trafficking is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
De Jesus's conspiracy charge, tied to contributing controlled substances, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years behind bars and a fine of up to $1 million.
This case highlights the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat illegal firearm dealing and trafficking while addressing the concerning issue of narcotics distribution.