A former Bronx resident, Jose Baez Cabrera, was sentenced on Mar. 19 to 46 months in federal prison after being convicted of possessing with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, according to United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address drug trafficking and related crimes. Baez Cabrera, age 35, will also serve three years of supervised release following his prison term unless he is removed from the United States due to his immigration status.
Court records show that on August 16, 2023, Baez Cabrera was apprehended while transporting eight kilograms of cocaine across Pennsylvania. Authorities said he intended to deliver the drugs to dealers in Erie. At the time of his arrest, Baez Cabrera was on probation for a previous felony conviction in New York in 2021 for possessing a kilogram of fentanyl.
Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted the case.
United States Attorney Rivetti said, “United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania State Police and Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Baez Cabrera.”
The sentencing underscores continued collaboration between federal and state agencies in combating narcotics distribution.
