NEWARK, N.J. – Jhan Carlos Capellan Maldonado, 35, from Bronx, New York, admitted his role in distributing heroin and fentanyl from two Bronx-based drug mills, leading to the death of a 15-month-old child, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
The plea occurred in Newark federal court before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas.
Capellan Maldonado pleaded guilty to distributing heroin and fentanyl in December 2018 and to conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of substances containing fentanyl in February 2019. His actions resulted in the fatal poisoning of a toddler, with the distribution network extending into New Jersey.
Six accomplices from the Bronx – Reimon Genao Rosario, Dilson Vazquez Genao, Eddie Urena Rodriguez, Francisco Mercedes Gil, Daury Contreras Ulerio, and Jose Antonio Vazquez Pena – have also pleaded guilty to similar charges before Judge Salas.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger highlighted the gravity of Capellan Maldonado’s role in the operation that prepared and sold lethal drugs, directly causing a young child’s death. Homeland Security Investigations – Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso expressed the devastating impact of this incident, underscoring the peril of illegal narcotics.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fentanyl epidemic’s harmful effects on communities. The office of the U.S. Attorney remains committed to fighting this crisis and bringing to justice those involved in such dangerous drug trafficking.