BRONX, NY – Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark and New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban have announced the indictment of eight Bronx men on charges related to the sale of firearms, cocaine, and methamphetamine near Yankee Stadium. The defendants are accused of endangering the public by conducting illegal transactions in a highly trafficked area.
District Attorney Clark highlighted the risk posed by the defendants, stating, “The defendant who allegedly sold eight guns to an undercover NYPD officer put thousands of subway commuters, those who work and go to school nearby, and baseball fans in jeopardy. These alleged traffickers conducted business in broad daylight, down the block from the Stadium and beneath the elevated subway station.”
Commissioner Caban emphasized the ongoing threat of illegal guns and drugs, praising the efforts of the undercover officer and the collaboration with the Bronx District Attorney’s office. “These charges underscore the destructive threat that illegal guns and drugs continue to pose on the streets of New York City, as well as our unwavering dedication to improving quality of life in every neighborhood,” he said.
The defendants, identified as Jeriel Fernandez, 30, Jael Fernandez, 21, Jonathan Fernandez, 31 (all related), Marvin Fortuna, 29, Ronny Fortuna, 32 (related), Jose Tejada Jr., 26, his father Jose Tejada Sr., 60, and Christian Espinal, 49, are charged in a 108-count indictment. The charges include first-degree Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, second-degree Conspiracy, and first-degree Criminal Sale of a Firearm.
The investigation, which led to the recovery of 11 firearms, including an AK-47, and $418,000, culminated in the arraignment of the Tejadas, the Fortunas, and Jonathan Fernandez on July 2, 2024, before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Brenda Rivera.
This indictment reflects the concerted efforts of law enforcement to combat the illegal trafficking of guns and drugs, ensuring the safety and security of New York City’s residents and visitors.