Stamford man accused of dealing crack while awaiting prison now faces new federal charges
STAMFORD, Conn. — A convicted drug offender who was out on bond and awaiting prison is now facing new federal charges after allegedly continuing to sell crack cocaine, prosecutors said.
Danny Turkvan, also known as “Smooth” 54, has been charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base after investigators say he resumed drug activity following his earlier sentencing.
Turkvan had already been sentenced in August in federal court to 46 months behind bars for his role in a southwestern Connecticut narcotics trafficking conspiracy. He had been released on a $150,000 bond and was ordered to report to prison in October.
But authorities allege that instead of preparing to begin his sentence, Turkvan continued distributing narcotics.
According to investigators, Stamford police arrested him on October 11 — just days before his scheduled surrender date — and recovered crack cocaine he intended to sell.
A federal grand jury later returned an indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Prosecutors also added an additional charge for committing the offense while on pre-trial release.
If convicted, Turkvan faces up to 20 years in prison on the drug charge, along with a potential additional consecutive sentence of up to 10 years for committing the crime while on release.
He has remained in custody since his arrest and pleaded not guilty during a recent appearance in federal court in Bridgeport.
The case is being investigated by the Stamford Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Key Points
- Stamford man charged with dealing crack while out on bond
- Suspect had already been sentenced in a prior federal drug case
- Faces up to 20 years plus additional penalties if convicted