Schenectady man sentenced for drug trafficking and firearms possession — Photo 61814404 © Jiri Hera | Dreamstime.com

ALBANY, NY – Jeffrey C. Civitello Jr., 24, from Schenectady, New York, has been sentenced to 132 months and a day in prison for his involvement in drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The sentencing was announced by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA, New York Division.

Civitello Jr. previously pleaded guilty to charges related to the trafficking of more than 100 kilograms of marijuana and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. A DEA operation on October 21, 2021, led to the discovery of approximately 75 pounds of marijuana intended for sale in Civitello’s penthouse apartment. Additionally, investigators seized $407,545 in cash and a 14-karat Miami Cuban chain as proceeds from drug trafficking activities.

Found in Civitello Jr.’s bedroom were a loaded Taurus Judge Public Defender revolver and a Smith and Wesson M&P 15-22 rifle with a high-capacity magazine. Civitello Jr. admitted to possessing these firearms for personal protection against potential theft of his drugs or money.

Furthermore, Civitello Jr. was convicted of cocaine trafficking offenses in April 2023 following an 8-day trial. Evidence from the trial indicated his involvement in a conspiracy to distribute around 15 kilograms of cocaine. This operation also implicated Civitello Jr.’s father, Jeffrey C. Civitello, Sr., who was previously sentenced to 120 months in prison, and three individuals from the New York City area.

United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino has also mandated a 5-year term of supervised release following Civitello Jr.’s imprisonment. He is required to forfeit the seized cash, firearms, ammunition, the Miami Cuban chain, and is subject to a $250,000 money judgment.

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