A Hartford man has been sentenced to three years in federal prison for offenses related to the distribution of oxycodone and possession of a firearm. Angel Benitez, 38, received his sentence from U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford. In addition to the prison term, Benitez will serve three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made during proceedings, an investigation by the DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad determined that Benitez and a co-conspirator were illegally selling oxycodone pills prescribed to the co-conspirator. Investigators conducted controlled purchases of oxycodone from Benitez and his associate during August and September 2024.
Benitez was arrested on November 6, 2024. Authorities searching his residence found a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol reported stolen in West Hartford.
Benitez has prior convictions for assault, burglary, and larceny at the state level. Federal law prohibits individuals previously convicted of felony offenses from possessing firearms or ammunition that have crossed state or international lines.
Benitez has remained detained since his arrest. He pleaded guilty on March 26, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone as well as unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
The case was investigated by the DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes members from several local police departments and Connecticut State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins prosecuted the case.
“David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANGEL BENITEZ, 38, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug distribution and firearm possession offenses.”
