A Springfield, Massachusetts resident with a prior felony conviction has admitted guilt in court to charges involving cocaine distribution and firearms offenses. Pedro Deleon, aged 32, entered guilty pleas for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug distribution. The U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni has set the sentencing date for September 25, 2025. Deleon faced indictment by a federal grand jury earlier this year in March.
The events leading to these charges occurred on October 22, 2024, when Deleon was found with drugs intended for distribution along with two firearms. His criminal history includes a previous conviction that carried a sentence exceeding one year.
For the charge related to cocaine distribution intent, Deleon faces up to 20 years in prison and could be subject to lifetime supervised release along with fines reaching $1 million. The charge concerning his status as a felon in possession of firearms carries potential penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment, three years supervised release, and fines up to $250,000. Possessing firearms linked to drug distribution can result in life imprisonment terms and five years supervised release alongside similar financial penalties.
The determination of sentences will adhere to guidelines set by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes governing criminal case sentencing.
This announcement came from United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Matt Lawlor, Acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Massachusetts; and Colonel Geoffrey Nobel of the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd E. Newhouse from the Springfield Branch Office is handling the prosecution.
