Two Pennsylvania men were sentenced in federal court on Wednesday, for their involvement in a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed cocaine across Western Pennsylvania and Youngstown, Ohio.
United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced that Luciano Bratini Rivera, 37, and Markus Hobel, 35, both of New Castle, were sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Rivera received a sentence of 97 months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and multiple counts of cocaine distribution.
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Hobel was sentenced to 72 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The defendants were among 17 individuals indicted in March 2024 for violating federal narcotics, firearms, and racketeering laws. Prosecutors presented evidence showing that Rivera worked closely with drug trafficking organization leader Daniel Feliciano to transport kilograms of cocaine from a supplier in Puerto Rico. Rivera distributed the drugs to co-conspirators, including Hobel, for further sale in New Castle, Ellwood City, and throughout Lawrence County.
Rivera was linked to at least five kilograms of cocaine and stored drug proceeds for Feliciano, including over $11,000 seized during his arrest. He also made multiple trips to Philadelphia to exchange cash for additional kilograms of cocaine, retrieving at least six kilograms during late 2023 and early 2024.
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Hobel, described as Feliciano’s bodyguard, was tasked with protecting the organization’s drugs, profits, and personnel. Hobel was found to have carried firearms, including a pistol and rifle, in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Evidence showed he patrolled Feliciano’s property with weapons to safeguard the operation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler, with the investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Lawrence County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Drug Task Force. The United States Postal Inspection Service, New Castle Police Department, Ellwood City Police Department, FBI, and several other federal, state, and local agencies contributed to the investigation.
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“This case underscores our commitment to dismantling dangerous drug networks and holding those involved accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “Through coordinated efforts, we are making significant strides in keeping our communities safe.”
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