New York Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking Charges in New Jersey

Kedwin Ramon Then Gutierrez admits to possessing large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl

Kedwin Ramon Then Gutierrez, a 35-year-old Bronx, New York resident, has pleaded guilty to charges of possessing cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. The plea was entered in Camden federal court before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn.

Court documents reveal that on May 1, 2023, Gutierrez traveled from New York to a rest station in Burlington County, New Jersey. There, he exchanged a box containing over $200,000 with Mauricio Silva Jr. for a black duffel bag filled with approximately 27 kilograms of cocaine and nine kilograms of fentanyl. Silva, whose charges are still pending, is accused of providing the narcotics to Gutierrez.

The charge against Gutierrez carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. His sentencing is scheduled for September 10, 2024.

The investigation that led to Gutierrez's guilty plea was conducted by special agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration's New York Field Division, led by Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph McFarlane of the Camden office is representing the government in this case.

While Silva faces serious charges, it is important to note that he remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.