Bronx Man Sentenced to Over Five Years for Fentanyl Distribution and Resisting Arrest

Federal Court in Newark Imposes 70-Month Sentence for Drug and Violent Offenses

NEWARK, N.J. – Miguel Nuñez, a 50-year-old resident of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced today to 70 months in prison for his role in a fentanyl distribution operation and for resisting arrest using a dangerous weapon. U.S. District Judge Julien X. Neals handed down the sentence in Newark federal court, following Nuñez’s guilty plea to charges including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and impeding law enforcement officers with a deadly or dangerous weapon.

The incident leading to Nuñez's arrest occurred on March 24, 2021, when he and co-defendant Jesus Higuera-Parra, from Ontario, California, traveled from New York City to Elizabeth, New Jersey. They were set to distribute 40 grams of fentanyl. Upon their arrival and attempt to transact with a drug purchaser, they were intercepted by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In a bid to escape, Nuñez, who was driving, reversed the vehicle and collided with a DEA car, leading to his arrest.

Besides the prison term, Judge Neals has mandated a four-year term of supervised release for Nuñez after his imprisonment. His co-defendant, Higuera-Parra, has also pleaded guilty to related charges and is currently awaiting sentencing.

The successful capture and prosecution of Nuñez and Higuera-Parra were spearheaded by the DEA’s Newark division, under the leadership of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ray Mateo of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit and Benjamin Levin of the National Security Unit represented the government in this case, reflecting ongoing federal efforts to combat the opioid crisis and ensure public safety.