Waterbury Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun Offenses

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2020, Waterbury Police made two controlled purchases of cocaine from Velez.  Velez was arrested on January 29, 2020.  On that date, a search of his residence revealed more than 200 grams of cocaine, quantities of crack cocaine and marijuana, and approximately $5,900 in cash.  A search of Velez’s car, which was parked at the residence, revealed approximately 840 grams of cocaine, two loaded firearms, gun magazines, and five boxes of ammunition.

Velez’s criminal history includes convictions for felony drug and firearm offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

On March 24, 2021, Velez pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and 500 grams or more of cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Velez, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on August 25, 2021.

This matter was investigated by the Waterbury Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Freismuth.