(WNY News Now) – A federal jury has found retired Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni, 60, guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. The conviction carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

Buffalo, NY — Bongiovanni, who served the DEA for over two decades, was accused of accepting bribes, obstructing justice, and protecting associates connected to organized crime. “The prosecution of law enforcement officers and public officials are the most difficult cases that are undertaken by prosecutors,” stated U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. “However, these verdicts show that no one is above the law, not even a federal agent.”

The FBI’s investigation revealed that Bongiovanni misused his position to shield individuals involved in drug trafficking, including former Buffalo teacher Michael Masecchia and others with ties to Italian Organized Crime. Bongiovanni provided sensitive law enforcement information, obstructed investigations, and manipulated DEA case files to protect his co-conspirators.

FBI Special Agent Matthew Miraglia commented on the breach of trust, stating, “Federal agents hold a significant amount of authority and trust to keep American people safe. Therefore, when the FBI learns of allegations including bribery, obstruction of justice, and lying to investigators, a rigorous investigation unfolds. Our investigation, re-enforced by the jury’s verdict, found that former DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni chose greed over integrity. The FBI continues to execute our duties to the highest level of ethical and moral values. We remain steadfast in aggressively investigating and bringing those who misuse their authority to justice.”

Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Erin Keegan praised the investigative efforts of law enforcement partners. “I want to commend the HSI special agents, our law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, for the tremendous work and countless hours expended to achieve a successful outcome in this case,” said Keegan, “While Bongiovanni’s actions undermined and compromised law enforcement efforts throughout the area, his actions are not, in any way, a reflection of the thousands of DEA agents or law enforcement officers who serve this nation and community with honor and integrity.”

Bongiovanni was also convicted of making false statements to law enforcement officials in an attempt to conceal his relationship with Peter Gerace Jr., another individual under investigation. Gerace awaits trial, while Masecchia has already been sentenced to seven years in prison.

Sentencing for Bongiovanni is scheduled for June 9, 2025, before Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.