(WNY News Now) – Walter H. Bennett, a two-time convicted felon and drug trafficking leader, receives a 16-year prison sentence for fentanyl distribution and firearm possession.
ROCHESTER, N.Y.—Walter H. Bennett, 34, of Rochester, has been sentenced to 192 months in federal prison for leading a drug trafficking operation involving fentanyl, a lethal analogue, and cocaine, alongside illegal firearm possession. U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced the sentencing, handed down by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Bennett pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, and 500 grams or more of cocaine, as well as possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey revealed that Bennett operated a drug trafficking organization distributing substantial quantities of controlled substances in Rochester and Augusta, Maine. The operation centered on a drug house on Woodward Street, with additional storage at homes on Argo Park and Clairmount Street in Rochester.
During the investigation, authorities seized:
- 158 grams of fentanyl
- 11 grams of para-fluorofentanyl
- 580 grams of cocaine
- Over $20,000 in drug proceeds
- Six firearms, including two stolen and one defaced weapon
- Hundreds of rounds of ammunition and seven magazines
Co-defendants Tyrik Edwards, Ray C. Mack, Jr., and Steven Jackson were also convicted and sentenced to 160, 135, and 48 months in prison, respectively.
The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Rochester Police Department, and the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team.
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