Hartford Man Sentenced For Drug, Gun Crimes: Feds

HARTFORD, CT — A Hartford man is facing more than six years in prison for gun and drug crimes, according to federal prosecutors. Jonathan Contrera, aka "Hollywood," 29, will also serve four years of supervised release.

According to prosecutors, in December 2017, Contrera pleaded guilty in state court to sale of narcotics and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, suspended after three years, and three years of probation. Contrera also pleaded guilty to negligent homicide, a charge reduced from murder after key witnesses who saw him chase down and shoot the victim could not be found.

He was released from state custody in June 2018. In July 2019, while on state probation, Contrera was arrested by Hartford police and charged with crimes related to the possession of cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana. He was released on bond.

In September and October 2019, investigators made controlled purchases of crack cocaine from Contrera. Contrera was arrested Oct. 9, 2019, after he sold about 3.5 grams of crack to a person, and a search of his car revealed another 3.5 grams of crack.

After Contrera was arrested, a search of his home revealed about 500 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of crack, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, and a stolen .327 caliber revolver loaded with six rounds of ammunition.

He pleaded guilty in May to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.