FL Drug Trafficker Sentenced To Federal Prison: DOJ

WIMAUMA, FL — A 22-year-old Wimauma man was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Kathyrn Mizelle for a narcotics conspiracy involving methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.

Victor Manuel Hernandez was also charged with being a felon in possession of multiple guns, according to a Department of Justice news release. He pleaded guilty on July 27, 2021.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Sarasota Police Department and the Bradenton Police Department worked with the Drug Enforcement Administration on the investigation of this case.

Between July 18, 2019, and Feb. 12, 2021, Hernandez conspired with others to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing heroin, and a mixture and substance containing cocaine, according to court documents.

On July 18, 2019, a confidential source spoke with Hernandez on the phone and ordered a kilogram of methamphetamine. The two agreed to meet that day, and the source traveled to an apartment complex and parked.

While the informant waited, a Dodge Charger pulled in next to their vehicle. As agents approached the car, Hernandez got out and tried to run away, but was caught, the DOJ said.

Agents found about 978 grams of methamphetamine in his car. When Hernandez took them to his home, he led them to additional drugs: approximately 800 grams of heroin and approximately 4 kilograms of additional methamphetamine, the DOJ said. He also had 13 guns and assorted ammunition inside the house.

While Hernandez was released on bond, law enforcement learned that he was trafficking drugs again. A search warrant for his home was executed and agents found about 31 kilograms of methamphetamine, 756 grams of cocaine and 523 grams of heroin. Investigators also found two rifles, both of which belonged to Hernandez, the DOJ said.

Nearly $409,000 in cash was also found in his home, according to Sarasota police shared Monday on Facebook.

Because Hernandez was previously convicted of a felony, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.