Gang Member Charged with Selling Fentanyl and Crack in East Hartford

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE RESTREPO, also known as “Crack Baby,” 38, of East Hartford, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine.

As alleged in court documents, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes and Gang Task Force has been investigating drug trafficking and related criminal acts being committed by members and associates of the Los Solidos and Latin Kings street gangs.  Restrepo is a member of Los Solidos.  The investigation has revealed that Restrepo and other gang members are distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine in Hartford and surrounding communities.  Earlier this month, law enforcement learned that Restrepo was feuding with other members of Los Solidos and was selling narcotics in East Hartford.  In the past week, investigators made three controlled purchases of crack and one controlled purchase of fentanyl from Restrepo in East Hartford.

At the time of his arrest, it is alleged that Restrepo possessed approximately 200 bags of suspected fentanyl.

Restrepo is charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Restrepo appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes and Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. 

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.