Rafael Orlando Garcia, 35, of Hartford, was sentenced on March 10 to 60 months in federal prison and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl and cocaine, according to an announcement by David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
The sentencing highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address drug trafficking in the Hartford area. Authorities say such cases are part of broader initiatives aimed at reducing the impact of narcotics distribution on local communities.
Court documents show that the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force identified Garcia as a significant narcotics trafficker with a prior federal conviction. Between February and April 2025, investigators conducted three controlled purchases from Garcia: approximately 36 grams of fentanyl and 28 grams of cocaine on February 28; about 80 grams of fentanyl on March 12; and roughly 100 grams of fentanyl along with 280 grams of cocaine on April 1. Garcia was arrested on April 8, 2025.
Garcia pleaded guilty on October 15, 2025, to multiple counts including possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. He is currently released on bond but is required to report to prison on May 11.
The investigation was led by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean P. Mahard. The case falls under Operation Take Back America, which aims to use Department of Justice resources against illegal immigration, cartels, transnational criminal organizations, and violent crime perpetrators.
As authorities continue these operations, officials say they remain focused on protecting communities from drug-related offenses.
