United States Drug Enforcement Administration

NEW HAVEN, CT. - Steven W. Derr, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England and David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that Domenico Sandalo, also known as “Dominick,” 37, of Mohackemo Drive, Norwalk, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Mark R. Kravitz in New Haven to 70 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally selling prescription narcotics. On February 1, 2011, Sandalo pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone, a narcotic drug sold under the brand name OxyContin.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners in Connecticut are committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in the illegal distribution of prescription narcotics,” stated U.S. Attorney Fein. “Prescription drug abuse, especially among youth, is a fast-growing problem, sometimes with tragic consequences. I want to commend the DEA and Norwalk Police for their thorough investigation in this matter.”

According to court documents and statements made in Between October 2009 and January 2010, law enforcement officers conducted several undercover purchases of OxyContin pills from Sandalo at a cost of $40 to $45 for each 80-milligram pill. On January 27, 2010, a search of Sandalo’s residence revealed 731 OxyContin pills, 683 Percocet (which contain oxycodone and acetaminophen), 190 hydrocodone pills, approximately six kilograms of marijuana in vacuum-sealed packages, and $103,028 in cash. Sandalo was arrested on that date.

Sandalo also has forfeited the cash seized during the search of his residence, and a 2006 Mercedes CLS500 automobile.

This matter stems from a joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Norwalk Police Department.