News Release
For Immediate Release:
May 22, 2009
Contact: Special Agent Tony Pettigrew
Number: 617-557-2138

New London Man Pleads Guilty To Federal Cocaine Distribution Charge

MAY 22 -- Steven W. Derr, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England and Nora R. Dannehy, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN THOMAS, 30, of New London, pleaded guilty today before Senior United States District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.

This matter stems from a Drug Enforcement Administration-led federal, state and local task force investigation into narcotics trafficking in eastern Connecticut. The investigation revealed that, in June 2007, THOMAS sold Anthony Morse between 500 grams and two kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Covello has scheduled sentencing for August 11, 2009, at which time THOMAS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of up to $1 million.

THOMAS has been detained since his arrest on January 23, 2009.

On October 26, 2007, Morse pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. He awaits sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Connecticut State Police, the Norwich Police Department, the New London Police Department, the City of Groton Police Department, the Town of Groton Police Department and the Willimantic Police Department.