AUG 04 -- Steven W. Derr, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England and Nora R. Dannehy, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GWAYNE FISHER, also known as “Fruit,” 34, of Naugatuck, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Mark R. Kravitz in New Haven to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by eight years of supervised release, for his participation in a Waterbury-based narcotics distribution ring. On May 16, 2008, a jury found FISHER guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and one count of using a telephone to facilitate the possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

This matter stems from a collaborative long-term investigation into the distribution of cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin in central Connecticut. The evidence at trial revealed that Luis A. Colon, also known as “Anthony,” was one of the largest suppliers of cocaine in Waterbury. Between June and September 2006, FISHER was intercepted during wiretapped conversations ordering and obtaining cocaine, mostly in half-kilogram quantities, from Colon. Testimony during the trial established that FISHER was known to utilize apartments located in the Enterprise Building on Cherry Street in Waterbury as stash locations.

On July 12, 2007, Colon pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. He awaits sentencing.

This investigation was a collaborative effort of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Waterbury Police Department and the Meriden Police Department.