United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

SALEM MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FEDERAL CHARGE STEMMING FROM METHAMPHETAMINE USE

Nora R. Dannehy, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHARLES EDWARD ZEMKO, 60, of Hartford Road, Salem, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Christopher F. Droney in Hartford to one count of maintaining a drug involved premises.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2008, the Drug Enforcement Administration was advised by the Connecticut State Police that a package containing what was believed to be narcotics was delivered to an incorrect address and surrendered by the unintended recipient.  On October 9, 2008, law enforcement made a controlled delivery of the resealed package to the addressee, “A NET Enterprises, Attn Chuck,” at ZEMKO’s home address.  ZEMKO accepted receipt of the package, which laboratory analysis has revealed contained a net weight of 54.9 grams of Methamphetamine concealed within framing material.

In pleading guilty, ZEMKO acknowledged that for several years he has received packages at his home containing Methamphetamine, and that he has used the drugs while inside an outbuilding on his property.

Judge Droney has scheduled sentencing for April 2, 2010, at which time ZEMKO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of up to $500,000.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Connecticut State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Deborah R. Slater.

CONTACT:

U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722
thomas.carson@usdoj.gov