United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

Project Safe Neighborhoods: NEW HAVEN MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FEDERAL CRACK COCAINE POSSESSION CHARGE

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that STEVEN SINGH, also known as “Smurf,” 32, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Haven Police Department into narcotics and firearms trafficking in New Haven.  The investigation revealed that, on December 4, 2008, SINGH conspired with another individual to distribute approximately 15.1 grams of crack cocaine.  Due to SINGH’s involvement in that conspiracy, a warrant issued for his arrest.  On February 25, 2009, ATF agents and New Haven police officers arrested SINGH outside his home.  At the time of his arrest, SINGH was found in possession of approximately 15.8 grams of crack cocaine and $3,562 in cash.

Judge Underhill has scheduled sentencing for January 14, 2011, at which time SINGH faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and a fine of up to $2 million.  SINGH also has agreed to forfeit the cash seized at the time of his arrest.

This case has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Haven Police Department pursuant to the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Mattei.

The Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, and improving the safety of residents of Connecticut’s cities. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

CONTACT:

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