United States Attorney's Office District of Connecticut
Press Release

Project Safe Neighborhoods: HARTFORD MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO NARCOTICS DISTRIBUTION, ILLEGAL GUN POSSESSION CHARGES

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARCUS ARNOLD, 39, of Laurel Street, Hartford, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Janet C. Hall in Bridgeport to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”) and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 18, 2009, ARNOLD was arrested by Hartford Police after a court-authorized search of his apartment revealed more than 70 grams of crack cocaine, more than 17 grams of Phencyclidine (“PCP”), and a Ruger model P94, .40 caliber pistol.  A subsequent search of ARNOLD’s vehicle revealed additional distribution quantities of crack and PCP.  On October 28, 2009, Hartford Police and ATF agents executed a federal arrest warrant for ARNOLD at his Laurel Street apartment, at which time ARNOLD was found in possession of a Smith and Wesson .357 caliber revolver and additional distribution quantities of crack and PCP.

Prior to July 18, 2009, ARNOLD had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including assault in the second degree, sale of hallucinogens or narcotics, conveying an unauthorized item into correctional institution, assault of a public safety or emergency medical personnel, possession of a sawed-off shotgun or silencer, possession with intent to distribute narcotics, and possession of narcotics.

It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Hall has scheduled sentencing for January 12, 2011, at which time ARNOLD faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a maximum term of life imprisonment and a fine of up to $4 million.

ARNOLD has been detained since his federal arrest on October 28, 2009.

This case was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Freimann.

The Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative is aimed at reducing gun 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