Bridgeport Man Pleads Guilty in Case Involving Heroin Overdose Death

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, JORGE MORALES, also known as “Capone,” 30, of Shelton, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.  The charges stem from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 15, 2016, a 21-year-old woman was found unresponsive at her Bridgeport residence and was transported to the hospital. She has since died.

Bridgeport Police recovered two baggies of suspected heroin packaged in glassine baggies from the bed next to where the victim was located.  The baggies were marked with a particular brand stamp.  A cellular telephone seized from the victim revealed numerous calls and text messages between the victim and MORALES in the days leading up the victim’s overdose.  In addition, on April 15, 2016, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of heroin, marked with the same brand stamp from MORALES.

When he is sentenced, MORALES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.

This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad with the assistance of the Bridgeport, Derby, Shelton, Monroe, Middlebury and Woodbridge Police Departments.  The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.