Stamford Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Cocaine Charge

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RICHARD ROTANTE, 57, of Stamford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 18, 2017, Stamford Police arrested ROTANTE on the basis of three sales of cocaine that ROTANTE had made to an individual cooperating with law enforcement.  On that date, a search of ROTANTE’s person, residence and two of his vehicles revealed approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics, and $68,923 in cash.

Chief Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for February 28, 2018, at which time ROTANTE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.  ROTANTE is released on a $150,000 bond pending sentencing.

ROTANTE has a previous federal conviction for distributing cocaine.  On April 25, 2007, he was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, eight months of home confinement, and a fine of $3,500.

This matter is being investigated by the Stamford Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Stamford State’s Attorney’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Karwan.