Two Men Charged With Distribution Of Heroin

Michael Hernandez, a/k/a “Jimmy,” 31, and Santo Rondo, 45, both citizens of the Dominican Republic, were charged today by indictment with distribution of 100 grams or more of heroin in Philadelphia, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.  Hernandez and Rondo are charged with distributing more than 100 grams of heroin.  Hernandez is also charged with distribution of more than 100 grams of heroin, possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking felony and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to the indictment, on July 30, 2015, Michael Hernandez distributed approximately 157 grams of heroin in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  It is further charged that on August 12, 2015, Hernandez and Santo Rondo distributed approximately 200 grams of heroin in Philadelphia. The indictment further charges that on August 13, 2015, Michael Hernandez possessed with intent to distribute approximately 600 grams of heroin in Philadelphia, and that he also possessed a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense for which he could be charged federally, as well as for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

If convicted, Michael Hernandez faces a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison with a mandatory minimum term of 10 years, up to a lifetime of supervised release, a possible fine, and a $500 special assessment. Santo Rondo faces a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years in prison with a mandatory minimum term of five years, up to a lifetime of supervised release, a possible fine, and a $100 special assessment.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Philadelphia Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph T. Labrum, III.