Grand jury indicts Buffalo man on multiple drug charges

BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jaime Smith, 37, of Buffalo, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between January 2022, and May 2024, Smith conspired with others to possess and sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.