Niagara Falls Man Arrested On Cocaine Charge After Leading Police On A Brief Car Chase

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jonathan Bersani, 31, of Niagara Falls, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the Niagara County Drug Task Force (NCDTF) alerted the Homeland Security Investigations BEST Team of suspected drug activity being conducted by Bersani. The task force then conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from Bersani. On April 14, 2023, as investigators were surveilling Bersani on Buffalo Avenue in Niagara Falls, he struck two vehicles, including a law enforcement vehicle, before fleeing the area. Bersani’s tire eventually burst on Buffalo Avenue, at which time he fled on foot before being taken into custody. Approximately 200 yards away, law enforcement discovered a black bag that approximately 192 grams of suspected cocaine. An electronic scale was also found in the area. Investigators also seized a satchel bag that Bersani was wearing, which contained bulk US currency. That same day, a search warrant was executed at Bersani’s Linwood Avenue residence, during which investigators seized approximately 14 grams of suspected crack cocaine, approximately four grams of suspected cocaine, three glass dishes, a fork, plate, and knife, all with white residue, and metal knuckles.

Bersani was ordered released on conditions following a detention hearing this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti and Homeland Security Investigations BEST Team, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

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.     

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