A Brooklyn, New York, man pleaded guilty on Mar. 12 to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. U.S. District Judge Gregrory B. Williams accepted the plea from Daniel Fernandez, age 44.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address drug trafficking offenses in the region.
Court documents show that New Castle County Police officers stopped a car near Christiana Mall after observing several traffic violations. Daniel Fernandez was identified as one of the passengers. A drug-sniffing dog alerted officers to drugs in the vehicle, leading to a search that uncovered approximately 10 kilograms of cocaine, three pounds of methamphetamine, and over 300 grams each of heroin and fentanyl. Fernandez admitted ownership of the drugs.
Fernandez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison; however, actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentencing is scheduled for July 28, 2026, and will be determined by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Drug Enforcement Administration Philadelphia Field Division Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett announced the plea agreement. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the New Castle County Police Department, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents can be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware or through PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cr-004.
