The head of a youth program aimed at stopping gun violence has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to a vast criminal enterprise involving the trafficking of drugs and possession of guns.
The “unconscionable” crimes
Michael Rodriguez, 49-year-old Executive Director of Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence, was arrested at his Yonkers home on July 25. The arrest followed a two-year narcotics investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies in Orange County. Authorities seized a significant cache of contraband during the raid. It included 1.5 kilos of cocaine, three pistols, a shotgun, $165,000 in cash, $50,000 worth of jewelry, and drug paraphernalia.
The arrest was part of a broader operation called, “Hide in Plain Sight” that utilized court-ordered eavesdropping and the execution of seven search warrants. Authorities also arrested many others including Angelica Rodriguez, a 39-year-old from Otisville, and charged her with conspiracy and drug possession. Prosecutors accused Michael Rodriguez of supplying cocaine to Angelica Rodriguez and Tiano Lopez. The pair then distributed the drugs in and around Middletown and Port Jervis.
The Orange County District Attorney, David Hoovler, expressed disappointment over Rodriguez’s actions. He called it “unconscionable” that the director of an anti-gun violence group would engage in major drug dealing and weapons offenses.
A guilty plea and sentencing
Michael Rodriguez plead guilty on October 12 for conspiring with Angelica Rodriguez to supply cocaine for resale. He admitted to first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and second-degree conspiracy. Rodriguez agreed to forfeit a car and $165,000 as proceeds from his illicit activities.
When he returned to court on January 4, he faced up to 10 years in prison. The court has now ordered Rodriguez to serve those full 10 years.
While convicted criminals often receive condemnation of their community, Michael Rodriguez’s position as an anti-gun advocate in that community held him to a higher standard. Remarks from DA Hoovler encapsulated that denunciation while sympathizing with the victims.
It is appalling that the Director of a respected program which serves to reduce gun violence and help at-risk youth would himself be a major drug dealer. Those members of our community who suffer through addiction are the vulnerable prey to people like this defendant, who chose a comfortable life cultivated on the backs and over the bodies of his customers.
David Hoovler – Orange County District Attorney
