Two New Haven men charged with trafficking large quantities of fentanyl

Two New Haven men were each federally charged this week with conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl, according to federal prosecutors.

A federal grand jury in New Haven returned the indictment Wednesday. The indictment charged Luis Salaman, also known as “Bebe,” 40, and Ismael Heredia, also known as “Junie,” 29, according to Leonard Boyle, the United States attorney for the District of Connecticut.

Their charges stem from an investigation by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. The task force learned in October 2021 that Salaman distributed large quantities of narcotics throughout New Haven and he worked with Heredia to distribute heroin and fentanyl, Boyle’s office said.

From November 2021 to March 2022, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of heroin and fentanyl from Salaman and Heredia.

The duo were then arrested on April 5, according to Boyle’s office.

The indictment charges Salaman and Heredia with conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. If convicted, each man faces at least 10 years in prison, with up to a life sentence, Boyle’s office said.

The indictment also charges Salaman with one count and Heredia with seven counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl. This offense carries a minimum five-year prison term that could go up to 40 years.

Salaman is also eligible for “enhanced penalties” because of a prior conviction of a serious violent felony. This potentially increases his mandatory minimum prison sentence to 15 years, Boyle’s office said.

As of Thursday, Salaman is detained and Heredia had been released on $100,000 bond.