Bradenton Gang Member Sentenced to 15 Years in Major Fentanyl Trafficking Case
A Bradenton man connected to a gang-led drug trafficking ring has been sentenced to 15 years in prison following a sweeping multi-agency narcotics investigation.
Rocky Jimenez, one of eight individuals identified in a 2023 undercover drug operation, pleaded guilty to two counts of trafficking in Fentanyl, possession of Fentanyl, and conspiracy to sell Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of public housing.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Bradenton Police Department’s Narcotics Unit in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Central Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA)-Gulf Coast Task Force, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
In August 2023, investigators began monitoring Pedro Garcia, a documented gang member and convicted felon, who was using multiple associates, including Jimenez, to distribute large quantities of narcotics throughout Bradenton and Manatee County. A wiretap warrant granted for Garcia’s phone revealed incriminating communications between Garcia and Jimenez. Detectives also witnessed Jimenez carrying out drug sales.
Jimenez was arrested by Bradenton Police on December 22, 2023, and remained in custody until sentencing.
The case marks a significant milestone in efforts to dismantle organized drug distribution networks operating in public housing and high-risk neighborhoods. Further details on the case and co-conspirators can be found on the Bradenton Police Department’s website: bradentonpd.com.
