Five Bradenton Residents Sentenced in Federal Methamphetamine Distribution Case
BRADENTON, Fla. – A federal court has sentenced five Bradenton residents to prison for their roles in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy that spanned Bradenton and Manatee County. The sentences ranged from 2.5 years to over 15 years, reflecting the seriousness of the charges.
Clemente Betancourt, 29, received the longest sentence at 15 years and 8 months, while Estevan Betancourt, 20, Adonis Bonilla, 29, and Omar Mejia, 29, were each sentenced to 10 years. Alexander Perez, 30, received a sentence of 2 years and 6 months.
The group pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and related charges. Court records reveal that the defendants collectively distributed more than 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine within Manatee County. Sales occurred at a Bradenton residence and other locations, facilitated by Clemente and Estevan Betancourt.
A search warrant executed at the Betancourt residence led to the seizure of one pound of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, three firearms, and 22 cellphones. The arrests and convictions underscore the severity of the drug trafficking operation.
The case highlights the ongoing battle against narcotics distribution in Manatee County and the substantial penalties for those involved in such activities.