Amsterdam Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Possession with Intent to Distribute

A 36-year-old Amsterdam man has pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, according to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.

Jose Carrero was arrested on November 4, 2024, after Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents observed him placing three kilograms of cocaine into the trunk of his vehicle. Authorities also recovered $1,704 in cash from Carrero at the time of the arrest. A subsequent search of his home uncovered an additional $70,000, which was determined to be drug proceeds. As part of his plea agreement, Carrero agreed to forfeit the seized funds.

Carrero faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and could receive up to 40 years behind bars. He also faces a potential fine of up to $5 million and a term of supervised release ranging from four years to life. Sentencing will be determined by a judge, who will consider federal statutes, sentencing guidelines, and other relevant factors.

The case was investigated by the DEA, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner leading the prosecution.