New York Attorney General Letitia James broke the seal of an extensive 107-count indictment last Thursday. The indictment charges five individuals for their roles in a gun-and-drug-trafficking scheme operating throughout the Bronx and upper Manhattan. The investigation, dubbed “Operation Iron Empire,” was a joint effort of the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force, the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the New York Strike Force–a unit comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement.

“It is a fact, illegal drug trafficking and gun violence threaten the lives of New Yorkers,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Ray Donovan. “ As a result of this investigation we have taken 16 firearms, four assault weapons, and five gun and/or drug traffickers off the streets of the Bronx.” The investigation also seized approximately 250 grams of heroin.

Operation Iron Empire combined the use of physical and electronic surveillance with undercover operations. According to the police report, the recorded transactions captured by investigators contain repeated claims by the defendants of their ability to obtain guns in Pennsylvania and sell them in New York.

The defendants–Luis Alsina (30), Michael Alsina (27), Miguel Rodriguez (32), Josue Pagan-Adorno (29), and Rafael Cruz (22)–all face hefty charges.  Luis Alsina and Michael Alsina are accused of violent felonies, including first degree Criminal Sale of a Firearm and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, crimes that could land the two in prison for 35 years each.

“This investigation uncovered a scheme to sell firearms illegally, without any regard for who might purchase the weapons or the intended use,” stated New York State Police Superintendent Keith M. Corlett. “We have zero tolerance for those who willingly break the law while putting others in danger.”

Undercover investigators worked extensively over the past several months in order to secure charges. According to the indictment, Michael Alsina brokered firearms between his suppliers and undercover officers on ten separate occasions starting in June of last year. Luis Alsina provided those firearms on seven occasions and even sold firearms directly to agents. Rafael Cruz supplied two of the firearms, with Josue Pagan-Adorno and Miguel Rodriguez acting as transport. Luis and Michael Alsina also sold heroin to officers on four separate occasions.

Operation Iron Empire is the latest success in Attorney General James’ commitment to curbing gun violence. The big Bronx bust follows another just last week in Long Island, one that seized 32 guns and over a thousand rounds of ammunition. “This case highlights our continuing focus on keeping illegal firearms, and the threat they pose to the public, out of New York City,” stated New York City Police Commissioner Dermot Shea.  

The charges, while extensive, are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty,