URGENT UPDATE: A Mexican national has been sentenced to 20 months in federal prison for trafficking cocaine from a restaurant in New Haven. Martin Onofre-Mendez, 50, was sentenced on September 19, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall. Following his prison term, he faces deportation back to Mexico.
Authorities confirmed that Onofre-Mendez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The case highlights a significant operation, as the DEA New Haven District Office Task Force reported that he was distributing narcotics from a restaurant on Grand Avenue. Between May and September 2024, investigators conducted controlled purchases, acquiring a total of 600 grams of cocaine from him.
The investigation intensified when agents observed an associate of Onofre-Mendez, Eygner Huezo, supplying him with cocaine just before two of the controlled purchases. On October 1, 2024, authorities arrested Onofre-Mendez and seized 225 grams of cocaine during the arrest. Additionally, investigators found 480 grams of cocaine at a storage location linked to him.
Onofre-Mendez has been in custody since his arrest. The U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed that he will be removed to Mexico upon completing his prison sentence. Meanwhile, Huezo, 36, a citizen of El Salvador, has pleaded guilty to a related charge on November 10, 2025, and is currently awaiting sentencing.
This case underscores the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Connecticut, emphasizing the need for vigilant law enforcement efforts. As the community grapples with the implications of such criminal activities, the swift actions taken by authorities serve as a reminder of the serious consequences tied to drug distribution.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
