Tampa, FL – A federal indictment has been unsealed, charging four individuals with serious drug trafficking offenses. Esequiel Maldonado, 46, from Texas; Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr., 46, from Fort Myers; Ron Ramirez, Jr., 23, from Texas; and Schuyler Jordan Thompson, 31, from Virginia, are accused of conspiracy, distributing 500 grams or more of cocaine, and using communication facilities in drug trafficking.
If convicted, Esequiel Maldonado and Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. could face a minimum of 10 years to life in federal prison due to prior serious drug felony convictions. Ramirez and Thompson each face a minimum of 5 years and up to 44 years in prison.
The indictment outlines the roles each individual played within the drug trafficking organization (DTO). Esequiel Maldonado allegedly led the operation from Texas, overseeing cocaine sales and pricing. Ramirez managed logistics and communications, recruiting Thompson to transport cocaine to Florida. Thompson allegedly obtained the cocaine from Los Chapitos, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, and delivered it to Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr., who distributed it in the Middle District of Florida. Financial transactions were reportedly arranged to direct drug proceeds back to Esequiel Maldonado.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. The operation is supported by resources from the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the DEA, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and Virginia State Police. The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
It is important to note that an indictment is a formal charge, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
