Rochester, New York (WNY News Now).A Rochester man faces a hefty jail sentence after confessing to being a key player in a significant drug trafficking operation.
In federal court, 48-year-old Shawnle McClary entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and 400 grams of fentanyl, as well as to possess weapons in connection with drug trafficking. The plea, which carries a required minimum term of 15 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, was accepted by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola claims that McClary played a significant role in a drug distribution network that spanned from 2021 until January 2024. Timothy Jackson, Jr., Gary Fuller, and Felicia Collins were among the several people who worked together in the conspiracy to package, transport, and distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
On January 17, 2024, after conducting searches at many Rochester locations, law enforcement dismantled the operation. During these searches, seven loaded weapons, $7,682 in cash, 210 grams of fentanyl, 805 grams of cocaine, and narcotics paraphernalia were found. Other medications were also taken from McClary’s home in the Town of Greece by investigators.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program, a nationwide project aimed at dismantling elite criminal networks, includes this case. The Rochester Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are among the agencies participating.
The sentencing date for McClary is set for April 9, 2025.