8:36 PM, Aug. 19, 2011
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20110819/NEWS01/308200004
A Rochester man is facing a life sentence after pleading guilty to numerous drug and money laundering charges.
James Wiggins, 40, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, cocaine base and heroin and money laundering.
The drug conspiracy charge carries a minimum penalty of 20 years in prison, a maximum of life, a fine of $8 million, or both.
The money laundering charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both.
Wiggins was involved in a drug conspiracy operating primarily on the west side of the city of Rochester and was responsible for the distribution of numerous kilograms of cocaine in the Rochester area, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Noto, who is handling the case.
Wiggins and 11 others were arrested in February 2010 after a nearly yearlong investigation conducted by dederal and atate authorities.
Wiggins is the ninth defendant to plead guilty in the case.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 15.