Illegal Alien from Mexico Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking Charges

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States has pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Ramiro Cisneros Hernandez, 48, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines on October 28, 2026, to one count of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl and one count of possessing with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 21, 2022, Hernandez was traveling from California to New York City when the vehicle in which he was a passenger was stopped by Pennsylvania State Police for a traffic violation on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Somerset County. Following a lawful search of the vehicle, troopers discovered three kilograms of fentanyl under the cushion of the vehicle's rear seat. Hernandez was transporting the fentanyl to New York City for further distribution.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for March 16, 2027. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Pending sentencing, Hernandez remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pennsylvania State Police and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hernandez.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.