New Haven Gang Leader Sentenced to 21 Years for Drug Trafficking

UPDATE: A notorious gang leader from New Haven, Connecticut, has been sentenced to 21 years in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine while on supervised release. Donald Ogman, also known as “Mainey-O” and “Manny O,” received his sentence from U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver on Monday, marking a significant victory for law enforcement in ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.

This urgent development highlights the ongoing battle against narcotics in New Haven, where Ogman has been a prominent figure in the criminal underworld, leading the Grape Street Crips. Court records reveal that Ogman, aged 44, was previously convicted in 2015 for drug trafficking and had been released early due to a compassionate release granted in August 2022. However, he continued his illegal activities, selling dangerous multi-colored methamphetamine pills disguised as ecstasy, alongside crack cocaine.

Authorities confirm that Ogman was under surveillance from November 2023 through April 2024, during which time investigators conducted controlled purchases of drugs directly from him. His reign of crime came to an end on May 9, 2024, when he was arrested. Investigators discovered methamphetamine and crack cocaine at his residence, along with a loaded firearm at a separate stash location.

Ogman’s conviction is not just a personal loss; it reflects the wider implications of drug trafficking in local communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut emphasized that this case was a collaborative effort involving the DEA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Haven Police Department, and the Hamden Police Department. These agencies worked together to dismantle Ogman’s operations, which posed a serious threat to public safety.

On April 16, 2024, Ogman pleaded guilty to multiple counts related to drug possession and distribution, which led to his lengthy sentence of 252 months in prison. This includes 228 months for the new offenses plus an additional 24 months for violating his supervised release conditions. This conviction serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drug trafficking and the commitment of law enforcement to keep communities safe.

Looking ahead, authorities are continuing their efforts to address the drug crisis in Connecticut. The successful prosecution of Donald Ogman underscores the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts in fighting organized crime and protecting vulnerable communities from the dangers of illegal drugs.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The fight against drug trafficking remains a critical issue, and ongoing investigations may reveal further connections within the Grape Street Crips and beyond.