By: Richard L. Smith
A Mexican national has pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing large quantities of cocaine and illegally possessing firearms, federal authorities announced.
According to a statement released by Senior Counsel Philip Lamparello, Hector Riano-Corcuera, 33, a citizen and national of Mexico most recently residing in East Brunswick, New Jersey, entered a guilty plea before Zahid N. Quraishi. Riano-Corcuera admitted to a two-count Information charging him with distribution of controlled substances and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Court records show Riano-Corcuera was previously charged by federal complaint on June 27, 2025.
Federal authorities say that on or about June 26, 2025, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration arrested Riano-Corcuera after he sold approximately 10 kilograms of cocaine to another individual. Investigators reported that Riano-Corcuera attempted to flee on foot when approached by law enforcement but was ultimately apprehended.
Upon his arrest, officers recovered a loaded Sig Sauer 9mm handgun from a bag Riano-Corcuera was wearing. A subsequent search of his residence led to the seizure of additional quantities of cocaine, two semiautomatic rifles, three handguns, and assorted firearm ammunition.
The cocaine distribution charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10 million. The firearm charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Sentencing in the case is scheduled for May 13, 2026.