A St. Lawrence County man was indicted this week following a drug bust in Colton, New York. Casey Kocher, 28, has been charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance after law enforcement reported seizing approximately 25 kilograms of cocaine.
Details provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office reveal that Kocher was stopped by New York State Police in a rental vehicle, where he allegedly had the cocaine stashed in a black duffle bag—presumably set for wider distribution. "The charges in the indictment are merely accusations," they made clear, noting that "The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty." After Kocher's appearance in federal court, the presiding United States Magistrate Judge, Gary L. Favor, ordered him remanded to custody.
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III issued a direct statement regarding the arrest. "Drug distribution of this magnitude brings devastation to local communities by fueling addiction, driving violent crime, and endangering families and neighborhoods," he stated. In the official announcement, Sarcone emphasized the seriousness of the charges and acknowledged the joint efforts of local law enforcement and the United States Border Patrol that resulted in Kocher’s arrest.
The bust showcases the collaborative law enforcement operations currently in play. Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA New York Division, praised the team effort saying: "The arrest of Casey Kocher and seizure of approximately 25 kilos of cocaine is a result of the collaborative efforts DEA New York and our law enforcement partners have when targeting those individuals responsible for poisoning our communities," as per the press release.
If convicted, Kocher faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life, subject to the statutes violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other relevant factors considered by the court. The case remains under investigation by the DEA and the New York State Police, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt prosecuting.
