Zaid Mendoza, also known as Diamond, pleaded guilty on Mar. 11 to multiple charges including narcotics conspiracy and three counts of sex trafficking by force, according to U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr., and carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison with a maximum of life.
The case highlights the intersection of drug trafficking and sex trafficking crimes in the Jamestown area. Authorities say Mendoza managed a drug operation from 2020 through December 2022, using associates to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin for profit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti said Mendoza used his West Main Street residence for manufacturing and distributing drugs. Law enforcement recovered significant quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine during vehicle stops and a search warrant at Mendoza’s home in late 2022, along with cash, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
Investigators detailed that Mendoza exploited individuals struggling with addiction by exchanging drugs for sexual activity or forcing them into commercial sex acts. Victims were provided shelter, food, clothing, and daily doses of fentanyl in exchange for performing commercial sex acts arranged through online platforms such as Skipthegames.com. Proceeds from these activities went to Mendoza.
Charges remain pending against co-defendant Kelvin Thomas while another co-conspirator, Cora Waddington, has been convicted and is awaiting sentencing. The investigation involved several agencies including the Jamestown Police Department Metro Drug Task Force, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office County Drug Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencing for Mendoza is scheduled for September 9 before Judge Sinatra.
