Anabell Santiago, a 53-year-old resident of Jamestown, New York, was sentenced to 84 months in prison on April 2 after being convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl and cocaine, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and being a user of a controlled substance in possession of firearms. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr., according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address the distribution of fentanyl and other illegal drugs in the region.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti said that law enforcement executed a search warrant at a Van Buren Street residence in November 2023, where they seized cash, fentanyl, pills, and drug paraphernalia. During the operation, Santos Santiago—Anabell Santiago’s husband and co-defendant—attempted to destroy his supply of fentanyl by causing it to become airborne. Two officers inhaled the resulting cloud; one required medical attention due to physical effects.
Investigators conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Anabell Santiago in March 2024. In April 2024, another search warrant at the Santiagos’ Whitley Avenue residence led authorities to seize additional quantities of fentanyl, crack cocaine, oxycodone, two loaded pistols with ammunition, $30,369 in cash believed equivalent to at least 300 grams of fentanyl proceeds according to admissions by Anabell Santiago herself—and further drug paraphernalia.
Santiago also admitted she was an unlawful and habitual user of fentanyl when she possessed firearms. She pleaded guilty on January 15, 2025 in Chautauqua County Court for possession involving more than four ounces of fentanyl.
Santos Santiago was separately convicted and sentenced to serve 132 months in prison.
The investigation involved both the Drug Enforcement Administration under Farhana Islam’s direction (New York Field Division) and the Jamestown Police Department led by Acting Chief Scott Forster.
