A federal jury in Tampa, Florida, has found Javier Mares, a 44-year-old resident of Bradenton, guilty of several charges including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and over 50 grams of methamphetamine. Mares was also convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. He faces a minimum sentence of 15 years to life in federal prison, although the date for his sentencing hearing has not been set.
The investigation into Mares began in 2023 when agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bradenton Police Department suspected him of distributing large quantities of narcotics from his auto shop. The authorities used a confidential informant to conduct controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Mares' brother, who was seen frequenting the auto shop before and after these transactions.
On June 27, 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at the auto body shop where they found Mares along with a juvenile. During the search, they discovered a safe containing packaged methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and drug distribution paraphernalia under Mares’ desk. A baggie containing 380 grams of methamphetamine with Mares' fingerprint was found inside the safe. A DEA forensic chemist later confirmed that the methamphetamine was 96% pure. Additionally, agents found a loaded firearm next to several collectible $2 bills in the desk drawer near the floor safe.
Mares claimed during an interview that he owned the office but denied knowledge about the safe or its contents. He admitted ownership of the $2 bills but denied ever seeing the loaded gun.
The case was investigated by multiple agencies including the DEA, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Bradenton Police Department, and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale is prosecuting this case.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at identifying and dismantling high-level criminal organizations through coordinated efforts among various agencies.