Eli Valentine Calero, a 43-year-old resident of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to drug trafficking. The indictment, as announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, accuses Calero of possessing over 500 grams of methamphetamine and an unspecified amount of cocaine with intent to distribute on March 12, 2025, in Monroe County.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus disclosed these details regarding the case. The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pocono Mountain Police Department, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is responsible for prosecuting this case.
The case falls under Operation Take Back America, a nationwide effort coordinated by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). This initiative also seeks to protect communities from violent crime through streamlined efforts linked with Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Calero faces a maximum penalty that could include lifetime imprisonment along with supervised release and fines as dictated by federal law. Sentencing would be determined based on federal statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are only allegations at this stage. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.