A Buffalo man, Jeremy Hodge, aged 39, was apprehended and charged with gun and drug offenses, as shared by U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. Hodge faces allegations of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges could lead to a sentence of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola is in charge of the case. Intravatola detailed that authorities conducted a search warrant on Hodge's residence on Ernst Avenue and his vehicle on April 4, 2025. The operation resulted in the seizure of a loaded 9mm firearm, a loaded magazine, ammunition, and suspected heroin and fentanyl, along with drug paraphernalia. Hodge, who has three prior felony convictions and is legally barred from firearm possession, was detained at the location.
The case aligns with Operation Take Back America, a comprehensive initiative led by the Department of Justice. The operation focuses on countering illegal immigration, dismantling criminal cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and safeguarding communities against violent crime. This involves collaboration between the Department's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Hodge's initial court appearance took place in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer, where he was held in detention. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, headed by Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
It is important to note that while charges have been filed against Hodge, he remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.