Usbaldo L. Rodriguez, a 64-year-old Bronx man, has been sentenced to five years in New York State Prison followed by two years of post-release supervision for his involvement in a fatal drug overdose in Bath.
Steuben County District Attorney Brooks T. Baker announced the sentencing, which took place on October 30, following Rodriguez’s guilty plea to third-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class C felony. The sentencing was carried out by Judge Patrick F. McAllister in Steuben County Court.
Rodriguez admitted to possessing and intending to sell heroin laced with fentanyl in the Village of Bath on January 10, 2023. His actions directly led to the death of Braulio Martinez, who overdosed on the drugs sold by Rodriguez. The Bath Police Department responded to Martinez’s overdose, providing immediate assistance and subsequently conducting an investigation into his death.
In a statement regarding the sentencing, District Attorney Brooks emphasized the heightened risks associated with illegal drug use, particularly with the prevalence of fentanyl-laced substances. He warned both potential buyers and sellers in Steuben County of the severe consequences of engaging in drug-related activities. Brooks highlighted the commitment of local law enforcement to holding drug dealers accountable for their actions and for the lives impacted by their dealings. The case underscores the ongoing efforts in Steuben County to combat the drug epidemic and ensure justice for victims of drug-related crimes.
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