Man sentenced for over 6 lbs of cocaine found in luggage at Orlando airport

FLORIDA — A Kissimmee man has been sentenced to federal prison after 2,994 grams of cocaine—or more than six and a half pounds—was found in his luggage at Orlando International Airport, the US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida has announced.

Roman Batista, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza to five years in federal prison for importing cocaine into the United States.

Batista pleaded guilty on September 25, 2023.

According to court documents, on July 10, 2023, Batista flew from the Dominican Republic to the Orlando International Airport. After securing his checked luggage from the baggage claim area, Batista was referred for a bag examination.

Customs and Border Protection officers conducted an examination of Batista’s luggage and reportedly found 2,994 grams of cocaine hidden in a speaker.

“CBP is focused on attacking every link in the global illegal narcotic trafficking chain. The diligent work by our CBP Officers prevented these illicit drugs from ever finding their way onto the street of Orlando or beyond,” said Miami/Tampa Director of Field Operations Carlos Martel.

“This sentencing is a testament to Homeland Security Investigations’ commitment to stop those who exploit our nation’s travel system to further their illicit narcotic distribution networks,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti.

“The outstanding law enforcement partnership we have with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Orlando International Airport has ensured this criminal will now face the consequences of his actions.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff prosecuted it.