New Haven Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Trafficking Offenses

Ezequiel Garro dragged a West Haven police officer while trying to flee arrest in 2023

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Ezequiel Garro, a 24-year-old New Haven resident, was sentenced to 7.5 years in federal prison for firearm and drug trafficking offenses. In February 2023, Garro was found sleeping in a parked vehicle with a 9mm handgun and distribution quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana. During his arrest, Garro attempted to flee and dragged a West Haven police officer. A subsequent investigation revealed that Garro had directed an individual to purchase the seized handgun and at least four other semi-automatic handguns in exchange for narcotics.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of illegal firearms and drug trafficking in the New Haven area. The incident also raises concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers during arrests, as Garro's attempt to flee resulted in an officer being dragged. The sentencing sends a strong message about the consequences for these types of crimes.

The details

According to court documents, on February 18, 2023, West Haven police arrested Garro after finding him sleeping in a parked vehicle with a 9mm handgun with an extended magazine containing 34 rounds of ammunition on the passenger seat. During the arrest, Garro attempted to flee in the vehicle and dragged one of the officers several feet. Police later retrieved the firearm and found distribution quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, as well as drug packaging materials, scales, and $1,300 in cash. A follow-up investigation revealed that Garro had directed an individual to purchase the seized handgun and at least four other semi-automatic handguns in exchange for narcotics.

  • On February 18, 2023, West Haven police arrested Garro.
  • In December 2022 and January 2023, an individual purchased the seized handgun and at least four other semi-automatic handguns at Garro's direction.
  • Garro pleaded guilty in August 2025 to four counts of firearm trafficking and two counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances.

The players

Ezequiel Garro

A 24-year-old New Haven resident who was sentenced to 7.5 years in federal prison for firearm and drug trafficking offenses.

West Haven Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Garro in February 2023 and investigated the case.

David X. Sullivan

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut who announced Garro's sentencing.

John T. Pierpont, Jr.

The Assistant U.S. Attorney who prosecuted the case.

ATF

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that investigated the case alongside the West Haven Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“Garro attempted to flee from officers in his vehicle and dragged one officer several feet.”

— David X. Sullivan, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut

What’s next

The judge will determine if Garro will be allowed to serve his federal sentence concurrently with any state charges he may face related to the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating the illegal firearms and drug trade, as well as the risks officers take when making arrests. The lengthy federal sentence handed down to Garro sends a strong message about the consequences for these types of crimes in the New Haven area.