A former DEA agent has been sentenced to four years in prison for leaking confidential information to defense lawyers in exchange for bribes. John Costanzo Jr. was found guilty of bribery and fraud, with prosecutors stating that his actions jeopardized drug cases and the safety of informants. Another former DEA supervisor, Manny Recio, is set to be sentenced next month in the same case. Costanzo, who expressed regret for his actions during sentencing, was described by the judge as “especially culpable” due to his role as a supervisor.
Prosecutors had recommended a seven-year sentence for Costanzo, highlighting his abuse of his knowledge as a narcotics investigator for personal gain. The scheme involved leaked information being used by defense attorneys to approach new clients facing drug charges. The attorneys allegedly bankrolled the bribery scheme, but they have not been charged. Prosecutors requested access to communications between Recio and the attorneys as part of an ongoing investigation. The DEA did not provide a comment on the case.
Costanzo’s sentencing comes shortly after another DEA agent was convicted of obstruction and lying to federal agents in a separate corruption case. The conspiracy between Costanzo and Recio involved the exchange of bribes, including plane tickets and a down payment on a condo, with the help of middlemen and deceptive practices to conceal the payments. Costanzo’s defense attorney argued for probation, highlighting his client’s dedication to public service and family influence. Prosecutors, however, painted a different picture of the father-son relationship.
Despite letters of support from former colleagues, including current DEA agents, Costanzo was sentenced to prison as a consequence of his illegal actions. The case serves as a warning to public officials tempted to profit illegally from their positions. Manhattan U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized that there will be serious consequences for such behavior. The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining integrity and preventing corruption within their ranks.
