A Westbury man has been charged in a 32-count indictment for allegedly selling extremely dangerous narcotics and possessing explosives and a weapon.
Anthony Gianatiempo, of Westbury, has been charged in a 32-count indictment for allegedly selling extremely dangerous narcotics, including nitazene, a synthetic opioid that is believed to be more powerful that fentanyl and never before seen in Nassau County.
He is also charged with selling fentanyl, heroin and cocaine and possessing a weapon and explosives in his home.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III previously told News 12 the nitazene pill looks like a real prescription medication.
“This is what's killing people. This is what is more powerful than fentanyl that can cause these overdose deaths and poisonings that we are seeing play out across the United States,” said Tarentino.
Gianatiempo pleaded not guilty to a string of felonies and is being held without bail.
Anthony Gianatiempo, of Westbury.
In court, the ADA said Gianatiempo has two prior arrests, including a felony where he pleaded guilty to attempted assault.
According to the Nassau County district attorney, Gianatiempo left his house on an electric bicycle and went to Cantiague Park to sell various narcotics to someone there.
“I’m really surprised to hear that, 32 counts, kinda, really crazy. I mean we live next door to them forever so I just never expected it," said one neighbor.
Gianatiempo has been charged in a 32-count indictment for allegedly selling extremely dangerous narcotics and possessing explosives and a weapon.
“They are always festive. It is very shocking. We have nothing against them,” said Maryam Amiri, another neighbor.
Gianatiempo is due back in court on Jan. 16. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years in prison. His attorney declined to comment.