Miami man Lester Leon Sanders faces federal court for allegedly shooting at Uber driver while transporting nearly a kilogram of cocaine in Miami Gardens

A Miami man made his first appearance in federal court today following a grand jury indictment charging him with drug trafficking, shooting at an innocent bystander, and illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.

The defendant, Lester Leon Sanders, 47, of Miami Gardens, faces serious federal charges that could lead to decades behind bars if convicted.

Uber Driver’s Bravery Prevented a Tragedy

According to the Justice Department, Sanders allegedly shot at an Uber driver who tried to stop a crime in progress.

“This defendant shot repeatedly at an innocent man who stopped a crime as it was happening,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva.

U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones added, “The combination of drug trafficking and gun violence is dangerous.

Federal law treats that combination seriously, with a mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen years if convicted.”

What Happened That Night

Court documents detail that on October 29, 2024, Sanders booked an Uber in Miami Gardens.

When the driver arrived, Sanders and an accomplice loaded three suitcases into the vehicle.

During the loading, the driver noticed a firearm magazine fall from Sanders’s clothing.

Once inside the Uber, Sanders reportedly ordered the driver to stop.

He exited the vehicle, shouted at the driver, and fired approximately five shots as the Uber sped away.

Concerned for safety, the driver flagged down police, who quickly apprehended Sanders.

Evidence Found at the Scene

Inside the Uber, authorities recovered nearly a kilogram of nearly pure cocaine (929 grams), six pounds of marijuana, a loaded high-capacity firearm magazine, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia including a scale and multiple small bags.

Shell casings were also recovered near the location where Sanders allegedly fired the gun.

Investigators noted the violent combination of drugs and firearms highlights the ongoing link between trafficking and gun-related offenses in Miami.

Federal Prosecution and Penalties

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Jennifer Burns and Jinah Chang of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, with support from the FBI Miami Field Office and Miami Gardens Police Department.

If convicted, Sanders faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison, with a maximum sentence of life.

Federal officials emphasized that the indictment is an allegation, and Sanders is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Miami’s Violent Crime Initiative

This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative, aimed at confronting violent crimes connected to drug trafficking and gang activity.

The program relies on collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement to prosecute offenders and reduce street-level violence.

Authorities emphasized that prosecuting individuals who combine firearms and drug operations sends a strong message about public safety and the consequences of violent criminal behavior.

What’s Next?

Sanders is expected to face further pretrial proceedings, including hearings on bail and the setting of trial dates.

Legal experts suggest that this case could set an example for federal prosecution of violent drug crimes in Miami, particularly those involving firearms and public endangerment.

Investigators continue to review any potential accomplices or additional links in the drug operation as federal authorities prepare for trial.

Summary

Lester Leon Sanders, 47, of Miami Gardens, is charged with drug trafficking, firing a gun at an Uber driver, and illegal firearm possession as a felon.

The incident involved nearly a kilogram of cocaine, six pounds of marijuana, and ammunition, according to federal prosecutors.

Sanders faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison if convicted.

The case is part of a broader initiative to tackle violent crimes related to drugs and firearms in Miami.