Cordell Lochin Sentenced For 39 Months, Fined $35,000

Cordell Lochin, "partner" in popular LES joints, La Esquina and The Box, was sentenced for 39 months (3 years). The Docket Text reads as follows:

Minute Entry for proceedings held before JUDGE D. BROCK HORNBY: Sentencing held on 1/22/2008 as to CORDELL LOCHIN. Imprisonment Thirty-nine (39) months on each of Counts One (1) and Two (2), to be served concurrently; Supervised Release Three (3) Years; Fine $35,000.00 plus interest as to Count One (1); Special Assessment $200.00. Defendant remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service. (Court Reporter FTR). (lng)

A few months ago, we broke the news that Cordell Lochin was involved in a cross-border drug smuggling ring. We also speculated that this was the reason why La Esquina and The Box were both raided on the same night. On numerous occasions both orally and in print Lochin claimed to be a partner in both establishments.

Mr. Lochin was at his regular table outside La Esquina, the Nolita restaurant of which he is part owner...Like Mr. Lochin’s other ventures—he’s part owner of hipster dive 205 and burlesque club the Bo. [The Observer]

Since then, he has submitted documents trying to deny his ownership in both establishments in an effort to escape paying large fines relating to his offense, even though documents show that he had a yearly income of$177,000 from his ventures. His sentencing has been put off 5 times, but now the Judge has finally reached a decision.

The normal statutory sentencing guidelines dictate a minimum of 5 years for Cordell's offense, however, because he has in effect"come clean" before the court, the Judge exercised a "safety valve", giving Cordell a lighter sentence. Nonetheless, 39 months is no small amount of time. We are curious to see if Cordell can re-enter the scene again and have success when he is released.

[Will Cordell Lochin's Blackberry Ring In 3 Years?]

[Update: Cordell Lochin In Trouble With A Capital "T"]

[Profile: Cordell Lochin]