BUFFALO, N.Y. — After two decades of service, Joseph Bongiovanni took the stand in a courtroom on Wednesday for sentencing after being found guilty of corruption while serving as a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent.

Facing the judge, a visibly emotional Bongiovanni expressed his feelings of uncertainty, reminiscent of the dangers he faced when making arrests, saying, 'I never knew what was on the other side of that door — that fear is what I feel today.' The judge sentenced him to five years in federal prison for a string of corruption counts, far less than the 15 years sought by prosecutors.

This case highlights the controversies within the DEA, following a troubling trend of corrupt agents. Throughout his career, Bongiovanni was celebrated for catching drug dealers, yet he was ultimately accused of shielding childhood friends involved in drug trafficking from justice. The courtroom filled with his family members who sobbed as the verdict was delivered, showcasing the stark juxtaposition of his law enforcement accolades against his criminal convictions.

The sentencing serves as a reminder of the integrity required from law enforcement officers, as shown by the DEA's Northeast associate chief of operations, who stated, 'This sends a powerful message that those who betray their badge will be held accountable.'