NORWICH – An alleged drug dealer and others appeared for arraignments, pleas and sentencing in Chenango County Court on Monday.

• John A. Zangari, 51, Norwich, appeared in court for his arraignment and pleaded not guilty to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a class B felony; and criminal nuisance in the first degree, a class E felony. Bail was kept at $50,000 cash and $500,00 bond and Zangari was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility. Honorable Judge Frank B. Revoir, Jr. required that, if bail is posted, it be posted in open court to determine the source of the funding.

Assistant District Attorney Michael Ferrarese of the Chenango County District Attorney’s Office discussed allegations and circumstances that suggest Zangari had an extensive drug business in the City of Norwich for quite some time.

“He has a significant criminal history with contacts outside of this area,” said Ferrarese when explaining why Zangari would be a flight risk.

Per the court's records, Zangari has a total of 20 prior convictions, including two felonies, one violent felony and 17 misdemeanors.