Michael Michaud, 55, pleaded guilty on July 15 in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances—specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl—and two counts of possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them, according to U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe scheduled Michaud’s sentencing for November 4.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating a drug trafficking organization in 2022 that was distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in New Hampshire’s Seacoast region. During the investigation, multiple DEA cooperating sources said Michaud was a significant source of narcotics, personally selling distributable quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine in the area. The DEA conducted several controlled drug purchases from Michaud and his coconspirators that included more than a pound each of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
In November 2025, law enforcement pulled over Michaud while he was driving with his girlfriend. According to authorities, he possessed substantial quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl packaged for distribution at the time of his arrest.
The charges against Michaud carry sentences of up to 20 years’ incarceration per count, not less than three years of supervised release per count, and fines up to $1 million per count. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the United States Sentencing Guidelines as well as statutes governing sentencing determinations.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case while Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter is prosecuting it. This case is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative that uses resources from the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN) programs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire serves as a federal law enforcement entity under direction from the United States Attorney General; it prosecutes federal crimes—including those involving narcotics—and civil cases involving government interests; builds alliances with other law enforcement agencies; represents New Hampshire residents in federal courts; enhances community well-being by enforcing laws; and safeguards residents through its various activities, according to the official website.