A New Hampshire man has been sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for drug trafficking, conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
William Hallinan, 36, of Rochester, was sentenced Oct. 13, a U.S. Department of Justice news release said.
“Armed drug traffickers are a threat to the safety of our communities,” U.S. Attorney Jane Young said in the release. “Bringing these criminals to justice is a priority for the United States Attorney’s Office, so that we curb the violence and societal harm that stems from distribution of narcotics by armed criminals like the defendant.”
A traffic stop and search of the vehicle Hallinan was driving conducted by Somersworth Police Feb. 2, 2020, yielded “a baggie of methamphetamine, a loaded 9 mm handgun, a digital scale and multiple unused baggies,” the release said. Hallinan was carrying approximately $900 in his pocket.
Another vehicle stop conducted Sept. 14, 2020, revealed a handgun, a switchblade, $1,131 in cash, 5.4 grams of crack cocaine, and a sheathed knife on his person, as well as 100 grams of fentanyl, 27.5 grams of methamphetamine, 24.5 grams of cocaine, a.45 caliber handgun and $12,371 in cash in the car, according to the release.
“A search of Mr. Hallinan’s telephone revealed exchanges showing he conspired with his source of supply to purchase narcotics for distribution,” the release said. “Texts in his phone confirmed he was dealing drugs from February to September of 2020.”
Hallinan’s sentencing means an “armed drug trafficker will spend a significant time behind bars,” as the FBI and law enforcement continue removing “dangerous criminals from the streets,” Joseph Bonavolonta, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Division, said in the release.
“Guns and drugs take far too many lives in our communities, and William Hallinan was contributing to the devastating impact of both here in New Hampshire,” Bonavolonta added, according to the release.
