U.S. Attorney Joshua D. Hurwit | U.S. Department of Justice
Bart Thomas Martin, a 29-year-old resident of Meridian, has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for drug trafficking, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and obstruction of justice. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit.
Court records reveal that Martin ran a drug trafficking operation, receiving large quantities of drugs through the mail and distributing them in Idaho. In April 2024, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service arrested Martin while he was in possession of approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine. Following his arrest, Martin attempted to obstruct justice by calling another individual from jail to remove evidence from his apartment. Investigators later seized a safe from his residence containing substantial amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine, along with five firearms.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit highlighted the collaboration between federal and state law enforcement agencies in Idaho: “This case is an excellent example of the successful cooperation between federal and state law enforcement here in Idaho.” He added that "lengthy prison sentences are part and parcel of federal drug trafficking and firearm crimes."
Inspector in Charge Anthony Galetti commented on the impact of traffickers like Martin on communities: “Traffickers like Martin and their operations continue to wreak havoc on our communities.” He credited partnerships such as Project Safe Neighborhoods for delivering results: "We will continue to do the work day in and day out to serve our communities and bring these traffickers to justice.”
Investigations Lieutenant Jack Catlin from the Idaho State Police emphasized their commitment: “This case demonstrates the severe consequences that accompany drug trafficking and firearm-related crimes in Idaho." He affirmed their dedication to collaborating with federal partners to combat drug trafficking.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also mandated that Martin complete four years of supervised release following his prison term.
The cooperative efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Idaho State Police were commended by U.S. Attorney Hurwit for their roles in this case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis Zebari.
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies at all levels and community involvement.
