Gabriel Figueroa, a 29-year-old New York resident, has been sentenced to five years in prison for possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking. The sentence was handed down on January 28, 2025, by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani.

Acting U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that between December 2023 and January 2024, law enforcement used a confidential informant to carry out three controlled cocaine purchases from Figueroa in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. A subsequent search of Figueroa’s residence revealed methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, ammunition, and a Taurus .380 caliber handgun.

The investigation involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives—Allentown Field Office, the Kingston Police Department, and members of the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson led the prosecution.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and communities. Launched on May 26, 2021, the program focuses on fostering trust in communities, supporting violence prevention organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluating outcomes.