An East Orange, New Jersey resident has confessed to possessing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine with the intent to distribute, along with a firearm related to drug trafficking activities. This was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna.
Ibraheem Muhammad, 41, entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti on charges including possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, intent to distribute controlled substances, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The investigation revealed that Muhammad was involved in drug distribution from an apartment in East Orange. On May 9, 2022, he was arrested following observations of him engaging in a suspected drug transaction after leaving the residence. Authorities found him carrying envelopes suspected to contain heroin and keys to the apartment. A search led to the discovery of substances confirmed as heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl alongside packaging paraphernalia.
Law enforcement also seized approximately $14,000 in cash; a loaded Girsan 9mm semi-automatic handgun; and additional ammunition.
The charges against Muhammad carry severe penalties: up to 20 years for the drug charge with fines up to $1 million; up to 10 years for the felon firearm possession charge with fines up to $250,000; and five years minimum up to life imprisonment for possessing a firearm related to drug trafficking with similar fines. Sentencing is set for June 24, 2025.
Khanna acknowledged the contributions of special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives under Special Agent L.C. Cheeks Jr., Newark Field Division's direction; and East Orange Police Department led by Public Safety Director Maurice Boyd.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Farhana C. Melo from the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark represents the government in this case.
