A man from Somerset County, New Jersey, has been convicted of drug trafficking and several firearms offenses, as announced by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. Malachi A. Muhammad, aged 50, received guilty verdicts on charges of drug distribution, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. Additionally, Muhammad was convicted for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession as a convicted felon.
The trial was held over a week in Trenton federal court, presided over by U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner. The jury reached a verdict after less than two hours of deliberation.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to tackle drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession. "This verdict underscores our commitment to keeping guns out of the hands of drug traffickers and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin and cocaine out of our communities. My message is clear: if you jeopardize the safety and security of New Jerseyans, we will hold you accountable. Our office and our law enforcement partners won’t rest until we do," Habba stated.
L.C. Cheeks, Jr., Special Agent in Charge at the Newark Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), remarked on the collaboration of various agencies in apprehending those contributing to crime in communities. “This conviction is an example of ATF’s dedication to working with our state and local partners in identifying, investigating, and apprehending criminals who prey upon innocent citizens and lessen the quality of life in our neighborhoods," Cheeks said.
The case documents and trial evidence revealed that Muhammad was found by officers in the southbound lanes of Route 1 near the Quaker Bridge Mall in Lawrence Township on August 19, 2021. Officers, responding to reports of a stopped car, discovered Muhammad unresponsive in the driver's seat. Upon awakening him, a handgun was visible, and he was arrested. A vehicle search uncovered drugs and additional firearms.
The drug trafficking charges each carry a maximum sentence of up to 20 years, with fines up to $1,000,000. The firearm-related charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years, consecutively served, with a maximum life sentence and fines up to $250,000. Unlawful possession of a firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is to be scheduled later.
Investigation credits go to the ATF, Lawrence Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, and Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office for their collaborative efforts leading to the conviction. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey A. Agnew and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick are representing the government in this matter.
