Joseph Mitchell, a 38-year-old resident of Nelliston, New York, has been sentenced to 135 months in prison. The sentencing is for his involvement in conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. This announcement was made by United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Field Division.
United States Attorney Sarcone emphasized the impact of this sentence on community safety: “Montgomery County will be safer with this defendant off the streets. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute drug dealers and felons who possess firearms.”
Special Agent Tarentino highlighted the connection between drugs and weapons: “As we often see, drugs and weapons go hand in hand. Today’s sentencing is a reminder that justice will be delivered to those who push illicit narcotics into our communities. The DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”
Mitchell admitted his role in distributing over 350 grams of methamphetamine during August 2024. A search conducted at his residence on September 5, 2024, resulted in the seizure of two rifles and one shotgun. Due to previous felony convictions for attempted robbery and narcotics possession, Mitchell was prohibited from legally owning firearms.
In addition to his prison term, United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino ordered Mitchell to serve five years of supervised release following his incarceration and mandated the forfeiture of the seized firearms.
The investigation was carried out by the DEA with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner led the prosecution.
