A man from Passaic County, New Jersey, has admitted to possessing fentanyl and heroin with the intent to distribute them and possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba made the announcement regarding Luis Polanco, 35, of Wayne, New Jersey.
Polanco pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti to charges including possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation revealed that Polanco was involved in drug distribution activities in Passaic, New Jersey. A search of his residence and vehicle led to the discovery of over 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 100 grams of heroin. Authorities also found drug packaging paraphernalia, a 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, 158 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition, and four rounds of .40 caliber ammunition.
The charges carry significant penalties. The drug charge has a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and could lead to up to 40 years behind bars with a maximum fine of $5 million. The firearm possession charge for a felon carries up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charge related to possessing a firearm for drug trafficking purposes mandates at least five years in prison consecutive to other sentences, with potential life imprisonment and another $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for October 21, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited several law enforcement agencies for their roles in the investigation: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office; the Wayne Township Police Department; and the Paterson Police Department.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman from the Narcotics/OCDETF Unit in Newark represents the government in this case.
Defense counsel for Polanco is Jason F. Orlando.
