A Manchester man has been sentenced to 52 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession. Eddie Veilleux, 58, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott. He will also serve three years of supervised release and must forfeit a 2020 Black BMW sedan.
In March 2025, Veilleux pleaded guilty to charges of possessing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, as well as possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
“This sentence reflects the serious consequences that come with trafficking drugs while illegally possessing a firearm,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “We remain committed to investigating and disrupting drug traffickers and holding accountable armed convicted felons whose actions put our communities at risk.”
Acting DEA Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau emphasized the threat posed by drug trafficking: “Drug trafficking, along with the violence that all too often accompanies it, is a serious threat to the safety and security of our communities.” He added that drug dealers fuel addiction and violent crimes across New England.
Veilleux was arrested on November 24, 2023, on outstanding state charges. A search of his vehicle revealed small baggies of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, fentanyl, a scale, ledger, other drug paraphernalia, and a loaded Ruger .44 magnum revolver in the trunk. As a convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation with assistance from the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy prosecuted the case.
