James Hamilton, 42, from Central Square, New York, has been sentenced to 72 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges related to drug trafficking and firearms possession. According to court records, Hamilton admitted that between early 2021 and March 2022 he obtained over four kilograms of cocaine for sale or intended sale. He also acknowledged possessing nine firearms, including an AR-15-style rifle, which he used to protect his drug supply and proceeds.
Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd ordered a four-year term of supervised release following Hamilton’s prison sentence.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III commented on the sentencing: “Cocaine is a dangerous and addictive drug, and James Hamilton distributed large quantities of it into his community for profit. He also possessed firearms in connection with his drug dealing that could have injured or killed other people. With our law enforcement partners, we will continue to target and prosecute dangerous drug dealers like him.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “The trafficking of illicit drugs and guns often results in acts of violence that endangers entire cities. The DEA remains committed to working with our partners to eliminate these criminal networks and protect the public from all harm in their communities.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Syracuse Police Department, Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
This prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF works through a multi-agency approach led by prosecutors using intelligence-driven strategies to disrupt major criminal organizations across the country. More information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
