Zachary Jackson, a 38-year-old resident of Ithaca, New York, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to several federal charges related to drug trafficking and firearms offenses. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, Jackson admitted to possessing cocaine with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Authorities reported that on November 19, 2024, Jackson was found with one kilogram of cocaine and a Glock handgun. Investigators determined that he used the weapon for protection during his drug sales activities in Ithaca and Auburn. Due to a previous felony assault conviction in New York State—after which he served over ten years in prison—Jackson was prohibited from legally owning or carrying firearms.
United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III commented: “Drug dealers, especially ones with violent criminal histories like this defendant, should know that law enforcement in the Northern District of New York will find them and put them behind bars. Thanks to the investigative efforts of local agencies and the DEA, our communities are now safe from this dealer, his drugs, and his gun.”
Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division added: “Drugs and weapons too often go hand in hand. Today’s guilty plea from Zachary Jackson serves a clear reminder that justice will be delivered to those who flood our communities with narcotics. The DEA remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners in protecting our communities and enhancing public safety.”
Sentencing is set for December 18, 2025 before United States Chief District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. Jackson faces at least ten years up to life imprisonment; fines up to $5 million; and supervised release ranging from four years up to life.
The investigation involved multiple agencies including the DEA; New York State Police; Finger Lakes Drug Task Force; Auburn Police Department; Ithaca Police Department; as well as district attorney offices from Onondaga, Cayuga, and Tompkins counties.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative by the Department of Justice focused on reducing violent crime through coordinated community efforts and targeted enforcement against violent offenders, played a role in guiding enforcement strategies during this case. More information about PSN can be found at https://www.justice.gov/psn.
