James Hamilton, a 42-year-old resident of Central Square, New York, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The sentencing took place in Utica, with Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd also ordering Hamilton to serve four years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
Hamilton had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine, possessing cocaine with intent to distribute, and possessing multiple firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. According to court records, from early 2021 until March 2022, Hamilton acquired more than four kilograms of powder cocaine for sale or distribution. He also admitted to unlawfully possessing nine firearms—including an AR-15-style rifle—to protect his drug supply and proceeds.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III commented on the case: “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.”
Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, 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 several agencies including the 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 IRS Criminal Investigation.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation—a program designed to identify and dismantle major criminal organizations using coordinated efforts among various agencies. More information about OCDETF can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
