Convict Sentenced 12 Years for Firearms and Drug Trafficking in Somerset and Middlesex

Convicted Felon Sold Firearms and Cocaine to Undercover Officer, Receives 144-Month Sentence

A Plainfield, New Jersey man has been sentenced to 144 months (12 years) in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, as well as possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney John Giordano on March 6, 2025 following a federal investigation into narcotics and firearms trafficking in Somerset and Middlesex counties.

Undercover Investigation Leads to Arrest

According to court documents, Dominick Montgomery, 38, was identified as a drug trafficker during a law enforcement investigation into illegal narcotics distribution in October 2021. Over the course of three months, from October 27, 2021, to January 24, 2022, Montgomery engaged in multiple transactions with an undercover law enforcement officer, selling a combination of firearms, cocaine, and fentanyl in exchange for cash.

The investigation culminated in a final transaction on January 24, 2022, where Montgomery sold the undercover officer:

• Three firearms
• Cocaine
• For $6,750 in cash

Shortly thereafter, on February 2, 2022, law enforcement arrested Montgomery, at which time he was found in possession of a Smith & Wesson pistol and 15 rounds of ammunition.

Conviction and Sentencing

Montgomery appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Georgette Castner on October 8, 2024, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. On March 6, 2025, Judge Castner sentenced Montgomery to 144 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

As a previously convicted felon, Montgomery was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

Multi-Agency Investigation

Montgomery’s conviction was the result of a joint effort involving:

• The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr.
• The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecutor John P. McDonald

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan N. Linares from the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.

Crackdown on Gun and Drug Trafficking

Montgomery’s sentencing is part of a broader effort to combat illegal firearm sales and drug distribution in New Jersey. Law enforcement agencies have emphasized that illicit firearms trafficking fuels violent crime, and they continue to prioritize the arrest and prosecution of individuals who illegally distribute weapons and narcotics.

Residents with information on illegal gun sales or drug activity can report tips to local law enforcement or the ATF tip line at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867).