Leshawn Thomas, a 33-year-old resident of Clayville, New York, has admitted to charges related to drug and firearm offenses. According to United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New York Division, Thomas pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine and cocaine base with intent to distribute and unlawfully possessing firearms.
Thomas, who has two prior felony convictions, confessed to having approximately 3 kilograms of cocaine and 268.14 grams of cocaine base in Oneida County on or around April 28, 2023. Additionally, he acknowledged possession of two loaded semi-automatic pistols: a Glock model 22 (.40 caliber) and a Kahr model CM9 (9mm).
Sentencing is set for April 4, 2025, before Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. Thomas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in federal prison with the possibility of life imprisonment and supervised release ranging from five years to life. Sentences are determined by judges based on statutes violated, U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other relevant factors.
The DEA led the investigation with support from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYDOCCS). Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen J. Vickey is handling prosecution duties for this case.