A Somerset County resident has been found guilty of several serious charges related to drug trafficking and firearms possession, as announced by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. Malachi A. Muhammad, 50, was convicted on multiple counts, including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, as well as possessing firearms to further drug trafficking activities and being a convicted felon in unlawful possession of firearms. The trial was held before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner in Trenton, where the jury returned guilty verdicts after less than two hours of deliberation.
"This verdict underscores our commitment to keeping guns out of the hands of drug traffickers and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin and cocaine out of our communities. My message is clear: if you jeopardize the safety and security of New Jerseyans, we will hold you accountable. Our office and our law enforcement partners won’t rest until we do," stated U.S. Attorney Habba.
Newark ATF Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr. emphasized the dedication of the ATF and its partners to tackling crime: "This conviction is an example of ATF’s dedication to working with our state and local partners in identifying, investigating, and apprehending criminals who prey upon innocent citizens and lessen the quality of life in our neighborhoods through the trafficking of narcotics and the illegal possession and use of firearms. This is a reminder that there is no safe haven for those that wreak havoc or contribute to crime in our communities. ATF will never waver in our commitment to protecting the people we serve and public safety."
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that on August 19, 2021, Lawrence Township Police responded to reports of a car stopped on Route 1 near Quaker Bridge Mall. Officers found Muhammad unresponsive with a gun in his car. He was arrested after being awakened, leading to a search that uncovered methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin, cocaine, firearms, and ammunition.
The charges faced by Muhammad come with severe penalties, including up to 20 years for each drug trafficking charge and significant fines. The firearms charge associated with drug trafficking carries a minimum sentence of five years, with a potential life sentence and additional fines. His sentencing is yet to be scheduled.
U.S. Attorney Habba acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Lawrence Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, and Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office in bringing about this conviction. The government's case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey A. Agnew and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick.