A man from Passaic County, New Jersey, has admitted to charges related to drug trafficking and firearm possession. Luis Polanco, 35, from Wayne, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti to an indictment that included one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation revealed that Polanco was involved in drug distribution activities in Passaic, New Jersey. A search of his residence and vehicle led to the discovery of more than 40 grams of fentanyl and over 100 grams of heroin. Authorities also found paraphernalia used for packaging drugs, a 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, 158 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition, and four rounds of .40 caliber ammunition.
The charge for drug possession carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and could lead to up to 40 years in prison with a maximum fine of $5 million. The charge for being a felon in possession of a firearm could result in up to 15 years in prison with a maximum fine of $250,000. Possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking mandates at least five years in prison consecutively with other sentences and could lead to life imprisonment with a maximum fine of $250,000. Sentencing is set for October 21, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba credited the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives under Special Agent L.C. Cheeks Jr., the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office under Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, the Wayne Township Police Department under Chief Joseph Rooney, and the Paterson Police Department under Officer In Charge Patrick Murray for their roles in the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators through efforts coordinated by the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman represents the government.
Defense counsel: Jason F. Orlando.
