Thomas Kane Miller of Somerset, New Jersey pleaded guilty on April 27 to distributing fentanyl and heroin that resulted in the death of a victim, according to U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer.
Miller, age 41, admitted before U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court to three counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin. The charges stem from incidents in October 2022 when Miller distributed a substance containing both drugs in Somerset County that led to a fatal overdose. He also distributed these substances on two additional occasions in December 2022 and January 2023 across Somerset and Middlesex counties.
“Trafficking fentanyl and heroin can have deadly consequences and remains among the most serious crimes we prosecute. This defendant chose to traffic in deadly drugs, and that choice cost a life—today’s guilty plea reflects our commitment to hold accountable those who bring this poison into our communities and to pursue justice for the victims and families left behind,” Frazer said.
Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment with possible consecutive sentences. Fines may reach up to $1 million per count, along with mandatory supervised release following incarceration. Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2026.
Frazer credited special agents from the DEA Strike Force New York Task Force Division as well as members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office under Prosecutor John P. McDonald, and Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office under Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone for their roles in the investigation leading up to Miller’s plea.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey prosecutes federal crimes—including drug offenses—and represents the United States in civil matters statewide; it maintains offices in Newark, Trenton, and Camden while coordinating law enforcement efforts through about 170 attorneys and support staff according to its official website.
