Rochester man gets 10 years on drug trafficking, gun charges

James M. Nesbitt

CONCORD - A Rochester man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on Friday for participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, the U.S. Attorneys Office announced today.

According to court documents and statements made in court, James M. Nesbitt, 44, conspired with two other individuals to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl and crystal "ice" methamphetamine.

On Nov. 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police conducted a vehicle stop of Nesbitt's vehicle and seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other drugs. Later the same evening, the NHSP and the DEA searched Nesbitt's hotel room in Ossipee and seized around 171 grams of methamphetamine, smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics, and a semi-automatic handgun.

On Dec, 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Nesbitt and a co-conspirator at their Rochester residence and seized fentanyl and four firearms and assorted ammunition.

Nesbitt pleaded guilty on March 6. Nesbitt's co-conspirators Haley Hansler and William McKay have also pleaded guilty. Hansler was sentenced to 60 months on April 28 and McKay is awaiting sentencing.

"Armed drug traffickers are a menace to everyone," said U.S. Attorney Scott Murray. "The hazards posed by drug dealers are greatly enhanced when they carry guns while selling their dangerous wares. In order to keep the Granite State safe, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the armed drug dealers who jeopardize the health and safety of our citizens."