Rochester Man Sentenced 10 Years For Drug, Gun Crimes

A Rochester man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and gun offenses, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray announced Monday.

James M. Nesbitt, 44, of Rochester, received his sentence on Friday for participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl as well as possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, according to a release from the Department of Justice.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Nesbitt is believed to have conspired with two other individuals to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl and crystal “ice” methamphetamine.

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New Hampshire State Police conducted a vehicle stop of Nesbitt’s vehicle in November 2018 and seized fentanyl, methamphetamine and other drugs. Later the same evening, officials searched Nesbitt’s hotel room in Ossipee and seized approximately 171 grams of methamphetamine, smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics, and a semi-automatic handgun, according to the release.

Nesbitt and a co-conspirator were arrested in December 2018 at their Rochester residence where officials seized fentanyl and four firearms and assorted ammunition. Nesbitt plead guilty in March, and both of his co-conspirators also have pleaded guilty.

“Armed drug traffickers are a menace to everyone,” Murray said in the release. “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.”

Added Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle: “Drugs and guns are a deadly combination. (The Drug Enforcement Agency) is committed to bring to justice poly-drug traffickers like Mr. Nesbitt. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire.”