By: Richard L. Smith
A Passaic County man has pleaded guilty to federal charges after authorities found him in possession of large quantities of fentanyl and heroin, along with a firearm used to support his drug trafficking activities, according to a statement released by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.
Luis Polanco, 35, of Wayne, entered the plea before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti, admitting to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, one count of possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Federal investigators had been monitoring Polanco’s drug activities in and around Passaic, including operations from his home.
A search of his residence and vehicle uncovered over 40 grams of fentanyl, more than 100 grams of heroin, and drug-packaging materials, prosecutors said.
Authorities also recovered a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, 158 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and four rounds of .40 caliber ammunition during the search.
Each of the charges carries severe penalties.
The drug distribution count includes a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison, along with a potential $5 million fine.
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm could result in up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The firearm possession in furtherance of drug trafficking charge carries a mandatory five-year sentence to be served consecutively to any other term, with a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Polanco is scheduled to be sentenced on October 21, 2025.