By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his involvement in a drug distribution conspiracy and for possessing firearms in connection to drug trafficking activities, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced Tuesday.
The sentencing took place in Newark federal court, highlighting a significant crackdown on drug-related crimes in the area.
Khalid Holland, 44, faced justice before U.S. District Judge Julien Xavier Neals, pleading guilty to charges including possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
The plea was entered on May 15, 2023, leading to today's sentencing, which also includes three years of supervised release following his prison term.
The charges stem from Holland's admitted involvement in the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine around Lincoln Park in Newark from June to September 2022.
The investigation into Holland's activities led to the recovery of 13 firearms from various residences, five of which were found in Holland's possession, alongside hundreds of rounds of ammunition and thousands of individual doses of fentanyl and cocaine. Holland acknowledged possessing these firearms to advance his drug trafficking efforts.