Manchester Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute More Than 3 Pounds of Methamphetamine

CONCORD – A Manchester man was sentenced yesterday in federal court for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy responsible for distributing methamphetamine in the Manchester area, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

Zachary Austin, 41, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante to 84 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release.  On February 25, 2025, Austin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Austin’s co-defendant, Joseph Coffey, has also pleaded guilty and will be sentenced at a later date.

“Distributing three pounds of methamphetamine is a serious crime with serious consequences,” said Acting United States Attorney Jay McCormack. “This seven-year sentence reflects the harm these drugs inflict on our communities and the commitment of law enforcement to hold drug traffickers accountable.”

“DEA stands committed to keeping highly addictive drugs like methamphetamine off the streets of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division.  “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Austin accountable for his crimes but should serve as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in New England and across the United States.  This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The DEA is dedicated to bringing to justice those that commit these crimes.”

According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Austin and Coffey operated a methamphetamine distribution business out of their shared Manchester apartment.  Between July and September 2024, Austin and Coffey sold methamphetamine to law enforcement on five occasions.  Searches of their apartment and vehicle later uncovered additional methamphetamine.  In total, law enforcement recovered approximately 1.66 kilograms, or 3.66 pounds, of methamphetamine.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.

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