Repeat Offender Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Firearm Possession

Repeat Offender Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Firearm Possession

CONCORD – A Plaistow felon pleaded guilty today in federal court for unlawfully possessing two firearms, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.

Jonathan Balamotis, 34, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante. Sentencing is scheduled for June 8, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Samantha D. Elliott.

“Despite being a convicted felon for serious offenses, the defendant chose to disregard the law and is now being held accountable for his actions,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “Our office will continue to pursue significant consequences for repeat offenders who threaten public safety.”

“Balamotis has previously been convicted of felony assault and arson, demonstrating complete disregard for the safety of others. A firearm in his hands is an immediate and inherent risk to the public, making him the exact type of defendant ATF prioritizes for arrest and federal prosecution,” said ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Greco.

According to the public record, Balamotis was previously sentenced to 2-4 years of imprisonment in New Hampshire State Prison for Arson and Second-Degree Assault. After he was sentenced, Balamotis committed nine separate probation violations. A few years later, Balamotis was sentenced to another felony in 2015 for possession of a Class A Controlled Substance. Balamotis was convicted again in 2017 for another Possession of a Class A Controlled Substance in Massachusetts.

On October 21, 2024, the Plaistow Police Department executed two residential search warrants related to a separate investigation. While that investigation was ongoing, Plaistow Police Department and ATF agents learned that the defendant attempted to purchase a gun on June 25, 2025.

The charge of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person provides a maximum prison term of 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and not more than 3 years of supervised release. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives led the investigation. The Plaistow Police Department provided valuable assistance.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin prosecuted the case.