LONG BRANCH – A local man was convicted of selling drugs and illegally owning a gun as part of a federal investigation.
Marnell Johnson, 46, of Long Branch, was convicted of possession with intent to distribute heroin; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Johnson had been caught selling heroin to a confidential source in 2020. When police searched his home on a warrant, they found heroin, paraphernalia, and a loaded .380 caliber semi-automatic firearm.
When it comes time for his sentencing, he faces up to 20 years for drug distribution; up to 10 years for having a gun while being a felon; and up to another five years for having a gun for use in drug trafficking. He also faces a maximum fine of $1.5 million.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger thanked special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson in Newark; the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Lori Linskey; the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer; the Long Branch Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director Domingos A. Saldida; the Lakewood Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Gregory Howard Meyer; the Neptune Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Larry B. Fisher; and the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Shaun Golden, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict.
