Hooksett man sentenced to prison for drug charges

A Hooksett man was sentenced in federal court on June 9 to seven-and-a-half years in federal prison and three years of supervised release for distributing methamphetamine, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack.

Erik Pena, 28, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of a controlled substance in February. The FBI Major Task Force investigated Pena with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Hooksett Police Department.

Investigators located and searched Pena’s stash house and identified large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, firearms, ammunition and body armor. Authorities also found fentanyl pills at his residence. Law enforcement purchased over two pounds of methamphetamine from Pena between 2023 and 2024, according to court documents and statements made in court.

“The distribution of methamphetamine devastates communities, fuels addiction and endangers public safety. Drug trafficking will not be tolerated in New Hampshire. We will vigorously support law enforcement and prosecute offenders to stop the spread of drugs in the Granite State,” said McCormack.

Pena’s case was investigated as part of Operation Take Back America, a Justice Department initiative to combat illegal immigration and eliminate cartels and international crime organizations, according to a Department of Justice press release. Pena is a U.S. citizen. His case falls under this initiative due to its relation to drugs.