Six Elmira residents face federal charges after an investigation into an alleged drug trafficking organization led authorities to seize more than three kilograms of methamphetamine, hundreds of grams of fentanyl, 34 firearms and two pipe bombs.
Eric J. Barner, 40; Ashanique Graham, 30; Geneno Mable, 51; Matthew R. Swinko, 28; and Ryan Palmieri, 36, were charged by criminal complaint with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of New York said.
Dominic Murphy, 31, was charged in a separate complaint with conspiracy, being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, prosecutors said.
The conspiracy charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges are accusations, and all six defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
According to the complaints, investigators began examining the group's activities in October 2025. Prosecutors said the organization used cellphones to arrange sales of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Elmira area and stored or sold drugs at locations on Lake Street, Baldwin Avenue, Mulberry Street, Lackawanna Avenue, West Thurston Street and Harper Street.
Search warrants led investigators to seize about 3,306 grams of methamphetamine, 646 grams of fentanyl, 69 grams of cocaine, three grams of crack cocaine and smaller quantities of psilocybin, liquid methadone, MDMA and clonazepam, according to the release.
Authorities also reported seizing $152,080.57 in cash, 34 firearms including two privately made guns, two pipe bombs and soft body armor.
Homeland Security Investigations, New York State Police and the Elmira Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola is prosecuting it.
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