Mana Sambola, Possession of Firearms, New York 2024

A notorious case of firearms possession has made headlines in New York, with Mana Sambola, a 41-year-old Liberian national, being sentenced to 21 months in prison for the crime.

Sambola, also known as ‘Coffee,’ was found guilty of illegally possessing two firearms, including a Glock 43 pistol and an Anderson Manufacturing AM15 rifle emblazoned with the names of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

The search warrant, executed at Sambola’s apartment on May 22, 2023, led to the recovery of the firearms and four boxes of ammunition.

Sambola has prior felony convictions related to narcotics and firearms, which makes him ineligible to lawfully possess the firearms or ammunition. Following a contested sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci found that Sambola possessed the Glock in connection with three crimes, specifically straw purchasing a firearm, making a false statement to a firearms dealer, and distribution of a controlled substance.

The judge also imposed a 3-year-term of supervised release, effective upon Sambola’s release from prison. The sentence serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violating firearms laws in New York.

The investigation was carried out by the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); the Warren County District Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices; the New York State Police; and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner prosecuted the case.

The sentencing of Mana Sambola serves as a warning to those who would attempt to circumvent the law by possessing firearms illegally. The consequences are severe, and law enforcement agencies will continue to work tirelessly to ensure public safety.

Related Federal Cases