Mana Sambola, Weapons Possession, New York 2023

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – A convicted felon is facing serious federal charges after authorities discovered a cache of weapons, including a rifle adorned with imagery of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, in his Saratoga Springs apartment. Mana Sambola, a/k/a “Coffee,” 41, of Saratoga Springs, New York, and Christopher Krom, 36, of Lake Luzerne, New York, were both indicted this week, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.

The bust came after a May 22nd raid on Sambola’s residence. Investigators seized an Anderson Manufacturing AM15 rifle, chillingly decorated with the names “Death,” “War,” “Famine,” and “Pestilence.” The rifle, along with a Glock 43 pistol, and four boxes of ammunition, quickly placed Sambola in legal jeopardy. Sambola’s prior felony convictions, stemming from drug and weapons offenses, already barred him from legally owning firearms.

Federal prosecutors allege that Krom acted as a straw purchaser, illegally acquiring the Glock 43 on Sambola’s behalf. This scheme is a common tactic used by individuals prohibited from owning guns to circumvent the law. Krom now faces the brunt of the charges, potentially looking at a lengthy prison sentence for aiding and abetting the illegal gun acquisition.

U.S. Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo, announced the indictments. “These charges underscore our commitment to stemming the flow of illegal firearms and holding accountable those who seek to arm themselves in violation of federal law,” a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office read. The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the ATF, Warren County District Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, New York State Police, and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office.

If convicted, Sambola faces a maximum prison term of 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Krom’s potential sentence is even steeper: up to 25 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a 3-year term of supervised release. The ultimate sentencing will be determined by Judge Anne M. Nardacci, taking into account federal sentencing guidelines and other relevant factors.

Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart has ordered Sambola detained pending trial. Krom was released under certain conditions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner is leading the prosecution. The indictments are merely accusations, and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds.

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