NEOPIT, WI – Joseph Komanekin, Jr., 33, of Neopit, is facing serious federal charges after a raid on his residence uncovered a stash of synthetic drugs and an illegal weapon. The indictment, returned January 4, 2017, alleges Komanekin was actively involved in drug trafficking on the Menominee Indian Reservation.
According to the indictment, authorities discovered approximately 40 grams of a Schedule I controlled substance analogue known as AB-FUB – colloquially referred to on the reservation as “Ish.” This synthetic cannabinoid, a dangerous and increasingly prevalent street drug, was found alongside shotgun ammunition and a prohibited short-barreled shotgun during a February 6, 2016 search of Komanekin’s home. The bust was the culmination of a joint investigation.
United States Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad announced the indictment includes three separate counts. Count One charges Komanekin with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Substance, a violation of 21 United States code, Section 841. If convicted on this count, Komanekin could face up to 20 years in federal prison, a $1,000,000 fine, and a period of Supervised Release ranging from 3 years to a lifetime.
The charges don’t stop there. Count Two accuses Komanekin of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, a violation of 18 United States Code, Section 924(c). This carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, consecutive to any other sentence, and could land him in prison for life. A fine of up to $250,000 and 5 years of Supervised Release are also possible. Count Three, Possession of a Short-Barreled Shotgun (26 United States Code, Section 5861(d)), adds another potential 10 years behind bars, a $10,000 fine, and up to 3 years of Supervised Release.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation jointly investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier is prosecuting the matter. It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is merely an accusation. Komanekin is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case highlights the ongoing struggle against illicit drug activity and illegal firearms on tribal lands. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments. For more information, contact Acting Public Information Officer Elizabeth Makowski at 414-297-1700.
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Key Facts
- State: Wisconsin
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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