Repeat Offender Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Firearm Possession

February 25, 2026 — by Scanner Alerts Media

Credit: U.S. Department of Justice

CONCORD — A Plaistow man pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawfully possessing two firearms, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.

Jonathan Balamotis, 34, entered the guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante. Sentencing is scheduled for June 8, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Samantha D. Elliott.

According to federal authorities, Balamotis is a convicted felon. Officials stated that despite prior serious convictions, he possessed firearms, which is prohibited under federal law.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Balamotis has prior convictions for felony assault and arson. Court records show he was previously sentenced to 2 to 4 years in New Hampshire State Prison for arson and second-degree assault. After that sentence, he committed nine separate probation violations.

Authorities further stated that in 2015, Balamotis was convicted of possession of a Class A controlled substance. In 2017, he was convicted again in Massachusetts for possession of a Class A controlled substance.

According to the release, on October 21, 2024, the Plaistow Police Department executed two residential search warrants in connection with a separate investigation. During that time, investigators learned that Balamotis attempted to purchase a firearm on June 25, 2025.

The charge of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Sentences are determined by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable statutes.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation. The Plaistow Police Department assisted. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin is prosecuting the case.