NH Man Gets 18-Months On Firearm, Ammo Charges

CONCORD, NH — A local man has been sentenced to a year and half in jail for possessing firearms and ammunition after being convicted of domestic violence, according to the U.S. District Court. Jody Swett, 38, of Weare, was sentenced to an 18-month term in jail. Twice – in April 2015, and October 2016 – Swett was convicted of domestic violence charges which, as a result, made it unlawful for him to possess firearms and ammunition.

In July 2016, however, he bought a Ruger pistol, in a private transaction in Manchester, for $375. A second transaction – including a shotgun and a bullet proof vest – occurred in Hillsborough in October 2016. The FBI raided Swett’s home in February 2017, and found two rifles, a 9 mm pistol, and more than 100 rounds of ammunition.

Swett pleaded guilty to three counts of weapon possession in July 2017. After serving his jail time, he’ll be on supervised release for three years.

“It is vital to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals who present a risk of violence,” said acting-U.S. Attorney John Farley. “Those who have committed acts of domestic violence are prohibited from possessing guns. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who possess firearms unlawfully and to protect the safety of the community.”

Along with the FBI, the ATF was also involved in the investigation.

“This case is a testament to the priority we place on addressing violent crimes to keep our communities safe,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI), Boston Division. “Mr. Swett's actions in illegally possessing firearms shortly after his convictions for domestic crimes is a clear violation of the law. The FBI will continue to collaborate with the ATF to prevent gun offenses and protect the public from dangerous criminals.”

Image via Tony Schinella, Patch staff.