United States Drug Enforcement Administration

CONCORD, NH – DEA New England Division Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle and United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Haley Hansler, 33, of Rochester, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. 

According to court documents and statements made in court, Hansler conspired with two other individuals to traffic in methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Rochester area. On November 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police (NHSP) conducted a motor vehicle stop on a vehicle operated by Hansler and seized approximately 58 grams of heroin and smaller quantities of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and other narcotics.  Later the same evening, members of the NHSP and the DEA searched Hansler’s hotel room in Ossipee, New Hampshire and seized approximately 171 grams of crystal “ice” methamphetamine and smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics. Law enforcement also seized a semi-automatic handgun from Hansler’s purse.  On December 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Hansler and co-conspirator James Nesbitt at their Rochester residence and seized approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, four firearms, and ammunition. 

Hansler previously pleaded guilty on January 21, 2020.  Nesbitt pleaded guilty to the charges on March 6, 2020, and is awaiting sentencing.  

“DEA is committed to bring to justice poly-drug traffickers like Ms. Hansler,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire.” 

“Drugs and guns are a potentially deadly combination,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public safety, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the armed drug dealers who endanger our communities. When drug traffickers use or possess firearms, they should understand that they will be prosecuted in federal court and receive substantial prison sentences.”           

This case was investigated by the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad; the New Hampshire State Police; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the Strafford County Drug Task Force.