A Somerset County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for distributing fentanyl and heroin, resulting in the death of an individual. The indictment against Thomas Kane Miller, 40, was announced by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. Miller faces multiple charges including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and a fentanyl precursor (4-ANPP), as well as distribution leading to a victim’s death.
Miller’s initial court appearance is scheduled for June 30, 2025, before Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba emphasized the severity of the fentanyl crisis stating, “The fentanyl epidemic has devastated communities across the country. Too many lives have been lost, too many families have been broken.” She added that the District of New Jersey is committed to holding those accountable who traffic these drugs.
Frank Tarentino, DEA New York Special Agent in Charge, stated: “Today’s indictment against Thomas Miller reflects the determination the DEA and our law enforcement partners have in targeting those individuals who continue to poison our communities with fentanyl.”
Homeland Security Investigations New York acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso remarked on the dangers posed by illegal narcotics: “This tragic loss of life is a stark reminder fentanyl-related deaths continue to plague our communities.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, Miller distributed a mixture of fentanyl and heroin in October 2022 that led to an individual’s death. Law enforcement found two wax folds containing the substances at a residence in Plainfield, New Jersey. These were linked back to Miller through unique stamps on the folds.
Further investigations revealed that about ten days prior to this incident, Miller possessed similar wax folds with identical stamps. He also distributed these substances on two other occasions between December 2022 and January 2023 in Middlesex and Somerset Counties.
The charge of drug distribution resulting in death carries significant penalties including a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years imprisonment up to life imprisonment and fines up to $1 million. Other charges carry maximum penalties of 20 years imprisonment each and similar fines.
The investigation involved special agents from various agencies including DEA New York Strike Force under Frank A. Tarentino III and HSI New York under Michael Alfonso among others from local prosecutor offices.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at disrupting major drug trafficking operations through collaborative multi-agency efforts.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine M. Romano represents the government in this case. It is important to note that charges are merely accusations at this stage; Thomas Kane Miller remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Defense counsel for Miller includes Timothy Donahue Esq., and Michael Alexander Thomas Esq.
