A Plaistow man with a history of felony convictions pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawfully possessing two firearms, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan.
Jonathan Balamotis, 34, entered his plea before U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante. His sentencing is set for June 8, 2026, and will be presided over by U.S. District Judge Samantha D. Elliott.
“Despite being a convicted felon for serious offenses, the defendant chose to disregard the law and is now being held accountable for his actions,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “Our office will continue to pursue significant consequences for repeat offenders who threaten public safety.”
ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Greco commented on the case: “Balamotis has previously been convicted of felony assault and arson, demonstrating complete disregard for the safety of others. A firearm in his hands is an immediate and inherent risk to the public, making him the exact type of defendant ATF prioritizes for arrest and federal prosecution.”
Court records show that Balamotis was previously sentenced to prison in New Hampshire for arson and second-degree assault, receiving a term of two to four years. He later committed nine probation violations after that sentence. In 2015, he received another felony conviction related to possession of a Class A controlled substance, followed by another similar conviction in Massachusetts in 2017.
The investigation began when Plaistow Police executed search warrants at two residences on October 21, 2024 as part of a separate matter. During this time, police and ATF agents discovered that Balamotis had attempted to purchase a firearm on June 25, 2025.
Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison, a fine up to $250,000, and no more than three years of supervised release if convicted. Sentencing decisions are made by federal judges based on guidelines and statutes relevant to criminal cases.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation with assistance from the Plaistow Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin.
