Defending Federal Firearm Charges in the District of Connecticut: Understanding 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) and Why Matthew Galluzzo Is an Outstanding Attorney for These Cases

Federal prosecutors in the District of Connecticut take firearm-related offenses extremely seriously — especially violations of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which criminalizes the possession, use, or carrying of a firearm in connection with a crime of violence or a drug trafficking offense. A conviction under this statute carries mandatory minimum prison sentences, often consecutive to any sentence for the underlying crime.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a § 924(c) offense in Connecticut, you need a strategic, experienced, and aggressive federal defense attorney who understands both the law and the tactics of federal prosecutors. Matthew Galluzzo is exactly that kind of lawyer.

What Is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)?

Section 924(c) of Title 18 of the United States Code makes it a federal crime to use or carry a firearm during and in relation to, or possess a firearm in furtherance of, either:

• A crime of violence, or
• A drug trafficking crime.

Importantly, this statute does not require that the gun be fired. Simply possessing or carrying a firearm in connection with one of the underlying predicate offenses is enough to trigger the charge.

Examples include:

• Having a firearm nearby while allegedly selling or transporting drugs;
• Brandishing or displaying a firearm during a robbery or assault;
• Possessing a firearm during a conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Penalties Under § 924(c): Severe and Consecutive

The penalties for § 924(c) are among the harshest in the federal criminal code. A conviction requires a mandatory minimum sentence that must run consecutive to any other sentence imposed. That means the firearm charge adds extra years on top of whatever sentence applies to the underlying crime.

Typical penalties include:

• 5 years minimum for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a qualifying crime;
• 7 years if the firearm was brandished;
• 10 years or more if the firearm was discharged;
• 25 years minimum for a second or subsequent § 924(c) conviction;
• Even life imprisonment in certain aggravated circumstances.

There is no parole in the federal system — so defendants serve nearly all of their imposed sentence.

How § 924(c) Cases Are Prosecuted in the District of Connecticut

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut (with offices in New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford) works closely with federal agencies like the ATF, DEA, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to investigate and prosecute § 924(c) cases. These cases are often linked to:

• Large-scale drug trafficking conspiracies;
• Violent crimes such as Hobbs Act robbery, carjacking, or assault on federal officers;
• Organized crime or gang-related investigations.

Prosecutors often use § 924(c) to increase leverage in plea negotiations or to secure lengthy sentences against defendants already facing serious allegations.

Because of the mandatory nature of these penalties, the defense strategy must focus on the details — challenging the connection between the firearm and the alleged predicate crime, and attacking the sufficiency of the government’s evidence at every stage.

Defending a § 924(c) Charge: Legal and Strategic Considerations

An effective defense against a § 924(c) charge requires deep knowledge of both substantive federal criminal law and federal procedure. Common defenses and strategies include:

1. Challenging the “Nexus” Between the Gun and the Crime

The prosecution must prove that the firearm was used, carried, or possessed in furtherance of the underlying offense. If the gun was simply nearby or owned for lawful purposes, that link may be missing.

2. Attacking the Predicate Offense

A § 924(c) charge can’t stand without a valid underlying “crime of violence” or “drug trafficking crime.” Recent Supreme Court decisions — such as United States v. Davis (2019) — have narrowed what qualifies as a “crime of violence,” opening new avenues for dismissal.

3. Fourth Amendment and Suppression Issues

If the firearm was discovered during an unlawful search or seizure, a motion to suppress evidence may lead to dismissal or a favorable plea deal.

4. Negotiation and Sentencing Advocacy

Even when conviction seems likely, a skilled defense attorney can often negotiate a plea that avoids the harshest mandatory minimums, or advocate for a sentence reduction through cooperation, safety-valve provisions, or downward departures.

Why Matthew Galluzzo Is an Excellent Choice to Defend a § 924(c) Case

Matthew Galluzzo is a former Manhattan Assistant District Attorney turned prominent federal criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience litigating complex firearm, narcotics, and violent crime cases in federal court — including in the District of Connecticut and the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York.

Here’s what sets him apart:

• Deep Federal Experience: Matthew has defended clients in major federal prosecutions involving firearms, narcotics, RICO, and conspiracy charges. He knows how U.S. Attorneys construct § 924(c) indictments — and how to find the weaknesses in them.
• Proven Negotiation Skills: As a former prosecutor, he understands how federal plea negotiations work, what motivates prosecutors, and how to secure outcomes that minimize mandatory sentences.
• Strategic Legal Insight: He stays current with evolving case law under § 924(c) — including decisions redefining what constitutes a “crime of violence.” This allows him to raise cutting-edge arguments that many lawyers overlook.
• Courtroom Credibility: Matthew’s reputation for professionalism and preparation earns respect from judges and opposing counsel alike — a crucial advantage in federal litigation.
• Client-Centered Advocacy: He combines sharp legal acumen with compassion, keeping clients informed, protected, and empowered throughout the process.

The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

A § 924(c) conviction can add five years to life to a federal sentence — with no parole and little chance of early release. If you or a loved one is facing these charges in the District of Connecticut, don’t wait to get experienced representation.

Matthew Galluzzo offers the knowledge, credibility, and courtroom experience necessary to confront the federal government’s case head-on — and the skill to achieve the best possible result.

Contact Information

If you’re being investigated or charged under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) or any federal firearms or narcotics statute, contact Matthew Galluzzo immediately for a confidential consultation. Early intervention can be the key to avoiding the harshest penalties and protecting your future.