Polson man sent to federal prison for selling guns, drugs

BILLINGS – During a federal court session in Billings on July 11, Daniel Ray Newby, a 38-year-old Polson resident, formerly of Billings, earned a one-year prison sentence after entering his guilty plea to three counts of unlawful use of controlled substance in possession of a firearm, and two counts of distribution of marijuana.

A federal investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives found Newby to be a prolonged and habitual user of marijuana, methamphetamine and other controlled substances. He was also found to have a marijuana growing operation at his home.

On at least four occasions in late 2010 and early 2011, Newby sold firearms and/or marijuana to undercover agents. In the first of such transactions, Newby sold an agent a .40 caliber Glock semi-automatic pistol on Dec. 19, 2010.

Just over a week later, he again sold a handgun to an officer along with small amounts of marijuana. Another offense of selling a Colt Peacemaker .22 caliber revolver to an agent occurred on Jan. 24, 2011.

At the federal level of criminal justice, there is no opportunity for parole, so it is likely that Newby will serve the entire sentence imposed by the court. Sentences can, however, be reduced for “good behavior” but this reduction may not exceed 15 percent of the original ruling.