Lynn Man Convicted of Drug and Firearm Charges

BOSTON - A Lynn man was convicted today following a five-day jury trial in federal court in Boston in connection with drug and firearm charges.

Jose Perez, 27, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Chief U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor scheduled sentencing for Nov. 1, 2024. In January 2023, Perez was arrested and charged along with co-defendant Henry Del Rio, who has pleaded not guilty.

"Mr. Perez put the community at risk with dangerous controlled substances and an illegal firearm. With drugs and guns threatening many civilians' livelihoods, this case demonstrates our commitment to protecting our communities from any and all threats they may face," said Acting United States Joshua S. Levy. "Keeping our neighborhoods safe is the very essence of the work of our office, and we will not rest in pursuit of that mission."

"Illegally possessing a firearm while trafficking in illegal drugs fuels the violence in our communities," said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division. "I commend the Lexington Police Department and the United States Attorney's Office for holding Mr. Perez accountable."

In December 2022, local police officers attempted to stop a vehicle for traffic violations that Perez was driving. Instead of pulling over, Perez accelerated and engaged in a high-speed escape attempt, traveling more than 85 miles per hour on residential streets. Eventually, Perez's car lost control and collided with another vehicle, stopping Perez. When Perez exited the vehicle, a Glock 34X 9mm semi-automatic handgun dropped to the ground. Perez subsequently tried to escape on foot. While running from authorities, Perez discarded two small plastic bags that were determined to contain cocaine. A search of the vehicle yielded a third plastic bag containing cocaine that was similar to those found before.

Given Perez's status as a felon, he is barred from possessing a firearm.

The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substance provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years, up to life, of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The charge of felon in possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Levy and ATF SAC Ferguson made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lexington, Chelsea and MBTA Police Departments and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Crowley, Deputy Chief of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit, and Sarah Hoefle of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.