Fitchburg Couple Pleads Guilty in Fentanyl, Heroin Trafficking Ring

BOSTON – In a gritty turn of events in the Massachusetts justice system, Ricky Figueroa, 31, and Monica Troche, 29, from Fitchburg, have both pleaded guilty to their roles in a wide-ranging drug trafficking conspiracy that included fentanyl, heroin, crack, and cocaine.

Figueroa, who faces life in prison, admitted to distributing over 280 grams of crack cocaine and 500 grams of cocaine. Troche’s charges carry similarly severe penalties for her involvement in the distribution of large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. Both are scheduled to be sentenced next year.

The investigation into this drug ring began following a tragic overdose death in September 2018. Court documents detail intercepted communications revealing an intricate network led by co-conspirators Pedro Baez and Anthony Baez. Troche worked closely with Anthony, while Figueroa supplied cocaine and crack to the Fitchburg area.

During the investigation, over 1.8 kilograms of heroin and fentanyl mixture, 3.6 kilograms of cocaine, and over 50 grams of crack were seized, along with drug manufacturing equipment and nearly $376,000 in cash.

This case marks the latest blow against organized crime in Massachusetts, with seven defendants having already pleaded guilty. Co-conspirators Anthony Baez received a 13-year sentence, while Pedro Baez awaits sentencing later this year.

The charges against Figueroa and Troche could lead to life sentences and substantial fines, reflecting the severity of their crimes. The investigation was a joint effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Massachusetts State Police, and local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea Porter is leading the prosecution.