Jaime Rivera, Murder-for-Hire Plot, Massachusetts 2016

BOSTON – A shocking case of treachery unfolded in the streets of Boston as Jaime Rivera, a 21-year-old Boylston Street gang member, was sentenced to nine years in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a murder-for-hire plot.

In a disturbing twist, Rivera and his co-defendant, Frandys Ortiz, 24, were involved in a shooting with another gang member on July 4, 2015. Ortiz then conspired with a cooperating witness to have the victim murdered in retaliation, stating he would pay the witness if the victim died.

Rivera, who pleaded guilty to one count of using the mail or the telephone with the intent that a murder-for-hire be committed, and one count of distribution of cocaine, showed a callous disregard for human life when he agreed to pay the witness $2,500 to carry out the hit. He even went so far as to caution the witness not to shoot the victim in the legs, saying ‘I don’t need any leg shots bro … if you gonna do leg shots, don’t even do it.’

The case, which was announced by Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Boston Field Division, highlights the dangers of gang violence and the importance of cooperation with law enforcement.

Rivera’s co-defendant, Frandys Ortiz, was previously sentenced to eight years in federal prison and three years of supervised release. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Y. Hemani of Weinreb’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

The sentencing of Jaime Rivera serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in violent crime and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

As the Grimy Times continues to shine a light on the dark underbelly of crime in our communities, we remain committed to bringing you the latest updates and insights into the world of crime and justice.

Jaime Rivera’s case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gang violence and the importance of cooperation with law enforcement. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize public safety and hold perpetrators of violent crime accountable for their actions.

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