Juan Carlos Santos-Ocasio, Fentanyl Distribution, Massachusetts 2022

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Fentanyl Trafficking Ring Busted in Lawrence

In a shocking turn of events, a Dominican national has been indicted for allegedly reentering the United States and distributing fentanyl in Lawrence, MA. According to sources, Juan Carlos Santos-Ocasio, 40, also known as ‘Cristhian Aybar-Done,’ was charged with one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien.

According to the indictment, Santos-Ocasio was previously arrested and charged on November 29, 2022, after being arrested in Lawrence for allegedly reentering the United States without authorization. His arrest and subsequent indictment are the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Massachusetts State Police, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.

Prosecutors claim that Santos-Ocasio, who is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and did not have legal authority to be present in the United States, allegedly distributed 40 grams or more of fentanyl. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5 million.

Law enforcement officials have been cracking down on fentanyl trafficking in the region, and this case is a testament to their commitment to keeping communities safe. As Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin Brown of the Worcester Branch Office puts it, ‘The distribution of fentanyl is a serious crime that puts lives at risk. We will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.’

Santos-Ocasio appeared before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Donald L. Cabell on December 23, 2022, and remains in federal custody. His case is a stark reminder of the dangers of fentanyl trafficking and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations, and Santos-Ocasio is presumed innocent until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins, along with Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division, Todd Lyons, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement today.