New Bedford’s streets have been terrorized by two notorious drug kingpins, Jose Santiago and Samuel Rodriguez, who have been charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Santiago, aged 43, and Rodriguez, 39, are alleged members of a ring distributing fentanyl and other hard drugs.
Both men, with extensive criminal histories, were nabbed by federal agents on July 13. They faced initial appearances in Boston’s federal court before being held pending further proceedings.
Santiago’s rap sheet is long and varied; he’s been convicted of distributing a class A substance, possession of a firearm, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and trafficking controlled substances. His previous sentences include up to 20 years behind bars.
Rodriguez is no stranger to the judicial system either. Convictions for assault on police officers, resisting arrest, disturbing the peace, breaking and entering, and carrying a dangerous weapon litter his past. He’s faced prison terms ranging from two years to eight years.
The investigation into Santiago and Rodriguez’s operations began in early 2025. Federal agents uncovered a web of 10 storage units used to stash drugs and conduct deals, some registered under the name of an elderly woman. The duo is accused of moving their operations frequently to avoid detection.
Search warrants led to the seizure of substantial quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, cutting agents, drug presses, and hydraulic presses used in packaging the illicit goods. Both men face up to 20 years in prison if convicted under the charge of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, along with a fine of $1 million.
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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