A Lawrence man is behind bars after a massive fentanyl seizure on Route 495 in Andover, Massachusetts. Yoan Paniagua, 24, was driving on the highway when law enforcement stopped him and seized approximately 500 grams of fentanyl from his vehicle.
The exact amount of fentanyl seized from Paniagua’s vehicle is significant. According to the charge, possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl carries a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, a minimum of five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million.
Paniagua appeared in federal court in Boston on March 12, 2019, and was ordered detained pending a detention and probable cause hearing set for March 19, 2019. This indicates that Paniagua is currently being held in custody as he awaits the next stage of his trial.
Law enforcement agencies involved in the operation include the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Division and the Massachusetts State Police. United States Attorney Andrew Lelling, Brian D. Boyle, and Colonel Kerry Gilpin were among those who made the announcement.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the people of Massachusetts and the nation at large are left to wonder about the scope of the opioid crisis and the role that fentanyl plays in it.
Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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