A Lynn man has been found guilty on charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and illegal firearm possession. Jose Perez, 27, could be facing an extensive time behind bars following a jury's decision in a federal Boston court, according to an announcement by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Convicted as a felon, the law stands clear against Perez's right to possess firearms. Chief U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor has set the sentencing for November 1, 2024. Perez was arrested alongside Henry Del Rio, who is pleading not guilty, in January 2023. A high-speed pursuit in December 2022 led to his capture when Perez, fleeing traffic violations, crashed his vehicle, inadvertently dropping a firearm upon exiting.
With a potential 20-year sentence and a million-dollar fine for the drug charges, plus up to 15 years and a quarter-million-dollar fine for the gun charge, the ramifications are substantial. These parameters are based on statutory factors and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines as explained by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy acknowledged the severity of Perez's actions, highlighting the menace of drugs and illegal firearms in the local community. "Mr. Perez put the community at risk with dangerous controlled substances and an illegal firearm. With drugs and guns threatening many civilians’ livelihoods, this case demonstrates our commitment to protecting our communities from any and all threats they may face," Levy said in the statement. Special Agent in Charge of the ATF, James M. Ferguson, echoed Levy's sentiment, praising the collaborative efforts of law enforcement that led to holding Perez accountable.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Lexington, Chelsea, and MBTA Police Departments as well as Customs and Border Protection, were commended for their contributions. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Crowley and Sarah Hoefle are spearheading the prosecution. The case serves as a high-profile example of joint efforts to combat the intertwining threats of narcotics distribution and unlawful gun possession.
