In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking in the Quincy and Weymouth areas, Aderito Patrick Amado, identified as the ring leader in a vast operation dealing primarily in fentanyl, cocaine, and their derivatives, has been sentenced to a lengthy term behind bars. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, on Tuesday, Amado was handed down a sentence of 32-years imprisonment to be followed by 10 years of supervised release after being convicted on multiple counts related to drug trafficking and firearm possession.
Amado's conviction, resulting from a jury's decision in June 2024, came after his indictment on a series of charges including possession with intent to distribute significant amounts of fentanyl and cocaine. Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy, in the statement obtained by the U.S. Attorney's Office, did not hold back in describing Amado's organization, one that "pumped multiple kilograms of dangerous and deadly drugs into our communities", highlighting the consequences faced by individuals involved in illegal drug and firearm activities. The court found that Amado, who had prior convictions, possessed firearms, which violated his status as a felon while he was engaged in his illegal operations.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen praised the efforts of the FBI's Metro Boston Gang Task Force and various partners in law enforcement for their commitment to holding accountable an individual who appeared unconcerned about the opioid crisis affecting the region. "Aderito Patrick Amado and his crew were a crime wave unto themselves," Cohen told the U.S. Attorney's Office. Cohen's remarks indicate the investigation's comprehensive nature, which included a January 2021 search uncovering drugs, cash, and weapons, and subsequent monitoring tying Amado directly to the primary locations of his operation.
Quincy Police Chief Mark Kennedy acknowledged the collaborative investigative effort and aligned with Cohen’s views. He stated that taking Amado off the streets was likely to have a positive impact on community safety. The investigation uncovered a stash house in Weymouth that served as a drug factory, equipped for large-scale distribution. Amado's fingerprints were linked to ammunition and drug paraphernalia found at the site, indicating his involvement in the drug trafficking operation.
While Amado faces the consequences of his actions, his co-defendants are also navigating the legal system. Erica Vieira is awaiting sentencing, Neylton Fontes has received a two-year prison sentence, and Chaasad Cyprien has also been sentenced to two years, all following guilty pleas as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office. This case is part of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces to dismantle high-threat criminal organizations involved in various illicit activities across the nation.
