Around New England

Boston Man Gets Seven Years In Prison For Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking

April 2, 2024

A Boston resident received a prison sentence last week in connection with drug trafficking activities involving fentanyl and cocaine.

Jovani Santiago, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to seven years in prison and five years of supervised release. Santiago had pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, plus one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, according to a press release from the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts.

The case stemmed from an incident in August 2020 when Santiago sold approximately 500 grams of fentanyl to a cooperating witness in a Roxbury apartment. A subsequent search of Santiago’s residence led to the seizure of a Sig Sauer 9-millimeter handgun and ammunition. The investigation also revealed Santiago’s involvement in a conspiracy to distribute seven kilograms of cocaine for $250,000 in Massachusetts and New York.

Prosecutors and Santiago wrangled over sentencing during the past few years. Santiago sought time served in a sentencing memorandum filed by his lawyer March 27, 2024, arguing that he has made great strides in improving his mental health and dealing with his drug addiction, including overcoming a relapse when a close cousin died of a fentanyl overdose in November 2022.

In November 2022, prosecutors sought 57 months in prison, according to court papers. On March 22, 2024, though, prosecutors filed a new sentencing memorandum seeking 97 months in prison, citing Santiago’s drug dealing while on release after his guilty plea.

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