Federal authorities continue to crack down on the trafficking of illegal firearms, narcotics, and machinegun conversion devices—offenses that carry steep consequences under federal law. In a recent case, Billy Chan, also known as “Juju,” a 20-year-old from Lowell, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges after he was caught selling handguns, methamphetamine pills, and machinegun “switches” to undercover officers. His activities were tied to the notorious Asian Boyz gang and part of a broader network distributing counterfeit methamphetamine pills across the Merrimack Valley region. Sentencing is scheduled for September 17, 2025.

Chan’s crimes included unlicensed firearm dealing, conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, and transferring and possessing a machinegun—each a felony under federal law. These offenses are aggressively prosecuted due to the high risk they pose to public safety, particularly when automatic weapons and powerful stimulants are involved. The “Adderall” pills Chan sold were fake, containing homemade methamphetamine and caffeine, posing both a legal and public health threat. The machinegun switches, which illegally convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic firearms, are federally regulated and can trigger harsh penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Individuals charged with these crimes may face mandatory minimum sentences. For example, conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, with the potential for life imprisonment depending on prior offenses and other aggravating factors. Trafficking firearms or manufacturing machinegun conversion devices can add additional decades to a sentence, especially when gang involvement is proven. These cases are often handled under initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), which focus on dismantling violent and organized criminal enterprises.

For those charged with similar offenses, it’s essential to seek experienced federal criminal defense counsel. These charges can be life-altering, and prosecutors are well-resourced and highly motivated to secure convictions. Understanding your rights, exploring plea options, and building a strategic defense are critical steps in navigating the federal justice system. Don’t face these charges alone. Contact our award-winning team today at 617-880-6155