Federal prosecutors recently announced the indictment of a West Roxbury man on multiple fentanyl distribution charges. According to charging documents, the defendant Santo Leandro Duverge Tejeda, a/k/a “La Niña,” is indicted on two counts of fentanyl distribution and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl the Watertown and Waltham areas and of possessing a large quantity of fentanyl intended for further distribution at the time of his arrest. The case is being prosecuted in federal court. The charging documents allege that the defendant distributed fentanyl on four separate occasions in Watertown and Waltham. When he was arrested, he allegedly possessed over 400 grams of fentanyl intended for distribution.
What the Government Alleges in This Case
The indictment outlines serious drug distribution allegations, including:
- Multiple alleged sales of fentanyl on separate dates
- Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl
- More than 400 grams of fentanyl allegedly seized at the time of arrest
Federal authorities often rely on controlled purchases, surveillance, and drug quantity thresholds to qualify defendants for mandatory minimum sentences.
Why Fentanyl Distribution Brings Serious Consequences
Fentanyl is treated far more severely than many other controlled substances under federal law due to its high potency and overdose risk. Unlike lower-level drug offenses, fentanyl distribution cases can carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges have limited discretion. When quantities increase sentences and fines can quickly “stack up,” potentially leading to decades in prison, lifetime supervised release, and multi-million-dollar financial penalties.
The High Stakes of Federal Drug Sentencing
For cases involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl, federal law authorizes:
- Mandatory minimum prison sentences starting at 10 years
- Potential life imprisonment
- Fines of up to $10 million
- Lengthy or lifetime supervised release
Sentencing is governed by federal statutes and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which also consider criminal history, alleged distribution patterns, and other aggravating factors.
Experience Matters in Fentanyl Distribution Defense
When facing federal fentanyl distribution charges, there is no substitute for a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling serious drug cases. An experienced defense lawyer can analyze drug quantity calculations, challenge search and seizure issues, scrutinize alleged sales, and fight to prevent excessive sentencing exposure. While charges are only allegations and every defendant is presumed innocent, the consequences of a conviction are severe—making skilled legal representation essential from the beginning.
At Dhar Law, LLP, we have decades of experience in federal drug defense. If you are facing life-changing federal drug charges, contact a member of our team to find out how we can protect your rights. Contact us today at 617-880-6155 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you.
