Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, a 28-year-old illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic, was arraigned at Chelsea District Court on multiple charges, including 10 firearms-related offenses and trafficking nearly 5 kilograms of fentanyl with an estimated street value of $1 million. The charges stem from a search at a temporary migrant shelter where Sanchez was staying, which uncovered not only fentanyl but cocaine and other drugs packaged for sale.
The firearms charges include unlicensed possession of an “assault weapon,” illegal possession, lack of a Firearms Identification Card (FID), possession of a large-capacity feeding device, and being a non-citizen (“alien”) in possession of a firearm. Each charge carries serious consequences under Massachusetts law, ranging from mandatory minimum sentences for unlicensed firearm possession to penalties of up to 20 years for drug trafficking offenses. With nearly all court documents impounded, further details about Sanchez’s arrest remain undisclosed, though he has been jailed without bail due to the court deeming him dangerous.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers were present during Thursday’s hearing and a federal source told reporters that the agency has a detainer on Sanchez.
What Is an ICE Detainer?
An ICE detainer is a formal request to local law enforcement to hold an individual in custody beyond their scheduled release, enabling ICE to initiate deportation proceedings. Unlike judicial warrants, detainers are administrative documents signed by immigration agents and often lack the “probable cause” required under the Fourth Amendment. Courts nationwide, including those in Massachusetts, have ruled many ICE detainers unconstitutional for failing to meet this legal standard. In serious criminal cases that may lead to deportation, an attorney well versed in criminal law that touches on immigration issues will meticulously scrutinize your case, including any involvement by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
Firearms and Drug Offenses: Explaining the Penalties
Massachusetts has stringent laws regarding firearms and drug offenses. Leonardo Andujar Sanchez faces potentially severe penalties for the following charges:
Unlicensed possession of an “assault weapon”: This charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison for a first offense and up to 15 years for subsequent offenses.
Illegal firearm possession: A first offense can result in up to 2 years of incarceration or fines, with harsher penalties for repeat violations.
Trafficking fentanyl: Possessing large quantities of fentanyl, as Sanchez is accused of doing, can lead to imprisonment of up to 20 years.
Penalty for Carrying Without an FID: A mandatory minimum sentence of 18 months in a house of correction is imposed for carrying without an FID. Additional penalties may apply.
Possession of a Large-Capacity Feeding Device:First Offense: Punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or fines between $1,000 and $10,000.
Second Offense: Imprisonment for 5 to 15 years, with fines starting at $5,000 15.
“Alien” in Possession of a Firearm: Non-citizens (including visa holders) face restrictions under Massachusetts law. Generally, they cannot possess high-capacity firearms or handguns unless specifically licensed. Violations can lead to similar penalties as those for illegal possession, including fines and imprisonment 37.
These charges illustrate the gravity of violating Massachusetts’ firearm and drug laws, particularly when multiple offenses are involved or when legal status in the US is in question.
Uncertain Legal Status in the US And Charged with a Serious Crime? Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Team Immediately
Cases like Sanchez’s highlight the critical importance of legal counsel when facing serious criminal charges, especially for those who have unresolved immigration issues. Defendants charged with complex offenses such as drug trafficking and firearms violations whose legal status in the US may be uncertain, require the expertise of a seasoned criminal defense attorney who is sensitive to immigration issues. Highly skilled legal representation is essential not only to navigate the criminal justice system but also to address the overlapping consequences for immigration status, which could lead to deportation.
Given the life-altering implications of these charges, from lengthy prison sentences to the risk of removal from the United States, it is imperative to have a strong advocate to protect your rights. At Dhar Law, LLP, we have defended countless serious criminal cases in state and federal courts. We are especially sensitive to cases involving people from communities with undocumented immigrants. Our highly skilled gun crime and drug crime criminal defense attorneys offer translation services in multiple major languages to support our clients through a difficult time. Please contact our criminal defense team at (617) 880-6155 to learn more.
