In a large-scale joint operation dubbed “Operation No Love,” Massachusetts law enforcement agencies, including Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Interstate Narcotics Reduction Enforcement Team (CINRET), HSI, and local police departments, executed search warrants at 20 locations across six cities on April 15–16, 2025. The investigation targeted an alleged Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) distributing fentanyl and cocaine throughout Bristol County. Law enforcement seized:
– 2,360 grams of cocaine
– 1,364 grams of fentanyl
– 33 firearms
– High-capacity magazines
– Hundreds of rounds of ammunition
– $109,355 in cash
The investigation began in March 2024 and used undercover drug buys, electronic surveillance, and phone intercepts to gather evidence. The operation led to 16 arrests, with suspects facing charges across multiple District Courts in Massachusetts.
Defendants & Charges:
Fall River District Court:
Yosef Ali (49) – Trafficking fentanyl & cocaine, conspiracy; $75,000 bail
Jean Carlos Castillo Mendoza (44) – Same charges as above; $150,000 bail
Taunton District Court:
Jorge Santiago (36) – Possession w/ intent (Class B), conspiracy; $20,000 bail
Jorge Arce (46) – Trafficking cocaine & fentanyl, ammo possession, conspiracy; $100,000 bail
Neftali Torres (51) – Trafficking cocaine, conspiracy; $25,000 bail
Christopher McLaughlin (43) – Trafficking cocaine & fentanyl; Held without bail
Shawn Roias (35) – Trafficking cocaine, intent to distribute (Class D), firearm & conspiracy charges; $25,000 bail
Courtney Whitmore (27) – Trafficking cocaine, conspiracy; $10,000 bail
Val Bettencourt (50) – Intent to distribute (Class B), conspiracy; $10,000 bail
Brayton Crites (26) – Intent to distribute (Class A), conspiracy; $20,000 bail
Andrew Williams (27) – Multiple counts of trafficking, distribution, conspiracy; $25,000 bail
Sabrina Cohen (27) – Intent to distribute (Class B), conspiracy; $1,000 bail
Norton:
Lucas Guimaraes (29) – Trafficking cocaine, conspiracy; $25,000 bail
Also charged in Attleboro with trafficking cocaine, firearm & ammo offenses.
Raynham:
Brian Szakaly (27) – Intent to distribute (Class B), firearm during felony, conspiracy; $15,000 bail
Falmouth District Court:
David Brasil (45) – Intent to distribute (Class B), possession (Class C), conspiracy; $500 bail
Mary Hunt (59) – Possession (Class B); Released on recognizance
How Seriously Does Massachusetts Take Drug Trafficking Operations?
The federal government and state governments have determined that trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine represents a severe public safety threat, especially fentanyl, which is 50–100 times more potent than morphine. The DEA has labeled fentanyl as the deadliest drug threat in U.S. history, killing tens of thousands of Americans annually.
This operation reflects strong interagency collaboration and dedication to disrupting high-level drug networks. The long-term surveillance, use of undercover officers, wiretaps, and coordination across multiple jurisdictions shows a strategic and persistent effort to target organized, large-scale drug distribution operations in Massachusetts.
Punishments associated with Class A and Class B drugs in Massachusetts are harsh. Class A drugs are punishable by up to 2 years in prison and a fine for possession, and up to 20 years for drug trafficking, depending on the quantities involved. Penalties involving Class B drugs range between 1 year to 15-20 years in prison. Firearms charges often go hand in hand with drug conspiracy charges. Penalties for firearms crimes in Massachusetts can significantly increase sentencing, with a maximum of 10 years for carrying a firearm with a large capacity feeding device.
What is the Charge of Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws?
In Massachusetts, “Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws” is a broad charge. It doesn’t require a formal agreement, direct participation in sales, or detailed involvement. The Commonwealth only needs to prove a shared plan and that the individual joined in, even passively. This legal standard allows prosecutors to cast a wide net, often sweeping in people who may have had indirect or minimal involvement.
Next Steps If You Are Being Investigated for Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws in Massachusetts
If you think you are being investigated for a drug conspiracy in Massachusetts, it’s important to know your rights and obtain an attorney as soon as possible. These accusations often involve multiple serious charges that can change the course of your life. At Dhar Law, LLP, we have extensive experience defending serious drugs and firearms charges in state and federal courts. We work with our clients to craft a strategy to defend your rights and fight for your freedom. Please contact us to today speak to a member of our award-winning team at (617) 880-6155.
