BOSTON – A Lynn man pleaded guilty Nov. 25 to drug offenses relating to an ongoing Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) case investigating fentanyl distribution on the North Shore.
Ricardo Bratini-Perez, aka “Rico,” aka “Ricofromthesin,” 29, pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analog, and methamphetamine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Sentencing is scheduled for March 17, 2025. A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Bratini-Perez on Oct. 3.
Bratini-Perez was on probation following his release from state custody on armed robbery and firearm charges. While on probation, Bratini-Perez sold fentanyl and methamphetamine to an undercover officer on three occasions in March 2024 and April 2024. On April 8, Bratini-Perez was arrested following a fourth sale to the undercover officer. Following his arrest, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bratini-Perez’s residence and recovered over 5,000 grams of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
HSI New England’s Boston Strike Force led the investigation with the Massachusetts State Police and the Lynn Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the Essex County District Attorney's Office.
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