Ariel Castillo-Solano, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty on March 12 in federal court to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, according to U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. Chief Judge Samantha Elliot scheduled sentencing for June 18.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address drug trafficking in the region. Castillo-Solano, also known as Jose Antonio Santiago, admitted to participating in a scheme that involved selling large quantities of methamphetamine and other drugs.
Court documents show that beginning in early 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated an individual selling multiple-ounce quantities of methamphetamine in Rochester, New Hampshire. Investigators used a cooperating source and an undercover officer who negotiated several sales with Castillo-Solano between October 2024 and January 2025. These transactions totaled more than five pounds of methamphetamine. Later, Castillo-Solano arranged another sale involving an additional 15 pounds of methamphetamine, about 21 ounces of cocaine, and 40 grams of fentanyl for $69,000.
On January 24, 2025, Castillo-Solano met with the undercover officer in Seabrook and indicated his “brother,” Joel Castillo-Soto, would deliver the drugs. After Castillo-Soto arrived via Uber and delivered the substances, both men were arrested by DEA agents.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $1 million. Sentencing will be determined based on federal guidelines and statutes.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter is prosecuting the case. The prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative focused on combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations.
