A Dominican Republic national has been apprehended in connection with a drug trafficking operation based in Massachusetts, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. Cesar Joel Perez Mejia, 30, was arrested on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and is set to appear in federal court.
Court documents reveal that on June 23, 2025, Perez Mejia allegedly facilitated a drug transaction with an undercover officer. A search of his vehicle uncovered approximately 57 grams of suspected fentanyl and 43 grams of suspected crack cocaine.
The charge carries severe penalties, including a potential maximum prison sentence of 20 years, a fine up to $1 million, and supervised release ranging from three years to life.
The investigation was spearheaded by the FBI’s Major Offender Task Force and the Manchester Police Department. Support came from DEA New England, HSI New England, and several local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Shannon and Heather Cherniske are handling the prosecution.
This arrest is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling criminal organizations. The program consolidates resources from various Department of Justice task forces.
It is important to note that the details in the charging documents are allegations. Perez Mejia remains innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
