Michael Van Rader : Boston Man Guilty in Drug Trafficking at Housing

By Trend News Line 2024-04-02 20:41:17.

Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges in Public Housing Development

A member/associate of the Heath Street Gang, Michael Van Rader, has admitted to possession with intent to distribute cocaine within a public housing development in Boston. The 26-year-old pleaded guilty to the charges in federal court, with sentencing scheduled for June 27, 2024. Van Rader was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023.

Arrest at Mildred C. Hailey Apartments

Van Rader’s arrest took place on September 3, 2023, at the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments, a public housing complex in Jamaica Plain. He was found in possession of a significant quantity of cocaine at the time of his arrest. It is important to note that Van Rader was prohibited from trespassing at the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments by the Boston Housing Authority.

Penalties for Drug Offenses

The charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine within 1,000 feet of a public housing facility carries severe penalties. If convicted, Van Rader could face a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison, with a maximum sentence of up to 40 years. Additionally, he may be subject to a minimum of six years and up to life of supervised release, along with a fine of up to $2 million. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on various factors, including the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

Authorities Involved in the Investigation

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy, along with James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Boston police Commissioner Michael Cox, announced Van Rader’s guilty plea. The investigation received support from the Boston Housing Authority Police Department and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hoefle of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

In conclusion, Van Rader’s admission of guilt in the drug-related charges highlights the efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking in public housing developments. The collaboration between various authorities underscores the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in these communities. As the case progresses towards sentencing, the consequences for Van Rader serve as a reminder of the serious repercussions of engaging in illegal drug activities..

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