Fall River Man Admits Role In Heroin Trafficking Ring: Feds

FALL RIVER, MA – A 23-year-old Fall River man pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to his role in a heroin and fentanyl trafficking ring operating primarily in southeastern Massachusetts. Christian Sostre was one of 25 people arrested in October 2015 and charged in connection with an operation allegedly led by Dedwin Cruz-Rivera.

A 26th suspect was charged last April in a superseding indictment.

Authorities say Sostre assisted Cruz-Rivera with all aspects of the trafficking operation, including receiving narcotics deliveries, helping to prepare the drugs for resale, delivering and collecting money and driving Cruz-Rivera to several locations to conduct business.

All but three of the 26 conspirators charged have pleaded guilty and 14 have been sentenced. Cruz-Rivera is expected to change is plea on July 14.

Sostre pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl. The charge carries a sentence of no greater than 20 years, a minimum of three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million.

Sostre is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 10.

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