Rhode Island Man Arrested More Than 2 Dozen Times Sentenced For Drug Trafficking

WOONSOCKET, RI — A Woonsocket man who was previously arrested more than two dozen times and convicted on close to four dozen charges, including assault, domestic assault, and drug trafficking, was sentenced Thursday to six years in federal prison for leading a drug trafficking ring.

Juan Batista, 37, was among nearly two dozen people arrested in connection to the drug ring, which the FBI began investigating in January 2020. The investigation targeted drug and gun dealers across Rhode Island.

Shortly after being released from prison and while still serving an 11-year probation term, Batista rebuilt his drug trafficking business in the Woonsocket area. Prosecutors said he began trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine again.

Between Feb. 26, and June 23, 2020, FBI agents conducted surveillance and witnessed at least six drug purchases involving members of the drug ring, including Batista, prosecutors said. The transactions included deliveries of between roughly seven and 34 grams of crack cocaine and 5.3 grams of fentanyl for between $360 and $1,800.

Authorities also seized more than $18,000 in cash, five grams of cocaine, 35 grams of crack cocaine, and 120 grams of fentanyl inside Batista's home.

Batista pleaded guilty on May 5, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute 28 or more grams of cocaine base, distribution of 28 or more grams of cocaine base, and possession with intent to distribute 40 or more grams of fentanyl. He was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John McConnell, Jr. to 72 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release.