Denys Gonzalez Hernandez of Lynn pleaded guilty on Mar. 26 in federal court in Boston to charges related to drug trafficking and firearms. Hernandez, age 33, admitted to possession with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine base, and methamphetamine, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled sentencing for June 25.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address the distribution of dangerous drugs and the use of firearms in connection with these crimes.
According to information presented during the hearing, Hernandez was indicted alongside Lexus Perez in March 2025 after authorities searched their shared apartment in Lynn earlier that year. The search resulted in the seizure of two loaded firearms, approximately 465 grams of fentanyl, 34 grams of crack cocaine, and 21 grams of methamphetamine. Afterward, Hernandez was arrested and found carrying additional quantities of cocaine and fentanyl concealed inside his sock.
The charge for possession with intent to distribute significant amounts of controlled substances carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years up to life imprisonment and fines up to $10 million. The firearm charge mandates at least five years served consecutively with any other prison term. Sentencing will be determined according to federal guidelines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the plea along with officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; and Chief Christopher P. Reddy from the Lynn Police Department.
The prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration-related crime as well as dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations through coordinated efforts from various Department of Justice task forces.
Officials remind that details contained within charging documents are allegations until proven beyond a reasonable doubt.