A Dominican national residing in Amesbury, Massachusetts, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly attempting to distribute methamphetamine. Edwin Tomas Arias Ubri, 27, faces one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of the drug. His arraignment is scheduled for February 27, 2025, in Boston's federal court.
The charges stem from an incident on January 14, 2025, where Arias Ubri reportedly agreed via text to supply five pounds of methamphetamine to a confidential source. Court records indicate that he was seen leaving the vicinity of the source's residence and was later stopped by law enforcement. A search of his vehicle allegedly revealed a white shopping bag containing approximately five pounds of crystalline substance. Documents also state that Arias Ubri entered the United States illegally in 2022.
The charge carries severe penalties including a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years and up to life imprisonment, along with potential supervised release ranging from five years to life and fines up to $10 million. Deportation proceedings are expected following any imposed sentence. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen D. Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s New England Field Office. The investigation received assistance from police departments in Amesbury, Salem, and Melrose, Massachusetts as well as Salem, New Hampshire. Assistant U.S. Attorney John O. Wray is handling the prosecution.
It should be noted that the details provided in charging documents are allegations; Arias Ubri is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.