A Massachusetts state employee and a federal inmate have been charged with conspiring to smuggle synthetic cannabinoids, known as "K2," into FMC Devens. The charges come after an investigation revealed that Tasha Hammock, 43, from Bridgewater, Massachusetts, allegedly passed K2-laced papers to Raymond Gaines, 45, during a visit on August 18, 2024. Hammock was arrested and appeared in federal court in Boston.
Gaines had previously received clemency on January 17, 2025, reducing his federal prison sentence for drug distribution offenses committed in 2022. Gaines' past convictions include possession with intent to distribute cocaine and firearm possession linked to drug trafficking. He is alleged to be associated with the Orchard Park Trailblazers gang in Boston.
The criminal complaint states that law enforcement interest in Hammock arose after intercepting communications involving another inmate at FMC Devens discussing obtaining K2 within the prison. This led authorities to link deliveries of the drug to Hammock's residence.
The introduction of K2 into FMC Devens has reportedly resulted in health issues among inmates and staff due to exposure to the substance. The conspiracy charge carries severe penalties including up to 20 years imprisonment and significant fines.
The announcement of the charges was made by United States Attorney Leah B. Foley alongside Jodi Cohen from the FBI's Boston office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O'Shea is handling prosecution efforts.