BOSTON — A Turkish national who became one of New England’s largest methamphetamine distributors was sentenced to 23 years in federal prison on Sept. 17, marking a significant milestone in the fight against drug trafficking in the region.
Reshat Alkayisi, 63, residing in Covington, R.I., received the sentence from U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M.
Gorton after pleading guilty in April to charges including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
The investigation, dubbed Operation Ice Cats, led to the seizure of over 160 pounds of pure methamphetamine, an AK-47, a Glock without a serial number, two loaded Smith & Wesson handguns, and over 4,200 rounds of ammunition.
In addition, a large illegal marijuana grow operation was discovered at Alkayisi’s residence.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S.
Levy emphasized that Alkayisi’s operation had fueled addiction and devastation, and his sentencing sends a powerful message to those involved in the narcotics trade.
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division, Jodi Cohen, highlighted the end of Alkayisi’s operation, which she described as a 24/7 endeavor, protected in part by illegal firearms.
Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA New England Field Division, Stephen Belleau, reaffirmed the DEA’s commitment to keeping drugs like methamphetamine off the streets and noted the significant collaborative law enforcement efforts that contributed to the prosecution.
Between October 2020 and April 2021, Alkayisi distributed more than 660 pounds of methamphetamine.
The investigation involved 12 controlled purchases, some directly involving Alkayisi, and the interception of communications where he boasted about the quality of his product.
Alkayisi employed various methods to launder his drug proceeds, including using a shell company, structuring cash deposits, and recruiting others, including his wife, to help in his schemes.
In total, law enforcement seized approximately 160 pounds of methamphetamine through controlled purchases, motor vehicle stops, and package seizures.
A search of Alkayisi’s residence also uncovered a ledger documenting his drug sales.
Alkayisi is the seventh defendant sentenced in the case, with remaining defendants awaiting sentencing.
