Bratini-Perez, who goes by the nicknames “Rico” and “Ricofromthesin,” was arraigned “in connection to an ongoing investigation of fentanyl counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine,” according to the release.

He was arraigned on four counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analog, and methamphetamine, and one count possession with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, according to the release. A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Bratini-Perez on Oct. 3, 2024.

The release said, according to court records, Bratini-Perez was on probation following his release from state custody armed robbery and firearm charges.

While on probation, he sold fentanyl and methamphetamine to an undercover officer on three occasions in March 2024 and April 2024, according to the release. Bratini-Perez was arrested following the fourth sale, on April 8, 2024. Investigators then recovered more than 5,000 grams of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl after executing a search warrant at his residence.

“The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years and up to life of supervised release, and a fine of up to $10,000,000,” according to the release. “Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.”

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case, according to the release. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.