Two men from Malden have been indicted for allegedly conspiring to distribute cocaine. Erick Sandoval-Perez, a 43-year-old Guatemalan national residing in Malden, and Christhian Castillo, 32, also from Malden, face charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine. Sandoval-Perez is additionally charged with distribution of cocaine.
The pair were initially charged by criminal complaint in February 2025. While Castillo remains in custody pending further proceedings, Sandoval-Perez has been released under specific conditions.
Authorities allege that Sandoval-Perez and Castillo collaborated to sell cocaine on multiple occasions to an undercover law enforcement officer. On February 12, 2025, Sandoval-Perez reportedly arranged a transaction involving one kilogram of cocaine with the undercover officer. Castillo was arrested during the handover of the drugs, while Sandoval-Perez was detained nearby.
If convicted, both men could face substantial penalties. The charges related to over 500 grams of cocaine carry potential sentences ranging from five to forty years in prison, at least four years of supervised release, and fines up to $5 million. The charge concerning general distribution carries up to twenty years in prison and fines reaching $1 million. Additionally, Sandoval-Perez may be subject to deportation after serving any sentence.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley announced these developments alongside Stephen Belleau from the DEA's New England Field Division; Chief Ryan Malatos of the Leominster Police Department; and Chief Brian W. Coyne of the Clinton Police Department. The Malden Police Department also contributed valuable assistance in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea is handling the prosecution.
It is important to note that these are allegations contained within charging documents and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
