Two Malden men indicted for drug trafficking

  Igor Desouza, 25, and Matthew Ramos, 24, both of Malden, were indicted on December 1 for their alleged involvement in a drug trafficking operation. According to federal law enforcement officials, Desouza and Ramos had been moving fentanyl and methamphetamine “in and around the Malden area.” In addition, the drugs were altered to look like Adderall, Xanax and oxycodone.

  While searching the defendants’ residence, investigators allegedly recovered nearly 10,000 pills believed to be “thousands of methamphetamine pills pressed to resemble Adderall or Xanax.” Allegedly, thousands of compressed fentanyl pills were also found and looked very similar to oxycodone; in addition, investigators seized a gun, more than 200 rounds of ammunition, black tar heroin, MDMA crystals, cocaine and LSD.

  Desouza and Ramos are each charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl and other illegal substances. Desouza was arraigned in federal court on December 3. The date of Ramos’ arraignment was not disclosed.

  Under federal law, Desouza and Ramos could face 15 years to life in prison, supervised release for nine years to life and fines of up to $15 million.