A Lowell man, Gino Hem, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to charges of distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine. The 34-year-old admitted to multiple counts related to the distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including 28 grams or more of cocaine base.
Hem's plea includes one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, a second count of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, and three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl. He has been in federal custody since his arrest in October 2025.
Court documents reveal that between July 14 and October 3, 2025, Hem engaged in four separate transactions in Lowell, selling crack cocaine and fentanyl to cooperating witnesses and an undercover officer. On October 22, 2025, he was apprehended while attempting to sell two ounces of crack cocaine, with over 53 grams of the substance found hidden in his underwear.
Sentencing for Hem is scheduled for September 30, 2026, before U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns. The charges carry potential sentences ranging from five to 40 years in prison for cocaine base offenses, and up to 20 years for other controlled substance distribution, along with supervised release and substantial fines.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, Boston Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.