Massachusetts

Man Wanted Since 2002 on Drug Trafficking Charges to Appear in Court

A man who has been wanted for more than 16 years on drug trafficking and conspiracy charges will face a Massachusetts judge on Tuesday.

Police said Eric Rivera-Velez, 39, of Methuen, was taken into custody on Friday following an anonymous tip about potential drug sales out of a Brook Street home.

After confirming his identity, police learned Rivera-Velez had multiple warrants out of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. He was also listed on Rockingham County New Hampshire's Most Wanted list since 2002.

Police say Rivera-Velez had numerous aliases and altered fingerprints, which allegedly helped him elude authorities.

Rivera-Velez is scheduled to appear in Lawrence District Court for drug trafficking and being a fugitive from justice. It's not clear if he has an attorney.

He also has warrants out of Rockingham County in New Hampshire for conspiracy to sell drugs. It's not clear when he will face those charges.

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