A Manchester resident pleaded guilty on May 20 to distributing more than 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl and possessing with intent to distribute over 1.2 kilograms of cocaine, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan said.
The case highlights ongoing federal efforts to address drug trafficking in the region and its impact on local communities.
Xavier Santana, age 22, admitted guilt to four counts of distributing at least 400 grams of fentanyl, three counts of distributing at least 50 grams of fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine. Sentencing is scheduled for August 31 before U.S. District Judge Paul J. Barbadoro.
According to court records, law enforcement learned in late 2024 that Santana was selling drugs. Between January and May 2025, an undercover officer conducted seven controlled purchases from Santana totaling over 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl in amounts ranging from approximately 91 grams up to half a kilogram per transaction. In July 2025, authorities searched his residence and found more than a kilogram of cocaine in his bedroom.
Sentences for these offenses range from five years up to life imprisonment depending on the charge, with potential fines reaching $10 million for some counts. The court will determine the sentence based on federal guidelines and statutes.
The FBI led the investigation into this case while Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cesar A. Vega and Alexander S. Chen are prosecuting it.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America, described as a nationwide initiative involving Department of Justice resources against illegal immigration, cartels, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and violent crime perpetrators through programs such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire enhances community well-being by enforcing federal laws; it functions under the direction of the United States Attorney General; handles prosecutions involving federal crimes or civil cases where the government is a party; serves New Hampshire through representation in federal courts; builds alliances with law enforcement agencies at all levels; and operates as a federal law enforcement entity according to the official website.
