An illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic, staying at a Massachusetts shelter, faces serious charges after being caught with a significant amount of drugs and firearms. The case highlights growing concerns over the state’s right-to-shelter law and the use of motels as migrant housing.
Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, 28, was arraigned on Thursday in Chelsea District Court on 10 firearms-related charges and trafficking 4,995 grams of fentanyl, an amount worth approximately $1 million on the street. Among the charges were unlicensed possession of an AR-15-style rifle, possession of a large-capacity feeding device, and “alien” in possession of a firearm.
During a search of Sanchez’s room at a Quality Inn in Revere, Massachusetts—used as a temporary migrant shelter—authorities found fentanyl, cocaine, and other drugs packaged for sale.
The state’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities stated Sanchez was evicted from the shelter immediately after his arrest, declaring:
“There is zero tolerance for criminal activity in EA shelters.”Sanchez, deemed dangerous by the court, was jailed without bail. Federal immigration officers confirmed a detainer is in place, indicating potential deportation. Sanchez’s attorney described the charges as “just allegations,” pledging to fight the case.
Judge Jane D. Price ordered nearly all court documents sealed, leaving unanswered questions about when the arrest occurred and other details.
The arrest has intensified criticism of Massachusetts’ right-to-shelter law and sanctuary policies under Democrat Gov. Maura Healey. The Quality Inn, among 128 hotels and motels housing migrants since September 2022, has drawn safety concerns from local residents.
A Revere resident, worried about late-night activity near the shelter, stated:
“This arrest validates the concerns we’ve had for our families.”
This case underscores broader issues surrounding unchecked immigration, state housing policies, and public safety in communities hosting temporary migrant shelters.
