On Sunday, February 9, 2025, members of the A-7, C-6, and D-14 Drug Control Units conducted surveillance in the Massachusetts Avenue/Melnea Cass Boulevard/Southampton Street area as part of an ongoing effort to address drug activity.
During the operation, officers observed multiple individuals engaging in behavior consistent with drug distribution near the McDonald’s at 870 Massachusetts Avenue. A man, later identified as Kevin Howard-Lee, 36, of Boston, was seen conducting hand-to-hand transactions with two individuals. Another man, Angel Gomez, 30, of Boston, was observed using a blanket in an apparent attempt to obstruct the view of the transaction.
As officers approached, Howard-Lee attempted to flee but was quickly detained. During the struggle, a firearm holster fell from his possession. A subsequent pat-frisk led to the recovery of a loaded Smith & Wesson firearm. Howard-Lee was also found in possession of a bag containing tan powder, 24 capsules of a white substance (later identified as creatine), a black scale, and a folding knife. He was placed under arrest and is expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court on the following charges:
- Distribution of Class B
- Possession With Intent to Distribute Class A
- Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition Without an FID Card
- Carrying a Firearm Without a License (Loaded)
- Carrying a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
- Receiving Stolen Property
Gomez was found to have an active arrest warrant and was in possession of suspected crack cocaine. While at booking, officers recovered additional drugs, including suspected crack cocaine and fentanyl. During the search, an officer was exposed to fentanyl and was evaluated at a local hospital as a precaution. Gomez was arrested on his outstanding warrant and will be arraigned in Roxbury District Court on additional charges of:
- Possession With Intent to Distribute Class B (Subsequent Offense)
- Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws
- Possession of Class A
One individual was observed attempting to conceal items upon officers’ approach and was evaluated by EMS on scene. Another individual was found to be in possession of suspected crack cocaine. Both will be summonsed to court for drug-related offenses.