Andre Watson, 47, of Nashua, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his involvement in a national drug trafficking ring. Courtesy photo/New Hampshire Department of Corrections

NASHUA – Andre Watson, 47, of Nashua, was recently sentenced to 12 years in prison and five years of supervised release for his participation in a national drug trafficking ring.

According to federal law enforcement, investigators became aware of the operation in October 2020. By the end of the year, they had identified Reshat Alkayisi as the supplier, providing large quantities of methamphetamine to several New England distributors, including Watson.

He received four pounds of methamphetamine from Alkayisi in May 2021. Two months later, Watson was arrested when authorities seized numerous weapons from his vehicle and residence.

According to the sales ledger on Alkayisi’s computer, more than 660 pounds of methamphetamine were distributed from January through June 2021.

In September 2021, Watson was charged in a superseding indictment with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

In April of this year, Watson pled guilty to one count of a second superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

While investigating Alkayisi, investigators seized more than 160 pounds of methamphetamine, an AK-47, a Glock with no serial number, two loaded Smith & Wesson handguns and more than 4,200 rounds of ammunition. An illegal marijuana grow operation was also dismantled.

Ten other individuals have pleaded guilty to being involved in the drug trafficking ring. They are charged with controlled substance offenses, firearm offenses and money laundering offenses.