Feds say they've cracked cocaine ring in Dorchester

Federal officials today announced the indictment of 20 people charged with participation in a cocaine ring that had supplied Dorchester, Mattapan and Jamaica Plain for more than 20 years.

At the center of the ring, the US Attorney's office in Boston says, was Michael Williams, 43, who owned three properties on Greenwood Street and one on Peacevale Road that officials charge were used for storing, preparing and distributing cocaine and crack. Federal agents also searched an apartment at 302 Centre St. in Jamaica Plain and locations in Quincy and Brockton.

Convictions would carry minimum sentences of 10 years to life, lifetime supervision after release and up to a $4 million fine each.

In addition to Williams, those arrested include Donald Williams, 33, and Noel Williams, 54, of Dorchester. Also: Dwayne Person, 40, Dennis Person, Kevin Pena, 24, Anastacio Lopez, 34, Eydris Adams, 34, Nicole Moore, 33, Beverly Perons, 39, Jerome Marion, 33, George Leary, 60, Ramon Lomax, 45, Anthony Madden, 49, Shawn Walker, 35, Debra Brown, 50 and Frank Copelnad, 45, all of Dorchester. Miguel Angel Nouel, 30, of Jamaica Plan was also arrested. They are charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 280 grams of cocaine base.

Innocent, etc.