A Massachusetts resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to a murder-for-hire plot targeting a federal witness. Kareem Pires, 27, of Wareham, admitted to conspiring to tamper with a witness or informant by killing or attempting to kill as part of an effort to prevent testimony in a criminal case pending before the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts.
According to information presented in court, Pires was involved in planning the killing of a federal witness associated with an ongoing criminal matter. The conspiracy was formed between Pires and co-defendant Elijah Melton while Melton was awaiting trial at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility.
United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda commented on the case: “Threats or acts of violence against witnesses, or anyone involved in the administration of justice strike at the very foundation of our legal system,” said United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “This guilty plea reflects our commitment, along with law enforcement partners, to investigate and prosecute anyone who seeks to intimidate or harm those who are witnesses in court proceedings.”
Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division, added: “Kareem Pires not only wanted the witness dead, but he was also willing to help kill other intended targets,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Given Mr. Pires’ lack of respect for human life, he belongs behind bars, and that’s exactly where today’s conviction will keep him. We refuse to cede our cities to criminals who think solving a problem means pulling a trigger. That’s why your FBI and our partners will continue to work together and bring all our resources to bear to disrupt deadly plots like this one in an effort to keep our communities safe.”
Pires is scheduled for sentencing on May 18, 2026. The sentence will be determined by a federal district judge after reviewing relevant guidelines and statutory factors.
The prosecution is being handled by Criminal Chief Stacey A. Erickson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter I. Roklan.
The investigation involved both the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service for the District of Massachusetts with support from staff at Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Rhode Island.
