A member of the Boston-based gang, H-Block, has been sentenced in federal court for drug conspiracy charges. Avery Lewis, also known as “Wave,” was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. In January 2025, Lewis pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Lewis was among ten members and associates of H-Block charged in August 2024 after a multi-year investigation initiated in response to increased gang-related activities. The investigation led to the seizure of over 500 grams of cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and more than 20,000 doses of drug-laced paper.
The H-Block street gang is recognized as one of Boston’s most influential gangs. Originally formed in the 1980s as the Humboldt Raiders, it re-emerged in the 2000s under its current name. The gang has a history of violent encounters with law enforcement.
Lewis was identified as a long-time member and daily dealer within the gang. He sold cocaine on multiple occasions to an undercover officer and coordinated other criminal activities with fellow members.
On April 5, 2023, Lewis was arrested with approximately 250 grams of cocaine found in his vehicle. Additionally, he faced state charges from a March 2024 altercation where a concealed gun discharged during an encounter with a police officer.
Lewis’ criminal record includes prior convictions for drug possession and firearm offenses. He is the first defendant sentenced among those charged in this case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the sentencing along with several law enforcement officials involved in the investigation: Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; Stephen Belleau from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Randy Maloney from U.S. Secret Service; Ted E. Docks from FBI’s Boston Division; and Jonathan Mellone from U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General.
The case was part of efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) which focuses on dismantling high-level criminal organizations through a collaborative approach involving multiple agencies.
The details provided are allegations against remaining defendants who are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
