A former employee of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and a federal inmate have been charged with offenses related to synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as K2, at FMC Devens prison. Tasha Hammock, 43, is accused of providing contraband to an inmate. Raymond Gaines, 45, who was granted clemency in January 2025 reducing his sentence for drug distribution, has been indicted for possessing the substance.
Court documents reveal that Gaines was initially sentenced to over seven years in prison in 2022 after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm related to drug trafficking. He had previously served time for distributing cocaine near a school and was linked to the Orchard Park Trailblazers gang.
Hammock allegedly passed K2-laced papers to Gaines during a prison visit in August 2024 while she was employed by the state. She is also accused of handling money connected to the distribution of K2 within FMC Devens and receiving K2 at her home for this purpose. Evidence suggests that a cellphone smuggled into the prison facilitated discussions about obtaining K2.
The use of K2 poses health risks at FMC Devens, affecting both inmates and staff exposed to secondary smoke from the substance.
Charges against Hammock and Gaines carry potential penalties including up to 10 years in prison, supervised release, and fines. Sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge according to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the charges along with FBI Special Agent Ted E. Docks and DOJ-OIG Special Agent Ryan Geach. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea.
It is important to note that these charges are allegations and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
