In an astonishing turn of events, a murder-for-hire plot involving two Massachusetts gang members has been disrupted after the intended hitman turned into a federal informant. This gripping case involves Kareem Pires and Elijah Melton, two individuals with a detailed criminal background in gang-related activities.

Conspiracy and Charges

Pires, who recently pleaded not guilty in Rhode Island U.S. District Court, was accused of planning the murders of rival gang members and a witness involved in a separate drug trafficking charge against Melton. According to assistant U.S. attorney Stacey Erickson, “The witness was to be killed with a firearm and the use of a silencer that [Pires] was to have provided.” These individuals were members of the same gang operating in Brockton, Massachusetts.

The Arrest and Evidence

The conspiracy began unfolding months ago when Melton was arrested for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl. While incarcerated at Wyatt Detention Center, Melton discussed how his gang had put out a $150,000 bounty on a witness’s life. He also tried to recruit an unnamed inmate, who later became an FBI informant.

Code Words and Hidden Communication

The involved parties used code words like ‘Hannah Montana’ and ‘Miley Cyrus’ to refer to their planned targets, creating an unusual layer of complexity to their communications. As FBI special agent Zach Brune detailed, any mention of ‘I like that song’ signaled proceeding with the murders. The convoluted language aimed to evade detection but ended up as crucial evidence against them.

The Informant’s Role

After recording conversations between Melton and the informant within the detention center earlier this year, the FBI gained pivotal insights into the murder plots. The informant was promised $75,000 for eliminating one rival or $100,000 for both, according to court documents. In April, when released from prison, he had an in-person meeting with Pires where further incriminating statements were recorded.

Bail and Legal Proceedings

The legal landscape continues to evolve as both defendants face severe charges. Pires remains without bail while Melton awaits future hearings. Assistant U.S. attorney Stacey Erickson emphasized their efforts: “We are diligently preparing for the upcoming court hearing.” The next significant date is July 17 for another bail hearing.