A Massachusetts resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to a plot to murder a witness set to testify in a criminal case, according to an announcement from United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda.
Kareem Pires, 27, of Wareham, admitted guilt in U.S. District Court in Providence to conspiracy to tamper with a witness or informant by killing or attempting to kill as part of a murder-for-hire scheme. Pires is scheduled for sentencing on May 18, 2026. The sentence will be determined by a federal judge after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other legal factors.
Court documents state that Pires took part in planning the murder of a federal witness connected to an ongoing criminal matter. The conspiracy involved Pires and co-defendant Elijah Melton, who was awaiting trial at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility when the agreement was formed.
“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.”
“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.”
The prosecution is being led by Criminal Chief Stacey A. Erickson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter I. Roklan.
The investigation was conducted by 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.
