Massachusetts Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug Charges

Keith Harlow, a member of the Vice Lord gang from Athol, Massachusetts, has pleaded guilty to a series of federal gun and drug charges in Boston. The plea was entered in the U.S. District Court, where Judge Indira Talwani scheduled his sentencing for January 12, 2027.

Harlow, who is also known by his street name "Lord Savage," admitted to charges including conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, and engaging in the business of manufacturing and dealing in firearms without a license. These charges stem from activities that occurred while Harlow was on parole, following multiple six- to ten-year concurrent state prison sentences for prior armed robberies.

According to the Justice Department, Harlow was charged in May 2025 but evaded capture until his arrest in August 2025. During this period, he was involved in a home invasion in January 2025, alongside co-conspirators Andrew Poor and Dante Machuca. The trio entered the residence of a suspected drug dealer, armed with firearms, to rob the dealer of drugs and proceeds. During the robbery, Harlow engaged in a struggle with the dealer and fired his weapon to demonstrate its authenticity, even pressing the hot barrel against the victim's abdomen.

A subsequent search of Harlow's residence on May 29, 2025, uncovered multiple firearm receivers, suspected firearm suppressors, machinegun conversion devices, 3D printers, and firearm manufacturing supplies. Additionally, approximately 100 grams of suspected cocaine were found. The investigation also revealed that Harlow and another associate, Perry, collaborated to distribute controlled substances and sell firearms throughout Massachusetts. Text messages between Harlow and Perry discussed committing multiple robberies and using firearms against various individuals.

The charges against Harlow carry significant penalties. Being a felon in possession of a firearm could result in up to 15 years in prison, while conspiracy to distribute controlled substances could lead to a sentence of up to 20 years. The charge of unlicensed manufacturing and dealing in firearms carries a potential five-year sentence, and conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery could result in up to 20 years in prison. Each charge also includes potential fines and supervised release terms.

U. S. Attorney Leah B.

Foley announced the guilty plea, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies, including the U. S. Marshal Service in Massachusetts and the Northern District of Georgia, in bringing Harlow to justice.

Assistant U. S. Attorney Philip A.

Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

Harlow's co-conspirator, Perry, was sentenced in September 2026 to 97 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of federal and state authorities to combat gang-related crime and illegal firearms trafficking in Massachusetts.