Sharik Mendes Formally Pleads Guilty to Supplying Heroin

The New Bedford gym owner accused of supplying heroin to local dealers has formally pleaded guilty in federal court.

According to the Standard Times, Sharik Mendes entered the guilty plea Wednesday in Boston, after a plea agreement was submitted last week.

The district court judge allowed Mendes to continue living outside of prison until his sentencing in January. Mendes could face up to 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $1 million.

Two other defendants from New Bedford, 40-year-old Tyson Depina and 22-year-old Eric Desousa, were charged along with Mendes in late June. The two have a joint status conference on November 9.