California woman sentenced in boston for role in money laundering linked to drug trafficking

BOSTON – A California woman was sentenced yesterday in federal court for her involvement in a money laundering conspiracy tied to large-scale methamphetamine and marijuana distribution. Christina Lua, 51, of Santa Rosa, Cali., was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison, followed by one year of supervised release.

Lua laundered over $200,000 of drug proceeds generated by her husband, Reshat Alkayisi, who was identified as a significant methamphetamine trafficker operating in the New England area. Lua’s actions included purchasing vehicles with cash derived from drug sales and making deposits under $10,000 to evade federal reporting requirements.

The investigation, which began in October 2020, led to the seizure of more than 160 pounds of pure methamphetamine, multiple firearms—including an AK-47 and a Glock with no serial number—and over 4,200 rounds of ammunition. Authorities also dismantled a marijuana grow operation containing hundreds of plants.

In April, Lua pleaded guilty to a second superseding indictment charging her with money laundering conspiracy. She was initially indicted in September 2021, alongside four others, as part of a broader investigation that resulted in charges against a total of 11 defendants for drug trafficking and firearm offenses.

Lua is the third defendant to be sentenced in connection with the case. The remaining eight defendants have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

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