Johnny Perez, a 32-year-old convict known as “Ghost,” has been released back onto the streets of New York City following a commutation of his sentence by former President Joe Biden. 

Perez was among nearly 2,500 federal inmates convicted of non-violent drug offenses who had their sentences commuted on January 17, 2025, just days before Biden left office, NY Post reports.

Perez was originally arrested in 2021 for his role in a 24-hour crack cocaine operation in Times Square. The drug ring, described by authorities as a “24-hour open-air bazaar,” reportedly generated over $10,000 weekly through continuous sales conducted in shifts. During an 11-day period in March and April 2021, the group conducted more than 650 hand-to-hand sales.  

In addition to Perez, at least three other individuals arrested during the 2021 bust also had their sentences commuted. One of them, Aaron Starks, was previously sentenced to six years in prison.  

Law enforcement officials have expressed frustration over the commutations. 

#Clique, somebody get 50 Cent on the line! Ghost is loose!