PHILADELPHIA - William Andrews, 52, of Philadelphia, pleaded guilty today to charges stemming from a drug distribution conspiracy involving approximately 7,000 pills of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone. Andrews obtained oxycodone pills from various sources, including a licensed physician who issued prescriptions authorizing Andrews to obtain oxycodone pills from licensed pharmacies. Andrews then supplied oxycodone pills to his alleged co-conspirator, Joseph Fareri, for the purpose of selling the pills to customers, typically charging $20 for a 30 milligram pill. Andrews also sold oxycodone pills to customers.

In addition to the conspiracy count, Andrews admitted he distributed the pills and that he distributed pills within 1,000 feet of a protected area. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2012. Andrews faces a potential sentence of 151 to 188 months in prison. His co-defendants, Joseph Fareri and John Marshall, are awaiting trial.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Attorney General’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Troyer and Frank Labor and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Erik Olson and Heather Castellino of the Pennsylvania State Attorney General’s Office.

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525