Beaver Falls Man Admits Violating Federal Drug, Gun Laws
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Acting United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar announced today, April 26, 2010, that on April 23, 2010, Freddie Lamont Cleckley, a resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws.
Cleckley, age 29, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Almon S. Burke, Jr. advised the court that on March 11, 2009, Cleckley possessed a .40 caliber pistol in furtherance of his possession and intent to distribute 5 grams of crack cocaine. Cleckley had previously been convicted of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, aggravated assault and recklessly endangering another person and is, therefore, prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for August 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the New Brighton Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cleckley.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
