Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty To Distribute Crack Cocaine In 2009
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. ‑ A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating various federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Rashaun R. Puryear, 31, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 1, to June 23, 2009, Puryear conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack." On June 16, 2009, he distributed less than five grams of cocaine base, and on June 23, 2009, he distributed five grams or more of cocaine base.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Apr. 7, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 100 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, 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.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation/Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Puryear.
