Convicted Drug Dealer from Youngstown, Ohio Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Heroin in New Castle, PA

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Youngstown, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Frank Christian, 46, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about February 22, 2016, in the City of New Castle, Christian distributed approximately 90 grams of heroin to a confidential informant. Christian has a prior federal felony conviction for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and was on federal supervised release at the time of his arrest.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2019 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than thirty years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Judge continued Christian’s detention.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police and New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christian.