Duquesne Teen Pleads Guilty To Violating Federal Drug Laws

PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Rahde Williamson, 19, of Duquesne, pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January of 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around April of 2014, Williamson conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and of possession with intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Feb. 20, 2015 at 3 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Williamson.