Elk County Man Violated Federal Firearms And Narcotics Laws

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Brockport, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

James A. Volpe, 55, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Volpe distributed an imprint die on Aug. 20, 2012, which would facilitate the production of counterfeit Viagra tablets. In addition, on Nov. 1, 2012, Volpe possessed with the intent to distribute in excess of 50 marijuana plants and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and he also possessed a German Sports Gun pistol. He had been convicted in 2009 in United States District Court of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms. Unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is such a crime.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 29, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 58 years in prison, a fine of $5,510,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Volpe.

According to Mr. Hickton, Volpe is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.