Erie Man Admits Bringing 8 Pounds of Meth from Arizona to Erie

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drugs laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Willie C. Sanders III pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about July 20, 2019, Sanders possessed with the intent to distribute 8.38 pounds of methamphetamine which he had brought in a suitcase from Arizona through the Erie Airport.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for November 17, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Sanders on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sanders.