Federal Felon Indicted for Illegally Possessing Crack Cocaine and Pistols

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The indictment named Leon E. Szewczyk, 34, of Johnstown, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on April 6, 2018, Szewczyk possessed with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack," and a quantity of fentanyl. Also, on April 6, 2018, he was found in possession of a loaded Raven ArmsModel MP25, .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol and a Ruger, Model LCP, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol. On Nov. 2, 2010, Szewczyk was convicted in United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, of drug trafficking, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 70 years in prison and a fine of $6,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Szewczyk.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.