Johnstown Woman Conspired To Distribute Crack Cocaine

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Donna M. Hawk, 48, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Jan. 31, to April 23, 2013, Hawk conspired with co-defendants to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 4, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, 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 Hawk on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., 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 Hawk.