Newark Man Conspired to Possess and Distribute Heroin

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Newark, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Shawn Robinson, age 36, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Robinson conspired with other individuals to possess with intent to distribute, and possessed with intent to distribute over 100 grams of heroin.

The Court was further advised that on October 14, 2015, one of Robinson’s co-conspirators made arrangements to sell 100 bricks of heroin for $14,500 to another individual. Robinson’s co-conspirator also agreed to advance an additional 50 bricks of heroin. Robinson and another of his co-conspirators arrived at the Hyatt Place in Robinson Township to deliver the heroin. When they arrived, Robinson was carrying a black plastic shopping bag. Inside of the shopping bag, officers recovered a clear plastic vacuum-sealed bag containing 150 bricks of heroin, weighing 185.92g.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Robinson remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy 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 Robinson.