North Hills Man Violated Federal Drug Laws

PITTSBURGH - A North Hills man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ryan Raithel, 33, of Wexford, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around July 2011, and continuing to in and around May 2013, Raithel conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone, Schedule II controlled substances. Additionally, on or about Aug. 10, 2012 Raithel possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 14, 2014. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, 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.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, acting together with the Economy Borough and Cranberry Township Police Departments, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ryan Raithel.