North Side Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun Laws

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on Aug. 17, named Maurice Tinsley, age 35, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the indictment, on July 15, 2016, Tinsley possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further alleges that on July 15, 2016, Tinsley conspired with others to distribute and to possess with intent to deliver 100 grams or more of heroin. On July 15, 2016, Tinsley also possessed a loaded 9 mm caliber semi-automatic S&W pistol, and 9 mm caliber ammunition in furtherance of those drug offenses, after having been convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those cases include one conviction for Illegally Carrying a Firearm Without a License and one conviction for a Felony Drug offense.

The law provides for a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,500,000, and the forfeiture of the firearm, ammunition, and money. 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 Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

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