Ohio Woman Admits Providing Drugs to Federal Inmate at PA Prison

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Ashtabula, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of providing contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Patricia Peak, 37, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about June 7, 2015, Peak provided marijuana and suboxone to Angel Gonzales while visiting him at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 16, 2016 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, 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 Peak on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Peak.