Washington, PA Felon Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun Laws

PITTSBURGH - A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment yesterday against a resident of the City of Washington, Washington County, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count superseding indictment named Romone Barnes, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the superseding indictment, Barnes distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl on or about June 26, 2017, and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of methoxyacetyl fentanyl on or about September 25, 2017. Barnes is further charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon on or about July 6, 2017. Barnes has several prior felony drug convictions; it is a violation of federal law for a convicted felon to possess a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. 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 Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Task Force Officers with Pennsylvania State Police and Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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