Johnstowm, Pa. – A gritty federal grand jury has indicted two local residents on severe drug charges, charging them with the distribution and possession of crack cocaine. United States Attorney David J. Hickton today announced the charges against James K. Parker, 40, and Ebony R. Thorne, 30, both of Johnstown.
The trio-count indictment alleges that Parker distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base on October 18, 2012. Just over two weeks later, Parker and Thorne were accused of distributing the same amount to others on October 30. The couple was also charged with possessing less than 28 grams of crack cocaine with intent to distribute on October 31, 2012.
Parker, if convicted, faces a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison, $3,000,000 in fines, or both. Thorne could be sentenced to up to 40 years in prison and $2,000,000 in fines, or both penalties. The actual sentences will depend on the severity of the offenses and any prior criminal history.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is spearheading the government’s prosecution of this case. The investigation leading to these charges was conducted by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force.
This isn’t just a drug bust; it’s a stark reminder of the illegal market for crack cocaine that plagues our communities. As the federal government takes action, residents call for stronger measures to tackle this persistent issue.
An indictment is merely an accusation. Parker and Thorne are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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