Blake Young, Racketeering, Pennsylvania 2026

Convicted of racketeering activity at Cambria County Prison, 36-year-old Blake Young of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal racketeering laws. United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced this plea today.

According to the prosecution, from July 2023 to December 2023, while incarcerated at the Cambria County Prison, Young conducted and participated in the affairs of an enterprise through racketeering activity. Young bribed correctional officers and medical staff to smuggle contraband into the prison, which included cell phones, K2, and Suboxone. These items were then sold to other inmates for a substantial profit.

The items smuggled into the prison were used by inmates to facilitate their involvement in the prison’s illicit trade. Young’s racketeering activity was a threat to the safety and security of the prison, as well as the community at large.

Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Special Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, and the Cambria County Prison conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Young.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.

Blake Young is scheduled to be sentenced on June 5, 2026, by Judge Stephanie L. Haines. The guilty plea and upcoming sentencing are a significant outcome in the ongoing efforts to combat racketeering activity within the prison system.

The conviction of Blake Young is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting crimes of this nature. It serves as a reminder that those who engage in racketeering activity will be held accountable for their actions.

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