In a shocking turn of events, Durrell Fortson, a 45-year-old resident of Seven Fields, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.
The charges stem from a traffic stop on November 16, 2022, where law enforcement officials discovered a stolen .40 caliber handgun loaded with thirteen rounds of ammunition underneath the driver’s seat. The vehicle also contained two gallon-sized bags of cocaine, a bag with two kilogram wrappers and cocaine residue, and a digital scale from the back seat area.
Fortson’s guilty plea comes after a thorough investigation by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The maximum total penalty for the drug charge is a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. The maximum total penalty for the firearm charge is a term of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
Judge William S. Stickman scheduled sentencing for June 11, 2024. The actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Fortson’s case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drug trafficking and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat this issue. As the community continues to grapple with the consequences of addiction, it is imperative that those responsible for perpetuating this cycle are held accountable.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as sentencing approaches in June 2024.
Mandatory Facts:
Defendant/Respondent Name: Durrell Fortson
Criminal Charges: Possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime
City and State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Exact Date: November 16, 2022
Sentence or Outcome: Pleaded guilty, sentencing scheduled for June 11, 2024
Dollar Amounts: $1,000,000 (fine) and $250,000 (fine)
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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