Hazleton Pill Pusher Tejeda Admits to Drug Conspiracy

SCRANTON, PA – Franklin Tejeda, 35, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, admitted in federal court yesterday to running a drug distribution network that flooded the streets with dangerous and highly addictive prescription pills. The plea, entered before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, details a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, hydrocodone, Tramadol, Diazepam, and other Schedule II and IV drugs.

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Tejeda wasn’t just a middleman; he was the architect of the operation. Between November 2014 and March 2016, Tejeda regularly orchestrated the delivery of parcels packed with illicit pills directly to co-conspirators’ homes in Hazleton. From there, the drugs were pushed to customers, fueling addiction and lining Tejeda’s pockets. The source of this poison? Shady suppliers operating out of India.

The case against Tejeda began to build in April 2016 when a criminal information was filed by the United States Attorney’s Office. It was a collaborative effort, a joint investigation spearheaded by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), vigilant U.S. Postal Inspectors who tracked the incoming shipments, and the Hazleton Police, who knew the streets and the players.

Judge Mannion hasn’t set a sentencing date yet. First, a presentence investigation will be conducted, a deep dive into Tejeda’s background and the scope of his criminal activity. But the stakes are high. Tejeda is facing a potential maximum sentence of 20 years behind bars. This isn’t a slap on the wrist; it’s a potential life-altering consequence for a man who knowingly peddled misery.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is leading the prosecution, determined to hold Tejeda accountable for his actions. But the sentencing won’t be a simple calculation. The Judge will consider a complex web of factors – the severity of the offense, Tejeda’s criminal history, and the need to both punish him and offer potential avenues for rehabilitation. The statutory maximum is a ceiling, not a guarantee.

The federal sentencing guidelines demand a holistic approach. Judge Mannion will weigh the harm caused by Tejeda’s drug trafficking, his personal history, and the broader need to protect the public. While a 20-year sentence is possible, the final decision rests with the court. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing as it develops.