Henryville Man Gets Probation in Steroid Scheme

SCRANTON, PA – Robert Cartalemi, 32, of Henryville, Pennsylvania, avoided jail time but wasn’t entirely off the hook, receiving two years’ probation for his involvement in a steroid trafficking operation. The sentence was handed down June 8, 2017, by U.S. District Court Judge Richard P. Conaboy, marking the end of a case that began with a suspicious package from overseas.

The bust originated on October 15, 2014, when investigators intercepted a shipment addressed to Cartalemi originating from China. Inside, authorities found multiple controlled substances – anabolic steroids – ordered from a known supplier. Rather than simply seizing the package, investigators delivered it to Cartalemi, setting the stage for a search of his property.

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Cartalemi willingly accepted the package. A subsequent search warrant execution confirmed the presence of the illicit substances, solidifying the case against him. Cartalemi later pleaded guilty to a criminal information on March 2, 2017, admitting to possession with intent to distribute the steroids – a felony offense.

Despite the seriousness of the charges, Judge Conaboy opted for leniency, citing Cartalemi’s clean record, acceptance of responsibility, and a determination that he wasn’t a danger to the community. The sentence includes two years of probation, with the first three months to be served under home confinement. It’s a slap on the wrist for trafficking in performance-enhancing drugs, but a reprieve nonetheless.

The financial penalty isn’t negligible, however. Cartalemi was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine as part of his sentence, a reminder that even with a favorable outcome, illegal activity carries a cost. The Pennsylvania State Police and the United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation, demonstrating inter-agency cooperation in cracking down on illegal drug distribution.

Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni prosecuted the case, bringing it to a close. While Cartalemi avoids prison, his conviction serves as a warning to others tempted to import and distribute illegal substances. The Grimy Times will continue to follow federal crime cases throughout the Middle District of Pennsylvania and beyond. # # #