Manel Smith, Heroin Trafficking, Pennsylvania 2023

A New Jersey man has been charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin in Pennsylvania, authorities announced yesterday. Manel Smith, 39, was stopped by police while driving through Lebanon County.

According to the indictment, Smith was found to be in possession of heroin with the intent to distribute it. The investigation was conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency.

Smith is facing up to 40 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The case was brought as part of a district-wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic of heroin use and distribution.

The heroin initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Schinnour has been assigned to prosecute the case. The indictment and criminal information are only allegations, and all persons charged are presumed innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for possession with intent to distribute heroin is 40 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The judge will consider various factors when determining the sentence, including the nature and seriousness of the offense, the defendant’s history and characteristics, and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public, and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational, and medical needs.

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