James West, Fentanyl Distribution, Pennsylvania 2024

A former Sharon resident has been brought to justice for his involvement in a fentanyl distribution ring in Mercer County, Pennsylvania.

James West, 48, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least four grams of fentanyl between 2020 and 2021, according to a recent announcement from United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan.

The sentencing occurred on January 17, 2024, before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In addition to his prison term, West was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release upon his release from prison.

West pleaded guilty to the charges last year, admitting to his role in the fentanyl distribution conspiracy. The investigation and prosecution of West were the result of a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and others.

Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin C. Dobkin and Craig W. Haller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. Olshan commended the agencies involved in the investigation for their efforts in bringing West to justice.

The prosecution of West is part of a larger effort to combat organized crime and disrupt the flow of illicit substances in communities throughout the United States. The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven approach to identify and dismantle high-level drug traffickers and other criminal networks.

West’s case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of fentanyl and other opioids on communities across the country. As law enforcement continues to crack down on those involved in the illicit drug trade, it is essential that individuals and communities remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/former-sharon-resident-sentenced-conspiring-distribute-fentanyl