John Byrnes, Cocaine Possession, Pennsylvania 2020

PITTSBURGH – A Duquesne man is facing serious federal charges after being accused of possessing a large quantity of cocaine with the intent to distribute.

According to a federal indictment, John Byrnes, 43, possessed 500 grams or more of cocaine on or about June 6, 2020. The indictment, which was announced by United States Attorney Scott W. Brady, carries a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison to a term of life, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000 or both.

The law provides for an actual sentence to be based upon the prior record, if any, of the defendant and the seriousness of the offenses.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The investigation leading to the indictment was conducted by the DEA and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Narcotics Task Force (DANET), in conjunction with the Swissvale and Ross Township Police.

An indictment is an accusation. Byrnes is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The case against Byrnes serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of engaging in cocaine trafficking. The federal government takes a zero-tolerance approach to this type of crime, and those who are caught will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

Byrnes’ case is currently pending in federal court. The outcome of the case will depend on the evidence presented and the court’s decision.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Drug Trafficking

Steve P. Kennedy, Cocaine Possession, Illinois 2020

Aug 18, 2021

Drug Trafficking

Jimenez James Love, Fentanyl Trafficking, Texas 2023

Apr 17, 2026

Drug Trafficking

Clyde Anderson Jr., Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine, West Virginia 2022

Aug 19, 2024

Drug Trafficking

Daniel Saucedo, Cocaine Trafficking, Pennsylvania 2023

Dec 19, 2024