JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A brazen act of drug trafficking has shaken the streets of Johnstown. John D. Malden, a 40-year-old resident of the city, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as ‘crack.’
According to court records, Malden distributed less than 28 grams of crack cocaine on April 25, 2013. This alarming act of drug distribution has sparked concerns among local authorities and residents alike.
United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced Malden’s guilty plea, stating that the defendant will face the consequences of his actions. Malden pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
The court was advised that Malden’s guilty plea is a direct result of an investigation led by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force. The collaborative effort between these agencies has brought a critical case to light, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. His tireless efforts have ensured that justice is served, and the community is safer as a result.
The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 9, 2015, at 10 a.m. This marked date serves as a reminder that those who engage in illicit activities will be held accountable for their actions.
Related Federal Cases
- John Doe, Crack Cocaine Distribution, Johnstown PA, 2023 · Pennsylvania
- Robert Earl Noble, Crack Cocaine Distribution, Pennsylvania 2023 · Pennsylvania
- Jeff Smith, Crack Cocaine Distribution, PA 2016 · Pennsylvania
- Edward Hicks, Crack Cocaine Trafficking, Pennsylvania 2024 · Maryland
- Ebony R. Thorne, Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine… · Maryland
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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