Kareem Rock, Methamphetamine Trafficking, Pennsylvania 2021

Kareem Rock, a 28-year-old former resident of Garfield Heights, Ohio, has pleaded guilty to methamphetamine trafficking in western Pennsylvania, federal authorities announced.

The nine-month wiretap investigation, known as the Return to Sender investigation, targeted drug trafficking in and around the counties of Jefferson, Clearfield, and Allegheny, United States Attorney Cindy Chung said.

As part of the investigation, Pennsylvania State Police troopers stopped Rock and a co-defendant in a vehicle on February 6, 2021, and seized approximately 590 grams of methamphetamine. Further investigation led to the seizure of an additional 200 grams of methamphetamine, 43 grams of fentanyl, and a firearm from a hotel room rented by Rock and the co-defendant.

Rock faces up to life in prison and a fine of $10,000,000, or both, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possession with the intent to distribute.

The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

Pending sentencing, Rock remains detained. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/ohio-man-pleads-guilty-drug-charges