Pitcairn Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun Laws
A 40-year-old Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws.
Lamar Rice, a convicted felon, is accused of maintaining a drug-involved premises and possessing 100 or more marijuana plants with the intent to distribute. He is also charged with possessing ammunition, a crime that is prohibited for a convicted felon under federal law.
The indictment, returned on December 12, 2017, names Rice as the sole defendant. The charges against Rice include:
- Maintaining a drug-involved premises
- Possessing 100 or more marijuana plants with the intent to distribute
- Possessing ammunition
The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for the drug charges. Rice also faces a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both, on the possession of ammunition charge.
Rice was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. This case will be heard in federal court.
Rice’s case highlights the ongoing struggle with crime in Pennsylvania. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition. The charges against him demonstrate the serious consequences of violating federal laws.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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