Leon E. Szewczyk, Crack Cocaine Possession, Pennsylvania 2018

A 35-year-old Johnstown resident has pleaded guilty to a federal charge of violating narcotics laws.

Leon E. Szewczyk, a resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count of violating federal narcotics laws in the United States District Court in Johnstown.

The crime occurred on April 6, 2018, when Szewczyk possessed more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack," with the intent to distribute it.

As part of the guilty plea, Szewczyk faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and up to life in prison under federal sentencing guidelines.

In addition to the prison time, Szewczyk may also face a fine of up to $8,000,000, or both.

The law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation include the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

Sentencing for Szewczyk is scheduled for December 16, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/johnstown-man-possessed-crack-cocaine