Loretto FCI Inmate Busted with Heroin Substitute

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Another lockup, another stash. Christopher D. Rarick, 37, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pennsylvania, is facing serious federal charges after being indicted by a grand jury in Johnstown for possession of a prohibited object – a quantity of Buprenorphine. Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced the indictment today, adding another name to the ever-growing list of those attempting to run their operations, or simply get high, from behind bars.

The indictment details that on February 16, 2017, Rarick was found to be in possession of the substance, commonly known as a heroin substitute. While the specific amount hasn’t been released, any amount of contraband within a federal prison is considered a major security breach and a serious offense. The feds aren’t playing around when it comes to keeping drugs out of these facilities, and Rarick is about to learn that lesson the hard way.

If convicted, Rarick is looking at a maximum sentence of 20 years behind bars – on top of whatever time he’s already serving – and a hefty fine of $250,000. However, the actual sentence will be determined by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the severity of the crime and Rarick’s prior criminal history. A lengthy addition to his sentence seems likely, given the nature of the offense.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is leading the prosecution, tasked with building a case that will stick. The investigation was a joint effort between the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the dedicated Special Investigative Staff at the Federal Correctional Institution. These are the people working tirelessly to keep the prisons, and the public, safe – and to bring down those who try to game the system.

It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is simply an accusation, and Rarick is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the evidence presented to the grand jury was deemed sufficient to move forward with the prosecution, signaling a strong case against the inmate. The wheels of justice are turning, and Rarick will have his day in court.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. The ongoing battle against contraband within federal prisons remains a constant struggle, and we’ll be there to report on every bust, every indictment, and every conviction. This isn’t just about locking up criminals; it’s about maintaining order and safety within a system designed to rehabilitate, not facilitate further crime.

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