SCRANTON – Ricky Charles Patterson, 44, of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, is facing a life sentence after being indicted on federal charges of drug trafficking and firearm offenses. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Patterson stands accused of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, both Schedule II controlled substances.
The indictment further alleges that Patterson carried a Smith & Wesson .44 caliber revolver, using it in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities while fully aware of his status as a prohibited possessor due to prior felony convictions.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aiming to dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The investigation leading to the charges was a joint effort by the ATF, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Kingston Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Tatum Wilson will be handling the prosecution of Patterson’s case. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses includes life imprisonment, supervised release following imprisonment, and substantial fines.
The charges are only allegations at this stage, and Patterson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts from various Department of Justice task forces to combat illegal immigration, eliminate cartels, and protect communities from violent crime.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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