Maurice Tinsley, Violating Federal Firearms and Drug Laws, Pennsylvania 2018

Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms and Narcotics Charges

A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, according to United States Attorney Scott W. Brady.

Maurice Tinsley, 37, formerly of McKees Rocks, Penn Hills and the Northside neighborhoods of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Hornak on December 3, 2018.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July 2016, Tinsley conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin. Specifically, on July 15, 2016, Tinsley possessed with intent to distribute between 40 and 60 grams of heroin. Additionally, on the same date, Tinsley, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2019 at 1:30 pm. The law provides for a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $4,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain incarcerated.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Major Crimes Section is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tinsley, with the valuable assistance of multiple state, county and local police departments including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Robinson Township Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/former-allegheny-county-resident-admits-violating-federal-firearms-and-drug-laws