In the gritty streets of South Philadelphia, a notorious crew has been dismantled, and one of its members is now facing the music. Michael Emma, 66, a Philadelphia resident, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for his role in the “10th and O Crew’s” opioid drug conspiracy.
The scheme, which ran from July 2019 to July 2024, involved Emma and his co-conspirators selling prescription oxycodone pills obtained from doctors’ offices in the area. The pills were distributed from a 24-hour restaurant, with Emma and his crew working in shifts to maximize their profits.
Law enforcement got wind of the operation and purchased pills from one of Emma’s co-conspirators. A surveillance team then observed the co-conspirator counting the proceeds with Emma, providing evidence of their involvement in the conspiracy.
In June 2025, Emma pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances. His co-conspirators, Michael Procopio and Frank Procopio, were also convicted and sentenced to six years in prison and four years and nine months in prison, respectively.
Emma’s sentencing marks another blow to the “10th and O Crew,” a notorious group that has plagued the streets of South Philadelphia for years. The crew’s activities have been linked to the opioid epidemic, which has ravaged communities across the country.
As Emma begins his 60-month sentence, the people of Philadelphia can take some solace in knowing that justice has been served. However, the war on opioids is far from over, and law enforcement will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle the networks that fuel this deadly epidemic.
The investigation into the “10th and O Crew” is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. In the meantime, Emma will be serving his time, a reminder that those who peddle poison to the vulnerable will be held accountable.
Source: Department of Justice
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