Pedro Noriega, Heroin Trafficking, Pennsylvania 2015

SCRANTON, Pennsylvania – A Luzerne County man is facing federal heroin trafficking charges following an investigation by the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Narcotics Investigations (BNI) of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).

According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Pedro Noriega, age 42, of Plymouth, Luzerne County, is charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. The charge stems from an investigation in April 2015 in which investigators arranged to make a purchase of heroin from Noriega and then obtained a search warrant for Noriega’s residence on West Main Street in Plymouth.

During the search, authorities allegedly seized approximately 495 bags of suspected heroin, 19 grams of raw heroin, packaging materials and drug paraphernalia from a bedroom in the residence.

The investigation was a joint effort between the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, the BNI, and the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara will be prosecuting the case.

Noriega’s indictment is only an allegation, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. If convicted, Noriega faces up to 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

The maximum penalty under federal law is up to 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines require the judge to consider various factors, including the nature and seriousness of the offense, the history and characteristics of the defendant, and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public, and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational, and medical needs.

Noriega’s case is a reminder of the ongoing struggle against heroin trafficking in our communities. Law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to identify and prosecute those who engage in this deadly trade, and we will continue to support their efforts.