Richard Anthony Burke, Fentanyl and Gun Law Violations, Pennsylvania 2016

Pittsburgh, PA - A Verona man has been charged with federal drug and gun law violations after a superseding indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh.

The indictment, which was returned on June 25, named Richard Anthony Burke, 29, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on November 12, 2016, Burke possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. On February 3, 2017, Burke, a convicted felon, was also in possession of a firearm. As a convicted felon, Burke is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 40 years' imprisonment and a fine of $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Burke's crimes carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,250,000. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/verona-man-charged-federal-drug-and-gun-law-violations