Vaughn James Malone, Violating Drug and Gun Laws, Pennsylvania 2020

PITTSBURGH, PA – A brutal display of disregard for the law has landed Vaughn James Malone, 34, in hot water with federal authorities. According to a recent indictment, Malone is accused of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman today.

The indictment, which was handed down by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, charges Malone with possessing with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine, cocaine base, and methamphetamine on or about August 26, 2020. Furthermore, the indictment alleges that Malone possessed a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime, a serious offense given his status as a convicted felon, prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Allegheny County Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Ann Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Malone, a resident of Pittsburgh, PA 15212, is facing serious consequences for his alleged actions. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.

It is essential to note that an indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Defendant: Vaughn James Malone

Criminal Charges: Possessing with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine, cocaine base, and methamphetamine, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime

City and State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Date: August 26, 2020

Sentence: To be determined

Fine: Up to $2,500,000

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