A 38-year-old Wilkes-Barre man has been charged with methamphetamine trafficking and firearms charges following a federal grand jury indictment. According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, James Hughes is accused of possessing over 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute on May 12, 2021 in Wilkes-Barre.
The indictment also alleges that Hughes possessed a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson handgun in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Notably, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to unknown reasons.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at bringing together law enforcement agencies to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer. The program has been successful in the past and was reinvigorated in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals.
It is essential to note that indictments are only allegations, and all persons charged are presumed innocent until found guilty in court. The maximum penalty for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
According to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the judge will consider various factors when determining the sentence, including the nature of the offense, the defendant’s history, and the need to punish, protect the public, and provide for the defendant’s needs.
A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date. Grimy Times will provide updates on the case as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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