PITTSBURGH – In a grim revelation of cross-state drug trafficking, Ronnell Lawrence, 31, from Wilmerding, PA, has pleaded guilty in federal court for possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl. The substance, sourced in New York City, was seized during an investigation that led back to the streets of Pittsburgh.
The plea came before United States District Judge David Cercone, who will sentence Lawrence on September 10, 2019, at 1 p.m. The law mandates a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison, or a fine of up to $5,000,000, depending on the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
According to court documents, on July 10, 2017, Lawrence embarked on a journey from Wilmerding to New York City. He returned after just one hour, arriving back in Pittsburgh. The following day, he picked up his brother, Ronnell Lawrence, who was his co-defendant. Both brothers were observed placing a large camouflage backpack into the back of a Nissan Pathfinder.
Investigators halted the vehicle for expired registration and discovered eight bags filled with heroin and fentanyl, totaling approximately 390 grams. The substance was confirmed to be a mixture by the DEA Laboratory. Lawrence’s brother was previously sentenced to five years in prison on the same charge.
Lawrence has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain so until sentencing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is handling the prosecution of this case for the government. The investigation was conducted by the DEA, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET), Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and North Versailles Police Department.
This case underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement to combat the drug crisis, as they continue to crack down on those who bring dangerous substances into communities.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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