ALLENTOWN—Melvin Aviles, 34, of Allentown, PA, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for running a cocaine trafficking operation. Aviles pleaded guilty on April 8, 2014 to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, four counts of distributing and aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine, one count of distributing and aiding and abetting the distribution of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a public school, five counts of distribution of cocaine, and one count of attempted possession with intent to distribute.

Between October 2012 and April 2013, Aviles operated a cocaine trafficking business, obtaining cocaine from sources in Puerto Rico and other locations for resale in the Allentown area. Aviles arranged to have parcels shipped via the United States Postal Service from Puerto Rico to various addresses in Allentown. Once the cocaine was delivered, Aviles would transport the cocaine to his Allentown residence, weigh it, and repackage it for further distribution in and around the Allentown area. Some of the cocaine sales were conducted within 1,000 feet of schools.

In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge James Knoll Gardner ordered 12 years of supervised release and a $1,100 special assessment.

“The successful result of this prosecution is due, in large part, to the outstanding collaboration of local, state, and federal law enforcement. The tireless efforts and diligent work of the officers and agents investigating this case, made it possible to get this drug trafficker off the streets of Allentown.”

“This case represents just the most recent success derived from the close working relationship that exists between the Pennsylvania State Police and our federal and local law enforcement partners,” said Pennsylvania State Police Captain Brian Tobin. “We will continue to put forth our combined resources in order to protect the citizens of this Commonwealth and ensure those who willing choose to commit crimes are brought to justice.”

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Allentown Police Department with assistance by the Office of the Lehigh County District Attorney. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sherri A. Stephan.