Donora Man Pleads Guilty to Dealing Crack Cocaine
| U.S. Department of Justice March 25, 2011 |
PITTSBURGH—A resident of Donora, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Eric Cook, 35, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Dec. 18, 2008, Cook possessed and intended to distribute 50 grams or more of crack.
Judge Bloch scheduled sentencing for July 28, 2011, at 12:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years nor more than life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered Cook remain detained without bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Swartz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eric Cook.