Cambria County Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics and Firearms Violations

JOHNSTOWN, PA—A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dashaun J. Carmichael, 31, pleaded guilty to two counts of narcotics trafficking and one count of a firearms violation before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on February 3, 2010, Carmichael distributed less than five grams of cocaine base, commonly known as “crack,” and was thereafter found in possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of crack cocaine. He also carried, during and in relation to the drug trafficking crime of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of crack cocaine, a Ruger P85 9mm pistol. Federal law strictly prohibits persons who are engaged in drug trafficking offenses from carrying firearms.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 12, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in federal prison, a fine of $2,250,000 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, and the Johnstown Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carmichael.

According to Mr. Hickton, this case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.