Federal Jury Finds New Jersey Man Guilty in Heroin Distribution Scheme

PITTSBURGH - A former New Jersey resident has been convicted in federal court for one count of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Aldwin Vega, age 42, formerly of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was convicted yesterday by a federal jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Jury selection began on September 5, 2017, and Senior Judge Reggie B. Walton of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia presided over the trial.

For the crime of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10 million, 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 Attorneys Conor Lamb and Shanicka Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution, conviction and sentencing of Aldwin Vega.