A Detroit resident pleaded guilty on July 23 to trafficking fentanyl and cocaine, according to United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
Michael Appleton, 44, entered his plea before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy for possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine on May 19, 2023.
Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2026. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to forty years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and Appleton’s prior criminal history, if any.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mercer County Drug Task Force, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation that led to Appleton’s prosecution.