PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Westmoreland County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kevin Nicol, 57, of Harrison City, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nicol was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The parties stipulated that 279.2 grams of "ice," also known as pure methamphetamine, were attributable to Nicol for purposes of the Sentencing Guidelines.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for 2:00 p.m. on July 12, 2013. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nicol.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
