The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced that Justo Melendez-Morales, a 44-year-old resident of Milton, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 22, 2025. The charges are related to drug trafficking activities.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that the indictment alleges Melendez-Morales sold and possessed approximately 38 grams of cocaine in his apartment in Milton between February 26, 2025, and May 9, 2025. The apartment is alleged to have been used as a premises for drug trafficking.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger is handling the prosecution.
This case falls under Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The operation consolidates resources from the Department of Justice's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Melendez-Morales faces a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison and a fine under federal law. Sentencing could also include supervised release following imprisonment. Any sentence will be determined by the Judge after reviewing applicable federal sentencing statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are only allegations at this stage. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
