A Duquesne, Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced to over 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm offenses. Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced the sentencing of Courtney Washington Jr., who was found guilty by a federal jury in September 2024 on two counts of violating federal firearms laws. Prior to this trial, Washington pleaded guilty to charges related to fentanyl distribution.
United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand handed down the sentence of 248 months in prison followed by six months of supervised release. The court heard that Washington was involved in large-scale fentanyl trafficking. A search warrant executed at his residence on April 17, 2023, led officers to discover approximately $45,000 worth of fentanyl hidden in a washing machine. Officers also found a loaded and stolen .45 Glock handgun concealed above the machine.
Washington's previous conviction for a federal drug trafficking felony prohibits him from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and V. Joseph Sonson represented the government in this case. Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti praised the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Police Department, and Duquesne Police Department for their roles in investigating and prosecuting Washington.
