A federal grand jury has indicted Ricky Charles Patterson, 44, of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, on charges related to drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The announcement was made by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, "the indictment alleges that on or about May 2, 2025, Patterson possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, both Schedule II controlled substances. It is further alleged that Patterson possessed a Smith & Wesson .44 caliber revolver in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime knowing that he was a prohibited possessor as a convicted felon."
The investigation involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Tatum Wilson is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at addressing illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations through coordinated efforts from programs such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Patterson faces a maximum penalty under federal law of life imprisonment, supervised release after imprisonment, and a fine. Sentencing would be determined by a judge who considers federal statutes and sentencing guidelines.
Authorities emphasized that indictments are allegations only and all individuals charged are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
