A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced to three years in federal prison for drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms, according to an announcement from First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan handed down the 36-month sentence to Melvin Gaines, age 30, from Oakmont, on November 12, 2025. The sentencing followed a conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, as well as possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon.
Court documents indicate that between March and July 2024, Gaines acted as a redistributor in a scheme involving fentanyl and cocaine. Authorities also found him with two firearms—one of which was reported stolen—alongside multiple magazines and ammunition. Federal law prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and Kelly M. Locher.
First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti said, "I commend the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gaines."
