Two residents of Cambria County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges related to narcotics and firearms violations, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced on Mar. 12.
The indictments are significant as they address alleged large-scale methamphetamine distribution and illegal firearm possession in the region. Both defendants face serious penalties if convicted.
Dustin Blough, 30, of South Fork, is charged in a seven-count indictment with possessing with intent to distribute various quantities of methamphetamine—including at least one instance involving 500 grams or more—and fentanyl between August and November 2024. The indictment also alleges that Blough, who has a prior felony conviction, unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition during this period. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Charles Triplin, 48, of Johnstown, is charged in a separate one-count indictment with possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in December 2025. Triplin was previously convicted in August 2023 for attempting to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute.
If convicted, each defendant faces up to life imprisonment and fines up to $10 million. Sentencing would be determined based on the seriousness of the offenses and the defendants' criminal histories under federal guidelines. Both men have been ordered detained pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorneys Arnold P. Bernard Jr. and Maureen Sheehan-Balchon are prosecuting these cases. The investigations were conducted by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Cambria County Drug Task Force, and Cambria County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities remind the public that an indictment is only an accusation; both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
