Irwin man pleads guilty in connection with Western Pa. cocaine ring
A year-long federal investigation into a southwestern Pennsylvania cocaine distribution network resulted in an Irwin man pleading guilty this week.
Bernard Wilkins, 57, pleaded guilty to the two criminal counts before U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab on Tuesday in Pittsburgh, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Wilkins admitted responsibility for distributing cocaine.
Schwab was told by prosecutors that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking in Braddock that resulted in wiretaps between January 2019 and May. The wiretaps resulted in the June indictments of 33 alleged drug distributors, including Wilkins.
Investigators said they intercepted communications that confirmed Wilkins obtained large quantities of cocaine from another member of the conspiracy.
Investigators observed Wilkins at a stash house on Seddon Avenue in Braddock, which was used by members of the conspiracy to facilitate their drug-trafficking activity, U.S. Attorney Scott Brady said.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 28.
Brady said Wilkins faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of no more than $1 million or both.
Wilkins remains free on $15,000 unsecured bond pending sentencing.
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