HARRISBURG, PA — A months-long undercover investigation has culminated in the arrest of four individuals, including a Westmoreland County man, on allegations of drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession. The operation, led by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General in conjunction with the Westmoreland County Drug Task Force and multiple local police departments, reportedly disrupted a network accused of distributing fentanyl and heroin while unlawfully trafficking firearms.
David Jefferies, 34, James Womack, 33, and Shelton Payne, 34, each face charges of illegal firearm possession and felony drug trafficking. All three men are previously convicted felons, rendering them legally prohibited from owning or handling firearms. A fourth individual, Andre Ellis-Barnes, 41, of Wilkinsburg, has been charged in connection with narcotics sales to an undercover officer.
Attorney General Dave Sunday emphasized the stakes, stating, “Fentanyl continues to fuel the opioid crisis in the Commonwealth and nationwide, and dealers use firearms to protect their lucrative trade.” He credited the “collaboration between law enforcement partners” for removing “thousands of doses of fentanyl and several high-caliber weapons from the Westmoreland community.”
Authorities executed a search warrant at Jefferies’ residence, where they reportedly discovered a Glock 9mm handgun, approximately 382 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of black tar heroin. Officials suggest this seizure marks a significant disruption to local drug trafficking operations.
The investigation involved assistance from the police departments of North Huntingdon, Monessen, Rostraver, New Kensington, and Irwin. The charges will be prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Tomm Mutschler.
As in all criminal proceedings, the charges remain allegations. Each of the defendants is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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