HARRISBURG, PA — Seven individuals are facing charges in connection with alleged drug trafficking operations distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl across rural Pennsylvania, according to Attorney General Dave Sunday. The arrests were made in recent days, targeting operations in Cameron, Elk, McKean, Potter, and Warren counties.
Authorities identified 31-year-old Benjamin Simms, of Coudersport, as a mid-level dealer allegedly responsible for trafficking significant quantities of methamphetamine from New York. Investigators claim Simms distributed an estimated 30-40 pounds of methamphetamine over a one-year period.
The other six defendants, identified as Kyle P. Brown, 39, of Emporium; Marry Ann Stolburg, 61, of Ridgeway; Justin Meyer, 38, of Saint Marys; Beau Azzato, 20, of Saint Marys; Richard Bauer, 64, of Johnsonburg; and Josh Dalton, 35, of Ridgeway, are accused of participating at the street-level in the alleged drug operations. Authorities state that Simms and Brown collaborated, while the others operated independently.
Each defendant has been charged with felony possession with intent to deliver, conspiracy, and other related offenses. Simms remains incarcerated at SCI-Forest, and Brown is being held at McKean County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail.
“This collaborative effort targets those who distribute poisons into our communities,” Attorney General Sunday said in a statement. He commended the partnership of multiple regional law enforcement agencies in the operation.
The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s North Central Drug Task Force spearheaded the investigation, with support from several local police departments, district attorney offices, and drug task forces. Prosecutors from the Attorney General’s Office will handle cases against Simms and Brown, while the Elk County District Attorney’s Office will address charges against the remaining defendants.
All charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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