United States Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today, May 20, 2008, that three individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating the federal drug laws.

The two-count indictment named Eric D. Purnell, a/k/a Unc, age 36, of Detroit, Michigan; Teddy V. Davis, a/k/a Ted, age 28, of Detroit, Michigan; and Darece N. Murphy, a/k/a Sakisha Griffin, age 23, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about October 13, 2007, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Purnell, Davis and Murphy conspired with one another to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.  Additionally, on or about October 13, 2007, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Purnell, Davis and Murphy possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti, who presented the case to the grand jury, indicated that the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten (10) years and up to life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Sharon Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.