United States Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today, March 17, 2008, that Ralph S. Niederlander, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws.

Niederlander, age 46, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines advised the court that from November 16, 2006, to February 2, 2007, Niederlander conspired with a co-defendant to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack."

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2008, at 10:30 A.M.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of law enforcement officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cambria County Drug Task Force, Johnstown Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office and the Richland Township Police Department  conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Niederlander.