United States Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today, June 23, 2008, that Robert D. Russell, a/k/a "R.R.", a resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal drug laws.

Russell, age 24, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill.

In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti advised the court that on or about October 1, 2007, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Russell distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for September 9, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.  The law provides for a 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Sharon Police Department and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robert D. Russell.