United States Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today, July 9, 2008, that on July 8, 2008, Darren Daniel Parchem, a resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal drug laws.

Parchem, age 21, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster.

In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti advised the court that on or about August 28, 2007, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Parchem conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Judge Lancaster scheduled sentencing for October 17, 2008, at 9:30 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 Darren Daniel Parchem.