Ellwood City felon pleads guilty to gun, drug charges | News

PITTSBURGH — An Ellwood City man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced Friday.

Derick Davare, 32, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from 2015 to on or about Oct. 22, 2018, Davare conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Additionally, on or about Oct. 22, 2018, Davare, a convicted felon, illegally possessed a F.N. (FN Herstal) Five-Seven, 57 Caliber Pistol, a Sig-Sauer P226 9mm Pistol with an obliterated serial number, 5.7 x .28 ammunition and 9mm ammunition. He also possessed additional rounds of ammunition on Aug. 28, 2018.

Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm or ammunition.

The judge scheduled sentencing for 9 a.m. Sept. 20. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and not more than life in prison, a fine of $15.5 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balchon are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.