Two Altoona residents have admitted guilt in a federal court concerning methamphetamine trafficking charges. This development follows a six-month Title III wiretap investigation targeting drug activities in Blair, Cambria, Centre, and Clearfield counties, as announced by United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan.
Tonya Settlemyer, aged 39, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Andrew Stowell, aged 67, admitted to conspiracy involving the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and additional charges related to possession and distribution of the same quantity. Both individuals entered their pleas before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that Stowell sold methamphetamine to an undercover officer on December 12, 2022. Additionally, Settlemyer was implicated in assisting a narcotics dealer based in Altoona who distributed significant amounts of methamphetamine across the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Sentencing for both defendants is set for May 15, 2025. For Settlemyer, potential penalties include up to 20 years imprisonment and fines reaching $1 million. Stowell faces a minimum of 10 years in prison with fines up to $10 million. The actual sentences will depend on the severity of their offenses and any prior criminal records. The court has ordered Settlemyer's detention while allowing Stowell to remain on bond until sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty is handling the prosecution for this case.
The Drug Enforcement Administration spearheaded this multi-agency investigation alongside several other agencies including the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, and Pennsylvania State Police.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at identifying and dismantling high-level drug traffickers and related criminal organizations using a collaborative approach among various law enforcement entities.