Richard Pearson, a 47-year-old resident of Jamestown, New York, has pleaded guilty to charges related to drug distribution and firearm possession. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. Pearson's plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo and involves charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. These charges carry a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is overseeing the case, reported that on June 25, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence on Newland Avenue in Jamestown. During the search, authorities seized various drugs including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, suboxone strips as well as $200 in cash, a digital scale, and a firearm. Pearson was present during this operation.
Pearson has previous felony convictions from Chautauqua County Court in 2018 and 2009 and from Federal Court in 2006. Due to these convictions, he is legally barred from possessing firearms.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation aimed at identifying and dismantling high-level criminal organizations through coordinated efforts across multiple agencies. More information about OCDETF can be found on their website.
The investigation leading to Pearson's plea involved the Jamestown Police Department under Chief Timothy Jackson's leadership and the Drug Enforcement Administration led by Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino of the New York Field Division.