Eshawn Harrell, a 31-year-old resident of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 130 months in prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The sentencing was announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and delivered by Judge Malachy E. Mannion.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus reported that on June 29, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Harrell's home. During the search, authorities confiscated approximately 195 grams of fentanyl, 24 grams of cocaine, drug paraphernalia such as sandwich bags and digital scales, $1,000 in cash, seven iPhones, 50 rounds of ammunition, and two loaded handguns. Harrell had a prior conviction for drug trafficking and was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The case is part of Operation Take Back America. This nationwide initiative uses resources from the Department of Justice to combat illegal immigration and eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators. It also aligns with efforts under the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The investigation involved collaboration between the Pennsylvania State Police, Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts led the prosecution.