HARRISBURG – State narcotics agents today arrested a Johnstown man in connection with a cocaine distribution operation that moved at least $100,000 worth of cocaine in Cambria and Clearfield counties since last year.
Attorney General Tom Corbett said the investigation, which began in January 2008, focused on Raymond C. Darcangelo, 31, Johnstown.
Corbett said the criminal charges filed against Darcangelo are the result of an undercover investigation into the distribution of cocaine in and around Cambria and Clearfield counties.
According to the criminal complaint, agents purchased multiple ounce quantities of cocaine from Darcangelo worth approximately $31,500 during 14 separate controlled purchases. The cocaine had a street value of at least $100,000. All of the controlled purchases occurred within a park zone in Cambria County.
Agents said that Darcangelo and associates were capable of distributing one to two kilograms of cocaine a month.
Corbett said that Darcangelo had a number of associates working in his organization as well as a steady stream of customers who bought cocaine on a regular basis. Identifying lower-level associates as well as cocaine sources are part of a continuing investigation.
“Fortunately we were able to cut the supply line of Darcangelo‘s operation before he could expand his business,” Corbett said. “Our narcotics agents are committed to identifying everyone associated with this organization, from the low-level street dealers to their higher-level cocaine suppliers; and we will stay committed, following all leads and continuing the investigation.”
Darcangelo is charged with 14 counts of possession of cocaine, 14 counts of delivery of cocaine, 14 counts of criminal use of a communication facility, 10 counts of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity and one count of criminal conspiracy.
Darcangelo was arrested this morning and arraigned before Sidman Magisterial District Justice Rick Varner. He was lodged in the Cambria County Prison after failing to post 10 percent of his 475,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 3, 2009.
Corbett thanked Cambria County District Attorney Patrick Kiniry’s Office, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, the Richland Police Department, the Johnstown Police Department, the FBI, and DEA for their assistance with the investigation.
The case will be prosecuted in Cambria County by the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office.
