The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced that Justo Melendez-Morales, a 44-year-old resident of Milton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to drug trafficking. The indictment was filed on May 22, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that the indictment accuses Melendez-Morales of selling and possessing approximately 38 grams of cocaine in his apartment in Milton between February 26 and May 9, 2025. The apartment is alleged to have been used as a premises for drug trafficking.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation into this case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger handling the prosecution.
This case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a nationwide initiative aimed at repelling illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators. The operation utilizes resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Under federal law, the maximum penalty for the offense is 30 years in prison and a fine. Sentencing may also include supervised release following imprisonment. A judge will determine the sentence after considering federal sentencing statutes and guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments are only allegations. Individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
