Indiana Drug Dealer Sentenced to State Prison

INDIANA COUNTY, Pa. — District Attorney Robert Manzi announced on Friday, July 12, that defendant Sterling Friel, 26, was sentenced to state prison for drug trafficking in Indiana County.

Friel was sentenced to serve no less than nineteen (19) months and no more than five (5) years in a state correctional institution.

The defendant entered a guilty plea to Possession with the Intent to Deliver 10 – 50 grams of cocaine, an ungraded felony.

In June 2023, members of the Indiana Borough Police Department, Indiana County Drug Task Force, and the Indiana County Sheriff’s Office conducted a controlled purchase of narcotics.

The investigation revealed that the defendant possessed between ten (10) and (50) grams of cocaine and had the intention of trafficking it within Indiana County.

“We will continue our aggressive investigations and prosecutions into drug trafficking within our county. Our task force continues to work with confidential informants, advanced technology, and intelligence sharing throughout Western Pennsylvania. My best advise is stop selling that poison” said Manzi. “Our partners within the Indiana County Drug Task Force, including the Indiana Borough Police and Indiana County Sheriff’s Office, are committed to continuing the fight against drug traffickers. Their work makes our community safer.”

While aggressive investigations and prosecutions are part of the solution, helping those in need of treatment is just as important. If you or a loved one is struggling with a drug or alcohol issue, please call the Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion Drug and Alcohol Commission at 1-877-333-2470. They are able to connect people to treatment 24 hours a day/7 days a week.