HARRISBURG — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle), published as received.

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Gladden, age 46, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury with four counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and two counts of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. 

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on August 21, 2021, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine.  The indictment also alleges that on September 11, 2023, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine and marijuana; possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and possessed a firearm as a felon.  Additionally, the indictment alleges that on March 7, 2024, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams of PCP, 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine.  The indictment further alleges that on July 30, 2024, Gladden possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams of crack cocaine and additional quantities of cocaine and marijuana; possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and possessed a firearm as a felon.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Harrisburg Police Department; the Pennsylvania State Police; and the Susquehanna Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Ford is prosecuting the case.

Gladden faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.  A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

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