Pennsylvania AG Busts Westmoreland Drug, Firearms Trafficking Ring

A major drug and firearms trafficking ring in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, was dismantled following a months-long undercover investigation led by Attorney General Dave Sunday and multiple law enforcement agencies. Four men—David Jefferies, James Womack, Shelton Payne, and Andre Ellis-Barnes—were arrested and charged with illegal firearm possession and felony drug trafficking, with Jefferies, Womack, and Payne having prior felony convictions barring gun ownership. The operation resulted in the seizure of over 47,000 doses of heroin and fentanyl, along with high-caliber firearms, including a Glock 9mm handgun found during a search of Jefferies' home. Authorities highlighted the ongoing opioid crisis fueled by fentanyl distribution and the use of firearms by dealers to protect their trade. The investigation involved coordinated controlled buys across multiple jurisdictions, with law enforcement agencies from North Huntingdon, Monessen, Rostraver, New Kensington, and Irwin assisting the effort. Prosecutors emphasized the significance of inter-agency collaboration in removing these dangerous substances and weapons from Westmoreland communities.