Trafficking Drugs Using Car Haulers

The leader of a Pittsburgh-area drug trafficking operation has been sentenced to 23 years in federal prison for his role in importing and distributing heroin and cocaine from Mexico and laundering the proceeds.

Federal investigators say the organization smuggled drugs hidden in vehicles shipped via commercial car carriers from California to Pittsburgh. After distribution, large sums of cash were sent back using the same method.

One key figure in the case, Andrew Beatty, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, one kilogram or more of heroin, and conspiracy to launder drug proceeds. He will also serve five years of supervised release and receive credit for the 11 years he’s already spent in custody.

DEA agents, with help from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, intercepted a shipment in December 2013 that led to the seizure of $130,000 in cash. Later, Beatty unknowingly used an undercover DEA agent as a courier, who collected two additional payments totaling $450,000.

In March 2014, agents found a car containing four kilograms of cocaine and one kilogram of heroin before Beatty could retrieve it. Follow-up searches uncovered $400,000 in cash and 3.5 kilograms of heroin, along with firearms and multiple phones tied to Beatty.