19th suspect arrested in Carlisle cocaine bust - abc27 WHTM

19th suspect arrested in Carlisle cocaine bust

Federal authorities have arrested a Washington, D.C. area man in connection with a cocaine distribution ring that was operating in Carlisle.

Kevin Pearson, 44, surrendered to authorities Monday, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Harrisburg.

Only one suspect, 31-year-old Demarao Gumby of Carlisle, remains at large.

Daniel Hocker, 53, surrendered Saturday and 17 others were arrested Wednesday. They have been identified as Gary Stackfield, 58; Justin Thompson, 32; Aunya Stackfield, 25; Walter Fickes, 28; John Mowery, 51; Roy Singer, 57; Robert Green, 45; Bernadette Green, 43; Arnold Ashwell, 39; Korey Wooten, 34; Heather Middleton, 24; John Zaengle, 53; Nick Vrataric, 50; Charles Green, 54; Joseph Mowery, 56; Starlene Middleton, 31; and Michael Konetsco, 55, all of Carlisle.

U.S. Attorney Peter Smith has said Pearson is accused of supplying Gary Stackfield with cocaine, which was then distributed to the other defendants.

Each of the suspects have been charged with drug trafficking and conspiracy charges, both carrying a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5-40 years, and using phones to commit drug trafficking, which is punishable by up to four years in prison.