North Carolina Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine

WILMINGTON, Del. (August 19, 2026) - A federal grand jury has returned a one-count indictment charging a North Carolina man with possession with intent to distribute cocaine two kilograms of cocaine.

According to the indictment, James F. Pyrtle, 55, possessed approximately two kilograms of cocaine-a distribution level quantity-in the trunk area of his vehicle while driving near Concord Pike. Also present in Pyrtle's vehicle were several thousand dollars in cash that returned a positive hit for the presence of narcotics.

Pyrtle is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(ii)(II). If convicted, Pyrtle faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and maximum penalty of forty years. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

"Stopping significant quantities of illegal drugs from reaching Delaware neighborhoods is a top priority for our office," said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. "Thanks to the diligent work of the Delaware State Police, two kilograms of cocaine were prevented from entering our communities. We will continue working alongside our state and local partners to pursue and prosecute those who bring illegal drugs across our borders."

This drug seizure again demonstrates law enforcement's commitment to holding drug dealers accountable and protecting our communities. Cocaine and other dangerous substances continue to affect too many lives," said Colonel William D. Crotty, Delaware State Police Superintendent. "It is through strong partnerships and investigative efforts that we continue to make strides in this fight. The Delaware State Police continues to collaborate with our federal and local allies to disrupt the flow of lethal drugs and prevent them from reaching our communities."

U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Delaware State Police Superintendent, Colonel William D. Crotty, made the announcement. Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. David Tamubssi Jr. is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-110.

The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.