Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty in federal court to trafficking fentanyl and cocaine, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Michael Appleton, 44, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy to possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine on May 19, 2023.

Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mercer County Drug Task Force, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Appleton.