Willie Blair Jr., a 43-year-old resident of Pittsburgh, has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to violating federal narcotics and firearms laws. U.S. District Judge Marilyn J. Horan also ordered Blair to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced today.
Blair’s arrest stems from a federal investigation in October 2022, during which law enforcement discovered that he possessed more than one kilogram of fentanyl and attempted to distribute more than two kilograms of cocaine. Blair also illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition despite being a convicted felon, which is prohibited by federal law.
The investigation began after the U.S. Postal Service intercepted a suspicious parcel addressed to Blair’s residence that contained nearly two kilograms of cocaine. A subsequent search of Blair’s home and vehicle uncovered approximately 1,262.8 grams of fentanyl, along with drug trafficking tools, including a kilogram press, packaging materials, and cutting agents.
Additionally, in the main bedroom of Blair’s residence, law enforcement discovered a loaded Glock pistol and ammunition. Blair admitted ownership of both the fentanyl and the firearm, as well as his intent to distribute the cocaine from the parcel.
Blair has a lengthy criminal history, including prior felony convictions for controlled substances offenses. He was previously convicted in federal court for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin.
The sentencing marks a significant step in addressing drug trafficking and firearms violations in the region.
