An Indiana man is facing drug charges following an investigation that was kickstarted by an anonymous tip.
Indiana County District Attorney Robert Manzi announced on Monday that a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver was filed against 25-year-old Sterling Friel.
Manzi said members of the county Drug Task Force were informed by a local resident in June that a drug transaction took place near 101 North 1st Street in White Township, and a controlled purchase of cocaine using a confidential informant revealed Friel allegedly sold powder and crack cocaine across Indiana County.
Drug Task force members obtained and executed arrest and search warrants on July 25th, and approximately 63.5 grams of crack and/or powder cocaine was seized from his home, along with a digital scale, cash and other drug paraphernalia.
Friel is currently in Indiana County Jail as he was unable to post bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 14th in front of District Judge Guy Haberl.
Manzi commended the actions of the unnamed citizen in a news release, saying they quote, “helped our community by raising their concerns with our local law enforcement,” and he encourages anyone with concerns regarding drug trafficking or other crimes to contact his office. He adds anyone with information will remain anonymous.
Assisting the county Drug Task Force were members from the Indiana Borough Police Department, Indiana County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana County Probation Department.
