In a recent development, District Attorney Bob Manzi has revealed that Andrew Rankin, a 36-year-old resident of Ernest, has been sentenced to up to 21 years in state prison. This ruling was announced on Friday, August 23rd.
Rankin pleaded no contest to voluntary manslaughter, a first-degree felony, and admitted guilt to possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver, an ungraded felony.
Judge Michael T. Clark has sentenced Rankin to a term of imprisonment ranging from four and a half to twenty-one years in a state correctional institution for this case. The judge has also ordered that this sentence be served consecutively to the sentence Rankin is already serving for a separate case related to possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. As a result, Rankin will be under state supervision until he reaches the age of sixty.
“The conviction of this defendant is a result of the dedicated efforts of the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop A, Indiana. Their meticulous examination of extensive evidence, integration of various investigations, and strong prosecution have led to this significant outcome,” stated Manzi. He also emphasized the relentless commitment of state and local law enforcement, as well as their counterparts in federal law enforcement, in aggressively investigating and prosecuting drug dealers in Indiana County.”
“Our stance remains clear: drug dealers are not welcome in Indiana County,” stated Manzi. He further emphasized, “Our aim is for them to cease distributing harmful substances and instead seek the necessary help to address their underlying issues.”
If you or someone you care about is facing challenges with substance abuse, please reach out to the Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion Drug and Alcohol Commission at 1.877.333.2470. They are available round the clock, seven days a week, to guide individuals towards the appropriate treatment options.
