40 face charges in three-state drug cases

Pennsylvania authorities charged 13 people in an alleged cocaine and crack-cocaine trafficking operation that moved drugs from Youngstown, Ohio, to Butler County, Pennsylvania. Investigators say the network made frequent trips into the area; five of the seven alleged upper-level dealers from Youngstown were arrested, while two remain at large. Separately, federal authorities indicted 13 people in an alleged methamphetamine trafficking and money-laundering organization operating between Los Angeles and Louisville. The investigation led to the seizure of more than 300 pounds of methamphetamine, along with firearms, cash and other drugs; five defendants face trafficking charges and eight face money-laundering charges.