The Herald, Sharon, Pa.

Local News

July 10, 2008

Trio pleads not guilty in federal drug case

By Joe Pinchot

SHENANGO VALLEY — Three people with local ties charged with drug offenses by a federal grand jury each pleaded not guilty at their arraignments Monday, and allowed themselves to be detained until trial.

Eric D. “Unc” Purnell, 36, formerly of Farrell; Teddy V. Davis, 28, formerly of Detroit; and Darece N. Murphy, also known as Sakisha Griffin, 23, formerly of New Castle and Sharon, were each charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Purnell and Davis were also charged with distribution and possession with intent to distribute the drug. Each could be imprisoned for at least 10 years if convicted.

They all waived detention hearings before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Lisa Pupo Lenihan, Pittsburgh, but could seek release later.

Sharon police conducted the initial investigation. They were investigating a Farrell shooting at 8:25 p.m. Oct. 13 when they received a report that someone involved went into a house at 438 Malleable St.

During a search of the house, which was occupied by Ms. Murphy, Purnell and Davis, police found about 4èounces of crack, and packaging paraphernalia such as a digital scale, bags and a measuring cup.

Sharon police filed charges against all three and their online dockets from Mercer County Common Pleas Court still listed the cases as active Wednesday, but local prosecutors have said the charges likely would be withdrawn out of deference to the federal cases.

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