Philly Man Accused Of Selling 4 Guns To Teen In Exchange For Drugs
Posted:
Updated:
DA Seth Williams speaks to reporters Thursday about straw purchases.
PHILADELPHIA -
A 32-year-old Northeast Philadelphia man is accused of selling four guns to an alleged 16-year-old drug dealer in exchange for heroin, the Philadelphia District Attorney announced Thursday.
According to police, Luke Dercole, 32, allegedly sold the guns to 16-year-old Michael Burak.
Police say Burak then used one of the guns to shoot Jonathan Espinosa in October.
District Attorney Seth Williams told reporters Thursday during a news conference that it was time to get tough on straw purchases.
"This case demonstrates the need for such severe punishment on straw purchases," Williams said.
Straw purchases have received plenty of attention after the killing of Montgomery County police officer Brad Fox. Fox was shot and killed during a hit-and-run investigation last year.
Investigators said the gun used to kill Fox was purchased by a middle man.
Police say the problem is widespread.
In Philadelphia, there were 324 homicides last year and the district attorney says 85 percent of those involved illegal handguns.
Williams says this year will be different.
"If you carry a gun on the streets of Philadelphia without a license, you're going to jail."
The alleged 16-year-old drug dealer faces attempted murder and other related charges while the man accused of buying the guns is currently being held on $500,000 bail.
Friday, May 24 2013 2:49 PM EDT2013-05-24 18:49:51 GMT
Ocean City is a fabulous family-friendly, shore town that is ready for a fabulous Summer season. From the relaxing beaches to the famous boardwalk, Ocean City is safe, clean and has some of the best food
Ocean City is a fabulous family-friendly, shore town that is ready for a spectacular Summer season.
Friday, May 24 2013 12:53 PM EDT2013-05-24 16:53:29 GMT
Craft breweries from around the country are toasting the troops with a beer aged with a unique ingredient that symbolizes America's pastime -- baseball bats.Nine different brewers collaborated to create
Craft breweries from around the country are toasting the troops with a beer aged with a unique ingredient that symbolizes America's pastime -- baseball bats.Nine different brewers collaborated to create
Friday, May 24 2013 12:41 PM EDT2013-05-24 16:41:43 GMT
A Philadelphia judge has ordered that a couple who believe in faith healing over medicine be held without bail on third-degree murder charges in the April death of their 8-month-old son.Herbert and Catherine
A Philadelphia judge has ordered that a couple who believe in faith healing over medicine be held without bail on third-degree murder charges in the April death of their 8-month-old son.Herbert and Catherine
Friday, May 24 2013 9:37 AM EDT2013-05-24 13:37:26 GMT
The volunteer effort in Oklahoma is underway. Groups from across the country have hit the road, delivering hot meals to anyone in need. One local organization is doing what they can to help the victims
The volunteer effort in Oklahoma is underway. Groups from across the country have hit the road, delivering hot meals to anyone in need. One local organization is doing what they can to help the victims
WTXF-TV 330 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19106-2796
DA Seth Williams speaks to reporters Thursday about straw purchases.
