HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the sentencing of Albert Spicer, a 36-year-old Cambria County resident, to 13 to 30 years in prison for drug trafficking offenses linked to the tragic death of a 5-year-old girl. Spicer, described by Cambria County Judge Norman A. Krumenacker as a “career drug dealer,” pled guilty to four counts of possession with intent to deliver among other charges.

The case revolves around the October 2022 death of Alaia Young, a child who ingested fentanyl provided by Spicer to her mother. This fatal incident marked a severe consequence of Spicer’s continued illegal activities, which began when he was 17 and included at least six prior convictions for drug dealing.

Spicer’s extensive history in drug trafficking culminated in this latest offense while he was on parole. He was implicated as the source of the fentanyl/heroin that ultimately led to the young girl’s overdose. “This defendant’s actions resulted in the loss of an innocent life, a tragedy that could have been avoided,” stated Attorney General Henry. “This lengthy sentence is a crucial step towards justice for Alaia and a safer community.”

In related proceedings, the child’s mother, Volaura Askew, has been sentenced to 2 to 4 years for involuntary manslaughter and other charges. Elyse Young, associated with Spicer and accused of using her residence as a stash house, faces pending charges. The investigation was conducted by the 49th Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, with support from the Johnstown Police Department and the Office of Attorney General.

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