Pennsylvania men plead guilty to federal violent crimes

Two separate federal cases involving violence against law enforcement and violent crime have resulted in guilty pleas in Pennsylvania.

In Philadelphia, 26-year-old Basir Blow pleaded guilty to charges including carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Prosecutors stated that in April 2025, Blow pistol-whipped a victim with a loaded handgun before stealing a Jeep Grand Cherokee and crashing into a pole while attempting to evade police. Additionally, Blow pleaded guilty to assaulting two federal correctional officers at the Federal Detention Center Philadelphia with a dangerous weapon, possessing a contraband cellphone, and using pepper spray on officers. He faces a mandatory minimum of seven years and a maximum of life in prison, with sentencing set for Dec. 21.

In Pittsburgh, 24-year-old Drew Gordon pleaded guilty to attempted murder and assault of a federal agent, as well as drug trafficking. Gordon admitted to firing 18 shots at a DEA agent’s vehicle in August 2024 while the agent was conducting surveillance. Following the incident, the FBI recovered $37,000 worth of fentanyl, crack, and cocaine, along with $10,000 in cash. Under a plea agreement, Gordon is expected to serve 20 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 23.