An East Pittsburgh man previously convicted of killing his best friend more than 20 years ago was indicted by federal grand jury on drug and weapons charges, according to federal prosecutors.
U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady said Douglas Tyrone Williams, 39, possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and conspired with others to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl on July 20, 2016.
In addition to a murder conviction, Williams was convicted of aggravated assault and a firearms violation, Brady said. As a felon, Williams is not legally allowed to have guns. Prosecutors said Williams had several guns, including two assault-style rifles, in addition to the drug offenses.
Williams shot Douglas Grinage, 19, of Braddock, in the head on Sept. 20, 1997 as Grinage attempted to break up a fight between Williams and Williams’ cousin.
He was convicted of third-degree murder in 1998 and sentenced to 15-to-40 years in prison, according to court records. He was paroled in 2013.
If convicted on the federal charges, Williams faces 10 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $10.5 million.
