Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
State College Man Indicted for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ronald Hertzog, age 59, of State College, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 10, 2022, by a federal grand jury for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on or about February 3, 2022, in Centre County, Hertzog possessed multiple rounds of ammunition in various calibers and two rifle receiver lowers as a previously convicted felon.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the State College Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.”
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Northumberland County Man Charged with Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Joshua Reichenbach, age 39, of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 10, 2022, on one count of illegally possessing a firearm.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on February 2, 2022, Reichenbach possessed a 9mm handgun while prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous criminal conviction.
The investigation was conducted by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Northumberland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
If convicted, the maximum penalty for the offense is life imprisonment, a five-year term of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Federal Inmate Charged with Possession of A WeaponRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rigoberto Garay-Lopez, age 34, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution, Allenwood (FCI Allenwood), was indicted on February 10, 2022, by a federal grand jury for possessing a weapon in prison.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on January 22, 2022, Garay-Lopez was found in possession of a piece of sharpened metal with a plastic handle, commonly referred to as a “shank,” that is intended to be used as a weapon.
The charge stems from an investigation by the Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Special Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan Martin are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the maximum term of imprisonment is five years and a $250,000 fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Bloomsburg Man Charged with Attempted Production of Child Pornography and Attempted Online EnticementRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Alexander Stroup, age 33, of Bloomburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 11, 2022, by a federal grand jury on charges of attempted production of child pornography, attempted enticement of a minor, receipt of child pornography, and transmitting obscene material to a minor.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that from or about October 23, 2021 through October 23, 2021, Stroup attempted to persuade, induce, and entice, a person under the age of 18 to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct using a facility of interstate commerce. The indictment also alleges that Stroup did transfer and attempt to transfer obscene matter to another individual who had not attained the age of 16 years.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Scranton Man Sentenced to 156 Months’ Imprisonment for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Robert Alexander Kusma, age 36, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 9, 2022, to 156 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, for two child exploitation offenses, each involving a different minor victim.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, during the summer of 2016, Kusma used the internet to entice a 15-year-old female victim into allowing him to come to her home for the purpose of sexual contact. Kusma ultimately traveled to the victim’s home in the York, PA area, where he undressed and fondled her prior to being interrupted in his crime and chased from the premises by a concerned friend.
During the investigation of the above Online Enticement offense, it was discovered that Kusma had engaged in similar conduct a few years earlier. Specifically, in March 2014, Kusma traveled from his residence in Scranton to the Poughkeepsie, NY area for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with a different 15-year-old female victim whom he had likewise met online. Kusma picked up this victim from a location near her parents’ home, took her to a wooded area and had sexual intercourse with her, violating the federal statute which prohibits Interstate Travel to Engage in Unlawful Sexual Activity with Minors.
Judge Rambo ordered that Kusma comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Philadelphia Division and its state and local law enforcement partners in York County, Pennsylvania. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St. John prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
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Lackawanna County Man Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment for Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Zachary Watkins, age 21, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 9, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to five years’ imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release for receipt and distribution of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Watkins previously pleaded guilty and admitted to receiving and distributing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Scranton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click the tab on “resources.”
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Lackawanna County Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 8, 2022, Jaime Ryan Chorba, age 46, of Archbald, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on child pornography charges.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that between June 3, 2016, and November 16, 2020, Chorba received images of child pornography. The indictment also alleges that he possessed images of prepubescent minors under the age of twelve, including images depicting himself with the minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
On February 9, 2022, Chorba was arrested by federal agents and appeared before Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr for his arraignment. Chorba was detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for February 14, 2022.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Philadelphia Division and the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 60 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced for Possessing A Weapon in PrisonRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 9, 2022, inmate Hugo Reynosa, age 26, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment by Chief United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann for possessing a weapon in prison. Reynosa’s sentence will run consecutively to his current 96-month federal sentence for conspiring to distribute nearly four kilograms of pure methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Reynosa was previously found guilty of possessing a weapon in prison following a December 2021 bench trial. On May 12, 2020, officers at the United States Penitentiary in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, caught Reynosa trying to dispose of a 6.25-inch piece of metal with a crude handle and sharp point, commonly referred to as a “shank,” during a mass search of Reynosa’s housing unit.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew O. Inman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin prosecuted the case.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Willie Lamont Nash, age 31, was sentenced on February 9, 2022, to 96 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Nash was an inmate at the United States Penitentiary (USP) Canaan, Waymart, Pennsylvania on October 12, 2017, when he attacked another inmate by striking him on the head and upper body with a lock in a sock. As a result of the attack, the victim inmate suffered multiple injuries including blunt ocular trauma, resulting in significant vision loss.
The case was investigated by the FBI in cooperation with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley prosecuted the case.
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Fayette County Attorney Pleads Guilty to Defrauding ClientsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 9, 2022, John William “JW” Eddy, age 39, of Fayette County, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud for misappropriating funds from clients of his law practice between 2016 and 2020.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Eddy ran a private law practice, Eddy Law Office. As an attorney representing members of the public in the practice of law, Eddy was required to maintain a trust account for client funds, also known as an Interest on Lawyer Trust Account or “IOLTA.” This account was to be used for the securing of client funds, such as proceeds from legal settlements, fees advanced for services not yet performed, or money for court fees. At his guilty plea before United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, Eddy admitted that between 2016 and 2020 he misappropriated $242,975.89 of client funds entrusted to him.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for wire fraud is 20 years’ imprisonment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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York Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carlos Joel Nieves Ortega, age 37, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 3, 2022, to 10 years’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
According to U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus, in March and September 2019, Ortega received and attempted to receive, parcels containing kilogram quantities of cocaine sent from Puerto Rico through the U.S. Mail to York. Ortega also sent money back to Puerto Rico paying for the cocaine.
Ortega’s co-defendants Luis Manuel Quesada Rodriguez, Alex Rivera Ramos, Jose Colon Declet, and Pedro Diaz have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Dalke is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case was also part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Scranton Man Sentenced to Two Years’ Imprisonment for Straw Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Edwin Smith, age 27, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to 24 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for aiding and abetting another to make false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer in order to acquire a Smith & Wesson Shield .45 caliber handgun.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Smith paid another individual to purchase ten firearms from several Scranton-area firearms dealers and make false statements as to the identity of the actual buyer of the firearms. Upon the execution of a search warrant at Smith’s residence, one of the falsely purchased firearms was recovered.
In addition to the two-year imprisonment sentence, Judge Mariani order Smith to serve two years of supervised release upon his release from custody. Judge Mariani also ordered that the sentence run consecutive to an unrelated sentence imposed in Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas for a 2020 robbery offense.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office, and the Scranton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Gallagher prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Lackawanna County Man Found Guilty of Drug Distribution Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced that on February 8, 2022, Robert Jackson, age 44, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of unlawfully distributing a controlled substance resulting in death after a six-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, jurors deliberated for approximately one hour before rendering guilty verdicts against Jackson for the July 28, 2020 death of a 58-year-old Monroe County man. Jackson was also found guilty of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office presented the testimony of Dr. Rameen Starling-Roney, a Forensic Pathologist, and Dr. Michael Coyer, a Forensic Toxicologist, who opined that fentanyl caused the death of the Monroe County man. Additional testimony was provided by officers and detectives from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, and the FBI – Scranton Office who testified that Jackson sold fentanyl to the victim in the evening of July 25, 2020, resulting in his death on July 28, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Robert O’Hara prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin and other opioids. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin and opioid traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
This case was also part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The maximum penalty under federal law is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
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Dillsburg Company Pleads Guilty to Clean Air Act ViolationRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Lobar, Inc., of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania entered a plea of guilty to beginning a demolition project of a former weaving mill prior to removing regulated asbestos containing material as required in 40 C.F.R. § 61.145(c)(1) and 42 U.S.C. § 7413(c)(1).
Asbestos was designated a hazardous air pollutant in 1971 which can become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs. There is no known safe amount of exposure.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the criminal charge is the result of Lobar’s activity, as the general contractor, on the Berwick Area School District project, to demolish the former weaving mill in Berwick Pennsylvania and construct a new elementary school.
Prior to purchasing the mill in January 2014, the Berwick Area School District obtained an environmental assessment report that identified hazardous substances, including asbestos, located in the old facility. The existence of asbestos was confirmed by an environmental consultant. The findings of both assessments were shared with Lobar, and its subcontractors responsible for asbestos removal and demolition. Despite this, the demolition went forward before the asbestos was properly removed until stopped by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
“The defendant was responsible for the integrity of the work site and failed to ensure safe and legal removal of asbestos,” said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Lynn of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Pennsylvania. “The defendant placed public health at risk and is being held accountable.”
A ten-count indictment filed in January 2020, charged Lobar Inc., First Capital Insulation, Inc., Francis Richard Yingling, Jr., Dennis Lee Charles, Jr., M&J Excavation, Inc., John August Sidari, Jr., and Ty Allen Barnett, with various violations of the federal Clean Air Act arising from disturbing and removing asbestos in violation of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants regulations. The remaining defendants have pleaded not guilty and are currently scheduled for trial in June 2022 before U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson.
Howard P. Stewart, Senior Litigation Counsel from the Environmental Crimes Section of the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice, Assistant United States Paul Miovas and Special Assistant United States Patricia Miller of the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case. The case was investigated by the Criminal Investigation Division of the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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York Man Sentenced to Six Years of Imprisonment for Smuggling Cocaine Through the U.S. MailRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Hector Castro-Padro, age 36, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment on February 3, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for his role in a conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into York County from Puerto Rico.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, in November 2019, Castro-Padro tried to receive a box he knew contained a kilogram of cocaine. The box had been shipped from Puerto Rico and was destined for an address in York. However, U.S. Postal Inspectors intercepted the box and discovered the cocaine. Law enforcement authorities continued the investigation by having the box delivered and then arrested Castro-Padro when he took custody of it.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Two Lancaster Men Charged with Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Lopez, age 38, and Michael Torres, age 40, both of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, were indicted on February 2, 2022, by a federal grand jury on money laundering charges.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Lopez is the owner of C&D Motorsports, a car dealership located in Lancaster, where Torres is employed as a salesperson. The indictment alleges that from October 16, 2019, through December 11, 2019, Lopez and Torres conspired to conceal that the funds used to purchase a vehicle were purported to be proceeds of drug trafficking.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Haugsby is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for the money laundering offense charged is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Mississippi Couple Indicted in Sweepstakes ScamRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Troy Smith, age 27, and Michelle Greenwood, age 36, of Mississippi, were indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2021 on eighteen counts of conspiracy, wire fraud mail fraud, and money laundering conspiracy for receiving funds from sweepstakes scam victims and transferring a portion of those funds to coconspirators located in Jamaica. This indictment was unsealed by Court order on February 2, 2022.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that between August 2016 and June 2018, the defendants and other unindicted coconspirators received consumer fraud-induced MoneyGram, Western Union, and Ria money transfers, bank wires and deposits, checks, and cash from victims across the United States totaling more than $300,000.
Their victims included a 51-year-old widow residing in Columbia County, in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. In October 2016, an unidentified fraudster using a fictitious name and posing as an official of a sweepstakes organization falsely told Victim 1 that she had won a multi-million-dollar cash prize and automobile. This fraudster also told Victim 1 that she had to prepay taxes, and later various other fees and expenses, in order to receive her cash prize and automobile. Victim 1 was directed to send money in the form of money transfers, bank wires, and cash mailings payable to the defendants in their own names and in various aliases. Victim 1 was told that the defendants were also officials of the sweepstakes organization. She ended up sending about $123,000 in the form of Western Union, MoneyGram, and Ria money transfers to the defendants and coconspirators, making about $90,000 in cash deposits into their accounts, depositing about $14,000 in the form of bank wire transfers, and mailing about $2,000 in cash and money orders.
Smith and Greenwood received these funds from Victim 1 and others and then sent a portion of these fraud-induced funds to various coconspirators in Jamaica. From October 2016 until about June 2018, the defendants sent around 57 Western Union money transfers totaling about $50,000 to different recipients in Jamaica. Smith and Greenwood commonly received money using certain names, including their own real names, and then sent money to Jamaica under different names and in smaller dollar increments.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud is 20 years’ imprisonment. This charge may also carry a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release following imprisonment. The maximum penalties under federal law for wire fraud and mail fraud are likewise 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release following imprisonment. The maximum penalty under federal law for conspiracy to launder monetary instruments is 20 years’ imprisonment. This charge may also carry a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the amount of the property, money, or monetary instrument involved in the transaction, as well as a term of supervised release following imprisonment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Harrisburg Man Sentenced to over Three Years’ Imprisonment for Straw Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Taashaun Mansfield, age 23, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 37 months' imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for straw purchasing firearms for prohibited individuals.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Mansfield pleaded guilty to conspiring with three other individuals to purchase firearms for felons and individuals under indictment. In 2020, Mansfield purchased seven firearms and transferred them to his codefendants because they were prohibited from possessing firearms. Six of the firearms were recovered during the investigation, but a seventh firearm has not been located.
Co-defendant Michael Windham, age 20, of Harrisburg, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to straw purchase firearms and possessing a firearm while under indictment. Antonio Godbolt age 34, of Harrisburg, also previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to straw purchase firearms and possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Both are awaiting sentencing. A third co-defendant, Johnny Quinones, age 34, of Harrisburg, is awaiting trial on charges of making a false statement to obtain a firearm, conspiring to straw purchase guns, and possessing a gun and ammunition as a felon.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case in conjunction with the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.”
All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Harrisburg Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Childes Neely, age 30, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 181 months' imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for robbery and weapons offenses.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Childes Neely pled guilty to conspiring with four other individuals to commit a total of four armed robberies. During a three-hour period on Saturday night, April 6, 2019, Neely’s co-conspirators wore masks and brandished guns, including an assault rifle, to rob five establishments in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Neely acted as the getaway driver on three of those robberies. Neely also pled guilty to conspiring to rob, at gun point, a Rite Aid pharmacy in Harrisburg, on Monday, April 8, 2019. Neely’s role in that robbery was as a masked gunman to help take cash and drugs from the pharmacy.
A codefendant, Brandon Harris, age 29, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to conspiring to commit the robberies. He was sentenced to 16 years of imprisonment. David Rinehardt, age 21, of Statesville, North Carolina, also pled guilty to conspiring to commit the robberies and was sentenced to over nine years in prison.
Kendrick Groover-Floyd, age 32, of Harrisburg, pled guilty to robbing the Rite Aid. He is awaiting sentencing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation brought this case in conjunction with the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
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Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Announces Justice Department Strategy to Combat Human TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus announces that U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland released the Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking this week pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
Rooted in the foundational pillars and priorities of the interagency National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, which President Biden released on Dec. 3, 2021, the Justice Department's National Strategy is expansive in scope. It aims to enhance the department's capacity to prevent human trafficking; to prosecute human trafficking cases; and to support and protect human trafficking victims and survivors.
“Human trafficking is an insidious crime,” said Attorney General Garland. “Traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm. The Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking will bring the full force of the Department to this fight.”
Among other things, the Justice Department’s multi-year strategy to combat all forms of human trafficking will:
- Strengthen engagement, coordination and joint efforts to combat human trafficking by prosecutors in all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and by federal law enforcement agents nationwide.
- Establish federally-funded, locally-led anti-human trafficking task forces that support sustained state law enforcement leadership and comprehensive victim assistance.
- Step up departmental efforts to end forced labor by increasing attention, resources and coordination in labor trafficking investigations and prosecutions.
- Enhance initiatives to reduce vulnerability of American Indians and Alaska Natives to violent crime, including human trafficking, and to locate missing children.
- Develop and implement new victim screening protocols to identify potential human trafficking victims during law enforcement operations and encourage victims to share important information.
- Increase capacity to provide victim-centered assistance to trafficking survivors, including by supporting efforts to deliver financial restoration to victims.
- Expand dissemination of federal human trafficking training, guidance and expertise.
- Advance innovative demand-reduction strategies.
The department’s strategy will be implemented under the direction of the National Human Trafficking Coordinator designated by the Attorney General in accordance with the Abolish Human Trafficking Act of 2017.
“Human traffickers prey on vulnerable citizens using manipulation, false promises, and at times sheer force to ensnare victims into commercial sexual exploitation or forced labor,” said U.S. Attorney John C. Gurgan. "With our federal, state, and local partners, we are dedicated to bringing these criminals to justice and devoted to providing victims with the necessary resources available to them.”
An example of these efforts in the Middle District of Pennsylvania are as follows:
- U.S. v. Faizal Bhimani and Om Sri Sai, Inc. Om Sri Sai, Inc., a company that owned and operated a Howard Johnson hotel located in Bartonsville, PA, and Faizal Bhimani, the general manager of that hotel, were both convicted by a jury on October 23, 2020, of aiding and abetting sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, and sex trafficking conspiracy, as well as drug trafficking conspiracy and managing a drug-related premises. It is noted that this is the first time a hotel and a hotel general manager have been convicted of criminal sex trafficking offenses for aiding others to engage in that activity in Pennsylvania. Both defendants are currently scheduled for sentencing hearings in February 2022.
- U.S. v. William Battle. A 29-year-old East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment on February 26, 2021, for participating in a conspiracy that forced or coerced women to engage in prostitution in northeastern Pennsylvania. Battle’s conviction and sentence resulted from an investigation into the activities of a street gang known as the “Black P-Stones.” Females were “sexed-in” to the gang by being forced to engage in sex with male gang members; recruited and coerced to engage in prostitution; advertised as adult escorts on a website; provided with heroin and other drugs; and placed in various area hotels/motels to work as prostitutes. Gang members, including Battle, used threats, force, drugs, and intimidation to coerce females to engage in prostitution. The leader of the Black P-Stones, Sirvonn Taylor, was previously sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment. Other high-level gang members that have been sentenced in the case include: Jose Velasquez—17 ½ years’ imprisonment; Jamiell Sims—12 ½ years’ imprisonment; Arthur Taylor—7 years’ imprisonment; and Jordan Capone—7 years’ imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Gurganus encourages the community to be aware of indicators of trafficking and report suspicious activity. Recognizing key indicators is the first step in identifying victims and can help save them.
Indicators of human trafficking can include the following:
- An individual with an inability to produce identification or other documents because they are in a third party’s possession and control.
- An individual who is unable to freely contact friends or family.
- An individual who is coached on what to say to law enforcement or other authority figures.
- An individual who lacks knowledge or awareness as to what happens to the money they earn/are supposed to earn.
- An individual who lacks knowledge or awareness as to how much money they earn.
- An individual who is unable move or travel freely.
- Garnishment of a salary to pay off a fee imposed by their employer.
- Juveniles engaged in commercial sex.
- Frequent visits to the emergency department.
If you believe that you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or Text 233733.
To read the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking click here.
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Harrisburg Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG, The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Ajear Anthony Miller-Carter, age 22, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury for a firearm offense.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on August 30, 2021, in Union County, Miller-Carter possessed a Taurus PT111G2 9MM pistol as a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Firearms Tobacco (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police and the Harrisburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaime M. Keating is prosecuting the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
If convicted, Miller-Carter faces a maximum penalty under federal law for this offense of 10-years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Harrisburg Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jesse Tillison, age 33, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that Tillison possessed cocaine base for distribution in Dauphin County on January 25, 2021. The indictment further alleges that Tillison possessed a Ruger semiautomatic .380 pistol during and in relation to his drug trafficking activities.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshal Service and the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Baer is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.”
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a term of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Bucks County Man Charged with Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Matthew Moss, 36, of Bucks County, Pennsylvania was charged yesterday by a federal grand jury with methamphetamine trafficking.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that Moss possessed with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in York County on November 22, 2021. The indictment further states that Moss had a prior conviction for drug trafficking in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Springettsbury Township Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Baer.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
If convicted, the maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a term of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Trafficking 120 Kilograms of Pure MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Emmanuel Roman-Figueroa, age 39, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 28, 2022, to 180 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for possessing 120 kilograms of 100% pure methamphetamine for distribution. Roman-Figueroa had pleaded guilty to the offense on July 29, 2021.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on October 8, 2020, Roman-Figueroa met his co-defendants, Julio Romero-Mancebo and David Jusino Ramirez, both of New Jersey, at a truck stop off interstate 80 in Sugarloaf Township. Romero-Mancebo and Jusino-Ramirez had transported the methamphetamine in the cab of a tractor trailer from California to the Hazleton area. When they arrived at the truck stop the 120 kilograms of methamphetamine was placed into Roman-Figueroa’s vehicle. The methamphetamine had a street value of over $2 million. Immediately after the methamphetamine was placed in the vehicle, law enforcement officers arrested all three individuals. It is noted that approximately three months earlier, on July 2, 2020, Roman-Figueroa was stopped by the Hazleton Police Department for a traffic violation and $371,500 in drug proceeds were seized from his vehicle.
Co-defendant David Jusino Ramirez was convicted by jury on October 29, 2021, on drug trafficking charges and is awaiting sentencing. Julio Romero-Mancebo pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and is awaiting sentencing.The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Hazleton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Previously Deported Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 28, 2022, Imer Jose Mejia-Morales, age 33, was sentenced to time served (26 days) of imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release, by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Mejia-Morales pleaded guilty to having illegally reentered the United States sometime after his last removal to Mexico in June 2016. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States again sometime after that time. He was located in the United States on March 30, 2021, in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, after a vehicle stop performed by Enforcement and Removal Operations. It is expected he will be removed to Mexico at the completion of his sentence.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joanne M. Sanderson.
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Harrisburg Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brandon Harris, age 29, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 28, 2022, to 192 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for robbery and weapons offenses.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Brandon Harris pled guilty to conspiring with four other individuals to commit a total of six armed robberies. During a three-hour period on Saturday night, April 6, 2019, Harris and/or his co-conspirators wore masks and brandished guns, including an assault rifle, to rob five establishments in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Harris also pled guilty to conspiring to rob, at gun point, a Rite Aid pharmacy in Harrisburg, on Monday, April 8, 2019.
His codefendant, David Rinehardt, age 21, of Statesville, North Carolina, also pled guilty to conspiring to commit the robberies and was sentenced to 111 months in prison.
Childes Neely, age 30, of Harrisburg, pled guilty to the April 6th robberies, as well Rite Aid pharmacy robbery. Kendrick Groover-Floyd, age 32, of Harrisburg, pled guilty to robbing the Rite Aid. They are awaiting sentencing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation brought this case in conjunction with the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
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Jefferson Township Man Sentenced to Probation for Possessing Firearms While an Unlawful User of A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that James C. Cartwright, age 34, of Jefferson Township, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 27, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to two years of probation for possessing two firearms while an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Cartwright previously admitted that between November 2, 2019, and through July 1, 2020, in Wayne and Lackawanna Counties, he was in possession of two firearms, a Taurus PT740 and a Heritage Arms revolver, while knowing that he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney James M. Buchanan prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Florida Man Convicted of Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 27, 2022, Carlos Santurtan-Teran, age 61, of Miami, Florida, was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute marijuana. The jury returned the guilty verdict following a three-day trial before United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, DEA agents discovered an illegal marijuana trafficking conspiracy during a court authorized wiretap of a phone being utilized in furtherance of a drug trafficking scheme to import and distribute cocaine. That wiretap and the later execution of a search warrant established that Santurtan-Teran participated in the conspiracy to grow and distribute marijuana in Tecumseh, Michigan. Santurtan-Teran and his conspirators purportedly were growing the marijuana under color of Michigan’s medical marijuana law, when in truth, the Michigan grow operation was a front to distribute marijuana illegally in several other states including Pennsylvania. The federal jury deliberated two-hours before returning the guilty verdict on January 26, 2022.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s offices in Scranton, Pennsylvania and Toledo, Ohio. Assistant United States Attorneys Todd K. Hinkley and Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Maryland Man Sentenced to Two Years of Probation for Lying About His Residence When Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Donte Christian, age 46, of Catonsville, Maryland, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson to two years of probation for making false statements during the purchase of firearms. Christian was also ordered to pay a $5,500 fine.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Christian previously admitted that on four occasions in 2018, he provided a false state of residence and address when purchasing firearms in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Christian purchased a total of nine handguns.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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New Milford Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 25, 2022, Luke Shager, age 35, of New Milford, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of interstate travel to engage in illicit sexual contact, online enticement, transportation of a minor and production of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on November 4, 2019, Shager traveled from Pennsylvania to New York to engage in illicit sexual conduct and between July 2020 and December 2020, Shager used the internet and a cellular device to entice a minor victim to engage in sexual activity. The indictment also alleges that on August 1, 2020, Shager transported a minor from New York to Pennsylvania with the intent to engage in sexual activity and on August 2, 2020 Shager produced child pornography.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON -The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Thomas J. Hart, age 50, of Pittston, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 26, 2022, to 60 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for receipt and distribution of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, between July 10, 2019, and August 12, 2020, Hart used Kik Messenger to receive and distribute videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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Luzerne County Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 25, 2022, James Rodriguez, Jr. a/k/a “Mack Mulla,” age 29, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that between January 2021 and January 2022, Rodriguez Jr. conspired with other individuals to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl. It is alleged that on October 27, 2021, Rodriguez, Jr aided in the distribution of fentanyl which resulted in the death of an individual. The indictment further alleges that on January 20, 2022, Rodriguez was in possession of over 40 grams of fentanyl and additional quantities of marijuana which he intended to distribute, all while in possession of multiple handguns and a shot gun in furtherance of these drug trafficking activities. Finally, the indictment seeks forfeiture of the firearms and Rodriguez’s Porsche automobile.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Kingston Police Department and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
If convicted, Rodriguez faces a maximum penalty under federal law for this offense of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Luzerne County Man Indicted on Drug Delivery Resulting in Death ChargeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 25, 2022, James Rushton, age 31, of Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of drug delivery resulting in death.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on October 27, 2021, Rushton distributed fentanyl to an individual in Luzerne County and the use of that fentanyl resulted in the individual’s death.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
If convicted, Rushton faces a maximum penalty under federal law for this offense of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Hazleton Man Sentenced to 51 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carlos Castillo, age 40, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 24, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to 51 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm by a felon. Because Castillo is not a lawful resident of the United States, he faces deportation to the Dominican Republic and no term of supervised release was imposed.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Castillo previously admitted that in 2019, along with two other individuals, he participated in a drug distribution operation in Hazleton. Castillo and these individuals used the basement of Castillo’s Hazleton home to prepare bulk amounts of fentanyl for sale and on several occasions that year sold hundreds of bags of fentanyl to others, including undercover informants working with law enforcement. At the time of a June 2019 search of Castillo’s home, hundreds of grams of bulk fentanyl, packaging materials that included 70,000 empty bags, and a hand gun were seized. As a convicted felon, Castillo was prohibited from possessing the handgun.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Bartonsville Man Indicted for Pandemic Loan FraudRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 25, 2022, Nazim Hassam, age 70, of Bartonsville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on bank fraud and money laundering charges.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that Hassam applied for and received multiple loans under the federal Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) while making false statements on the applications. Hassam was indicted along with two businesses he co-owns, the Pocono Plaza Inn and Om Sri Sai, Inc., in 2019 on felony sex and drug trafficking charges. When asked whether he or the companies applying for the loans were under indictment, Hassam falsely answered, “No.” The indictment alleges that Hassam fraudulently obtained loans totaling $89,308. Hassam then conducted unlawful monetary transactions with the bulk of those funds.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
If convicted, Hassam faces a maximum total penalty under federal law for these offenses of 120 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Mechanicsburg Man Sentenced to 48 Months’ Imprisonment for Product TamperingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert K. Burns, age 61, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner to 48 months’ imprisonment for tampering with consumer products. The sentence also included a two-year term of supervised release, which will follow the term of imprisonment.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Burns previously admitted that in May 2019 he replaced pills in multiple bottles of lansoprazole with other items, resealed the bottles, and then returned the bottles to a store in Enola, Pennsylvania. Burns similarly tampered with and then returned other products, including sinus relief products, which he returned to a Mechanicsburg store in May and June 2019, and toothpaste, which he returned to a different Mechanicsburg store in May 2019. In August 2019, police executed a search warrant at Burns’ Mechanicsburg residence and found additional products that had been tampered with and other items indicative of product tampering, including hundreds of cut-up product packages and tamper-resistant seals. In imposing the 48-month sentence, Judge Conner emphasized the sophisticated means Burns utilized, his repeated illegal actions, and the danger that this type of conduct creates.
“FDA is fully committed to the vigorous criminal investigation and prosecution of any individual who threatens the U.S. consumer product supply,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear signal that illicit tampering activity will not be tolerated.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Silver Spring Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.
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Huntington County Woman Sentenced to One Year and One Day in Federal Prison for Pandemic FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Linda Grubb, age 74, of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 24, 2022, to 12 months’ and one day imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Sylvia Rambo for wire fraud.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Grubb pleaded guilty to participating in a scheme where the scheme participants manipulated a variety of pandemic relief programs to fraudulently obtain money. Specifically, international fraudsters made applications for pandemic related small business loans and pandemic unemployment assistance, sometimes using stolen identify information. The pandemic loan and unemployment payments were deposited into Grubb’s bank account in Huntingdon County. Grubb allowed her bank account to be used in that manner and then assisted the fraudsters by wiring the funds to foreign bank accounts they identified.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Tobyhanna Man Sentenced to Seven Years’ Imprisonment for Brandishing A Firearm During A Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Lakeem Hunter-Knight, age 21, of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Hunter-Knight pointed a firearm at two victims during a robbery of the Pickerel Inn General Store, in Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, on May 20, 2020. During the robbery, Hunter-Knight made the victims lie on the ground face down and threatened to shoot them if they moved. Hunter-Knight stole six firearms from the store, which is a federal licensed firearms dealer, before fleeing the scene. He was later apprehended after investigators found two of the stolen firearms in an abandoned vehicle which also contained a GPS device showing Hunter-Knight’s home address. The remaining firearms, along with other evidence, was found when investigators executed a search warrant at Hunter-Knight’s residence.
In addition to the seven-year imprisonment sentence, Judge Mannion ordered Hunter-Knight to serve three years of supervised release upon release from custody and to pay $4,000 in restitution to his victims.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, and the Pike County District Attorney’s office. Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Scranton Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Quamaine Brown, a/k/a, “BX,” age 39, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 21, 2022, to 180 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Brown conspired to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin and more than 40 grams of fentanyl during the conspiracy.
Brown was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release upon release from custody. Brown was one of eleven defendants indicted in May 2020. With the exception of Tysheen Gott, a/k/a “LB,” all other co-conspirators pleaded guilty. Gott was convicted after trial in August 2021 and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was the result of a year-long investigation, in part driven by multiple federal wiretaps conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, the Scranton Police Department, the Pittston City Police Department, the Plymouth Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, the Wyoming County District Attorney’s Office and the Office of Pennsylvania Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Robert O’Hara prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Previously Deported Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 24, 2022, Salvador Dionisio-Guillermo, age 43, was sentenced to time served of 68 days’ imprisonment and one year of supervised release, by United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Dionisio-Guillermo was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in November 2008. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States again sometime after that time. He was located in the United States on January 12, 2020, in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, when a Pennsylvania State Police trooper charged him with Driving Under the Influence and various traffic related violations.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joanne M. Sanderson.
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Gettysburg Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 21, 2022, Daniel Lee Boose, age 39, of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for receiving child pornography. Boose was also ordered to register as a sex offender and serve 10 years of supervised release following his release from prison.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Boose previously pleaded guilty in this case to receiving images of child pornography within Middle District of Pennsylvania. Gurganus noted that at the time of his arrest, Boose was found to be in possession of more than 1,000 images of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children, much of which consisted of sexually explicit material involving children between the ages of 7 and 13.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian T. Haugsby prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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York County Man and Woman Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 12, 2022, Shiloh Edris Johnson, age 18, and Kadie Jean Swartz, age 18, both of York, Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury for drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that Johnson and Swartz conspired to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana, and that they conspired to possess, and possessed, firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. The indictment also charges Johnson with receiving a firearm while under indictment for robbery and aggravated assault.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian T. Haugsby.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the offenses charged in the indictment is up to life imprisonment, a $1 million fine, and up to lifetime supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
This matter was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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LSCI Allenwood Inmate Sentenced for Possessing Cellphone in PrisonRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 20, 2022, Geraldo Rodriguez-Diaz, a 27-year-old inmate at the Low Security Correctional Institution, Allenwood (LSCI Allenwood), pleaded guilty to possessing a cellphone in prison.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on May 10, 2021, an LSCI Allenwood correctional officer’s handheld metal detector alerted on Rodriguez-Diaz. Staff then searched Rodriguez-Diaz and found a Samsung cellphone hidden in a pocket stitched on the inside of Rodriguez-Diaz’s prison uniform. Federal law prohibits inmates from possessing cellphones due to the institutional security risks posed by their use.
Following the acceptance of the guilty plea, U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Arbuckle sentenced Rodriguez-Diaz to two months’ imprisonment. Judge Arbuckle ordered the imprisonment term to run consecutively to his current 10-year prison sentence previously imposed in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for Rodriguez-Diaz’s involvement in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew O. Inman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin prosecuted the case.
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Inmate Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Efrain Sanchez, age 28, an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution-Schuylkill (FCI-Schuylkill), Minersville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 20, 2022, to 4 months’ imprisonment by United States Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr. after pleading guilty to assault.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, at the time of the offense, Sanchez was an inmate at FCI-Schuylkill. Upon being informed that he was being removed from a drug abuse program, Sanchez became disruptive. When a Correctional Officer tried to restrain him, Sanchez assaulted the Correctional Officer by resisting and scratching the officer’s face.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan prosecuted the case.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 5 Years’ Imprisonment for Possessing A Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Iglesias McEntyre, a/k/a “Max Pain,” age 33, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 12, 2022, to five years’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion. He had previously pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, McEntyre provided a drug user with approximately a gram of crack in exchange for a firearm. McEntyre is a previously convicted felon and was on probation in Luzerne County for a drug trafficking charge at the time he committed that offense.
The matter was investigated by the Scranton Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Detectives of the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
This matter was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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Former Bureau of Prisons Chaplain Sentenced for BriberyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ericjon Thomas, age 46, residing in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 13, 2022, to three years’ probation by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani after pleading guilty to bribery of a public official.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Mr. Thomas, while employed as a prison chaplain at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan in Waymart, Pennsylvania, received money in exchange for smuggling items of contraband into the penitentiary, which included, among other things, cigarettes, a G-Shock watch, a pair of Gucci sunglasses, and pornographic magazines. His illegal conduct spanned a period of approximately 11 months.
Thomas resigned his position as a Bureau of Prisons chaplain on April 26, 2017. Thomas also forfeited $15,000 to the U.S. Marshal Forfeiture Fund prior to sentencing.
The matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice – Office of Inspector General, Trenton, New Jersey. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
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USP Canaan Inmate Sentenced to 31 Months’ Imprisonment for Stabbing Another InmateRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Andrew Daniels, age 41, an inmate at United States Penitentiary Canaan (USP Canaan), Waymart, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 14, 2022, to 31 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for assaulting another inmate.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Daniels, while an inmate at USP Canaan, repeatedly stabbed another inmate with a sharp object. The victim was treated for eight puncture wounds around his upper chest and abdomen. The sentence will run consecutively to a 47-year sentence the defendant is already serving.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan prosecuted the case.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 57 Months’ Imprisonment for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON -The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Richard Notarfrancesco, age 30, formerly of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 13, 2022, to 57 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion after pleading guilty to methamphetamine trafficking.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Notarfrancesco possessed with intent to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine in the Hazleton area on September 14, 2019.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This matter was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.
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New York Resident Sentenced to 24 Months’ Imprisonment for Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Josue Peguero, age 22, Bronx, New York was sentenced on January 12, 2022, to 24 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $19,138.01 in restitution by U.S. District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo after pleading guilty to a charge of aggravated identity theft.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on January 4, 2020, Steelton Borough Police observed Peguero and two other individuals tampering with a U.S. Mail blue collection box near an intersection in the Borough of Steelton, Pennsylvania. One individual used an item to “fish” into the mailbox’s opening, while Peguero stood nearby as a lookout, and a third individual drove a getaway vehicle. The police made a traffic stop and found the Peguero and the other two in possession of numerous debit cards in others’ names. They also possessed an ATM withdrawal receipt for one debit card and a $2,500 deposit receipt for a different debit card. The receipts matched debit cards in the defendants’ possession. These cards did not match any of the defendant’s names.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted a follow up investigation. It established that Peguero and the other two individuals had conducted multiple fraudulent debit card transactions in New York City just prior to traveling to the Harrisburg area to fish into mailboxes and obtain stolen checks. These transactions involved the use of stolen, altered checks and debit cards belonging to other people. The investigation further determined that the three had been involved in the stealing of checks and the depositing of these checks in a fraudulent manner for several months leading up to the time of their arrest. The other two individuals also pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft; one has been sentenced and the other is pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma prosecuted the case.
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Five New York City Men Charged in Connection with “Grandparent” Mail Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Josiah DeJesus, age 20, Jashua Noboa-Nival, age 20, Yeurys Peguero-Rosario, age 22, Ramon Peguero-Rosario, age 19, and Nelson Rivas-Bello, age 27, all of Bronx, New York, were indicted by a federal grand jury for their participation in a mail fraud scheme that targeted older victims and fraudulently induced them to send money through the mail under false pretenses.
According to United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on diverse dates in July through October 2020, the above-named defendants traveled from New York to various locations in Pennsylvania, including addresses in Luzerne and Lackawanna County, and picked up UPS and Fed Ex packages containing thousands of dollars in cash sent by elderly victims under the false pretense that their grandchildren had been arrested and were in immediate need of money. The indictment further alleges that the victims sent the money after receiving fraudulent phone calls made by the named defendants’ co-conspirators, who posed either as the victims’ grandchildren or as a public defender representing the victims’ grandchildren.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Philadelphia Division) and the Berks County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St John is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 20 years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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