Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Monroe County Man Charged with Straw Purchases of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Delvin Hutchinson, age 28, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on June 23, 2020, by a federal grand jury with making false statements in connection with the purchase of three firearms from federally licensed firearms dealers. The indictment was unsealed following Hutchinson’s recent arrest.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Hutchinson is charged with providing false information regarding the purchase of three firearms from Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitter, in Stroudsburg, on March 27, 2019 and March 28, 2019.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Indictments and Criminal Informations 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 ten 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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Former Local Militia Commander Sentenced to Eight Months’ Imprisonment for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that former Militia Commander, Paul Nicholas, III, age 49, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on July 21, 2020, for firearms offenses.
According to U.S. Attorney David. J. Freed, on February 3, 2018, Nicholas, a previously convicted felon, unlawfully possessed two AR-15 style rifles and a .45 caliber pistol in Enola, plus a Winchester .30 -.30 caliber rifle at his Harrisburg residence. At the time of his arrest, Nicholas was the commanding officer of the 41st Battalion of the Light Foot Militia in Central Pennsylvania.
Nicholas plead guilty to the charge in August 2018. Thereafter, Nicholas’ sentencing was placed on hold while an appeal in another similar unlawful firearms possession case was decided by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. That appeal was resolved in January 2020.
Judge Rambo ordered Nicholas to begin serving his sentence on August 17, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Office of the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case also is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
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Monroe County Man Guilty of Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jonathan Brownlee, age 42, of Long Pond, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on July 16, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to possessing child pornography
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Brownlee admitted that he used a laptop computer to possess and access images of child pornography. Between August 2017 and April 10, 2018, in Monroe County. Brownlee possessed the child pornography while serving a term of supervised release for a previous conviction for receipt and distribution of child pornography.
Judge Mannion ordered a presentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Probation Office. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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."
The maximum penalty under federal law for the offenses is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment because of Brownlee’s prior conviction for a child pornography crime. 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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New Jersey Man Charged with Conspiring to Distribute Controlled Substances Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that James R. Bell, age 28, of Newark, New Jersey, was indicted on July 14, 2020, by a federal grand jury with drug distribution resulting in death.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the Indictment alleges that Bell conspired with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, fentanyl and heroin, within the Middle District of Pennsylvania, resulting in the death of a person.
The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting 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 fentanyl. 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.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.
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. In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute for drug distribution resulting in death is life imprisonment.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature 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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Nascent Devices, Inc. to Pay $70,000 to Resolve Potential False Claims LiabilityRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Nascent Devices, Inc. (Nascent) has agreed to pay the United States $70,000 to resolve potential liability under the False Claims Act.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, the investigation arose from Nascent’s conduct with respect to a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) award received from the National Science Foundation. It is alleged that Nascent improperly charged unallowable and unallocable costs toward the award, applied a significantly higher overhead rate to account for underspending, and provided false certifications on its final report cover page in 2015.
“Potential false claims under grant programs such as the Small Business Technology Transfer program from the National Science Foundation, impact citizens and potential grant recipients alike,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “It is vital that we hold grantees accountable. Our ACE Unit works closely together with a variety of federal agencies to ensure compliance and responsible stewardship of federal funds.”
“The National Science Foundation is a strong supporter of the Small Business Technology Transfer program,” said Allison Lerner, National Science Foundation Inspector General. “However, the Foundation expects grant recipients to abide by the award terms and conditions, including the federal cost principles. Expenses charged to grants must be allowable, allocable and reasonable. Similarly, awardees cannot significantly underspend awards and keep the surplus funds without consequence. I commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their work on upholding federal grant rules in this case.”
This Settlement Agreement is neither an admission of liability by Nascent nor a concession by the United States that its claims are not well founded.
This case was investigated by the NSF Office of Inspector General. The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Tamara J. Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Unit within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Plains Township Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Firebombing Luzerne County Children and YouthRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Philip Finn, Jr., age 50, of Plains, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on July 9, 2020 to 10 years’ imprisonment followed by three years supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for use of fire to commit stalking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, on March 6, 2017, Finn threw three Molotov cocktails to set fire to the Luzerne County Children and Youth Building to harass and intimidate two Children and Youth Employees. Finn also used Facebook, Google and his cell phone in harassing the employees.
Judge Mannion also ordered Finn to pay $398,756 in restitution for the fire and water damage to the building.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case.
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Former Navy Depot Supervisor Indicted for Abusive Sexual Contact and Physical AssaultRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jared Bishop Heisey, age 30, of Etters, Pennsylvania, was indicted on July 1, 2020, for abusive sexual contact without consent and simple assault.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Heisey, former supervisor at the Distribution Defense Logistics Agency on Naval Services Activity in Mechanicsburg, engaged in unwanted sexual contact in July, August, and November 2019, of an employee of the United States Government while she was engaged in the performance of her official duties.
The case was investigated by Naval Criminal Investigative Services and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaime Keating.
Indictments and Criminal Informations 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 each Sexual Abuse charge is two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law the Simple Assault charge is one year of 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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Luzerne County Woman Guilty of Conspiracy to Unlawfully Purchase GunsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Laquanna Bacote, age 25, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on July 7, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to conspiring with others to make false statements in connection with the acquisition of firearms from federal-licensed firearm dealers in Luzerne and Northampton Counties between April and October of 2019.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Bacote admitted to conspiring with others to purchase 14 guns for another person while falsely claiming to be the actual purchaser of the firearms. Bacote made false statements on federal firearms forms to purchase firearms and unlawfully obtain firearms from H & H Tactical in Exeter, Pennsylvania and NJT Arms in Northampton, Pennsylvania.
Judge Mannion ordered a pre-sentence investigation. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The maximum penalty under federal law is five 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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Wilkes-Barre Woman Sentenced to 66 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Na’Deardra Mayhams, age 28, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on July 7, 2020 to 66 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for heroin and crack cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, between February 2016 and May 2016, Mayhams was a member of a drug ring that distributed heroin and crack cocaine in the Wilkes-Barre area. Mayhams personally sold narcotics to a confidential informant, and a search of her residence recovered heroin, crack cocaine, and a firearm. A search warrant of the residence of Mayhams’s codefendants recovered a second firearm registered in her name. Mayhams pleaded guilty to trafficking five grams of crack cocaine and 40 grams of heroin, the latter of which is the equivalent of approximately 1,600 potentially fatal doses of heroin, and for possessing firearms in furtherance of her drug dealing activities.
Four other members of the drug ring previously were sentenced:
- Davon Beckford, of Wilkes-Barre, was sentenced to time served of approximately 13 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release. After violating the terms of his supervised release, Beckford was sentenced to an additional 6 months’ imprisonment.
- Jaquan Henderson, of Wilkes-Barre, was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release.
- Stephanie Walter, of Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to two years of probation.
- Al Dunlap, of Wilkes-Barre, was sentenced to 108 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release.
A sixth defendant, Truman Jones, was convicted at trial in December 2019 and awaits sentencing.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Phillip J. Caraballo and Jenny Roberts prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case also is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
This case further was 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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Two Luzerne County Men Charged with Fentanyl Trafficking and Ammunition OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kearon Brinson, age 40, of West Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, and Lamont Hubbard, age 49, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, were indicted on June 30, 2020, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and ammunition charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Brinson and Hubbard conspired to traffic in excess of 40 grams of fentanyl between January 2019 and February 2020 in Luzerne County. Brinson was charged with possessing with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, and Hubbard with possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl, both on February 24, 2020. Hubbard also was charged with possessing ammunition as a convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Luzerne Country Drug Task Force, and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
This case further was 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.
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 the most serious drug offense is 40 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for the ammunition offense is 10 years of 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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Monroe County Man Sentenced to 300 Months’ Imprisonment for Fentanyl Laced Heroin Distributions Resulting in DeathsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Vincent Ingino, age 28, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania was sentenced on July 1, 2020, to 300 months’ imprisonment followed by three-years supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for distributions of controlled substances resulting in two deaths.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ingino was convicted by a jury in February 2020 on two counts of knowingly and intentionally distributing controlled substances that included a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, causing the deaths of two individuals. In August 2018, Ingino drove to Patterson, New Jersey to obtain bundles of heroin for resale in the Stroudsburg area. Ingino first sold fentanyl laced heroin to a 24-year-old male on August 10, 2018; he made another sale of fentanyl laced heroin to a 28-year-old male on August 11, 2018. Both men were found dead by friends and family the day after Ingino’s sales of drugs to them.
At sentencing, members of both families made moving statements to the Court, which Judge Mannion acknowledged.
The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Pennsylvania State Police, and detectives from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Jenny Roberts.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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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Harrisburg Woman Sentenced for Stealing from Credit UnionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brooke Shaeffer, age 24, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 30, 2020, by the Honorable Jennifer P. Wilson to five years of probation for stealing from Members 1st Federal Credit Union.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Shaeffer previously pleaded guilty to the crime and admitted that in March 2017, she stole approximately $19,599 while employed as a teller at the credit union’s branch in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania.
Full restitution in the amount of $19,599 was made prior to sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.
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Luzerne County Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Amanda Boyle, age 37, of Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on June 29, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Boyle admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in the Luzerne County area between January 2017 and December 2018. Boyle was one of five individuals indicted by a grand jury in December 2018 for methamphetamine trafficking in Luzerne, Lackawanna and Schuylkill Counties
Judge Mariani ordered that a presentence report be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Kingston Police Department, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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 charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years in prison under federal law. The maximum penalty for the charge is up to life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $10,000,000 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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Former Cemetery Owner Sentenced for Defrauding CustomersRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Theodore Martin, age 57, formerly of York County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 13 months’ imprisonment to be followed by two years of supervised release by Chief United States District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for conspiring to commit mail fraud. The sentence represents a downward adjustment of approximately twenty-eight months to account for prison time that Martin has served for a related fraud scheme in Ohio.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Martin, along with his wife Arminda Martin, owned and operated Suburban Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Dover, Pennsylvania. The Martins previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud hundreds of their customers out of approximately $500,000. The Martins admitted that instead of applying customer payments to cemetery services and products, they embezzled the money for their own personal gain, including for gambling.
Arminda Martin is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28, 2020.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Northern York County Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlo D. Marchioli and Joseph J. Terz prosecuted the case.
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East Stroudsburg Man Sentenced for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Raheem Marrow, age 48, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, to 75 months’ imprisonment and a six-year term of supervised release for heroin trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Marrow pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute heroin within 1,000 feet of a protected location. Marrow sold heroin to an informant on four occasions between June 2016 and March 2017 within 1,000 feet of a school or playground. A warranted search of Marrow’s residence yielded heroin, packaging materials, and a .22 caliber handgun. Marrow took responsibility for the heroin and firearm, and admitted to his criminal conduct.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Stroud Regional Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was 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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Mountaintop Man Sentenced to 169 Months’ Imprisonment for Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jonathan Jacome, age 30, of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 23, 2020, to 169 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for money laundering conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Jacome was a leader and organizer in a sophisticated scheme that used stolen identities to file fraudulent tax returns in 2011 and 2012, and obtained over $7.7 million in fraudulent federal tax refunds. Jacome opened three check cashing businesses in Luzerne County solely to carry out the fraud scheme, and through which he processed the fraudulently obtained Treasury checks. Jacome pleaded guilty pursuant to a plea agreement with the government to a single count of money laundering conspiracy. As part of that agreement, Jacome admitted that he committed the underlying crimes of theft of public money, wire fraud, and bank fraud.
Jacome also conspired with others to present false testimony to a federal grand jury investigating the scheme. The fabricated testimony was intended to hide the fact that Jacome used stolen funds to purchase a house in Mountaintop, and to otherwise shield Jacome from criminal liability. Jacome’s sentence reflected an enhancement for the obstruction.
Judge Mariani cited the widespread scope of the criminal activity, the degree of dishonesty involved during the scheme and after, and the extensive and intricate efforts to conceal the crimes in imposing the 169-month sentence. Jacome was also ordered to pay over $7.7 million in restitution and must forfeit certain properties acquired with stolen funds.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and the Hazelton City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
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Mechanicsburg Man Sentenced to Two Years’ Probation for Depositing over A Million Dollars in Cash to Avoid Bank Reporting RequirementsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG –The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kenneth Hoffman, age 57, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania,
was sentenced on June 23, 2020, by United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner to two years’ probation and to pay a $9,700 fine for structuring cash deposits.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, between 2014 and 2017, Hoffman deposited over $2 million in cash into various bank accounts which were just below $10,000 to avoid having his cash deposits reported to federal authorities.
Judge Conner recognized the remedial steps Hoffman took since the IRS began their investigation in 2017. When the IRS initiated the case, Hoffman worked closely with outside professionals to reform his business practices. In addition, he has filed amended returns with appropriate taxing authorities to remedy prior deficiencies.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
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Department of Justice Announces $42 Million to Combat Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Methamphetamine and OpioidsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – U.S. Attorney David J. Freed and the Department of Justice‘s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) announced nearly $42 million in funding to support state-level law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and prescription opioids.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Police will receive over $1.5 million in funding to support investigations into trafficking in heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
“On a daily basis, we work closely with our partners at the Pennsylvania State Police to investigate and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that are preying upon our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “I am very pleased that the COPS program has recognized the great work of PSP and is supporting our joint efforts to fight these highly addictive and often deadly substances by providing over 1.5 million dollars in funding. The Department of Justice clearly recognizes that 85 percent of law enforcement across the country is state and local and that there is no daylight between our shared missions.”
“Drug traffickers exploit the heroin and opioid epidemic to create sophisticated criminal enterprises that put our communities at risk,” said Colonel Robert Evanchick, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “The funding announced today will help the state police continue to collaborate with our local law enforcement partners to identify and dismantle these organizations and disrupt the flow of illicit drugs into Pennsylvania.”
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
Drug overdose deaths and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase in the United States. Deaths from drug overdose are up among both men and women, all races, and adults of nearly all ages, with more than three out of five drug overdose deaths involving an opioid. More than 130 people die every day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, while methamphetamine continues to be one of the most commonly misused stimulant drugs in the world and is the drug that most contributes to violent crime.
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF). AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multijurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
- Pennsylvania State Police will receive $1,504,576 million in funding.
Through the COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP), the COPS Office is also awarding $12 million to 12 state law enforcement agencies. These state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished methamphetamine, laboratories, and laboratory dump seizures. State agencies are being awarded three years of funding through CAMP to support the location or investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, including precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine trafficking.
The AHTF and CAMP funding has a tremendous impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms. Similarly, for CAMP, grantees reported seizures of more than $7 million in cash and 1,577 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ahtf-award
The complete list of COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/camp-award
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Wilkes-Barre Man Charged with Additional Offenses for Methamphetamine LaboratoryRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment on June 16, 2020, charging Michael Laury, age 41, formerly of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, with additional offenses for a methamphetamine laboratory.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the superseding indictment charges Laury with managing a drug premises, a methamphetamine conspiracy, with giving a false statement to federal law enforcement officials. The charges stem from a methamphetamine laboratory that law enforcement officials shuttered at Laury’s residence in June 2017. Laury also is charged with lying to FBI agents about his knowledge of the methamphetamine laboratory.
The matter was investigated by the FBI, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Wilkes-Barre Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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 penalties under federal law for the most serious offense are a maximum 20 years of 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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West Hazleton Man Charged with Firearms and Narcotics Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Randell Bruton-Scott, age 33, of West Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on June 16, 2020, by a federal grand jury with crack cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment charges Bruton-Scott with distributing crack cocaine on five different occasions, and with possessing with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine, in May and June of 2019. Bruton-Scott also is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of his narcotics trafficking and with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosive, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the West Hazleton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
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 penalties under federal law for the most serious drug offense are a minimum five years and maximum 40 years of imprisonment, for the most serious firearms offense are a minimum five years and maximum life of imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentenced imposed, and 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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Old Forge Man Charged with Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Jones, age 53, of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, was charged on June 16, 2020, by criminal information with tax evasion.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that Jones failed to report over $500,000 in taxable income between 2014 and 2019 to avoid paying federal income taxes. The information alleges that Jones failed to report income he gained from illegal bookmaking activities. The information further alleges that Jones made false statements to federal agents in February 2019 during the investigation.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
Criminal Informations 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 this offense is 5 years of 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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Former Cressona Borough Treasurer Indicted for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Erin Hossler, age 50, of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, the former treasurer for Cressona Borough, Schuylkill County, was indicted on June 17, 2020, by a federal grand jury on three counts of tax evasion for 2015, 2016, and 2017 and 12 counts of failure to account for and pay over employment tax.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Hossler took hundreds of thousands of dollars between 2015 and 2018 from the Borough of Cressona, where she used to work as the Secretary/Treasurer. It is alleged that Hossler had numerous checks issued to herself, forged signatures on checks, and used online banking for the borough’s bank accounts to pay her personal bills. The indictment further alleges that Hossler concealed her activities by altering federal records, withholding payment of federal employment taxes for Cressona Borough employees, and altering an audit from an independent accounting firm to make it appear that the firm approved of the borough’s finances.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations 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 each of these offenses is five years of 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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U.S. Attorney David J. Freed Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – U.S. Attorney David J. Freed joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2020. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important this year than perhaps ever before to bring awareness to elder abuse, neglect and exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “As lockdowns and social distancing have limited interaction between people, this crisis has created numerous opportunities for scammers to prey on our most vulnerable citizens. While the scams may have different names and use different methods, the goal remains the same: to separate law abiding citizens from their money. In the Middle District of Pennsylvania we are proud to prioritize and prosecute elder fraud cases of all types. I urge everyone to report these scams so that we can take down these brazen criminals.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11 Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors, including two cases in the Middle District. One being:
- Omoefe Okoro, age 48, a citizen of Canada, was charged in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Okoro and others are alleged to have engaged in an attorney “collection scam” in Ontario, Canada, and elsewhere. In particular, Okoro and his co-conspirators are alleged to have conducted a scheme in which they contacted businesses and individuals, including elderly victims, and requested, among other things, to collect an outstanding debt. The suspects, posing as the third party, then sent a counterfeit check to the victim for deposit and requested that the victim wire funds to an account overseas, typically in Japan, South Korea, or China. Canada surrendered Okoro to the United States on Aug. 29, 2018. Okoro is currently scheduled for trial on August 3, 2020.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year. The Middle District disrupted such a case in June 2019:
- Anthony W. Redd, age 63, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, was charged in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. It is alleged that Redd was a “Money Mule” and participated in a scheme to defraud individuals out of money by making them believe they were eligible for cash and other prizes. As part of the scheme, Redd is alleged to have caused the mailing of legitimate postal money orders from Mechanicsburg to his address in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and to have converted the known proceeds of the scheme to cash or to have sent the proceeds through Western Union or MoneyGram to Costa Rica. Redd is currently scheduled to plead guilty on July 1, 2020.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams. One such case that the Middle District recently prosecuted was:
- Jenmariey Burchell, a 26-year-old Jamaican citizen for her part in a scheme to defraud senior citizens that were falsely told they had won multi-million dollar international sweepstakes prizes. The purported winners were directed to send Western Union and MoneyGram money transfers, money orders and checks to persons known as “money mules,” ostensibly to pre-pay taxes and other fictitious expenses, in order to collect the non-existent cash prizes. Burchell enlisted the “money mules” to receive and transfer the fraud proceeds to him and other conspirators in Jamaica. Burchell ultimately received a sentence of 51 months’ imprisonment on November 12, 2019.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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Guatemalan National Sentenced to 57 Months’ Imprisonment for Transporting HeroinRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Cesar Moscoso-Sagastume, age 39, of Esquipulas, Guatemala, was sentenced on June 11, 2020 to serve 57 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Moscoso-Sagastume previously pleaded guilty to participating in the conspiracy during February 2018. Moscoso-Sagastume admitted that he agreed to transport approximately five kilograms of heroin (which is equivalent to approximately 200,000 individual retail baggies) from Chicago to New York City. The heroin was transported from Mexico to Chicago where it was placed in the his vehicle. Moscoso-Sagastume was stopped by Pennsylvania State Troopers on Interstate 80 while traveling to New York City.
Moscoso-Sagastume will likely face deportation after serving his prison sentence.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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 coordin effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Columbia County Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Gary Shoemaker, Jr., age 40, of Berwick, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to 72 months’ imprisonment for engaging in heroin trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Shoemaker pleaded guilty to the offense of distribution of a controlled substance (heroin). Shoemaker was charged with this offense after he sold heroin to a confidential informant during an investigation targeting drug distribution activity in the Columbia and Montour County areas.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Montour County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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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Allenwood Inmate Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Drug PossessionRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tavon Johnson, age 30, previously of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced on June 15, 2020 by U.S District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to 12 months’ imprisonment for possession of narcotics while incarcerated at the Allenwood Low Federal Correctional Institution (FCC Allenwood), Allenwood, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Johnson had previously entered a guilty plea to possession of contraband in a prison for possessing 120 strips of the narcotic Suboxone. The sentence imposed on Johnson will run consecutively to the sentence he is presently serving.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted.
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York Man Sentenced to Four Years’ Imprisonment for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on June 9, 2020, U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Robert Carl Eaton, III, age 26, of York, Pennsylvania, to 48 months’ imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Eaton pleaded guilty to a felony indictment admitting that he possessed a Smith and Wesson 9mm loaded firearm as a convicted felon on October 24, 2017, in York County. Eaton was ordered to pay a $400 fine and serve three years of supervised release after his four-year prison term.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Schuylkill County Man Sentenced to 14 Years’ Imprisonment for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rhashean Strange, age 35, of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 10, 2020 by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to 14 years’ imprisonment for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Strange previously pleaded guilty to participating in the conspiracy during 2014 and 2015. Strange admitted that he and others in the conspiracy distributed between one and three kilograms of heroin, which is approximately equivalent to between 40,000 and 120,000 retail bags of heroin. The heroin was obtained from suppliers in Paterson, New Jersey, and Hazleton, Pennsylvania.
Strange, who used the street name “Chicago,” was the leader of the drug conspiracy and possessed firearms in connection with the criminal activity.
Judge Mariani also ordered Strange to serve five years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and to forfeit firearms and his share of cash seized during the investigation.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Shenandoah Police. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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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Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Adam Holcomb, age 36, of Shickshinny, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on June 9, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Holcomb admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in the Luzerne County area between January 2017 and December 2018. Holcomb was one of five individuals indicted by a grand jury in December 2018 for methamphetamine trafficking in Luzerne, Lackawanna and Schuylkill Counties.
Judge Mariani ordered that a presentence report be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Kingston Police Department, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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 charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years in prison under federal law. The maximum penalty for the charge is up to life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $10,000,000 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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Erie Man Sentenced to Nine Years’ Imprisonment for Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on June 10, 2020, Ted Johnson, Jr., age 38, of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to 108 months’ imprisonment for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Johnson pleaded guilty to using a firearm during a crime of violence in connection with a January 2017 armed robbery of a Unimart in State College, PA. The robbery consisted of two co-conspirators entering the store and firing their weapons while Johnson acted as a lookout and getaway driver.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ferguson Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Chicago and Tennessee Man Sentenced to 101 Months’ Imprisonment for Veteran’s Unemployment Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Earl Lafayette Hall, III, age 38, previously of Chicago and Arlington, Tennessee, was sentenced to 101 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $96,431 in restitution on June 9, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo for veteran’s unemployment compensation fraud.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, Hall was convicted in November 2019 by a federal jury on two counts of conspiracy, 12 counts of mail fraud, 10 counts of money laundering, and 4 counts of aggravated identity theft.
The evidence presented during the trial and the sentencing hearing, showed that Hall applied for and received $96,431 in unemployment compensation benefits under the Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service Members Program, commonly known as “The UCX Program,” under the assumed identities (first name, last name, date of birth and Social Security Number) of eleven other individuals.
The UCX Program is a federally funded, U.S. Department of Labor program administered by the States. The jury found that Hall fraudulently obtained the benefits paid on 7 false UCX claims submitted to Pennsylvania, 3 false UCX claims submitted in Utah, and another false identity UCX claim submitted to Hawaii in 2013 and 2014.
“On behalf of the investigative team, we are very pleased with the serious sentence and restitution order imposed in this case,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “As I said at the time of conviction, it takes an especially devious and brazen criminal mind to defraud a program established to benefit those who have sacrificed so much for their fellow citizens. Fortunately the Defense Criminal Investigation Service, the United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, the United States Postal Inspection Service and numerous other federal, state and local partners were on the case.”
“The UCX Program, which provides unemployment benefits for eligible unemployed former service members following their separation from the military, is extremely important," stated Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office. "The sentencing announced today marks the conclusion of a successful joint investigation and confirms the DCIS' ongoing commitment to work with its law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania, to protect the integrity of DoD programs and the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces."
“Earl Lafayette Hall III schemed to defraud the Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service Members Program in order to personally enrich himself at the expense of former military service members and tax payers,” said Derek Pickle Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to aggressively pursue prosecution of those who seek to defraud our nation’s veterans and the DOL programs that support them.”
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Labor Racketeering & Fraud Investigations, the U.S. Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Harrisburg. The investigation was assisted by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, Internal Audits Division, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, Office of Unemployment Compensation Benefits and Policy, and the Pennsylvania Department of Treasury, Office of Unemployment Compensation Disbursements. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel prosecuted the case.
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Louisiana Chemical Company Agrees to Pay over $1.9 Million and Company Executives Charged in Investigation of the Unlicensed Distribution and Exportation of Regulated List 1 ChemicalsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Natural Advantage LLC a/k/a Taste Advantage LLC (“Natural Advantage”), a chemical manufacturer headquartered in Oakdale, Louisiana, entered a deferred prosecution agreement and was charged in a criminal information with the unregistered distribution and exportation of regulated List 1 chemicals. Carol Callahan Byrne, age 65, and Dr. Brian Byrne, age 74, both of Oakdale, Louisiana, also were charged in a criminal information with the failure to report List 1 chemical manufacturing to the Attorney General.
Natural Advantage entered a three-year deferred prosecution agreement, under which the United States has agreed to defer prosecution of the company unless it fails to comply with the terms of the agreement. Pursuant to the deferred prosecution agreement, Natural Advantage has agreed to forfeit $1,938,650.10, which represents the gross revenue of its List 1 chemical sales. The company also has agreed, among other things, to undergo annual audits for List 1 chemical compliance, the results of which will be reported to the United States.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Carol Callahan Byrne served as the Chief Financial Officer and Dr. Brian Byrne served as the Chief Executive Officer of Natural Advantage, a company that manufactured chemicals for customers in the flavor, fragrance, and cosmetics industries. Among the chemicals manufactured by Natural Advantage were Piperonal, Heliotropine, Phenylacetic Acid, Isoamyl Phenylacetate, and Ethyl Phenylacetate, all of which were List 1 chemicals that, in addition to legitimate uses, are also precursor chemicals for manufacturing methamphetamine and ecstasy. List 1 chemicals are subject to extensive regulations, including licensing requirements for distributors and regular reporting to the United States.
As alleged, beginning in approximately January 2011, and continuing until January 2017, Natural Advantage distributed and exported in excess of 1,550 kilograms of List 1 chemicals to customers in the United States and worldwide, without obtaining the requisite registration from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and despite being warned by the DEA not to distribute List 1 chemicals. None of the chemicals are alleged to have been diverted to narcotics traffickers.
Company executives are alleged to have known of Natural Advantage’s unlicensed distribution of List 1 chemicals, and of arrangements to use other domestic companies as intermediaries to sell List 1 chemicals to foreign customers who discovered that Natural Advantage was not licensed and refused to purchase the chemicals. Company executives also are alleged to have concealed Natural Advantage’s List 1 chemical activities, including, as alleged against Carol Callahan Byrne and Dr. Brian Byrne, by failing to file annual manufacturing reports with the Attorney General.
“The defendants in this case violated the law when they sold and exported nearly $2 million-worth of precursor chemicals, without following the regulations and procedures designed to ensure that these chemicals do not end up on the black market,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “As part of our responsibility to help protect the public from dangerous drugs, this office will continue to ensure that companies properly handle List I chemicals.”
“By intentionally evading the regulations in place for List I chemicals, Natural Advantage greatly increased the possibility that these chemicals could end up in the hands of cartels for the production of methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other dangerous and illicit substances,” said Jonathan A. Wilson, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Philadelphia Field Division. “In light of the rise of methamphetamine use in the United States and the damage it causes to our families and our society, DEA will continue to enforce these regulations and seek out these violators.”
The case was investigated by DEA Diversion Investigators. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo, and the Financial Litigation Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office are prosecuting the case.
Criminal informations 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 the charge against Natural Advantage is up to five years of probation, and the maximum penalties for the charges against Carol Callahan Byrne and Brian Byrne are up to one year of 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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Former FCI Schuylkill Correctional Officer Charged in Bribe Scheme to Provide Tobacco to InmatesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Paul Taylor, age 53, of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, a former BOP Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Institute Schuylkill (FCI Schuylkill), Schuylkill, Pennsylvania, was charged on June 9, 2020, in a criminal information with bribery and corruption.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that between 2011 and 2016, Taylor smuggled tobacco into FCI Schuylkill while employed as a Correctional Officer, and provided the contraband to prisoners in exchange for money.
The investigation was conducted by special agents of the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations 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 this offense is 15 years of 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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Former Corrections Officer Sentenced to One Year and One Day for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Tony J. Liesenfeld, age 50, of Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to a term of imprisonment of one year and one day for wire fraud.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Liesenfeld pleaded guilty and admitted that between June 11, 2001 and November 25, 2015, he embezzled over $77,000 from American Federation of Government Employees Local 148. At the time, Liesenfeld was a correctional officer at Lewisburg Federal Penitentiary and conducted his fraudulent scheme while serving as the union’s treasurer and then president. Liesenfeld allegedly used a union credit card to make unauthorized purchases and cash withdrawals, and forged checks from a union account to the same ends.
Liesenfeld was ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution and will serve two years of supervised release after his prison term.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Labor-Management Standards and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to One Year One Day Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on June 5, 2020, United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Nathaniel Murphy, age 45, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to one year and one day in prison for trafficking in heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Murphy pleaded guilty to taking part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with Juan Roman-Polanco and others, distributing heroin in Luzerne County in 2016 and 2017.
Roman-Polanco, the leader of the drug trafficking organization, previously pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge, admitting to responsibility for the distribution and possession with intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin, one kilogram of cocaine, and over 65 grams of cocaine base. Polanco was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment. One kilogram of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 40,000 individual doses of heroin.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Wilkes-Barre Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting 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. 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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Savage Family Pharmacy to Pay $180,480 in Civil Penalties for Violations of the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG, PA —The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Savage Family Pharmacy, located in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay the United States $180,480 in civil penalties for allegedly failing to comply with recordkeeping and other requirements of the Controlled Substances Act. These alleged violations enabled the diversion of opioids from the pharmacy over an extended period of time.
The Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. sections 801 et seq. (CSA), was passed to combat illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, including prescription medications. The CSA’s recordkeeping and prescribing requirements are to prevent the diversion of controlled substances for illegal purposes. The CSA is enforced by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Diversion Control Division, whose mission is to prevent, detect, and investigate the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and listed chemicals from legitimate sources while ensuring adequate and uninterrupted supply for legitimate medical, commercial, and scientific needs. Under the CSA, entities registered with the DEA who purchase, distribute, dispense, transfer, or sell controlled substances must comply with inventory and documentation requirements. Regulations promulgated under the CSA require that each DEA registrant, including pharmacies, maintain complete and accurate records of each substance manufactured, received, sold, delivered, dispensed or otherwise disposed of by the registrant. These requirements play a vital role in ensuring the appropriate handling, accounting, and distribution of controlled substances. Violations of the record-keeping requirements subject DEA registrants to civil monetary penalties.
According to the allegations, between 2015 and 2019, Savage Family Pharmacy did not adequately monitor the conduct of its employees, and failed to keep complete and accurate inventories and records regarding the receipt and dispensing of Schedule II controlled substances, including but not limited to oxycodone and hydrocodone. These alleged violations enabled the altering of incoming inventory counts, as well as the altering of dispensed counts of the controlled substances over an extended period of time. Inventories, when conducted, were not reconciled with the perpetual log. Additionally, pages of the perpetual log were removed, allegedly, by an employee diverting the controlled substances.
As a result of Savage Family Pharmacy’s alleged actions, tens of thousands of doses of controlled substances went unaccounted for and were potentially diverted for illicit purposes.
An act of employee theft of Controlled Substances at the pharmacy in May of 2019 led to the present civil investigation. Savage Family Pharmacy has since enhanced its recordkeeping and compliance program, including instituting a process of reconciling the inventories to the perpetual log, in response to concerns raised by the DEA in the course of this investigation. This settlement addresses the independent obligation of Savage Family Pharmacy to ensure it has systems in place adequate to prevent theft and fraudulent inventory and dispensing, as required by 21 U.S.C. §§ 827, 842, and associated regulations.
“There is no doubt that diversion and subsequent misuse and abuse of high powered opioids has been devastating to many communities throughout the United States, and the Middle District of Pennsylvania is no exception,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “The ability to dispense powerful controlled substances carries with it the grave responsibility to appropriately monitor the receipt and distribution of those drugs. In the midst of a crisis, lax controls and shoddy record keeping is not only irresponsible, it is dangerous. I commend the owners of Savage Pharmacy for taking responsibility to correct these problems and ensure that they do not reoccur.”
“Pharmacists are entrusted with securing and properly documenting the dispensing of powerful prescription painkillers such as oxycodone so as to prevent illicit diversion,” said Jonathan A. Wilson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. “If Savage Family Pharmacy had maintained adequate records and controls they could have prevented or deterred the diversion of tens of thousands of opioids.”
This Settlement Agreement is neither an admission of liability by the pharmacy nor a concession by the United States that its claims are not well founded.
This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration’s Diversion Control Division. The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Tamara J. Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Unit within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 27 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jarrett Edmonds, age 37, of Ashley, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 27 months’ imprisonment followed by six years on supervised release for possessing with intent to deliver quantities of heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Edmonds previously pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to deliver quantities of heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine in Luzerne County in July 2017.
The case was investigated by task force officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Luzerne County Detectives, and Wilkes-Barre Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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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Department of Justice Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance CommunityRead the Press Release
Over $1.3 Million Awarded to Hazleton Police Department
HARISBURG – The Department of Justice and U.S. Attorney David J. Freed announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP), with more than $1.3 million going to the Hazleton Police Department in the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
The Attorney General announced the awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
“In the Middle District of Pennsylvania, we value nothing more highly than our strong relationships with our partners in state and local law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “We are proud to work with the elected leaders of the City of Hazleton and their police department to provide resources for more officers. Hazleton is a dynamic community that is working hard to confront the challenges of 21st century policing. More officers means more opportunities to build relationships across the community and more ways to serve and protect.”
Of the eight grants awarded in Pennsylvania, one of them is to Hazleton Police Department in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. This grant of $1,342,497 will allow Hazleton Police Department to hire four additional full-time officers.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/chp/Award_List.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Scranton Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Bomboy, age 60, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on May 29, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Bomboy admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 350 and 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Scranton area between February and April 2019.
Judge Mariani ordered that a presentence report be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The investigation was conducted by the Scranton Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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 charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison under federal law. The maximum penalty for the charge is up to forty years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $5,000,000 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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Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Firearms and Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Bruce Redmond, age 31, of Dallas, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on June 2, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to the illegal possession of firearms and methamphetamine trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Redmond admitted to being an illegal user of controlled substances in possession of firearms and to the possession of methamphetamine for further distribution. The charges stem from an incident in which law enforcement authorities served search warrants at Redmond’s residence in Dallas and business office in Kingston and seized approximately 58 firearms, 6,664 rounds of ammunition and a quantity of methamphetamine.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Kingston Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.
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 drug offenses is twenty years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for the firearms offenses is ten years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release, 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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Gouldsboro Man Sentenced to 36 Months’ Imprisonment for Robbing Jefferson Township Bank with BB GunRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Petr Kostenetskiy, age 21, of Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 2, 2020, by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to thirty-six months’ imprisonment to be followed by two years of supervised release for armed bank robbery.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, on July 22, 2019, Kostenetskiy entered a bank in Jefferson Township armed with what was later determined to be a BB gun, pointed the weapon at a teller, demanded money and ultimately stole $7,537. Kostenetskiy was located and arrested shortly thereafter and the stolen funds were recovered.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Additional Violations of the Clean Water Act Filed Against Former Greenfield Township Sewer Authority ManagerRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Bruce Evans, Sr., age 67, former Greenfield Township Sewer Authority Manager, Greenfield Township, Pennsylvania, was charged on May 28, 2020, in a thirty-six count superseding indictment by the federal grand jury with additional violations of the Clean Water Act.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Evans, Sr. and his son, Bruce Evans, Jr., age 38, both of Greenfield Township, were previously charged in an initial indictment returned in January 2019. The superseding indictment alleges that at times material to the charges, Evans, Sr. was a Greenfield Township Supervisor, a Greenfield Township Sewer Authority Board Member, Manager of the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority, and the Township’s “roadmaster.” Evans, Jr. was an employee of both Greenfield Township and the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority. It is alleged that on various dates between April 2013 and December 2017, Evans, Sr. and Evans, Jr. failed to operate and manage the municipality’s waste water treatment plant in accordance with regulations and limitations specified in a permit issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) and the Environmental Protections Agency (EPA). The permit requires that the permittee at all times maintain in good working order, and properly operate and maintain all facilities and systems, which were installed and used by the permittee to achieve compliance with the terms and conditions of the permits. It is also alleged that as a result of such failures, pollutants were discharged in violation of the permit.
The superseding indictment charges Evans, Sr. with additional violations of the Clean Water Act specifically related to the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority’s pump station located at State Route 106. It is alleged that Evans, Sr., rather than the licensed operator hired by the Authority to operate the treatment plant, managed and operated the sewer lines and pump stations. It is alleged that Evans, Sr. was not certified by the PADEP to operate or manage the pump stations. The violations associated with the State Route 106 pump station involve multiple unlawful bypasses of sewage, sanitary sewage overflows, and Evans, Sr.’s failure to report the same to the PADEP. It is also alleged that Evans, Sr. failed to notify the PADEP of the actual amount of hauled-in waste dumped directly into the State Route 106 pump station by an outside hauler, all in violation of the PADEP permit issued to the Authority. The PADEP learned that the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority was accepting hauled-in waste when it received complaints about odors and sewage overflows at that location, and started to investigate.
The superseding indictment further alleges that Evans, Sr. engaged in a scheme to defraud the Greenfield Township Sewer Authority by fraudulently converting funds and property of the Sewer Authority for his own personal benefit and for the benefit of a family member, including unlawful payments for a personal cell phone and internet service, fueling of personal vehicles, educational expenses, and unlawful use of Greenfield Township Sewer Authority labor. Evans, Sr. is also charged with obstructing U.S. Mail correspondence.
“When citizens elect officials at any level, we put our trust in them to act on behalf of their constituents – not against their interests,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “Theft, fraud, self-dealing and nepotism are not part of the job description. And what makes this case worse is the environmental damage inflicted on top of the other crimes. I commend and appreciate the hard work of our state and local partners in this case and look forward to presenting our case in court.”
“It's a problem when a municipal employee views their job as not just a paycheck, but a personal piggy bank,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division. “The fraud and serious environmental violations alleged here indicate both a disdain for the rule of law and a clear-cut case of greed. The FBI stands ready to investigate and hold accountable anyone engaged in such criminal activity.”
“Proper operation of sewage treatment plants is essential to protect human health and the environment”, said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Lynn of the EPA Criminal Investigations Division in Pennsylvania. “The EPA holds those accountable for their conduct which puts our communities infrastructure at risk.”
The charges stem from an investigation jointly conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the Clean Water Act violations are punishable by up to 3 years’ imprisonment and a sliding scale for fines of $5,000 to $25,000 per violation, per day. The maximum penalty under the Wire Fraud statute is 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty under the Obstruction of Correspondence statute is 5 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Each crime also carries a term of supervised release following imprisonment. 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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Eleven Charged in Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Tysheen Gott, age 43, of Wilkes-Barre, PA; Damien Julmal Navarro, age 25, of Wilkes-Barre, PA; Robert Thompson, age 44, of Pittston, PA; Jean Almonor, age 44, of Wilkes-Barre, PA; Amanda McPhillips, age 36, of Scranton, PA; Anthony Quamaine Brown, age 37, of Scranton, PA; Tariek Henson Mitchell, age 32, of Plymouth, PA; Juliette Grayson, age 44, of Plymouth, PA; Nicole Ann Bozek, age 31, of Scranton, PA; Susan Marie Kimsel, age 40, of Exeter, PA; and Aisha Maria Stephens, age 39, of Wilkes-Barre, PA, were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 28, 2020, on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed following the arrests of the defendants. Mitchell remains at large and is considered a fugitive.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine base or “crack” in Luzerne County between 2013 and March 2020. The amount of heroin involved in the conspiracy that is attributable to each of the defendants is as follows:
- Tysheen Gott, a/k/a “LB”: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Damien Julmal Navarro: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Robert Thompson, a/k/a “Jeffrey Parker”: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Jean Almonor, a/k/a “Hollywood”: in excess of 100 grams of heroin;
- Amanda McPhillips: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Anthony Quamaine Brown, a/k/a “BX”: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Tariek Henson Mitchell: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Juliette Grayson: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Nicole Ann Bozek: in excess of one kilogram of heroin;
- Susan Marie Kimsel: in excess of 100 grams of heroin; and
- Aisha Maria Stephens: maintaining drug involved premises.
This indictment 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 City 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. Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was 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.
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 the drug trafficking offenses is life in prison, 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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New York Man Indicted on Mail Theft, Bank Fraud, Identity Theft, and Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on May 29, 2020, Marlon Valoy De La Rosa, age 21, of Bronx, New York was indicted by a federal grand jury on mail theft, attempted bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and criminal conspiracy charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that on January 4, 2020 in the borough of Steelton, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, De La Rosa along with two other individuals, tampered with a U.S. Mail blue collection box using a white rope with an object attached to it to “fish” into the mailbox’s opening.
The indictment also alleges that De La Rosa, along with two other individuals, were in possession of what appeared to be a “washed” check—a check from which the writing had been visibly removed—several debit cards in different names, and a stolen license plate that is believed to have been used for mail fishing.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Steelton Borough Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma 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 attempted bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment. Mail theft and conspiracy are each punishable by up to five years in prison. Aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year sentence consecutive to sentences imposed for other offenses. All three charges may also carry a fine and a term of supervised release following imprisonment. 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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Hazleton Man Sentenced to 144 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on May 28, 2020, Roberto Sanchez, age 42, formerly of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for conspiring to distribute heroin and cocaine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Sanchez pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin and crack cocaine in Pennsylvania from approximately 2013 through March 2015. Sanchez admitted to trafficking in excess of five kilograms of cocaine and 10 kilograms of heroin, the latter of which is the equivalent of approximately 400,000 potentially fatal doses of heroin.
Sanchez was originally scheduled for sentencing in August 2017, but failed to appear. He remained a fugitive until his apprehension, in New York, in March 2019, and has remained in custody since. The United States seized and forfeited over $54,000 from Sanchez.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phillip J. Caraballo and Sean A. Camoni prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case also was 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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New Jersey Man Charged with Federal Program TheftRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on May 19, 2020, Eliseo Sierra, age 43, of New Jersey, was charged in a criminal information with embezzling over $34,000 from Lincoln Charter School in York, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Sierra committed the crime in May 2014, while employed at Lincoln Charter School as a school operations manager. During that time, the school received grants funded by the U.S Department of Education.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli is prosecuting the case.
Criminal informations 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 this offense is imprisonment for ten years, 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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Stroudsburg Man Sentenced to 18 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on May 15, 2020, United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Jason Rodriguez, age 25, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, to 18 months’ imprisonment and a three-year term of supervised release, for drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, during June 2018 and February 2019, Rodriguez possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine, heroin and the synthetic opioid, fentanyl. After his initial June 2018 arrest by state authorities, Rodriguez returned to drug trafficking in February 2019, prompting the initiation of the instant federal case.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Stroud Area Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent 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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Former Etters Man Sentenced to Seven Years’ Imprisonment for Robbing Camp Hill Bank with A KnifeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brandon Black, age 35, formerly of Etters, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to 84 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release for committing armed bank robbery.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Black previously pleaded guilty to robbing the S&T Bank in Camp Hill on August 31, 2018. Black used a knife during the robbery and took approximately $2,823.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Camp Hill Borough Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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U.S. Attorney David J. Freed Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - U.S. Attorney David J. Freed recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
“Today more than ever, even in the face of a dangerous pandemic, the men and women serving our communities as police show up day after day to face uncertain, perilous and even deadly situations, without expectation of thanks – simply because it is their duty,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “As the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and a prosecutor for more than 20 years, I have had the incredible privilege to work side by side with these everyday heroes. Their commitment, sacrifice and dedication deserve our recognition and gratitude.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including one officer here in the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Of those, Lieutenant Robert Earl McCallister of the Susquehanna Township Police Department, served our great community.
Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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Pennsylvania State University to Pay $151,000 to Resolve Potential False Claims LiabilityRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG, PA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Pennsylvania State University has agreed to pay the United States $151,000 to resolve potential liability under the False Claims Act.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, the investigation arose from alleged mischarges to various grants and contracts from the National Science Foundation, the Department of the Navy, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Air Force. The grants and contracts were awarded to Penn State in 2012-2017 and the isolated alleged mischarges identified occurred in 2013-2016.
“We are fortunate in the Middle District of Pennsylvania to be the home of a major research university,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “Part of the important work that takes place at such institutions involves appropriate management of federal grants and contracts. When mischarges occur, investigative arms of federal grant-making entities have a responsibility to act to on behalf of the taxpayers. In this matter, a cooperative investigation among all parties has resulted in a fair settlement and appropriate policy changes to prevent a reoccurrence of such mischarges.”
"The integrity of the DoD grant and contracting process is a top priority for the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS)," stated Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey, DCIS Northeast Field Office. "The settlement agreement announced today is the result of a joint investigative effort and demonstrates the DCIS' commitment to work with the USAO-MDPA and its law enforcement partners to ensure that claims submitted to the U.S. Department of Defense by academic institutions are reasonable, allocable, allowable and supported by adequate documentation."
"Those who do business with the federal government must ensure they charge the US taxpayer appropriately. The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), along with its law enforcement partners, has, and always will, aggressively investigate and seek justice to protect the USAF procurement process and ensure the trust of the American taxpayer," stated Special Agent-in-Charge Jason T. Hein, OSI, Office of Procurement Fraud for the Air Force.
Pennsylvania State University cooperated with the investigation and has implemented policy changes to prevent mischarges in the future. The settlement agreement is not an admission of liability by Penn State.
This matter was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the NSF Office of Inspector General, the NASA Office of Inspector General, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Tamara J. Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Unit within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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