Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
East Stroudsburg Financial Planner Convicted of Scheme to Defraud His ClientsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Diaz, age 52, formerly of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was convicted on January 30, 2020 following a jury trial, of wire fraud and mail fraud offenses. The 12-day trial was held before United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion in Scranton.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the jury returned the guilty verdict on all counts charged in the superseding indictment after approximately eight hours of deliberation. Diaz was convicted of seven counts of wire fraud and four counts of mail fraud, all stemming from the same scheme.
“Schemes like this one committed by unscrupulous investment advisors seeking to line their own pockets by selling high-risk and high-commission securities to unsophisticated investors based on lies about the safety of the security and net worth of the investor are fraud, pure and simple,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “I hope this case sends a message to others in the industry that similar misconduct will not be tolerated and will have potential criminal consequences as well as the more common civil consequences.”
The evidence presented at trial showed that from approximately 2008 through April 2015, Diaz owned and operated Financial Planners Group of America, a financial planning business in East Stroudsburg and Scotrun, Pennsylvania. Diaz persuaded his clients to invest in high risk, illiquid “alternative investment products,” including real estate investment trusts, business development companies, oil and gas drilling companies, and equipment leasing companies.
A dozen of Diaz’s former clients testified at trial that Diaz convinced them to invest their life savings in the alternative investments through a series of false representations, including that the investments were low-risk, with guaranteed protection of principle and guaranteed rates of return, and that the investments were liquid, giving investors access to their funds in an emergency. Evidence introduced at trial showed that the investments were high-risk and speculative, with no guarantees, and that in some instances, investors lost all of their money. Evidence at trial also showed that the investments had lengthy holding periods, with no access to funds, and that could be extended indefinitely at the unilateral discretion of the investment company. Some witnesses testified to having invested money over a decade ago that they still could not liquidate.
At trial, jurors saw extensive client documentation bearing false information about the clients’ assets, risk tolerance, investment experience, and investment objectives. Clients testified that Diaz regularly had them sign blank documents, with the promise that missing information would be filled in by his office. Former employees of Diaz testified that he ordered them to add false information to the account forms, inflating clients’ assets, risk tolerance, and investment experience to qualify them as suitable investors for the alternative investments.
Jurors also learned that Diaz was terminated by five broker-dealers and permitted to resign by a sixth broker-dealer. Clients who asked about the frequent changes to new broker-dealers were told that it was for their benefit. Diaz’s former employees testified that they were ordered to conceal his firings and lie to the clients about his changes between broker-dealers.
Jurors also learned that Diaz was suspended by the Certified Financial Planners Board of Standards in 2013, and under investigation by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking, both of whom ultimately barred Diaz from the securities industry in 2015. Diaz’s clients testified that he failed to disclose his suspension from the Certified Financial Planners Board of Standards, and concealed the nature and severity of the regulatory investigations.
Various industry witnesses testified that Diaz earned commissions on the alternative investments that were often double, or even quadruple the commissions earned on more conventional investments, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Documents at trial showed that Diaz regularly earned in excess of $1.5 million in commissions annually. Witnesses described how Diaz spent his money on expensive automobiles, a dozen properties across the United States, and frequent vacations to exotic locales.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Phillip Caraballo and Robert O’Hara prosecuted the case.
The combined maximum penalty under federal law for Diaz is up to 220 years of imprisonment. There is also 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’s Office Honors 32 Individuals in Awards Ceremony for Outstanding Efforts in Fighting CrimeRead the Press Release
Harrisburg – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that U.S. Attorney David J. Freed presented awards on Thursday, January 30, 2020, to 32 individuals, including law enforcement officers, agency counsel and private citizens for their outstanding efforts in fighting crime.
“We are pleased and proud to have the opportunity to recognize the contributions of our local, state and federal partners from throughout the Middle District,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “Too often, the hard work of unsung heroes goes unrecognized. Today’s ceremony emphasizes the industry and dedication that fuels our efforts to reduce crime and enhance public safety.”
The award recipients are being honored for their distinguished service, lifetime service and outstanding contributions to cooperative law enforcement. Those honored at Thursday’s ceremony included:
Two law enforcement members received the Lifetime Service Award which recognized their many years of exemplary service to their agency:
- York County Drug Task Force Detective Sergeant Craig Fenstermacher; and
- Retired Special Agent Chris Kegerreis with the IRS, Criminal Investigation Division.
Four law enforcement members received an Award For Outstanding Contributions to Cooperative Law Enforcement for significantly increasing cooperation among law enforcement agencies:
- York County District Attorney David W. Sunday;
- ATF Special Agent Jarrod Chittum;
- One PA State Police Task Force Officer working with FBI’s Safe Street Task Force in Harrisburg; and
- PA State Police Task Force Officer Shawn Wolfe working with FBI’s Safe Street Task Force in Harrisburg.
Associate Regional Counsel for Criminal Enforcement, Environmental Protection Agency, Martin Harrell received an Award For Outstanding Contributions As a Special Assistant United States Attorney for his contributions as the primary contact for all Middle District environmental criminal cases prosecuted by this office for over thirty years and for serving as a Special Assistant United States Attorney on many of those matters.
C.A.R.E. Court volunteer Albert R. Murray, Esquire received an award for Community Service for his six years of dedicated volunteer service to the Middle District Court Assisted Re-entry (C.A.R.E.) program.
The following individuals received an Award For Distinguished Service for their exceptional work of the “Southside” investigation that led to the successful prosecution of approximately 30 members of the Southside gang, a violent criminal enterprise that operated in York County.
- Retired Special Agent Scott Endy, ATF;
- Special Agent Ryan Anderson, ATF;
- Detective Scott Nadzom, York City P.D.;
- Detective Paul DeHart, York City P.D.;
- Detective Andrew Shaffer, York City P.D;
- Retired Detective Barton Seelig, York City P.D.;
- Detective Zachary Pelton, York City P.D.;
- Detective Timothy Shermeyer, York City P.D.;
- Detective Travis Sowers, York City P.D.;
- Detective Andy Baez, York City P.D.;
- Detective Kyle Hower, York City P.D.;
- Lt. William Wentz, York City P.D. and
- Police Officer Stephen Aderhold, York City P.D.
Five law enforcement members received an Award for their Distinguished Service for their tireless efforts of the Dr. Fui Li prosecution of a corrupt physician who operated a massive “pill mill” under the guise of a pain management clinic:
- DEA Diversion Investigator James Hischar;
- DEA Diversion Investigator Louis Callavini;
- DEA Diversion Investigator Denise Williamson;
- DEA Diversion Investigator William E. Davis; and
- IRS Special Agent Carmine Pellegrino.
The following law enforcement members received an Award for Distinguished Service for their outstanding efforts of the “cross-border fraud” investigation that led to criminal charges being filed against 54 Canadian individuals and 23 domestic defendants since 2007 for various international mass-marketing consumer fraud schemes victimizing senior citizens nationwide of millions of dollars:
- United States Postal Inspection Service Investigative Support Analyst Nicholas M. Alicea;
- United States Postal Inspection Service Investigative Support Analyst Michael C. Hartman;
- United States Postal Inspection Service Investigative Support Analyst David L. Bobersky;
- United States Postal Inspection Service Inspector James F. Wilson; and
- United States Postal Inspection Service General Analyst Sharon R. Miller.
United States Postal Inspector Michael J. Corricelli received an Award for Distinguished Service for his many years of exceptional service to the Middle District in serious child exploitation and drug trafficking investigations.
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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Two Previously Deported Aliens Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that two previously deported aliens were indicted separately on January 29, 2020, by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States. These matters arose in counties throughout the District including Adams and York Counties.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Jose Garcia-Ceja, age 30, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in May 2011. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after May 2011, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Alvaro Hidalgo-Sanchez, age 39, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in February 2013. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after February 2013, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Garcia-Ceja and Hidalgo-Sanchez face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
These cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Joanne Sanderson is prosecuting the cases.
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.
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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Operators of Veterinary Clinic Charged with Federal Tax ViolationsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Karin Breitlauch, age 56, of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania and Linda Breitlauch, age 62, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on January 28, 2020, by a federal grand jury on criminal tax charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Karin Breitlauch, a veterinarian and owner of Creature Comfort Veterinary Services and Linda Breitlauch, the Comptroller for the veterinary practice, withheld federal taxes from their employees’ paychecks but failed to turn the withholdings over to the Internal Revenue Service for tax quarters in 2014-2016.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts 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 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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U.S. Attorney’s Office Promotes Elder Justice Initiative with Live Interactive Telephone Town HallRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania is promoting the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative throughout the Middle District, announced U.S. Attorney David J. Freed. On January 28, 2020, the Middle District partnered with the FBI and AARP to raise awareness and to educate older adults about the latest scams so they do not fall victim. Over 9,500 seniors in Pennsylvania participated in an interactive telephone town hall as part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative. U.S. Attorney Freed and representatives from FBI and AARP conducted the town hall.
Scammers are targeting seniors at an alarming rate. Statistics collected by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center show that victims of all ages lost over $2.7 billion dollars to fraud in 2018, with victims over the age of 60 accounting for $649,227,724 of those losses. According to the same statistics, in Pennsylvania, over 10,500 people lost more than $62 million dollars, putting Pennsylvania in the top ten states by number of victims.
The DOJ Elder Justice Initiative aims to combat elder financial exploitation by expanding efforts to investigate and prosecute financial scams that target seniors; educating older adults on how to identify scams and avoid getting ripped off by scammers; and promoting greater coordination with law enforcement partners.
Some examples of financial frauds targeting seniors discussed during the town hall were:
- Social Security impostor schemes: defraud victims by posing as Social Security Administration agent and claiming that there is an issue with the victims’ account;
- IRS impostor schemes: defraud victims by posing as IRS agents and claiming that victims owe back taxes;
- Lottery phone scams: callers convince seniors that a large fee or taxes must be paid before one can receive lottery winnings;
- Romance scams: lull victims to believe that their online paramour needs funds for a U.S. visit or some other purpose;
- Grandparent scams: convince seniors that their grandchildren have been arrested and need bail money;
- Tech support scams: scammers offer assistance with viruses or malware they claim were detected on the victim’s computer; and
- Grant scams: scammers congratulate you on your eligibility to receive a free grant to pay for education costs, home repairs, unpaid bills, etc., then ask for your checking account information so they can deposit your grant directly into your account or cover a one-time processing fee.
Below are some tips shared with participants during the town hall on how to avoid falling victim to a financial scam:
- Don’t share personal information with anyone you don’t know.
- Don’t pay a fee for a prize or lottery winning.
- Don’t click on pop-up ads or messages.
- Don’t send gift cards, checks, money orders, wire money, or give your bank account information to a stranger.
- Don’t fall for a high-pressure sales pitch or a lucrative business deal.
- Delete phishing emails and ignore harassing phone calls.
- If a scammer approaches you, take the time to talk to a friend or family member.
- Keep in mind that if you send money once, you’ll be a target for life.
- Remember, it’s not rude to say, “NO.”
- A good rule of thumb is, if it sounds too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.
Attacking exploitation and fighting fraud are two priorities of the Middle District, and the U.S. Attorney’s office is committed to aggressively pursuing individuals who engage in such acts. Some recent prosecutions include:
The Middle District of Pennsylvania charged Omoefe Okoro, a citizen of Canada, and others for allegedly engaging in an attorney “collection scam” in Ontario, Canada, and the United States. 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 and he is currently scheduled for trial on March 2, 2020.
The Middle District also prosecuted 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.
The Department of Justice announced first-of-its-kind steps yesterday, to stop hundreds of millions of predatory robocalls every month from entering the United States to perpetrate costly imposter scams against Americans, including many older victims. The civil actions are aimed at shutting down firms in Long Island, New York, and Scottsdale, Arizona, that provide internet services and act as “gateway carriers” for calls from overseas, mostly from India. The actions come after Americans in 2019 endured a record-shattering 58.5 billion robocalls, of which 25.9 billion were scams.
Elder abuse includes physical abuse, caregiver neglect, financial exploitation, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, and abandonment. For help, you can contact the Victim Connect Hotline between 9am-6pm, Monday through Friday, at: 1-855-4VICTIM (1-855-484-2846) or contact the FBI Internet Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or 1-800-Call FBI. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at www.ftc.gov or at 877-FTC-HELP. You may also contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network free helpline at 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam.
For more information about the Elder Justice Initiative, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. To get tips to avoid scams and fraud text FWN to 50757 to receive biweekly alerts from the AARP Fraud Watch Network.
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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North Carolina Man Charged with Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brendon Rothrock, age 21, of Kannapolis, North Carolina, formerly of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on January 28, 2020, by a federal grand jury on child exploitation charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Rothrock aided and abetted the use of a minor to produce child pornography between January and February 2018, and received images of child pornography in February 2018. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of all electronic equipment used to take and transmit those images.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy 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.
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 production of child pornography is 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for receipt of child pornography is 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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Former Pittsburgh Man Facing Multiple Charges Stemming from an Attempted Kidnapping in September 2018Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of the federal robbery, extortion, firearms, and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The seven-count Superseding Indictment named Kevin Harris, age 37, as the defendant.
According to the Superseding Indictment, from in and around September 1, 2017 to September 18, 2018, Harris conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute marijuana. Also on September 18, 2018, Harris is charged with committing the offenses of attempted Hobbs Act extortion, Hobbs Act robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and/or a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to information presented to the Court in previous hearings, the charges in this case stem from an attempted kidnapping of a victim over a drug debt on September 18, 2018 in Monroeville, PA.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 17 years in prison and up to life, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Stowe-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Previously Deported Alien Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Cresencio Antonio Chinchilla-Roque, age 26, of Honduras, was indicted on January 22, 2020, by a federal grand jury with illegal re-entry into the United States by a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Chinchilla-Roque was previously deported from the United States to Honduras in June 2016. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after June 2016, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Joanne M. Sanderson 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.
Chinchilla-Roque faces a maximum penalty of 2 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.
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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Pittsburgh Man on Federal Supervised Release for Drug Trafficking Admits Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with the intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Davee Ward, age 29, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ward possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on July 25, 2016. The government also filed with the Court a notice that the defendant was previously convicted in Federal Court in Pittsburgh for distribution of heroin. The defendant was on supervised release for the prior offense at the time of the alleged new offense.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. The defendant also faces a maximum of three years of imprisonment based on the alleged violation of his supervised release stemming from his prior federal prosecution for drug trafficking. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ward.
New Jersey Man Indicted for Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jamir M. Ceruti, age 22, of Burlington, New Jersey, was indicted on January 23, 2020, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Ceruti possessed with the intent to distribute multiple bags of cocaine and marihuana in Williamsport, Pennsylvania on March 23, 2018. The indictment also alleges that Ceruti possessed a Glock semi-automatic pistol, loaded with a 30-round magazine, and a stolen, and loaded, Ruger semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Ceruti also allegedly possessed magazines and 58 loose cartridges, in addition to the two pistols.
The case was investigated by the Williamsport Bureau of Police, the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe 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 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 NCIS 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 maximum penalty under federal law for this offense 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.
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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Ohio Man Who Transported More Than Four Kilograms of Heroin to Pennsylvania Sentenced to 6 ½ Years’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Curtis Riley, age 57, of Dayton, Ohio, was sentenced on January 15, 2020 by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 6 ½ years’ imprisonment followed by two years on supervised release for acting as a courier for a heroin trafficking conspiracy that distributed large quantities of heroin to locations throughout the United States.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Riley previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin. Riley transported a total of between four and 10 kilograms of heroin (which is equivalent to between 160,000 and 400,000 retail bags) between 2017 and December 2018. There were traces of fentanyl in some of the heroin seized by state police troopers.
The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State 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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Mechanicsburg Man Enters Guilty Plea to Defrauding Credit Union over Auto LoanRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rene Roy, age 51, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to bank fraud on January 21, 2020, before United States District Court Judge John Jones.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Roy admitted during this guilty plea that when he submitted an application to Belco Community Credit Union for an auto loan, he submitted falsified documents to get a lower interest rate.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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 this offense is 30 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.
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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Former Police Detective and FBI Task Force Officer Indicted for Bribery and Other OffensesRead the Press Release
A veteran detective for the Carlisle, Pennsylvania Police Department, who was also a task force officer with the FBI and a member of the Cumberland County Drug Task Force, was indicted by a federal grand jury for bribery, drug distribution, fraud and making false statements.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Special Agent in Charge Guido Modano of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General’s New York Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Michael Harpster of the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.
The indictment alleges that Christopher Collare, 52, of Blythewood, South Carolina, used his official position to obtain sex from two women in exchange for agreeing to take actions in prosecutions. In 2015, Collare allegedly agreed to accept sex or money in exchange for not appearing at an evidentiary hearing so that a criminal charge would be dismissed. In 2018, Collare allegedly agreed to accept sexual favors in exchange for taking steps to help reduce a potential sentence.
The indictment also alleges that Collare distributed heroin in 2016. The indictment alleges that between 2011 and 2018 he defrauded the Borough of Carlisle and the Cumberland County Drug Task Force by providing confidential informants with drugs and allowing informants to retain drugs that they had obtained during controlled buys.
The indictment further alleges that Collare lied on a federal form he completed during the process of becoming an FBI task force officer and that he made multiple false statements in an interview with federal agents in May 2018.
The FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. Trial Attorney James I. Pearce of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlo D. Marchioli and Phillip J. Caraballo are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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.
Former Carlisle Police Detective and FBI Task Force Officer Indicted for Bribery and Other OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Michael Harpster of the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Guido Modano of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General’s New York Field Office announced that Christopher Collare, age 52, currently a resident of Blythewood, South Carolina, was indicted by a federal grand jury for bribery, drug distribution, fraud, and making false statements.
The indictment alleges that Collare, who was a veteran detective for the Carlisle Police Department, a task force officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and a member of the Cumberland County Drug Task Force, used his official position to obtain sex from two women in exchange for agreeing to take actions in prosecutions. In 2015, Collare allegedly agreed to accept sex or money in exchange for not appearing at an evidentiary hearing so that a criminal charge would be dismissed. In 2018, Collare allegedly agreed to accept sexual favors in exchange for taking steps to help reduce a potential sentence.
The indictment also alleges that Collare distributed heroin in 2016, and that he defrauded the Borough of Carlisle and the Cumberland County Drug Task Force between 2011 and 2018 by providing confidential informants with drugs and allowing informants to retain drugs that they had obtained during controlled buys.
The indictment further alleges that Collare lied on a federal form he completed during the process of becoming an FBI task force officer, and that he made multiple false statements in an interview with federal agents in May 2018.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler was designated United States Attorney for this case because United States Attorney David J. Freed recused himself. Mr. Freed was previously the District Attorney for Cumberland County and worked with Collare.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlo D. Marchioli and Phillip J. Caraballo and Trial Attorney James I. Pearce of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section are 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 ranges from 10 years to 20 years on the bribery-related counts, 20 years on the drug distribution count, 20 years on each of the fraud-related counts, and 5 years on each of the false statement counts. There is also 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.
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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Eight Harrisburg Residents Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Qushawn Brown, age 28, Wesley Garner, age 26, Anderson Ortiz, age 20, Tyquann Langston, age 24, Donza Brown, age 56, Jaionne Miller, age 19, Adieas Johnson, age 31, and Kaleaf Brown, age 24, all of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury in a superseding indictment on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the superseding indictment charges the eight defendants with running a drug trafficking conspiracy from 2018 to the present in the Harrisburg area. Members of the conspiracy were affiliated with a music group named “Never Forget Loyalty” or “NFL.” As a part of their drug trafficking operation, the “NFL” posted videos on YouTube which were filmed in various Harrisburg locales. In the videos, members of the group brandished assault rifles, machine guns, and pistols with extended magazine clips, flashed cash, and displayed drugs. Defendants also described their drug trafficking activities and their willingness to act violently against rivals or perceived threats to their group, including those suspected of cooperating with law enforcement.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Harrisburg Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Consiglio 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 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.
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 NCIS 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 this offense is life 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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York Man Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Shanquay Ritter, age 23, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on January 8, 2020, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment charges Ritter with possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Ritter is also charged with threatening a federal official with the intent to intimidate that official while he was engaged in his official duties.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian T. Haugsby 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 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.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for possession with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl is 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking is life imprisonment and a fine. Conviction for that offense also subjects a defendant to a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of five years’ imprisonment. Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person under federal law carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment. Threatening a federal official is punishable by up to 6 years’ imprisonment. A sentence for each of these offenses also includes a period 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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Monroe County Man Guilty of Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Akbar Muhammad, age 42, who resided in New York City and East Stroudsburg, pleaded guilty on January 7, 2019, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Muhammad admitted to participating in the conspiracy during 2015 through early 2019. Muhammad admitted that he agreed with others to obtain heroin from suppliers in New Jersey and New York, and distribute the drug to associates and customers in Monroe County. A kilogram of heroin is approximately equivalent to 40,000 retail bags of heroin.
Muhammad was indicted by a grand jury in May 2019, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and Stroud Area Regional Police.
Judge Munley ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing is scheduled for April 8, 2020. 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.
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.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ 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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Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jesse Carey, age 33, formerly of Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, entered guilty pleas on January 6, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin stemming from separate incidents in Monroe and Luzerne Counties.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Carey was indicted in 2018 being in possession of approximately forty-seven grams of cocaine and twenty-nine individual packets of heroin for further distribution, a scale, and $9,777 in U.S. Currency on August 5, 2017, at the Mount Airy Casino in Monroe County.
On January 6, 2020, Carey entered a plea of guilty before Judge Mannion for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin stemming from this incident. Carey was also charged with drug trafficking after a separate incident on January 12, 2017, in Plymouth Borough, Luzerne County, in which Carey was arrested and found in possession of fourteen grams of cocaine and approximately eighty individual doses of heroin for further distribution, $2,086 in U.S. currency, scales and drug packaging materials. Carey previously entered a plea of guilty on December 19, 2019, before Judge Mannion, to this charge.
The cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, and the Plymouth Borough Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the cases.
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 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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Stroudsburg Man Sentenced to 20 Years’ Imprisonment for Sex Trafficking and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Sirvonn Taylor, age 37, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment on January 3, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for heading-up a conspiracy that forced or coerced women to engage in prostitution in northeastern Pennsylvania, and that distributed more than a kilogram of heroin in Pennsylvania and Maine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Taylor, who used the gang name “Black,” previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion and to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin (which is approximately equivalent to more than 40,000 retail bags) between 2010 and 2015.
Taylor’s conviction and sentence resulted from an investigation into the activities of a street gang known as the Black P-Stones. Male gang members were “beaten-in” to the gang and female members were “sexed-in” to the gang. Members of the Black P-Stones obtained heroin and other drugs, including “molly,” in New York and distributed the drugs in Stroudsburg and locations in the state of Maine. Couriers were used to transport heroin from New York to Maine.
Females were “sexed-in” to the gang by being forced to engage in sex with male gang members; recruited and coerced to engage in prostitution; advertised as adult escorts on a website; provided with heroin and other drugs; and placed in various are hotels/motels to work as prostitutes. Gang members, including Taylor, used threats, force, drugs, and intimidation to coerce females to engage in prostitution.
Judge Mannion also ordered the defendant to serve eight years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Taylor must also comply with sex offender registration and notification requirements.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, state and local police in Maine, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, and local police in Monroe County. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 75 Months’ Imprisonment for Heroin Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Aaron Bangaroo, age 37, formerly of Kingston, Luzerne County, was sentenced on January 3, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to serve seventy-five months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Bangaroo was indicted by a grand jury after police made several purchases of heroin from Bangaroo and then obtained a search warrant for Bangaroo’s residence in Kingston, where police seized approximately 20 grams of heroin, two firearms, and ammunition. Twenty grams of heroin is equivalent to approximately 800 individual doses of heroin.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted 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 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.
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 NCIS 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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Lancaster Woman Sentenced to 45 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 20, 2019, United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Myrna Echevarria-Jiminez, age 44, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to 45 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release for drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ecchevaria-Jiminez pled guilty to a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and admitted responsibility for one kilogram of cocaine as part of that conspiracy. Several co-conspirators have also pled guilty and are pending sentencing. Codefendant Luis Enrique Martinez-Ortiz, a/k/a “Chino,” was previously sentenced to 87 months in prison. Ecchevaris-Jiminez’a sentence includes a 4-year term of supervised release after her prison term.
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 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.
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Allentown Man Sentenced to 55 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 19, 2019, Malcom Wilfong, age 28, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 55 months’ imprisonment for participating in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that operated in Schuylkill and Berks Counties.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Wilfong previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine between July 2016 and May 2017.
Wilfong is the fourth defendant connected to the methamphetamine ring to be sentenced in federal court. Anibal Rodriguez, the leader of the drug conspiracy, was previously sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment. Ernest Schaeffer received a 15-year prison sentence. David Castro was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Shenandoah Police Department. 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.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects over $15 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2019Read the Press Release
HARRISBURG - U.S. Attorney David J. Freed announced today that the Middle District of Pennsylvania collected $15,249,331 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2019. Of this amount, $2,431,898 was collected in criminal actions and $12,817,433 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the Middle District of Pennsylvania worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $1,447,320 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $13,767 was collected in criminal actions and $1,433,552 was collected in civil actions.
“The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania is dedicated to the protection of our fellow law-abiding citizens, whether we are battling the scourge of drugs and violent crime or attacking scams designed to defraud government agencies,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “The diligent efforts of our hard working attorneys and staff have again resulted in our collections far exceeding our office budget. In addition, our successes in the realm of asset forfeiture provide direct benefits to crime victims and strong support of numerous law enforcement initiatives.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $70,977,344 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2019. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to Six Years’ Imprisonment for Fentanyl and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Banks, age 33, formerly of Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania, entered a guilty plea on December 18, 2019, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo, to charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Banks was then immediately sentenced to six years’ imprisonment.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Banks was indicted by a grand jury in February 2018, after an incident in which police were called to a Wilkes-Barre hotel and found Banks in possession of a firearm and several packets of heroin. In a separate incident, members of the Wilkes-Barre Police Department made a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Banks was an occupant and found Banks in possession of approximately 19 grams of fentanyl for further distribution. Nineteen grams of fentanyl is equivalent to approximately 9,500 individual doses.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and the Wilkes-Barre Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted 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 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.
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. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partners: [list partners here]. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan.
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Wilkes-Barre Man Sentenced to 98 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 on December 17, 2019, United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Nigel Deshawn Velardo, age 23, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to 98 months’ imprisonment and a four-year term of supervised release, for being in possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, on March 8, 2019, Velardo was found in possession of fentanyl and five semi-automatic handgun-style firearms, which were seized pursuant to a search warrant in Wilkes-Barre.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wilkes-Barre 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.
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. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partners: [list partners here]. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan.
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Luzerne County Woman Sentenced to 66 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 17, 2019, Victoria Kraynak, age 28, of Luzerne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 66 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release, by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for conspiring to distribute heroin, crack cocaine, and fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Kraynak pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute controlled substances in Pennsylvania, from approximately November 2015 through March 2017. Kraynak admitted to working as a drug dealer in the conspiracy, to transporting drugs from New York to Pennsylvania for redistribution, to possessing firearms, and to supervising other members of the conspiracy. Kraynak admitted to trafficking in excess of 840 grams of crack cocaine, fentanyl, and in excess of 1 kilogram of heroin, the latter of which is the equivalent of 40,000 potentially fatal doses of heroin.
Kraynak was charged in June 2017 with 14 other individuals. All of her co-defendants have pleaded guilty, with 13 others having already been sentenced:
- Kassandra Martin of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Joshua Lenchick of Luzerne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Kristyna Shotwell of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment;
- Tanay Jones of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to a time served sentence of 19 days’ imprisonment;
- William Waring of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- John Maybank of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 53 months’ imprisonment;
- Siobhan Daniels, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment;
- Luis Nevarez, of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Adonis Smith, of New London, Connecticut, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Cara Dubaskas, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to a time served sentence of seven months;
- Chad Eckrote, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to three years of probation;
- Adam Gottstein, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment; and
- Amanda Romano, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and by the Kingston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been 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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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 50 Month’s Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 13, 2019, United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Felix Silva, a/k/a Carlos Santana, a/k/a Hector Borero, age 51, a former resident of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, to 50 months’ imprisonment for drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Silva was apprehended by the Pennsylvania State Police during a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in December 2017. A search of the vehicle with the assistance of a drug sniffing canine resulted in the seizure of more than 700 grams of heroin found concealed in a trap inside the door of Silva’s vehicle. Seven-hundred grams of heroin is approximately equivalent to 28,000 retail bags of heroin.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration – Scranton, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski 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 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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Carbon County Man Sentenced to 100 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 16, 2019, United States District Court Judge James M. Munley sentenced Donald Fritz, Jr., age 48, of Palmerton, Pennsylvania to 100 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release, for crystal methamphetamine trafficking and for possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking offense.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Fritz sold crystal methamphetamine in the Palmerton area in June and July 2015. During a search warrant executed at Fritz’s residence, law enforcement recovered over one kilogram of high-purity crystal methamphetamine, six firearms and associated ammunition, an explosive device, $1,200 in counterfeit currency, and over $29,000 in cash, all of which was seized and forfeited. The forfeited firearms were:
- Taurus .357 magnum;
- Walther PPK .380 ACP;
- Hi Point Model JCP .40 caliber, bearing a defaced serial number;
- Heritage .17 caliber revolver;
- Marlin .22 caliber rifle; and
- Traditions .50 caliber inline muzzleloader.
The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. 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.
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Justice Department Awards More Than $333 Million to Fight Opioid CrisisRead the Press Release
$ 2,689,009 Will Support Efforts to Combat Drugs and Crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania
Harrisburg - The Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs announced on December 13, 2019, awards of more than $333 million to help communities affected by the opioid crisis. $2,689,009 will help public safety and public health professionals in the Middle District of Pennsylvania combat substance abuse and respond effectively to overdoses. OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan made the announcement during a visit with local, state and federal officials in West Virginia, one of the states hardest hit by the epidemic.
“The opioid crisis has destroyed far too many lives and left too many Americans feeling helpless and hopeless,” said PDAAG Sullivan. “This epidemic—the most deadly in our nation’s history—is introducing new dangers and loading public health responsibilities onto the public safety duties of our law enforcement officers. The Department of Justice is here to support them during this unprecedented and extremely challenging time.”
With more than 130 people dying from opioid-related overdoses every day, the Department of Justice has made fighting addiction to opioids—including heroin and fentanyl—a national priority. The Trump Administration is providing critical funding for a wide range of activities—from preventive services and comprehensive treatment to recovery assistance, forensic science services and research—to help save lives and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
“The opioid crisis – both a crime issue and a public health issue – has severely impacted the lives of the citizens of the Middle District of Pennsylvania,” said U.S. Attorney David Freed. “These sorely needed funds will allow our devastated communities to forge local solutions that work for their specific areas, and foster understanding of the best methods to prevent overdoses and save lives. We in the United States Attorney’s Office are proud to collaborate with our state and local partners as they implement their programs.”
The awards announced today support an array of activities designed to reduce the harm inflicted by these dangerous drugs. Grants will help law enforcement officers, emergency responders and treatment professionals coordinate their response to overdoses. Funds will also provide services for children and youth affected by the crisis and will support the nationwide network of drug and treatment courts. Other awards will address prescription drug abuse, expand the capacity of forensic labs and support opioid-related research.
The following Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based program awards were made to organizations in the Middle District of Pennsylvania:
- Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office - $900,000
- Wyoming County - $600,000
- York County - $1,189,009
Information about the programs and awards announced today is available here. For more information about OJP awards, visit the OJP Awards Data webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training and technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Harrisburg Woman Charged with Credit Union TheftRead 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 charged in a criminal information with theft of funds on December 9, 2019.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the information alleges that in March 2017, Shaeffer stole approximately $19,599 from the Members 1st Federal Credit Union while employed as a teller.
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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New York Man Sentenced to 72 Months’ Imprisonment for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Leonard Lewis, age 58, of New York City, New York, to 72 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release on December 5, 2019, for the production and distribution of obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children.
According to United States David J. Freed, Lewis created images depicting sexual acts by placing the image of a minor on photographed bodies of adult men engaged in sexual activity. He then sent these images to the minor along with marijuana, solicited the minor to take photographs of himself to send to Lewis, and attempted to entice the minor to travel to New York to have sex with Lewis.
The matter was investigated by the United States Postal Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Chelsea Schinnour and Geoffrey MacArthur prosecuted the case
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to Six Years’ Imprisonment for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Lee Crawford, age 58, formerly of Kingston, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on December 6, 2019, by Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo, to 72 months’ imprisonment and four years on supervised release for cocaine trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Crawford previously pleaded guilty in July 2019, for distributing cocaine to another individual in Luzerne County in 2013.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted 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.
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Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Theft of MailRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Mark Kerpovich, age 29, of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on December 6, 2019, before U.S. District Court Senior Judge A. Richard Caputo to theft of mail.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Kerpovich admitted to stealing mail between October 2017 and October 2018. The thefts were discovered after postal customers in Hanover Township, Luzerne County, complained about mail that was not received and/or mail that was received with contents missing. Some of the missing contents included cash, gift cards, and lottery tickets.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
Judge Caputo ordered that a presentence investigation take place. Sentencing is scheduled for May 1, 2020.
The maximum penalty for the charge under federal law is up to five years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 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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Philadelphia Man Charged for Failure to Report for Service of His SentenceRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Warren Johnson, age 28, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was indicted on December 3, 2019, by a federal grand jury on charges of failure to appear at the Bureau of Prisons for the commencement of his previously imposed sentence.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Johnson was sentenced to a term of 78 months’ imprisonment on October 30, 2019 on a charge of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance (methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin) to which he had previously pleaded guilty. Johnson, who was on bail at the time of his sentencing, asked the court for permission to surrender to prison on November 15, 2019 so that he could take an electricians’ exam. Instead of reporting to prison as required on that date, Johnson allegedly cut his electronic ankle bracelet monitor and was at large until his arrest by Philadelphia Police on November 23, 2019.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur 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 this 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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California Man Guilty of Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Saul Carrasco, age 35, of Simi Valley, California, pleaded guilty on December 3, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Carrasco admitted to participating in the conspiracy during July through November 2018. Carrasco also admitted that he agreed with others to transport the heroin from California to Carbon County, Pennsylvania. A kilogram of heroin is approximately equivalent to 40,000 retail bags of heroin.
Judge Mannion ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
Carrasco was indicted by a grand jury in November 2018, as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Illinois State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.
This case is also 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.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ 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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Mcadoo Man Convicted of Threatening the President and Others, and of Stolen Vehicle and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Shawn Christy, age 28, of McAdoo, was convicted on November 26, 2019, by a federal jury on twelve counts involving threats against the President of the United States, transmitting threatening communications, interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, interstate transportation of stolen firearms, interstate transportation of firearms while charged with a felony offense, and unlawful possession of a firearm as a fugitive and as a convicted felon. The seven-day trial was held before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the jury deliberated for approximately six hours before finding Christy guilty of all charges.
The evidence showed that arrest warrants were issued for Christy in early June 2018, for his failure to appear for court proceedings in Schuylkill and Northampton Counties, and that while a fugitive Christy posted threats in June 2018 to kill President Trump, Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli, and any law enforcement officer that sought to detain him.
Christy was apprehended in Ohio on September 21, 2018, after a three-month manhunt by U.S. Marshals, FBI agents, Secret Service agents, and state and local law enforcement from six states. Prosecutors presented evidence that Christy stole and transported two vehicles from Pennsylvania to New York State and West Virginia, stole firearms and transported them from Pennsylvania to Maryland and Kentucky, broke into businesses in Pennsylvania and Maryland, broke into a church in Maryland, and broke into residences in Butler Township, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky.
After the verdict, Judge Mariani ordered a presentence investigation report to be completed and tentatively scheduled sentencing for February 2020. Christy remains in custody pending sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the United States Marshals Service, U.S. Border Patrol agents, the Pennsylvania State Police, Butler Township Police, Maryland State Police, New York State Police, Allegany County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office, Nitro Police in West Virginia, Richland County Jail Officers in Ohio, Northeastern Ohio Correctional Officials, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francis P. Sempa and Sean A. Camoni are 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 for each threat offense is five years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for each interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle offense is 10 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for each interstate transportation of a stolen firearm offense, and for unlawful possession of a firearm as a fugitive and convicted felon, is 10 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for each interstate transportation of a firearm while charged with a felony offense 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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Kingston Woman Sentenced to 72 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 on November 25, 2019, Shavonne Saxon, age 32, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, received a sentence of 72 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release, by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for distributing crack cocaine, and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of her drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Saxon admitted to working as a drug dealer in 2016 and 2017, and to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute at least 60 grams of crack cocaine and at least 165 grams of cocaine. Saxon also admitted to possessing a firearm in furtherance of her trafficking activities, and the United States seized from her and forfeited a Ruger LCP .380.
Saxon was one of 16 individuals charged in 2017 with various drug trafficking and firearms offenses. All of the defendants have pleaded guilty, with 13 others having already been sentenced:
- Kassandra Martin of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Joshua Lenchick of Luzerne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Kristyna Shotwell of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment;
- Tanay Jones of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to a time served sentence of 19 days’ imprisonment;
- William Waring of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- John Maybank of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 53 months’ imprisonment;
- Siobhan Daniels, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment;
- Luis Nevarez, of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Adonis Smith, of New London, Connecticut, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Cara Dubaskas, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to a time served sentence of 7 months;
- Chad Eckrote, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 3 years of probation;
- Adam Gottstein, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment; and
- Amanda Romano, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and by the Kingston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo 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.
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Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Two WomenRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced former Ashley Borough Police Officer, Mark Icker, 30, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to violating the civil rights of two females in his custody whom he sexually assaulted.
The criminal information alleges that Icker worked as a police officer for the Ashley Borough Police Department in December 2018. On Dec. 3, 2018 and Dec. 10, 2018, Icker, while acting under color of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, willfully deprived two women of their liberty without due process of law, which includes the right to bodily integrity, by coercing the women into engaging in unwanted sexual contact with him.
“The Department of Justice will continue to vigorously prosecute law enforcement officers who exploit their authority to sexually abuse individuals in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division.
“We count on law enforcement officers at all levels to uphold their oaths, and to serve and protect the public,” said U.S. Attorney David J. Freed for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. “When a line is crossed, and a protector becomes a predator, we must act – swiftly and with certainty. While I am extremely proud of the cooperative efforts of law enforcement in this case, especially my colleagues and partners in the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, we are only able to pursue this prosecution because of the bravery of the victims. In a case where one of us in law enforcement did something so very wrong, the innocent victims stood up for what is right. We are proud to seek justice on their behalf.”
“A police officer using his position of authority to sexually exploit women is utterly contemptible,” said Michael T. Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “Mark Icker felt entitled enough to coerce his victims into sex acts. He clearly expected to get away with violating their bodies and their civil rights. The public corruption and civil rights squad at our Scranton Resident Agency was determined to seek justice for the women involved, and keep Icker from harming anyone else in this way.”
Icker was terminated from his position with the Ashley Borough Police Department in December 2018. Icker was also terminated from part-time positions he held with the Sugar Notch and Jessup Police Departments.
This case was investigated by the Scranton Office of the FBI - Philadelphia Division, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Jeffery St. John of the Middle District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Shan Patel of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice.
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 for civil rights violations is 20 years’ imprisonment. The charge also includes a fine and a term of supervised release following any period of incarceration. 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
Former Ashley Borough Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Two WomenRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that former Ashley Borough Police Officer, Mark Icker, age 30, pleaded guilty today before United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to violating the civil rights of two females in his custody whom he sexually assaulted.
According U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that Icker worked as a police officer for the Ashley Borough Police Department in December 2018. On December 3, 2018 and December 10, 2018, Icker, while acting under color of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, willfully deprived two women of their liberty without due process of law, which includes the right to bodily integrity, by coercing the women into engaging in unwanted sexual contact with him.
In a plea agreement filed with the Court, the Government and Icker agreed to jointly recommend a twelve year sentence of imprisonment. Sentencing was deferred pending the preparation of a pre-sentence report.
“The Department of Justice will continue to vigorously prosecute law enforcement officers who exploit their authority to sexually abuse individuals in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division.
“We count on law enforcement officers at all levels to uphold their oaths, and to serve and protect the public,” said U.S. Attorney David J. Freed. “When a line is crossed, and a protector becomes a predator, we must act – swiftly and with certainty. While I am extremely proud of the cooperative efforts of law enforcement in this case, especially my colleagues and partners in the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, we are only able to pursue this prosecution because of the bravery of the victims. In a case where one of us in law enforcement did something so very wrong, the innocent victims stood up for what is right. We are proud to seek justice on their behalf.”
"A police officer using his position of authority to sexually exploit women is utterly contemptible,” said Michael T. Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “Mark Icker felt entitled enough to coerce his victims into sex acts. He clearly expected to get away with violating their bodies and their civil rights. The public corruption and civil rights squad at our Scranton Resident Agency was determined to seek justice for the women involved, and keep Icker from harming anyone else in this way.”
“The actions of this former officer are in no way indicative of law enforcement of Luzerne County,” said District Attorney Stefanie Salavantis. “Many great men and women have died doing what is right while wearing the badge Mr. Icker has tarnished. As adamant as this office is about standing by police when they pursue justice, we are as determined to defend the Constitution when a sworn officer violates the God-given rights that make this country so great.
On behalf of our office and the people of Luzerne County, we would like to thank U.S. Attorney David Freed, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Olshefski, St. John and Patel, along with the FBI agents whom not only agreed with our assessment of the egregious nature of these offenses, but also worked so closely with us to bring this matter to a swift and just resolution.”
Icker was terminated from his position with the Ashley Borough P.D. in December 2018. Icker was also terminated from part-time positions he held with the Sugar Notch and Jessup Police Departments.
This case was investigated by the Scranton Office of the FBI - Philadelphia Division, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Jeffery St. John of the Middle District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Shan Patel of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice are prosecuting the case.
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 for civil rights violations is 20 years’ imprisonment. The charge also includes a fine and a term of supervised release following any period of incarceration. 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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Philadelphia Men Convicted of Mail Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Nana Mensah, age 34, and Patrick Barkers-Woode, age 27, both of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were convicted on November 22, 2019, on fifteen counts of mail fraud, four counts of aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft after a three-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Mensah and Barkers-Woode, along with other co-conspirators, some located in West Africa, were involved in an international scheme in which co-conspirators would obtain the personal identification information of identity theft victims and use that information to purchase cellular phones. The conspirators would have the products delivered to homes which appeared vacant. They would then track the delivery of the packages on line, pick up the packages, and eventually resell them. The evidence showed that the conspiracy involved over 270 packages containing over 830 cell phones, valued at over $595,000. The conspiracy took advantage of well over 100 victims.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Delaware State Police, and the Derry Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott R. Ford and Christian Haugsby prosecuted the case.
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.
As a result of their convictions, the defendants face a total of 333 years in prison, fines of up to $5,250,000, as well as restitution. 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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Chicago and Tennessee Man Convicted 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 convicted on Friday, November 22, 2019, by a federal jury on 2 counts of conspiracy, 12 counts of mail fraud, 10 counts of money laundering, and 4 counts of aggravated identity theft. The charges related to a veteran’s unemployment compensation fraud scheme. The five-day trial was held before United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo in Harrisburg.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Hall was previously sentenced by Judge Rambo to 116 months’ imprisonment on February 16, 2018, and his wife, Renita Blunt, age 35, was previously sentenced to 22 months’ imprisonment on January 17, 2018, following their conviction after a jury trial on March 10, 2017. In that trial, Hall was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, mail fraud, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft. Blunt was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft.
The couple appealed their convictions to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, arguing that their trials should have been severed from one another and conducted separately. In August of 2019, the Third Circuit ruled in their favor by vacating their convictions and ordering they be retried separately. Blunt’s re-trial is currently scheduled for January 6, 2020.
The evidence presented during the trial showed that Hall applied for and received approximately $70,000 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 six other individuals. The UCX Program is a federally funded, U.S. Department of Defense program administered by the States. The jury found that Hall fraudulently obtained the benefits paid on five false UCX applications submitted to Pennsylvania and another UCX application submitted to Hawaii in 2013 and 2014.
“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,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “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. Hall’s criminal conduct has now been recognized by two separate juries of his peers, and we look forward to presenting our arguments at his re-sentencing.”
“The conviction announced today is the result of a joint effort by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania,” stated Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DCIS is committed to working with its law enforcement partners and the DOJ to protect the integrity of federally funded programs, such as the UCX Program, which provides unemployment benefits for eligible former service members who are unemployed following their separation from military service.”
"Earl Lafayette Hall III misused the identities of others to submit counterfeit forms and steal money intended for individuals who experience unemployment after serving in the U.S. Armed Forces,” stated Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Derek Pickle, Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate those who exploit the Unemployment Compensation for Ex-service Members Program.”
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 with the assistance of 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.
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 conspiracy, mail fraud and money laundering offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is 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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Chambersburg Man Sentenced to 13 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brett Trageser, age 29, currently residing in Cumberland County Prison, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on November 7, 2019, to 156 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, by Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner, for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Trageser pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent 400 grams or more of fentanyl between October 2015 and May 2017. Trageser was determined to have distributed between 1.2 and four kilograms of fentanyl pills that were being manufactured by coconspirator Nathan Anthony Ott, age 34, currently incarcerated at the Federal Correction Institution Fort Dix, New Jersey, who was obtaining kilogram quantities of fentanyl and manufacturing the kilograms into pills.
Ott sold the manufactured pills locally in Chambersburg using “runners” and then began selling the pills on-line utilizing the dark web to distribute the manufactured pills throughout the United States and a few foreign countries. Ott would mail the packages from various United States Postal facilities in Chambersburg and surrounding areas. Ott was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment.
The coconspirators received the following sentences for their participation in the conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl:
- Apollo Ravanna Bey was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment;
- Mike Wood was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment;
- Cindy Jo Wood was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment;
- Justin Chandler was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment;
- Stephanie Holtry was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment
The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office, the Franklin County Drug Task Force, the Chambersburg Police Department, the Shippensburg Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom 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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Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Murder, Drug Trafficking and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Johnson, age 31, previously residing in Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; three counts of use of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death; one count of interstate travel to commit a murder for hire; one count of conspiracy to kill a witness to a federal offense to prevent communication to a federal law enforcement officer; three counts of killing a witness to a federal offense to prevent communication to a federal law enforcement officer; and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the charges were the result of a two and a half year investigation into three murders that occurred in a barn on June 25, 2016, on a property along Welsh Run Road in Mercersburg, Franklin County. The murders were drug related and one of the victims was providing information regarding several of the defendants and others to federal/state law enforcement drug task forces in Maryland. The individuals involved in the murders also joined with others to obstruct the grand jury’s investigation and to locate and kill an individual believed to be assisting federal investigators with the murder investigation.
Johnson, along with ten coconspirators, were charged in a superseding indictment on December 20, 2018, with murder, drug trafficking, and obstruction of justice.
Charged in the superseding indictment were:
- Kevin Coles, age 34, Hagerstown, Maryland;
- Devin Dickerson, age 31, Hagerstown;
- Torey White, age 30, Waynesboro, Pennsylvania;
- Jerell Adgebesan, age 32, Baltimore, Maryland;
- Kenyatta Corbett, age 38, Hagerstown;
- Michael Buck, age 30, Hagerstown;
- Nicholas Preddy, age 29, Baltimore;
- Johnnie Jenkins-Armstrong, age 22, Baltimore;
- Terrance Lawson, age 31, Baltimore; and
- Tyrone Armstrong, age 30, Baltimore.
Joshua Davis, age 30, previously pled guilty to participating in the conspiracy to locate and kill an individual believed to be cooperating with federal authorities in the investigation of the triple murders. Davis was recently sentenced by United States District Court Judge John E. Jones, III to 100 months’ imprisonment. Several other individuals who were separately indicted on charges of obstructing the federal investigation into the triple murders have also pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The following federal, state and local law enforcement agencies participated in the investigation: Drug Enforcement Administration Harrisburg Resident Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania State Police, Troop H, Franklin County Drug Task Force, Franklin County Adult Probation, Pennsylvania State Probation and Parole, Hagerstown Police Department Criminal Investigation Division, Drug Enforcement Administration Hagerstown Resident Office, Washington County Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration Baltimore District Office, Strike Force Group 1, Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, Baltimore Police Department Narcotics, Fugitive And Homicide Units, Baltimore County Police Department Narcotics and Gang Unit, Federal Bureau of Investigation Evidence Management Unit, Quantico, VA, US Marshal’s Service Harrisburg, PA and Phoenix, AZ, Franklin County District Attorney’s Office, United States Attorney’s Office, District Of Maryland, and The Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, and Senior Litigation Counsel Michael Consiglio are prosecuting the case.
This case 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 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.
This prosecution is also part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) identified as “Retribution foe Welsh Run”. OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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 several of these offenses is life imprisonment or the possibility of the death penalty, 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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York Man Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Juan Rivera Marrero a/k/a “Viejo” a/k/a “Charlie,”, age 57, currently residing in Dauphin County Prison, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on November 13, 2019, to 60 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, for drug trafficking and money laundering.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Marrero previously pleaded guilty to money laundering and to conspiring with others to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in the York County, Pennsylvania area between May 2015 and May 2017. Marrero admitted to purchasing bulk quantities of cocaine from Luis D. Baez-Sierra, who was obtaining narcotics through the United States mail sent from Puerto Rico to York, Pennsylvania.
Marrero was originally charged in May 2017, with seven codefendants. The following codefendants were sentenced:
- Henry Delgado pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms and more of cocaine hydrochloride and was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment;
- Jean Carlos Torres-Santiago pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and heroin and sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Charlie Abdiel Cruz-Velez, pleaded guilty conspiracy to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment;
- Chayann Torres-Santiago pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment; and
- Angel Santiago-Torres pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment.
The following codefendants are awaiting sentencing:
- Ramon Puig Rodriguez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine hydrochloride; and
- Luis D. Baez-Sierra pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine hydrochloride.
The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom 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 prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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York County Man Charged with Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Gilbert Joseph Swann, III, age 67, of Delta Borough, Pennsylvania, was indicted on November 13, 2019, by a federal grand jury for exploitation of minors.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Swann received and possessed images of child pornography between May 2012 and July 2013, in York County. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of all electronic equipment used to take those images, Freed said.
This case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy 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."
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 receipt of child pornography charge is 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. That charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years. The possession of child pornography charge is punishable by a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Both charges carry a term of supervised released 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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Monroe County Woman Sentenced to 30 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kyme Ashby, age 29, of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on November 13, 2019, by Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo to 30 months’ imprisonment for her role in a Monroe County-based heroin and cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ashby previously pleaded guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 20 grams and 40 grams of heroin (which is equivalent to 800 to 1,600 individual doses of heroin), as well as between 840 grams and 2.8 kilograms of crack cocaine, in the Monroe County area between May and July 2015. Ashby was one of eleven individuals indicted by a grand jury in July 2015, and charged with conspiring to distribute heroin, powder cocaine and crack cocaine in the Monroe County area.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted 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 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.
This prosecution is also part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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Monroe County Man Sentenced to 41 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Sherquille Ernest, age 27, of Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on November 13, 2019, by Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo to 41 months’ imprisonment for his role in a Monroe County-based heroin and cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ernest previously pleaded guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 20 and 40 grams of heroin (which is equivalent to 800 to 1,600 individual doses of heroin), as well as between 28 and 112 grams of crack cocaine, in the Monroe County area between May and July 2015. Ernest was one of eleven individuals indicted by a grand jury in July 2015 and charged with conspiring to distribute heroin, powder cocaine and crack cocaine in the Monroe County area.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted 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 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.
This prosecution is also part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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Harrisburg Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Haskins, age 44, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on November 13, 2019, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment charges Haskins with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm on October 5, 2018, in Dauphin County.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford 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 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 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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Five Previously Deported Aliens Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that five previously deported aliens were indicted separately on November 13, 2019, by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States. These matters arose in counties throughout the District including Adams, Cumberland, and Luzerne Counties.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Elmer Martinez-Hernandez, age 24, of Honduras, was previously deported from the United States to Honduras in September 2017. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after September 2017, and was found in the United States in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Jose Humberto Martinez-Gomez, age 22, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in June 2015. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after June 2015, and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Josefina Bautista-Rojas, age 20, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in December 2017. She is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after December 2017, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Martinez-Hernandez, Martinez-Gomez and Bautista-Rojas face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Shinju Park, age 39, an alien who was under a final order of removal from the United States, did willfully fail or refuse to make timely application in good faith for travel or other documents necessary to the alien’s departure from the United States between August and October 2019.
Park faces a maximum penalty of four years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Gerardo Medina a/k/a Carlos Sebastian, age 31, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in February 2017. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after February 2017, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Medina faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
These cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Joanne Sanderson is prosecuting the cases.
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.
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 Announces Launch of Project Guardian – A Nationwide Strategic Plan to Reduce Gun ViolenceRead the Press Release
Initiative emphasizes enforcing gun prohibitions based on domestic violence convictions and mental health denials
U.S. Attorney David J. Freed announces that today, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a new initiative designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Specifically, Project Guardian focuses on investigating, prosecuting, and preventing gun crimes.
Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. In order to develop a new and robust effort to promote and ensure public safety, the Department reviewed and adapted some of the successes of past strategies to curb gun violence. Project Guardian draws on the Department’s earlier achievements, such as the “Triggerlock” program, and it serves as a complementary effort to the success of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In addition, the initiative emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.
“Gun crime remains a pervasive problem in too many communities across America. Today, the Department of Justice is redoubling its commitment to tackling this issue through the launch of Project Guardian,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Building on the success of past programs like Triggerlock, Project Guardian will strengthen our efforts to reduce gun violence by allowing the federal government and our state and local partners to better target offenders who use guns in crimes and those who try to buy guns illegally.”
“In announcing Project Guardian, Attorney General Barr has given voice to what we see on the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “Firearms, most often illegally obtained and possessed, are the indispensable tool of the violent criminal. Throughout the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and in particular in our Project Safe Neighborhoods’ (PSN) sites of Harrisburg, Wilkes-Barre/Hazleton, Williamsport and York, we are singularly focused on reducing violent crime. This very clearly means aggressively investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. Together with our state and local partners, we are sending one clear message: Any criminal who uses a firearm in commission of his crime is in very real danger of federal prosecution, and federal prison.”
“ATF has a long history of strong partnerships in the law enforcement community,” said Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Make no mistake, the women and men of ATF remain steadfast to our core mission of getting crime guns off of our streets. ATF and U.S. Attorneys nationwide will leverage these partnerships even further through enhanced community outreach initiatives and coordination with local, state, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to cut the pipeline of crime guns from those violent individuals who seek to terrorize our communities. Project Guardian will enhance ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence, to include identifying, investigating and prosecuting those involved in the straw purchases of firearms, lying on federal firearms transaction forms, and those subject to the mental health prohibition of possessing firearms.”
Project Guardian’s implementation is based on five principles:
- Coordinated Prosecution. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will coordinate with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to consider potential federal prosecution for new cases involving a defendant who: a) was arrested in possession of a firearm; b) is believed to have used a firearm in committing a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime prosecutable in federal court; or c) is suspected of actively committing violent crime(s) in the community on behalf of a criminal organization.
- Enforcing the Background Check System. United States Attorneys, in consultation with the Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in their district, will create new, or review existing, guidelines for intake and prosecution of federal cases involving false statements (including lie-and-try, lie-and-buy, and straw purchasers) made during the acquisition or attempted acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees. Particular emphasis is placed on individuals convicted of violent felonies or misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, individuals subject to protective orders, and individuals who are fugitives where the underlying offense is a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; individuals suspected of involvement in criminal organizations or of providing firearms to criminal organizations; and individuals involved in repeat denials.
- Improved Information Sharing. On a regular basis, and as often as practicable given current technical limitations, ATF will provide to state law enforcement fusion centers a report listing individuals for whom the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has issued denials, including the basis for the denial, so that state and local law enforcement can take appropriate steps under their laws.
- Coordinated Response to Mental Health Denials. Each United States Attorney will ensure that whenever there is federal case information regarding individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm under the mental health prohibition, such information continues to be entered timely and accurately into the United States Attorneys’ Offices’ case-management system for prompt submission to NICS. ATF should engage in additional outreach to state and local law enforcement on how to use this denial information to better assure public safety. Additionally, United States Attorneys will consult with relevant district stakeholders to assess feasibility of adopting disruption of early engagement programs to address mental-health-prohibited individuals who attempt to acquire a firearm. United States Attorneys should consider, when appropriate, recommending court-ordered mental health treatment for any sentences issued to individuals prohibited based on mental health.
- Crime Gun Intelligence Coordination. Federal, state, local, and tribal prosecutors and law enforcement will work together to ensure effective use of the ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs), and all related resources, to maximize the use of modern intelligence tools and technology. These tools can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness in identifying trigger-pullers and finding their guns, but the success depends in large part on state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners sharing ballistic evidence and firearm recovery data with the ATF. Federal law enforcement represents only about 15% of all law enforcement resources nationwide. Therefore, partnerships with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the communities they serve are critical to addressing gun crime. The Department recognizes that sharing information with our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners at every level will enhance public safety, and provide a greater depth of resources available to address gun crime on a national level.
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