Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hazleton Realtor Sentenced to over Four Years’ Imprisonment for Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ignacio Beato, age 46, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge James M. Munley to 51 months’ imprisonment, followed by three months supervised release for conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions through a financial institution, with funds that were the proceeds of wire fraud.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Beato, who was a licensed realtor, falsely represented to potential purchasers that he was authorized to sell vacant conventional and Federal Housing Administration insured mortgaged properties in Hazleton, when in fact, he did not have such authority. Between December 2013 and March 2015, Beato accepted $751,082 from individuals who believed they were purchasing properties. Beato then fraudulently converted that money to his own personal use.
Judge Munley ordered Beato to pay restitution in the amount of $65,000. The reduced restitution amount was due to a number of factors including the fact that some victims were not able to be located and others have filed civil lawsuits attempting to regain their funds. The Internal Revenue Service also previously forfeited $35,000 from Beato’s bank accounts.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case.
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Carbon County Man Charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kevin Mattson, age 40, of Albrightsville, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information with receipt and distribution of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Mattson allegedly shared visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct using his computer between January 2016 and April 2017.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations – Philadelphia Division. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
The Criminal Information was filed pursuant to a plea agreement with the defendant. The plea agreement, which is subject to approval by the court, includes sexual offender registration requirements.
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.
There is a minimum mandatory five-year penalty and the maximum penalty under federal law is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Attorney General Jeff Sessions Announces Reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Other Actions to Reduce Rising Tide of Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – Today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced several Department of Justice actions to reduce the rising tide of violent crime in America. Foremost of those actions is the reinvigoration of “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” 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.
In announcing this recommitment to Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Attorney General issued a memo directing United States Attorneys to implement an enhanced violent crime reduction program that incorporates the lessons learned since Project Safe Neighborhoods launched in 2001.
In a statement on the program, the Attorney General said:
"According to the FBI, the violent crime rate has risen by nearly seven percent over the past two years, and the homicide rate has risen by more than 20 percent. We cannot be complacent or hope that this is just an anomaly: we have a duty to take action.
“Fortunately, we have a President who understands that and has directed his administration to reduce crime. The Department of Justice today announces the foundation of our plan to reduce crime: prioritizing Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that has been proven to work.
“Let me be clear – Project Safe Neighborhoods is not just one policy idea among many. This is the centerpiece of our crime reduction strategy.
“Taking what we have learned since the program began in 2001, we have updated it and enhanced it, emphasizing the role of our U.S. Attorneys, the promise of new technologies, and above all, partnership with local communities. With these changes, I believe that this program will be more effective than ever and help us fulfill our mission to make America safer."
“The Middle District of Pennsylvania fully supports the reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program which has proven to help reduce violence in our communities,” stated United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler. “Our district’s Anti-Violence Crime Strategy, issued in March 2016, draws upon the Project Safe Neighborhoods model, emphasizes strong partnerships with our state and local counterparts and has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of federal prosecutions against the most violent individuals in our district. Just this week, Rolando Cruz, a leader of the violent York based gang known as “Southside” was sentenced to a term of life imprisonment for his activities that ravaged the York area for over a decade.”
The Attorney General also announced the following Department of Justice initiatives to help reduce violent crime:
- Additional Assistant United States Attorney Positions to Focus on Violent Crime – The Department is allocating 40 prosecutors to approximately 20 United States Attorney’s Offices to focus on violent crime reduction.
- More Cops on the Streets (COPS Hiring Grants) – As part of our continuing commitment to crime prevention efforts, increased community policing, and the preservation of vital law enforcement jobs, the Department will be awarding approximately $98 million in FY 2017 COPS Hiring Grants to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.
- Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force’s (OCDETF) National Gang Strategic Initiative –The National Gang Strategic Initiative promotes creative enforcement strategies and best practices that will assist in developing investigations of violent criminal groups and gangs into enterprise-level OCDETF prosecutions. Under this initiative, OCDETF provides “seed money” to locally-focused gang investigations, giving state, local, and tribal investigators and prosecutors the resources and tools needed to identify connections between lower-level gangs and national-level drug trafficking organizations.
- Critical Training and Technical Assistance to State and Local Partners –The Department has a vast array of training and technical assistance resources available to state, local and tribal law enforcement, victims groups, and others. To ensure that agencies in need of assistance are able to find the training and materials they need, OJP will make available a Violence Reduction Response Center to serve as a “hot line” to connect people to these resources.
- Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGIC) – The Department has provided grant funding to support a comprehensive approach to identifying the most violent offenders in a jurisdiction, using new technologies such as gunshot detection systems combined with gun crime intelligence from NIBIN, eTrace, and investigative efforts. These FY 2017 grants were awarded to Phoenix, AZ, and Kansas City, MO.
- Expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program – The Department will expand ATF’s NIBIN Urgent Trace Program nationwide by the end of the year. Through this program, any firearm submitted for tracing that is associated with a NIBIN “hit” (which means it can be linked to a shooting incident) will be designated an “urgent” trace and the requestor will get information back about the firearm’s first retail purchaser within 24 hours, instead of 5 to 6 business days.
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Mechanicsburg Businessman Pleads Guilty to Failure to Pay Federal TaxRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Nicholas A. Long, age 30, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to willful failure to pay federal taxes.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Long pleaded guilty to an information charging him with the willful failure to pay federal payroll taxes owed by his business, Harrisburg Commercial Interiors, LLC during 2013.
An Internal Revenue Service (IRS) investigation revealed that Long, through his solely owned commercial drywall business, Harrisburg Commercial Interior, LLC (HCI), willfully did not pay $216,304 in employment taxes during 2013 and 2014. The IRS investigation began when several HCI employees contacted the IRS because they did not receive their 2013 income tax refunds.
As the owner of HCI, Long exercised primary control over the financial affairs of the business, was solely responsible for issuance of all paychecks, and had sole signature authority on HCI's business bank account. Although he issued payroll checks totaling $730,788 in gross wages during 2013 and 2014, Long did not file the requisite Employer's Quarterly and Annual Federal Tax Returns, Forms and 940, with the IRS, nor pay over the $160,399 he withheld from his employees pay checks to the government.
Under the terms of a plea agreement Long agreed to make full restitution in the amount of $216,304. No date was set by Judge Rambo for sentencing pending completion of a presentence report.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Office of the IRS Criminal Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel.
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 five years of imprisonment, 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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York Gang Leader Sentenced to Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that the leader of a gang that has operated for a decade or more in the City of York was sentenced to life in prison for racketeering and drug distribution conspiracies.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane imposed a sentence of life in prison on Rolando Cruz, Jr., a/k/a “Mico,” age 32, who was identified as a leader of the “Southside” street gang as well as a member of the Bloods. When imposing sentence, Judge Kane noted Cruz’s leadership in the gang that ravaged the community in York for over a decade, causing numerous deaths and many other victims.
At the sentencing, the government presented evidence that Cruz’s gang related activities continued from his jail cell while he awaited sentencing. The government asked for a life sentence and pointed to the evidence that Cruz continued to sell drugs and participate in violent retaliation while in prison. The government argued to court that it should have no confidence that Cruz will ever stop his violent, drug trafficking ways, as demonstrated by his ongoing criminal conduct. Judge Kane noted that there was mitigating evidence but, on balance, agreed that life in prison was the appropriate sentence.
In November 2015, a jury convicted Cruz of racketeering and drug trafficking conspiracies after a seven-week trial. It included over 100 witnesses called by the government, including York City Police officers and detectives, federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI and gang members who had previously pleaded guilty and featured the presentation of over 500 exhibits. Among the exhibits were videos of violent incidents involving the Southside Gang, drugs, cash and property seized by police and ATF agents as part of the investigation.
The jury convicted the other 11 men who went to trial with Cruz.
The gang, labeled by the government as a criminal enterprise, is known as Southside. It operated in southern York, centered in the area of Maple and Duke Streets. There was no formal structure but the participants included senior leaders, drug traffickers engaged in distribution and sales of narcotics, particularly crack cocaine, and “shooters,” individuals who committed acts of violence, including use of firearms on behalf of the gang and to protect its members from other gangs in York. Order was maintained through intimidation and threats and, in some cases, murder. The Southside Gang includes a group of violent drug traffickers, originally affiliated with the “Bloods,” primarily a New York-based national violent street gang.
Violence against a rival York gang, called “Parkway,” allegedly resulted in death or shootings of members of both gangs and innocent bystanders.
ATF, together with the York City Police Department and the York County District Attorney’s Office, began an intensive two-year investigation of Southside in 2012. It culminated in a September 2014 grand jury indictment of 21 individuals.
Eight of the indicted persons, including James Abney, a senior Southside leader, pleaded guilty to the racketeering conspiracy charge prior to the trial, as did seven other individuals included in the September 2014 indictment.
Many individual Southside gang members were investigated and previously prosecuted by York County law enforcement agencies on state charges. The federal prosecution aimed at dismantling the organization by exposing and attacking its continuity and leadership. The federal investigation of gang violence and drug dealing in York is continuing in full cooperation with local police and the York County District Attorney’s Office.
Overall, the jury found seven of the 12 men on trial guilty of racketeering conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute drugs, mainly cocaine base (crack) and cocaine, but including heroin in some instances. Two others were found not guilty of the racketeering charge but were found guilty of the drug distribution conspiracy count of the indictment. Three of the defendants were found not guilty of either of the conspiracy counts. The jury found all 12 defendants guilty of possession of illegal drugs with the intent to distribute. Two defendants were also charged and found guilty of, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The principal defendants, specifically the most violent and those in leading roles, were found guilty of the racketeering conspiracy charges.
The individual defendants and the charges on which they were awaiting sentencing or were sentenced:
Marc Hernandez, a/k/a “Marky D,” age 32; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, drug possession with intent to deliver and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking (2 counts) is scheduled to be sentenced on October 25, 2017,
Douglas Kelly, a/k/a “Killer,” age 39; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Roscoe Villega, a/k/a “P Shawn,” age 43; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Tyree Eatmon, a/k/a “Ree,” age 29; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Maurice Atkinson, a/k/a “Mo,” age 30; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Anthony Sistrunk, a/k/a “Kanye,” age 29; racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Eugene Rice, a/k/a “B Mor,” age 29; drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Angel Schueg, a/k/a “Pocko,” age 28; drug trafficking conspiracy, and drug possession with intent to deliver is awaiting sentencing,
Jalik Frederick, a/k/a “Murder Cat,” age 22; drug possession with intent to deliver was sentenced to 33 months in prison on June 5, 2017,
Brandon Orr, a/k/a “B Or,” age 23; drug possession with intent to deliver was sentenced to 34 months in prison on November 10, 2016,
Jabree Williams, a/k/a “Minute,” age 24; drug possession with intent to deliver was sentenced to 60 months in prison on May 15, 2017.
James Abney, a/k/a “Doocs,” age 31.
Malik Sturdivant, a/k/a “Base,” age 25.
Jahkeem Abney, a/k/a “Foo,” age 27.
Ronald Payton, a/k/a “Ron Ron,” age 25.
Cordaress Rogers, a/k/a “Tank,” age 31.
Marquis Williams, a/k/a “Quis,” age 29.
Jerrod Brown, a/k/a “Boogie,” age 28.
Quintez Hall, a/k/a “Q,” age 25.
Richard Nolden, a/k/a “Rich,” age 27.
The case included the participation and assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, West York Borough Police Department, Spring Garden Township Police Department, the York County Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael A. Consiglio, William Houser, and Joseph Terz prosecuted the case.
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Philadelphia Man Indicted for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Nathan Crowder, age 28, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was indicted on September 28, 2017, by a federal grand jury for possession of heroin with intent to distribute and conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Crowder was found to possess heroin while traveling to Williamsport from Philadelphia on January 31, 2017, in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan VanFleet is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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 30 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $2,000,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Philadelphia Man Indicted for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Markeese Askew, age 24, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was indicted on September 28, 2017, by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Askew was found to possess heroin and methamphetamine on August 14, 2017, in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan VanFleet is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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 30 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $2,000,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to over Eight Years in Prison for His Role in Bath Salts Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on September 28, 2017, Robert Benussi, III, age 26, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 107 months’ imprisonment by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley, for his participation in a conspiracy to distribute alpha-pvp, commonly known as “bath salts.”
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Benussi previously pleaded guilty to agreeing with others to distribute the drug to customers in the Luzerne County area during 2014 and 2015. The members of the conspiracy obtained the alpha-pvp from suppliers in China.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Munley noted that Benussi’s role in the conspiracy included distributing the highly addictive bath salts, and using force, threats, and intimidation in furtherance of the conspiracy.
Benussi was one of seven people charged by a grand jury in August 2016. That indictment was the fourth wave of arrests connected to alpha-pvp distribution in Luzerne County. In all, 18 people have been charged in the case since July 2013, including a Texas-based supplier of the bath salts.
Judge Munley also ordered Benussi to serve three years on supervised release following his prison sentence.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspectors, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police from Luzerne County. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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Former U.S. Postal Service Employee Sentenced to 72 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Ramona Long, age 57, a former U.S. Postal Service employee in Northern California, was sentenced on September 28, 2017, by United States District Court Judge Yvette Kane to 72 months’ imprisonment. Long previously entered pleas of guilty before Judge Kane to conspiring to manufacture and distribute 100 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy to launder drug proceeds. Heath engaged in a conspiracy that trafficked hundreds of pounds of marijuana between Northern California, Florida and York County, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Long and her co-defendants, including her son Tyler Long, age 33, son-in-law Christopher Mark Heath, age 39, and Ryan Jay Falsone, age 28, participated in a conspiracy that began in approximately September 2014, and continued to January 7, 2016. During this time, Heath was a deputy sheriff in Yuba County, California, assigned as a narcotics investigator. Long and her co-defendants grew marijuana on Long’s 20 acre property in Oroville, CA, and shipped it through the United States Postal Service to several locations, including post office boxes in York and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When law enforcement officers searched Ramona Long’s California property, they discovered a shop devoted exclusively to the harvesting and processing of marijuana. Inside the shop there was a trimmer, drying racks, 74 raised planter beds and grow lights. In Long’s residence, officers seized five firearms, various ammunition and multiple plastic bins containing marijuana that Long tried to conceal from them as they entered the home.
In December 2015, Ramona Long assisted her co-conspirators with packaging marijuana they had grown and packed it to sell on the East Coast. Heath, Falsone and Tyler Long traveled from California to York County in two vehicles, transporting 89.5 kilograms of this marijuana worth just under half a million dollars. Heath’s truck contained the entire quantity of marijuana as well as a loaded Glock firearm and his deputy sheriff’s badge. When Heath, Falsone and Tyler Long arrived to deliver the marijuana in York County, they were arrested by the York County Drug Task Force and Penn Township Police Department.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the York County Drug Task Force, Penn Township Police Department, the Butte County Sheriff’s Department (California), the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith A. Taylor and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph J. Terz are prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to manufacture and distribute 100 kilograms and more of marijuana is 40 years’ imprisonment and carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment. The maximum penalty for conspiracy to commit money laundering is 20 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 indicate of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Former Harrisburg Police Corporal Admits Stealing Government FundsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former Harrisburg Police official pleaded guilty in federal court in the Middle District of Pennsylvania to charges of conversion of government property and theft from programs receiving government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Sean D. Cornick, 45, of Harrisburg, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge John E. Jones, III.
In connection with the guilty plea, the United States presented information to the Court that on October 23, 2016, Cornick took $400 in government funds that he was not authorized to receive. Additional information described that Cornick stole government funds totaling $22,346.93 between October 15, 2015 and October 27, 2016. The Court was advised that at the time of the offenses, Cornick served as the Corporal and supervisor of the Organized Crime and Vice Unit of the Harrisburg Police Department.
Judge Jones scheduled a Presentence Conference for January 29, 2018, at 10:45 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 11 years in prison, a fine of $350,000 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Harrisburg Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cornick.
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Former Carlisle Diner Owner Charged with Income Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Atef Hussein, age 48, of Hagerstown, Maryland, former owner/operator of the Fairground Diner in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information with income tax evasion.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Hussein understated income and taxes due, resulting in false income tax returns for tax years 2012 through 2015. The information also alleges that the tax loss for that period totaled $122,003.
The government also filed a plea agreement, including payment of taxes and penalties with the defendant which is subject to approval by the court.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy 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 five years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Federal Inmate Charged with Assault and Possession of ContrabandRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Mejia, age 24, an inmate at United States Penitentiary, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (USP Lewisburg) was indicted on September 28, 2017, by a federal grand jury for assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of contraband.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Mejia attacked another inmate with a sharpened weapon commonly known as a “shank.”
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers at USP Lewisburg. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan VanFleet prosecuted 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’ imprisonment, a term of three years supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. 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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Leader of Scranton Drug Ring Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Heroin and Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on September 27, 2017, United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Jeffrey Guzman, age 26, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, to 96 months’ imprisonment for being the head of a heroin and cocaine trafficking organization that operated from late 2015 until April 2016.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Guzman pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute in excess of 100 grams of heroin, 40 grams of crack cocaine, as well as additional amounts of fentanyl, cocaine base and marijuana. This amount of controlled substances equates to more than 30,000 individual doses. Additionally, Guzman possessed two loaded firearms, a .380 semi-automatic pistol and a 9mm handgun, in furtherance of his drug trafficking activity.
Guzman was indicted by a grand jury on April 12, 2016, and a superseding indictment was filed on October 25, 2016. Guzman pleaded guilty pursuant to a written plea agreement on May 26, 2017.
The federal investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evan Gotlob and Sean Camoni prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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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Dauphin County Woman Sentenced to Home-Confinement for Taking Deceased Husband’s Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT– The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on September 27, 2017, United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Loretta Galloway, age 56, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to six months’ home-confinement and to pay full restitution of $83,874 for unlawfully collecting thousands of dollars in Social Security Benefits that she was not entitled to.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from June 2010 through February 2015, Galloway collected $83,874 of her deceased husband’s Social Security benefits to pay her bills and other expenses. Galloway was not entitled to these benefits.
Galloway was indicted on January 31, 2017, and pleaded guilty pursuant to a plea agreement on June 8, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Evan Gotlob prosecuted the case.
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Williamsport Man Sentenced to over Five Years’ Imprisonment for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Scranton - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Damontray Taylor, age 31, of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to 70 months’ imprisonment for heroin trafficking and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Taylor pleaded guilty on June 6, 2017, to possessing 32 retail bags of heroin in February 2016, with the intent to distribute the drugs in the Williamsport area, as well as three firearms in furtherance of his drug activities. Judge Brann sentenced Taylor to 10 months in prison for the drug trafficking charge, and imposed a statutory, mandatory minimum five-year term of imprisonment for the firearms charge. Judge Brann further imposed a $400 fine and three years of supervised release after Taylor’s prison term is complete.
Taylor entered his guilty plea under a plea agreement with the United States. Under the agreement, the government dismissed a third count charging possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The investigation was conducted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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Four Previously Deported Aliens Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four previously deported aliens were indicted separately by a federal grand jury with illegal re-entry into the United States by a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Jose Coronado-Garcia, age 36, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on four prior occasions, March 16, 2009, March 20, 2009, May 30, 2011 and December 25, 2015. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after December 2015, and was found in the United States in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Jesus Vergara-Ponce, age 35, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in January 2000. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after January 2000, and was found in the United States in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Alix Masias-Serrano, age 43, of Honduras, was previously deported from the United States to Honduras in August 2008 and February 2009. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after February 2009 and was found in the United States in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Under federal law, Coronado-Garcia, Vergara-Ponce, and Masias-Serrano face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Antonio Mendez-Garcia, age 52, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on five occasions, April 2003, March 2006, December 2006, June 2007, and August 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after August 2010, and was found in the United States in Franklin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In August 2010, he was convicted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania of illegal reentry by a previously deported alien, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Mendez-Garcia’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Prosecution has been assigned to Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell.
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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East Stroudsburg Man Convicted of Assaulting and Fleeing from Federal Park RangerRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Damari Roulhac, age 26, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was convicted on September 26, 2017, of charges arising from the hit and run of a United States Park Ranger. The two-day trial was held before United States District Court Judge James M. Munley in Scranton.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the jury returned the guilty verdict after approximately three hours of deliberation. Roulhac was charged with and convicted of one count of assaulting a law enforcement official, and one count of fleeing from a law enforcement official.
The evidence presented during the trial showed that on the evening of July 1, 2016, United States Park Rangers patrolling the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, encountered Roulhac and ordered him to stop his vehicle. Roulhac refused to obey the Rangers’ instructions and accelerated his vehicle towards one of the Rangers, causing him to jump out of the way. When the Ranger then attempted to detain Roulhac, he accelerated again, striking the Ranger with the vehicle while fleeing the scene of the incident.
Roulhac was able to evade apprehension on July 1, 2016. However, Rangers tracked him down days later, at the Pike County Courthouse, when Roulhac was sentenced for an unrelated DUI conviction.
The case was investigated by Rangers from the National Park Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Phillip Caraballo and Evan Gotlob 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 combined maximum penalty under federal law is 10 years of imprisonment. There is also a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and up to $250,000 in fines. 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 57 Months’ Imprisonment for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Ryan Warnick, age 37, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 19, 2017, to 57 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge William J. Caldwell for his part in the armed robbery of PNC Bank.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Warnick assisted his accomplice, Derek Bowman, age, 33, of York, in the armed robbery of PNC Bank, East Market Street, York, on January 9, 2016. Warnick drove Bowman to the PNC Bank where Bowman entered the bank with a sawed-off shotgun, pointed the shotgun at a bank employee, and demanded money from her drawer. Bowman stole approximately $3,000, and fled the scene in Warnick’s vehicle. Bowman was arrested by Pennsylvania State Police the next day and was found to be in possession of money and heroin. The shotgun was later recovered by Springettsbury Township Police in Warnick’s possession.
Judge Caldwell sentenced Bowman to 141 months’ imprisonment on February 15, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Springettsbury Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Schinnour prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Washington D.C. Woman Charged with Providing Marijuana to Federal InmateRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on September 19, 2017, a federal grand jury indicted a Washington, D.C., woman for providing contraband to an inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan (USP Canaan), Waymart, Pennsylvania, and that the inmate has been charged with possession of contraband in prison.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the charges in the indictment stem from an incident on July 1, 2017, in which Tianna Thompson, age 25, of Washington, D.C., allegedly provided several small packages of marijuana to inmate Charles Elegalam, age 30, formerly of Washington D.C., during a social visit at USP Canaan. The marijuana packages were subsequently seized from Elegalam by prison staff members.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara 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 is five years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Kingston Man Sentenced for Firearms FelonyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on September 20, 2017, United States District Court Judge Richard P. Conaboy sentenced LeShawn Burgman, age 35, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, to five years’ imprisonment for possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Burgman was arrested in October 2016 after he sold MDMA, or “Molly,” and marijuana to confidential informants. Burgman pleaded guilty to a criminal information on June 20, 2017, charging him with possessing three firearms, a Hi-Point semi-automatic, .380 caliber pistol, a Sig Sauer semi-automatic .45 caliber pistol, and a Colt .38 caliber revolver, in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. All three firearms were recovered during the execution of a search warrant in Burgman’s residence and vehicle.
The case was investigated by the Kingston Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Four Previously Deported Aliens Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four previously deported aliens were indicted separately by a federal grand jury for illegal re-entry into the United States by a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Wilman Pereira-Bonilla, age 36, of El Salvador, was previously deported from the United States on two prior occasions in April 2011 and November 2011. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after November 2011, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania, after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In July 2004, he was convicted in the Commonwealth of Virginia of grand larceny, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Pereira-Bonilla’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Esvin Recinos-Ruano, age 26, of Guatemala, was previously deported from the United States to Guatemala in February 2016. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after February 2016, and was found in the United States in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Manuel Lucero-Samayoa, age 40, of Guatemala, was previously deported from the United States to Guatemala on four prior occasions in November 1998, June 2001, June 2011, and January 2013. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after January 2013, and was found in the United States in Centre County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
David Ramirez-Ferrer, age 39, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in May 2011. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after May 2011, and was found in the United States in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Under federal law, Recinos-Ruano, Lucero-Samayoa, and Ramirez-Ferrer face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell 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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Edwardsville Man Sentenced to 62 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 September 18, 2017, United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Willie Garcia, age 48, of Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, to 62 months’ imprisonment for possessing with intent to distribute marijuana, and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Garcia was arrested with more than 400 grams of marijuana, approximately $22,000 and a loaded firearm (9mm keltc semi-automatic pistol) after a search warrant was executed on or about May 2, 2015, at his home by the Edwardsville Police Department.
Garcia was indicted by a grand jury on May 10, 2016, and pleaded guilty pursuant to a plea agreement. He has been in custody since his arrest.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Edwardsville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Dunmore Woman Sentenced for Providing Firearms to FelonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Angela Lucke, age 37, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, to five years’ probation for unlawfully providing firearms to a convicted felon.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lucke pleaded guilty on March 8, 2017, to a one count indictment charging her with giving firearms to convicted drug dealer Ariel Varsanyi of New York. Lucke had previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to one year probation in Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas for filing a false police report, claiming that the firearms were stolen. Lucke admitted that she purchased the guns for Varsanyi because he was barred as a felon from buying guns himself. As part of her sentence, Lucke must perform 50 hours of community service and refrain from any contact with Varsanyi, who is incarcerated in New York.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Dunmore Borough Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Two Federal Inmates Charged with Assault on Another InmateRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that two inmates at the United States Penitentiary, Canaan, Waymart, Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting another inmate with a homemade weapon.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Michael Caraballo, age 34, and Victor Lopez, age 28, with assault with a dangerous weapon and aiding and abetting. The charges stem from an incident in February 2017, in which Caraballo and Lopez allegedly assaulted another inmate with a sharpened piece of metal commonly known as a “shank.” The indictment also charges Caraballo with possessing contraband in prison.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara 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 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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Reading Man Linked to International Drug Conspiracy Sentenced to 13 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Juan Mendez-Lazaro, age 37, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 15, 2017, to serve 13 years in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for his role in a drug conspiracy that was responsible for distributing large quantities of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs during a four-year time period in Monroe, Carbon, Montgomery, and Berks Counties in Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the drug ring had sources of supply in Mexico and associates in Chicago who transported the drugs to sub-distributors in Pennsylvania.
Mendez-Lazaro previously admitted to distributing more than one kilogram of heroin (which is equivalent to 40,000 retail bags of heroin), more than five kilograms of cocaine, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine during 2012 through 2014.
Mendez-Lazaro was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2014, as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Berks County Detectives and Montgomery County Detectives. He was one of 12 people, including four Chicago-based associates, charged in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
Judge Mariani also ordered the defendant to serve five years on supervised release following his prison sentence.
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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Hazleton Man Pleads Guilty to Making Straw Purchases of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Amaury Guzman-Escobar, age 31, of Hazleton, pleaded guilty on September 15, 2017, before United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to the charge of conspiracy to make false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Guzman-Escobar admitted that he and another individual, Crystal Muentes, age 34, of Scranton, provided false information regarding the purchase of two firearms from Dave’s Gun Shop, in Drums, Luzerne County, on June 1, 2016 and June 17, 2016, and the purchase of a firearm from Ed’s Sports Shop in Tamaqua, Schuylkill County, on June 17, 2016. Two of the firearms purchased by Guzman-Escobar and Muentes were later recovered in the mail by Postal Inspectors in Puerto Rico.
Crystal Muentes previously entered a guilty plea before Judge Mannion on September 8, 2017. She is awaiting sentencing.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Members of the Scranton Police Department also participated in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes.
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.
A sentencing date for Guzman-Escobar has not yet been scheduled.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses 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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Federal Inmate Indicted for Assault on Correctional Officer and Possession of ContrabandRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Shawn Hill, age 34, formerly of Connecticut and currently a federal inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan, Waymart, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting a federal correctional officer and for possession of contraband in prison.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Hill assaulted a correctional officer and possessed contraband on June 30, 2017. The charges stem from an incident in which Hill allegedly possessed a sharpened piece of metal commonly known as a “shank.” After the weapon was confiscated, Hill allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with a correctional officer.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara 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 which can be imposed under federal law is eight years of imprisonment, 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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Federal Inmate Charged with Assault on Correctional OfficerRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Orlando Hernandez, age 32, a prisoner at United States Penitentiary, Canaan, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting a federal correctional officer.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Hernandez kicked and “head-butted” a correctional officer on January 27, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara 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 which can be imposed under federal law is 8 years of imprisonment, 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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New Jersey Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Possession with Intent to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Manel Smith, age 40, of New Jersey, was sentenced on September 13, 2017, by United States District Court Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner to 120 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute heroin.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in the summer of 2016, Smith was driving from New Jersey through Pennsylvania when a Pennsylvania State Police trooper pulled over his vehicle for speeding. During the traffic stop, troopers discovered over 15,000 bags of heroin packaged for distribution in the trunk of Smith’s vehicle. The heroin weighed over 300 grams and had an estimated street value of $75,000. Smith was subject to enhanced penalties due to prior drug trafficking convictions.
This matter was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Former Police Officer Convicted on Corruption ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a former 17 year veteran police officer with the Fairview Township Police Department, Tyson Baker, age 43, of Etters, York, Pennsylvania, was convicted on September 14, 2017, on charges stemming from the theft of seized money that was evidence in two separate drug cases. The four-day trial was held before United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo in Harrisburg.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the jury returned the guilty verdict after approximately three hours of deliberation. Baker was convicted of two counts of theft of drug money that was subject to seizure and forfeiture, one count of falsifying or altering records to impede, obstruct or influence a federal drug investigation regarding the first incident, one count of theft of federal property, and one count of presenting a false police report to the FBI. He was found not guilty of one count of falsifying or altering records to impede regarding the second incident.
The evidence presented during the trial showed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Harrisburg received information that Baker might be stealing money from drug traffickers who were arrested, the subject of traffic stops, or both. On November 21, 2015, Baker orchestrated the theft of $2,000 in drug proceeds seized by the Fairview Township Police Department during a search of a residence that resulted in the seizure of several pounds of marijuana and approximately $15,000. At the time another officer with the Fairview Township Police Department cooperating with the FBI, recorded conversations with Baker regarding the theft in which Baker discussed how the officer should steal drug proceeds from drug traffickers during traffic stops.
On December 16, 2015, the FBI, with the full cooperation of the Fairview Township Police Department, arranged for an undercover vehicle operated by an undercover FBI agent to be stopped by Fairview Township. Baker had the vehicle towed from the scene and, without a warrant and in spite of directions from an FBI agent not to search the vehicle, Baker searched the vehicle and stole $3,000 out of $15,000 concealed in a gym bag in the back of the vehicle. The undercover vehicle was equipped with video recording equipment that recorded Baker searching the vehicle without a warrant. On December 18, 2015, Baker was arrested by the FBI and confessed to both incidents.
Fairview Township Police Department cooperated fully with the FBI and state law enforcement in the investigation.
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 combined maximum penalty under federal law is 45 years. There is also a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and $1,250,000 in fines. 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 case was investigated by the Harrisburg Resident Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Fairview Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys William A. Behe and Michael Consiglio prosecuted the case.
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Dauphin County Man Sentenced to over 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking and Possession of A Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Khalid Fahide Carter, a/k/a “Friend,” age 23, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 13, 2017, to 123 months’ imprisonment by Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner, following a guilty verdict by a federal jury on December 15, 2016, for distribution of crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on January 12, 2016, Carter distributed cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine to a confidential informant. As officers moved in to arrest Carter, he exited his vehicle and fled on foot. After a brief foot chase, he was apprehended and arrested. Recovered on the ground where Carter was arrested was the prerecorded buy money used in the drug transaction. Located on a nearby roof was the loaded Taurus PT840 semi-automatic .40 caliber pistol Carter was carrying. A search of the vehicle Carter was riding in yielded an electronic scale, two .40 caliber pistol magazines, and a holster. Found in a jacket pocket inside the van was a second electronic scale with cocaine residue. The jury found that in addition to distributing crack cocaine, Carter possessed a Taurus PT840 .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Capital City Safe Streets Task Force, the Harrisburg Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorneys Daryl F. Bloom and Chelsea Schinnour prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Wilkes-Barre Man Guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute Bath SaltsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Daniel Fitzgibbon, age 47, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley to participating in a conspiracy to distribute alpha-pvp, commonly known as “bath salts.”
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Fitzgibbon admitted to agreeing with others to distribute the drug to customers in the Luzerne County area during 2014 and 2015. The members of the conspiracy obtained the alpha-pvp from suppliers in China.
Fitzgibbon also admitted that he and others used force, threats, and intimidation in connection with the drug conspiracy.
Fitzgibbon was one of seven people charged by a grand jury in August 2016. That indictment was the fourth wave of arrests connected to alpha-pvp distribution in Luzerne County. In all, 18 people have been charged in the case since July 2013, including a Texas-based supplier of the bath salts. Fitzgibbon is the fifteenth defendant to plead guilty in the case.
Judge Munley ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed and scheduled sentencing in the case for December 14, 2017.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police from Luzerne County. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa is 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.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Lebanon County Man Sentenced to over 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Conspiracy and Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that LezFrank Vargas-Herrera a/k/a Christian Rivera Rios, age 25, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 11, 2017, to 181 months’ imprisonment by Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine hydrochloride and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, eleven defendants were originally indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2015.
The charges stem from an investigation in which the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents in Lebanon County intercepted packages sent from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to the United States between June and October 2014. The packages contained kilogram quantities of heroin and cocaine hydrochloride concealed inside electronics and car parts. The offense involved at least nine kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride and seven kilograms of heroin (which equals approximately 280,000 retail bags of heroin). Vargas-Herrera was also found in possession of a Glock 9mm handgun, a loaded magazine, and ammunition when he was arrested by law enforcement.
The following co-defendants were previously sentenced by Chief Judge Conner:
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Glauco Kelvin Celedonio-Smith, age 20, to 180 months’ imprisonment;
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Wilson Herrera, age 22, to 120 months’ imprisonment;
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Felix Rodriguez-Pabon, age 25, to 87 months’ imprisonment;
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Lional Martinez-Osaria, age 30, to 68 months’ imprisonment;
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Yefries Guillan-Herrera, age 24, to 57 months’ imprisonment;
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Wilfreddy Perez, age 24, to 35 months’ imprisonment; and
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Jose Pena-Herrera, age 22, to 12 months’ imprisonment.
Luis Beato-Herrera and Nelson Martinez are awaiting sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by HSI, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Berks County District Attorney’s Office Detective Unit, and the U.S. Customs & Border Protection. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
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.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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Scranton Woman Pleads Guilty to Making Straw Purchases of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Crystal Muentes, age 34, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on September 7, 2017, before United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to a conspiracy to make false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Muentes admitted that she provided false information regarding the purchase of two firearms from Dave’s Gun Shop, in Drums, Luzerne County, on June 1, 2016 and June 17, 2016, and the purchase of a firearm from Ed’s Sports Shop in Tamaqua, Schuylkill County, on June 17, 2016.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Scranton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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.
A sentencing date for Muentes has not yet been scheduled.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses 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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New Cumberland Businessman Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Michael Powers, age 53, of New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner to charges that he filed a false Federal Income Tax Return pertaining to tax year 2010.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Powers who owns and operates Powers Auto Repair in New Cumberland, pleaded guilty to understating his true income by $238,381 on his 2010 income tax return. The tax owed on that unreported income amounted to $42,774. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Powers will make restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in that amount plus another $26,198 for unpaid taxes owed on unreported income of $208,979 for tax year 2012. Thus, the total loss to the IRS as a result of Powers’ underreporting of income was $68,972.
The IRS investigation of Powers began after the IRS received a Form 1099-K indicating Powers Auto Repair had significantly more gross receipts than what Powers reported on his 2011 income tax return. A Form 1099-K is a reporting document filed by entities that process credit card payments on behalf of businesses.
As a result, the IRS obtained Powers’ bank records, which showed that Powers established two accounts - a business account and a personal account at the same bank. Powers deposited all of the cash and all of the checks he received from his customers into the business bank account, and all of his credit card income into his personal account. However, Powers only reported the income in his business account as income on his 2010 and 2012 tax returns.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel is 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.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is three years of imprisonment, 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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Milford Man Sentenced for High Speed ChaseRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Matthew Wojciechowski, age 26, of Milford, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 7, 2017, by United States District Court Judge Robert Mariani to two years’ probation for fleeing and eluding rangers at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brander, Wojciechowski engaged in a high speed chase while operating a Black Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle within the National Recreation Area, willfully failed to stop, and attempted to elude a pursuing police officer causing danger to other officers and pedestrians.
The investigation was conducted by the National Park Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Gotlob.
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York County Woman Charged with Acquiring Controlled Substances by Forgery and DeceptionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Shannon Marie Lengal, age 46, of Stewartstown, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information with acquiring controlled substances by forgery and deception.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the criminal information alleges that from March 2011 to March 2016, Lengal forged a physician’s signature on prescriptions for hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. Lengal then presented the prescriptions to a pharmacy for filling.
The criminal information was filed pursuant to a plea agreement, which is subject to approval by the court, wherein it is indicated that Lengal intends to plead guilty to the charges when she appears in federal court for her arraignment.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph J. Terz 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 is four years’ imprisonment, a term of three years’ 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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New Jersey Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Child Pornography “Sextortion”Read the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Hubert Young, age 45, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, was sentenced to 25 years in prison today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley, for producing and attempting to produce child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Young previously pleaded guilty to creating two Facebook accounts with fictitious names, posing as a teenager on those accounts, and using a cell phone and computer to persuade minors to take pornographic images of themselves and send them to him.
As part of this “sextortion” scheme, once the minors sent the pornographic images to Young, he threatened to post the images on the internet unless the victims sent him more images. At least 12 minor victims between the ages of 11 and 17 from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio and Indiana, fell prey to Young’s criminal activities between January 2015 and June 2016.
Judge Munley also ordered Young to pay a special assessment of $5,100, and serve 10 years on supervised release following his prison sentence. Young must also receive sex offender treatment and comply with sex offender registration and notification requirements.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, and Pittston Police. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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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Moosic Man Indicted for StalkingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Anthony Frank Angeli, Jr, age 54, of Moosic, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for stalking. The case was unsealed today following Angeli’s initial appearance before United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that between July 7, 2017 and August 14, 2017, Angeli used the internet to engage in a course of conduct to harass and intimidate another individual.
This case was investigated by the Moosic Police Department, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts 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 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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Reading Man Indicted for Trafficking Large Amount of Crystal MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Gilbert Concepcion, age 40, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was indicted on August 8, 2017, by a federal grand jury for crystal methamphetamine trafficking. The case was unsealed on August 31, 2017, following Concepcion’s apprehension.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Concepcion with conspiring to distribute and possessing with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine between December 1, 2014 and August 26, 2015. The indictment also charges Concepcion with distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute crystal methamphetamine on May 26, 2015 and on July 15, 2015.
The case 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.
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 penalties under federal law for the charges are life imprisonment. The charge for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of crystal methamphetamine carries a ten-year mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Hazleton Man Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for Pill Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Franklin Tejeda, age 36, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on August 31, 2017, to 87 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for his role in an international pill distribution conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Tejeda was responsible for importing into the United States and distributing hundreds of thousands of Schedule II and IV drugs, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, Percocet, Tramadol, Diazepam, Xanex, and other prescription medications.
Tejeda previously pleaded guilty to regularly orchestrating the delivery of parcels of Schedule II and IV pills from suppliers in India and the Dominican Republic to co-conspirators’ residences in Hazleton, and distributing the drugs to customers. The illegal conduct occurred between November 2014 and March 2016. Agents and police seized more than one hundred thousand Schedule II and IV pills and tablets from Tejeda’s residence in March 2016.
Judge Mannion also ordered Tejeda to serve three years on supervised release following his prison sentence.
Tejeda was charged in a criminal information filed by the United States Attorney’s Office in April 2016. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Hazleton Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. 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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Three Individuals Charged in Stolen Identity Tax Refund Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jonathan Jacome, age 27, of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, Cindy Jacome, age 28, of West Hazelton, Pennsylvania, and Melissa Castiglione, age 30, of Mountain Top, were indicted on August 8, 2017, by a federal grand jury on fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and obstruction charges. The case was unsealed on August 30, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the superseding indictment alleges that Jonathan Jacome used stolen identities to file fraudulent tax returns in 2011 and 2012, and obtained over $6 million in fraudulent federal tax refunds. Jacome owned three check cashing businesses through which he processed the fraudulently obtained Treasury checks. The superseding indictment charges Jonathan Jacome with 31 counts including conspiracy to defraud the United States with respect to claims, false fictitious, and fraudulent claims, theft of public money, aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Cindy Jacome and Melissa Castiglione are alleged to have conspired with Jonathan Jacome to launder the proceeds of his fraudulent activities. The superseding indictment further alleges that Castiglione and Cindy Jacome obstructed the investigation and that Cindy Jacome committed perjury, all stemming from false, evasive, and misleading testimony before the grand jury.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and the Hazelton City Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
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 total penalties under federal law for this offense is 183 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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Wilkes-Barre Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Larry Gilliam, age 36, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania was indicted on August 29, 2017, by a federal grand jury for carefentail and heroin trafficking as well as possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Gilliam sold heroin laced with carfentanil on July 19 and 21, 2017, and possessed with intent to distribute carfentanil and heroin on July 22, 2017. The indictment also alleges that Gilliam possessed three firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking activity. Gilliam is also charged with unlawfully possessing an AK-47 pistol, a Springfield semi-automatic pistol and a Smith and Wesson semi-automatic pistol as a previously convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Kingston and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
This case was also brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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 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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Harrisburg Man Indicted on Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Maurice Lackey, age 38, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute crack and marijuana, possession of two firearms by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on June 18, 2017, after a traffic stop, Lackey was arrested by Harrisburg Police when officers found crack, marijuana and two loaded Sig Sauer handguns in Lackey’s vehicle.
The matter was investigated by the Harrisburg Police Department Street Crimes Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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 for this offense is up to 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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Four Previously Deported Aliens Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four previously deported aliens were indicted today by a federal grand jury for illegal re-entry into the United States by a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Jose Solorzano-Rojas, age 39, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in September 2009. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after September 2009, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In January 2008, he was convicted in the York County Court of Common Pleas of carrying a firearm without a license, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Solorzano-Rojas’ previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Ervin Vasquez-Salas, age 26, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in April 2011. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after April 2011, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Erick Quinto-Correa, age 27, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in September 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after September 2010, and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Christian Guardado-Alvarenga, age 27, of El Salvador, was previously deported from the United States to El Salvador in May 2012. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after May 2012, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Under federal law, Vasquez-Salas, Quinto-Correa and Guardado-Alvarenga all face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
All four cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell 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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Federal Inmate Charged with Making Threat Against PresidentRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jared Marc Brown, age 20, a federal inmate at United States Penitentiary, Allenwood, was indicted by a federal grand jury for making a threat to take the life of the President of the United States.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on June 14, 2017, Brown made a threat to take the life of the President of the United States.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the offense is five years’ imprisonment, 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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Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Clayton John Shinn, age 27, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary, Canaan, Waymart, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to assault on August 24, 2017, before United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Shinn pleaded guilty to intentionally assaulting another inmate on October 4, 2016, by repeatedly striking, punching and kicking the inmate, resulting in serious bodily injury.
Shinn and co-defendant, Jeffrey Lynn Mattox, age 33, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton on January 17, 2017. Mattox’s case is still pending.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is 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.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the crime is imprisonment for 10 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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Steelton Man Convicted on Insurance and Social Security Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Mohammed Rizk, age 53, Steelton, Pennsylvania, was convicted of fraudulently obtaining Social Security benefits and wire fraud. The jury returned a verdict of guilty after one and a half hours of deliberation following a four-day trial in Harrisburg before Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Rizk obtained approximately $64,000 in benefits under the Social Security Administration’s Retirement, Survivors and Disability Insurance Program (RSDIP) between 2014 and 2015, by falsely representing that the minor children of his deceased spouse were living with him when in fact they were living elsewhere. Rizk, as representative payee, took the funds that the children were entitled to and converted them to his own use. Rizk was convicted of wire fraud for forging his minor daughter’s signature on insurance surrender documents, submitting the documents to Prudential insurance, and thereby fraudulently obtaining $57,982 in insurance proceeds left to the daughter by her deceased mother. Rizk thereby defrauded his two minor daughters out of approximately $122,000.
The government is also seeking forfeiture of the funds obtained through the fraud.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorneys William A. Behe and Scott Ford 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 is 20 years imprisonment on the wire fraud charge and 10 years imprisonment on the theft and Social Security fraud charges, 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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Jonestown and Lykens Men Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on August 9, 2017, Kerry L. Boltz, Sr., age 54, of Jonestown, Pennsylvania, and Chester L. Hubler, III, age 38, of Lykens, Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury in a superseding indictment for multiple drug trafficking crimes. Boltz was also indicted on firearms charges. The case was unsealed on August 23, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the superseding indictment alleges that Boltz and Hubler conspired to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine between February 2017 and April 2017, and that the two distributed methamphetamine on multiple occasions during that time period. The superseding indictment also alleges that Boltz distributed heroin and fentanyl, unlawfully possessed firearms (Marlin Firearms Company 336CS 30-30 caliber rifle, a Mossberg Model 46M 22-caliber rifle, and Weatherly Orion 12-guage shotgun) as a previously convicted felon, and possessed a short-barreled shotgun (Remington Wingmaster Model 870 12-gauge shotgun) that was not properly registered.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli.
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.
This case was also brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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 is 40 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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15 Individuals Charged with Trafficking Heroin, Crack Cocaine, and Fentanyl for Two YearsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a federal grand jury returned a 22-count indictment charging 15 individuals from Pennsylvania, New York and Connecticut with various narcotics trafficking and firearms offenses. All 15 defendants are alleged to have conspired to distribute heroin, crack cocaine and fentanyl from on or about March 2015 through March 2017. The indictment was returned on June 20, 2017, but remained under seal until all 15 defendants were apprehended.
The individuals charged in the indictment are:
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Charles Gibson, Jr. of the Bronx, NY, age 38;
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Victoria Kraynak of Plymouth, PA, age 26;
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Amanda Romano of Wilkes-Barre, PA, age 43;
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John Maybank of the Bronx, NY, age 24;
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Luis Nevarez of the Bronx, NY, age 19;
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Adam Gottstein of Kingston, PA, age 30;
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Cara Dubaskas of Kingston, PA, age 25;
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Kassandra Martin of Wilkes-Barre, PA, age 36;
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Tanay Jones of the Bronx, NY, age 25;
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William Waring of the Bronx, NY, age 26;
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Siobhan Daniels of Wilkes-Barre, PA, age 30;
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Josh Lenchick of Luzerne, PA, age 28;
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Chad Eckrote of Plymouth, PA, age 24;
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Adonis Smith of New London, CT, age 37;
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Kristyna Shotwell of Plymouth, PA, age 29.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in addition to the conspiracy charge against all defendants, the indictment charges Gibson, Kraynak, Romano, Maybank, Nevarez, Dubaskas, Gottstein, Daniels, Waring, Jones, Martin, and Smith with a combined 18 counts of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute heroin, crack cocaine, and fentanyl. Defendants Cara Dubaskas, Adam Gottstein, and Kristyna Shotwell also are charged with maintaining drug premises. Amanda Romano is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of her trafficking activities.
Several of the defendants are charged with conspiring to distribute drug weights that trigger mandatory minimum sentences:
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Defendants Gibson and Kraynak are charged with conspiring to distribute in excess of one kilogram of heroin, which is the equivalent of at least 40,000 individual doses of heroin, and carries a 10-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment.
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Defendants Maybank, Nevarez, Gottstein, Dubaskas, Martin, Jones, Waring, Daniels, and Lenchick are charged with conspiring to distribute in excess of 100 grams of heroin, which is the equivalent of at least 4,000 individual doses of heroin, and carries a five-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment.
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Defendants Gibson, Kraynak, Romano, Maybank, Gottstein, and Dubaskas are charged with conspiring to distribute in excess of 280 grams of crack cocaine, which carries a 10-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment.
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Defendants Nevarez, Martin, Jones, Waring, Daniels, and Lenchick are charged with conspiring to distribute in excess of 28 grams of crack cocaine, which carries a five-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Kingston Police Department, and by the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
The 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.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the most serious offenses is up to life in prison. 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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