Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Wilkes-Barre Men Charged in Running Meth LabRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Mark Heath, age 38 and Shawn Melleski, age 26, both of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, were indicted on July 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury for methamphetamine trafficking offenses.
The indictment was unsealed on July 13, 2017, following Melleski’s arrest. Heath’s arraignment is scheduled for July 18, 2017, before United States Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick. Melleski was arraigned by Magistrate Judge Mehalchick on July 13, 2017, and was ordered detained pending trial.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Heath and Melleski possessed with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in June 2017.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, the Kingston Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob 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 defendants are facing a mandatory minimum of five years and maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 maximum fine and lifetime maximum supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Plains Township Man Indicted for Firebombing the Luzerne County Children and Youth Office BuildingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on July 11, 2017, Phillip Finn, Jr, age 47, of Plains Township, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for stalking, making threatening interstate communications and causing malicious damage to federal property by fire.
The indictment was unsealed today following Finn’s initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick. Finn was detained on the charges pending trial.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that between March 3, 2017 and March 6, 2017, Finn used Facebook, Google and his cell phone to engage in a course of conduct, to harass and intimidate two Luzerne County Children and Youth Services employees. The indictment also alleges that on March 6, 2017, Finn used three Molotov cocktails to damage the Luzerne County Children and Youth Services Office building, located in Wilkes-Barre.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. 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 combined maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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York Man Indicted for Armed Bank Robbery and Armed Robbery of A Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG– The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Austin Carr, age 23, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury with armed bank robbery, the armed robbery of a convenience store, and two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Carr robbed the Turkey Hill on West Market Street in York on June 14, 2017, using a silver and black .380 caliber, Smith and Wesson handgun. Carr allegedly used the same firearm to rob the M&T Bank on West Market Street in York on June 17, 2017.
The matter was investigated by the FBI Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force, the York City Police Department, the West York Borough Police Department, and the West Manchester Township Police Department. 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 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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New York Man Sentenced to over 17 Years’ Imprisonment for Armed Bank Robberies and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jule Futrell, age 44, a resident of Endicott, New York, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James M. Munley to serve 208 months’ imprisonment for multiple armed robberies of banks and another business.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Futrell pleaded guilty in March 2016, to committing two armed bank robberies, a pharmacy robbery, and to a firearms charge. The robberies were:
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March 13, 2014, First National Community Bank (FNCB), Jenkins Township, Pennsylvania, Futrell and co-defendant Jeremy West stole approximately $57,000 in cash;
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April 18, 2014, CVS pharmacy, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Futrell and West stole an unknown quantity of controlled substances;
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November 26, 2014, NBT Bank, Keyser Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, Futrell and co-defendant Jemal Laquan King stole approximately $101,000 in cash.
Another co-defendant, Dorian Whitehead, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the two armed bank robberies.
Judge Munley sentenced Futrell’s co-defendants for their roles in the crimes. King was sentenced on July 26, 2016, to 157 months’ imprisonment, West was sentenced on January 6, 2017, to 126 months’ imprisonment, and Whitehead was sentenced on January 5, 2017, to 51 months’ imprisonment.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Munley also ordered that a probation officer supervise Futrell for three years following his release from prison, and that Futrell pay restitution in the amount of $171,180.50.
The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Scranton and Binghamton offices. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski 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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Luzerne County Men Indicted for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that two Luzerne County men were indicted on July 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on bank robbery charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Doug Sickler, age 36, and Shawn Cavanaugh, age 35, both of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, with the armed robbery of the PNC Bank in Avoca, Pennsylvania and taking more than $2,000 on June 21, 2017.
The charges stem from a joint investigation between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Wilkes-Barre, Kingston and Pennsylvania State Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob 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.
Sickler and Cavanaugh face a maximum of 25 years in prison as well as 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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Harrisburg Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Darrian Walker, age 26, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession of cocaine and heroin with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Walker was found to possess heroin, cocaine, and a firearm on May 7, 2017, in Harrisburg.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Ford.
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 and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Cumberland County Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jesse Owen Maurice, age 27, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for offenses involving the sexual exploitation of a minor.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Maurice is alleged to have coerced and enticed a minor to take sexually explicit photographs of herself and send them to him over the internet in November 2016. Maurice also is charged with distributing those sexually explicit photographs. The two-count indictment charges Maurice with production of child pornography and receipt and distribution of child pornography. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of all electronic equipment used to take those images.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the production of child pornography offense is 30 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. That charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years. The receipt and distribution of child pornography charge is punishable by a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. That charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years. 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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Coaldale Man Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jerry Breck, III, age 34, of Coaldale, Pennsylvania, was indicted on July 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Beck was found in possession of approximately 200 grams of methamphetamine at his home on July 5, 2017.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob 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 defendant is facing a mandatory minimum of five years and maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 maximum fine and lifetime maximum supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Federal Jury Returns Sentence of Life Imprisonment for Murder of A Federal Correctional OfficerRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a federal jury in Scranton returned a verdict yesterday for life imprisonment for Jessie Con-Ui, age 40, a federal inmate, for the first-degree murder of U.S. Correctional Officer Eric Williams. Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo scheduled the formal imposition of the life sentence for October 12, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on June 7, 2017, the same jury convicted Con-Ui of “willfully, deliberately, maliciously, and with premeditation and malice aforethought” killing Officer Williams while he was engaged in the performance of his duties at the Canaan Federal Correctional Complex, United States Penitentiary, in Waymart, Pennsylvania, on February 25, 2013.
The evidence at trial established that Con-Ui, armed with two sharpened weapons (commonly known as “shanks”), positioned himself at the top of a metal stairway as Correctional Officer Williams ascended the stairway leading to the second floor of a housing unit within the prison. Inmate Con-Ui kicked Correctional Officer Williams down the stairs and then stabbed him over 200 times with the weapons. Con-Ui also repeatedly kicked and stomped on Correctional Officer Williams causing massive fatal injuries.
At the time of the murder, Con-Ui was serving an 11-year federal sentence for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, imposed by the United States District Court, in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2005. Con-Ui was also serving a concurrent life sentence for first-degree murder imposed by the Maricopa County Superior Court, Phoenix, Arizona, in 2008. In connection with that event, Con-Ui shot and killed Carlos Garcia on August 25, 2002, in Phoenix, Arizona.
At the time of his death, Correctional Officer Eric Williams was 34-years-old, and a resident of Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania.
“A correctional officer has one of the most dangerous jobs in law enforcement. Eric Williams was performing that job at USP Canaan, when was he blindsided and brutalized by Jessie Con-Ui,” said Michael Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division.” The heinous violence inflicted upon Correctional Officer Williams cost a dedicated federal officer his life. At the Philadelphia FBI, our hearts go out to the Williams family and all who knew and loved Eric.”
“We are extremely disappointed with the jury’s verdict, but I want to highlight the outstanding work of all the men and women who worked on this case for over four years,” said United States Attorney Brandler. “The Phoenix, Arizona Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Phoenix Police Department, the Phoenix Department of Corrections, and the Phoenix Juvenile Justice Office; the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia; the Scranton, Pennsylvania Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim-Witness Unit and legal support staff, and Assistant United States Attorneys Fran P. Sempa and Robert J. O’Hara and Department of Justice Capital Case Section Attorney Robert J. Feitel, all performed their roles in exemplary fashion and deserve our appreciation for their tireless efforts in the prosecution of this case.”
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Scranton Business Owners Sentenced to Home-Confinement in Unemployment Benefit SchemeRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on July 8, 2017, United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Samuel and Steven Borgia to 6 months home-confinement and 1-year probation for conspiring to commit wire fraud in connection with the fraudulent receipt of unemployment benefits. Judge Caputo also ordered that the defendants pay $169,524.33 in restitution to the Federal and State Department of Labor.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Samuel Borgia, age 52, and Steven Borgia, age 46, owned and operated Home Resource Corporation, a home improvement company in Scranton. From 2009 to 2012, the defendants filed fraudulent claims for unemployment compensation and received unemployment benefits to which they were not entitled. Additionally, the defendants instructed a number of their employees who were employed to falsely report to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor that the employees were not employed in order for the employees to also fraudulently receive unemployment benefits. The defendants and their co-conspirators received more than $150,000 as a result of the scheme and caused more than $300,000 in losses to both the Federal and State Department of Labor.
The Borgia brothers plead guilty to a one-count information pursuant to plea agreements on November 30, 2016.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob is prosecuted the case.
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Arkansas Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Kevin L. Reese, age 28, a resident of Little Rock, Arkansas, was sentenced on July 7, 2017, by Senior United States District Court Judge James M. Munley to serve 70 months’ imprisonment for mail fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, a federal jury convicted Reese in February 2017, on six counts of mail fraud and six counts of aggravated identity theft. Between November 2014 and August 2015, Reese defrauded Sheehan Pipe Line and Construction Company of approximately $300,000 while employed by Sheehan as a manager of a field office located in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Reese engaged in a scheme to create and generate fraudulent payroll checks for Sheehan employees for time periods that began either before the employee started employment with Sheehan, or after the employee left employment with Sheehan. Reese fraudulently created the payroll checks by unlawfully using the names of Sheehan employees and then forged their names to the checks.
In addition to the prison term, Senior Judge Munley also ordered that a probation officer supervise Reese for three years following his release from prison, and that Reese pay restitution in the amount of $225,714.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
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Williamsport Man Sentenced to 12 Years’ Imprisonment for Distribution of Heroin and CocaineRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Antoine Paris Davis, age 39, a resident of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann for the distribution of 100 grams or more of heroin.
Davis was convicted by a federal jury on September 30, 2016, of conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. The jury also found Davis was responsible for the distribution of 100 grams or more of heroin. One hundred grams of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 4,000 individual doses of potentially fatal heroin.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from June 2014 through January 2015, Davis conspired with co-defendant, Rasheem Jarbar Ruley, age 24, a resident of Williamsport, to distribute heroin and cocaine to drug users and sellers in Williamsport and distributed and possessed those substances with the intent to distribute on four separate occasions. Ruley and Davis stored heroin and cocaine at their residence on Tinsman Avenue in Williamsport, including a large bag containing over 100 grams of heroin (136 small bags of heroin packaged for sale), 16 bags of cocaine, and digital scales. Pennsylvania State Police investigators also found approximately $1,300 in cash drug proceeds, digital scales used to weigh drugs, plastic bags, wax packets, and rubber bands used to package heroin and cocaine for distribution.
Ruley was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment by Judge Brann for conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police, the Williamsport Bureau of Police, the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office, the Lycoming County Narcotics Enforcement Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Rocktashel 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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Northampton Man Sentenced to 48 Months’ Imprisonment for Theft at Delaware Water GapRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on July 6, 2017, United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Lewis Davenport, age 40, to 48 months’ imprisonment and a two-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to commit theft on federal land, and for committing aggravated identity theft.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Davenport and other individuals broke into unoccupied automobiles located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Davenport admitted that he and his conspirators stole electronics, cellular phones, credit cards and other items from the automobiles, and used the stolen credit cards at various retail businesses in Bartonsville and in Easton, Pennsylvania.
In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Mariani emphasized Davenport’s extensive criminal history, which included 19 convictions involving theft- and credit card fraud-related activities. Judge Mariani also imposed a $1,174.89 order of restitution as part of Davenport’s sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the National Park Service Rangers. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
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Former Mount Airy Casino Resort Employee Charged with Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Ashley Brosius, age 30, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, a former player coordinator for the Mount Airy Casino Resort, was charged on July 5, 2017, in a criminal information with conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Brosius and an unindicted co-conspirator defrauded the Mount Airy Casino Resort by engaging in a money laundering scheme involving the use of stolen names and PINs (personal identification numbers) that were tied to players’ club cards. It is alleged that with the assistance of an unindicted co-conspirator, Brosius used the stolen information to create duplicate player club cards, which she then loaded with “free slot play” credits. The fraudulently created cards were then given to the unindicted co-conspirator to gamble with, primarily at slot machines. The criminal information also alleges that the scheme began in November 2014 and continued to November 2015, and that the fraudulent free play amounted to approximately $140,000.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under the federal law for this offense is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $500,000 fine. The crime also carries a term of supervised release following imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Penn National Horse Trainer Convicted on Multiple Counts of Misbranding Prescription Drugs on Race DayRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Penn National horse trainer Murray Rojas, 51, Grantville, Pennsylvania, was convicted of 14 felony counts of misbranding prescription drugs on race day and conspiracy. The crimes involved Rojas directing veterinarians to administer drugs to her horses on race day in violation of track rules and state law. The jury found her not guilty of seven counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The jury returned the verdicts on June 30, 2017, after one day of deliberation, and after an eight-day jury trial in Harrisburg before United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the conspiracy took place between 2002 and 2014, and involved 58 races. Rojas was convicted of conspiring with three veterinarians to have the drugs administered to horses on the day they were entered to race.
The evidence presented during the trial showed that steps were taken to conceal this conduct by backdating invoices for the sale and administration of drugs to the horses on race day, as well as the submission of fraudulent veterinarian treatment reports to the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission.
The United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted several other individuals as part of this investigation in federal and state court, including:
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Danny Robertson, the official clocker, charged with wire fraud, sentenced to one year probation and ordered to pay a $2,500 fine;
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Craig Lytel, a racing official, charged with wire fraud, sentenced to four months in prison and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine;
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Renée Nodine, veterinarian, charged with misbranding and conspiracy, awaiting sentencing;
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Kevin Brophy, veterinarian, charged with misbranding and conspiracy, awaiting sentencing;
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Fernando Motta, veterinarian, charged with misbranding and conspiracy, awaiting sentencing;
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David Wells, owner and trainer, charged with rigging a publicly exhibited contest, sentenced on February 23, 2015, to three months’ imprisonment;
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Patricia Rogers, trainer, charged with rigging a publicly exhibited contest, received an ARD in Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas;
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Samuel Webb, trainer, charged with rigging a publicly exhibited contest, received an ARD in Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas.
The case was investigated by the by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Horse Racing Commission and the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe prosecuted the case.
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York County Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Reginald L. Lomax, Jr., age 32, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 28, 2017, by United States District Court Judge William W. Caldwell to 15 years’ imprisonment for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in December 2014, Lomax, Jr. was found to be unlawfully in possession of a firearm (Jennings, Model J22, .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol) in York County. Lomax is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm. In addition, Lomax, Jr. was designated an “Armed Career Criminal” by virtue of his prior criminal record which included three felony drug trafficking convictions and subjected him to the minimum mandatory 15 year term.
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 investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.
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Huntingdon County Woman Charged with Misappropriation of Postal FundsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Mandi Rice, age 34, of Three Springs, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on June 28, 2017, with misappropriation of postal funds by a postal employee.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Rice, a former sales associate of the United States Postal Service, misappropriated approximately $1,900 between May 2016 and October 2016.
Under the terms of a plea agreement filed with the criminal information, Rice has agreed to enter a guilty plea and pay restitution. The plea agreement is subject to approval of the court.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli is prosecuting the case.
Criminal informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is ten 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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Shavertown Man Charged with Embezzling over $428,000 and Obstructing an IRS InvestigationRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Richard J. Morgan, age 54, of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, was charged on June 27, 2017, in a criminal information with one count of bank fraud and one count of interfering with the administration of the internal revenue laws.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Morgan owned and operated Wilkes-Barre Bookkeeping, LLC, a Shavertown, Pennsylvania-based business that provided payroll services to its clients. The information alleges that Morgan was contracted to pay employee payroll and salary expenses, to file IRS Form 941 Employer Quarterly Federal Tax Returns, and to remit employment tax liabilities to federal, state and local tax authorities for two of his clients, identified as Non-Profit Corporation #1 and Corporation #1. Morgan allegedly failed to file the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Forms 941 and to remit the employment taxes to the appropriate authorities for both clients, instead embezzling the funds for his own personal use. The information alleges that between December 13, 2011 and September 16, 2014, Morgan embezzled $305,756.30 from Non-Profit Corporation #1, and that between January 7, 2015 and October 14, 2016, Morgan embezzled $54,607.65 from Corporation #1.
The information also alleges that Morgan served as a Treasurer for an entity identified as Non-Profit Corporation #2, and was tasked with selling its assets and winding up its operations when it closed in February 2010. Between March 16, 2010 and December 9, 2014, after paying Non-Profit Corporation #2’s outstanding liabilities, Morgan allegedly embezzled the remaining residual sales proceeds of $68,172.
The information further charges that when the IRS commenced an investigation of Morgan’s activities, he took steps to obstruct the investigation. Between May 28, 2013, and August 28, 2014, Morgan allegedly made misrepresentations to IRS employees, claimed to be working with fictitious IRS employees to resolve the matter, and provided the IRS with altered bank statements and accounting records to conceal his embezzlements.
The government also filed a plea agreement with Morgan to the charges, which is subject to approval of the court. A date for his initial appearance has not been set.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.
Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the most serious charge is 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Monroe County Tobacco Store Owner Sentenced to 54 Months’ Imprisonment for Wire Fraud Conspiracy and Aggravated Identity Theft OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Judge James M. Munley sentenced Rehan A. Merchant, age 40, of Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania, to 54 months’ imprisonment and a three-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to commit wire fraud and for committing aggravated identity theft.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Merchant was the owner and operator of the Cigar and Tobacco Outlet in Tannersville, Pennsylvania. Merchant pleaded guilty in June 2016, admitting that from September 2014, through September 2015, he and his co-conspirators used and attempted to use counterfeit and stolen credit and debit cards to make fraudulent purchases at the Cigar and Tobacco Outlet. Merchant and his co-conspirators also forged the names of cardholders on the associated credit and debit card receipts. The conspirators further trafficked tobacco between Pennsylvania and New York. Merchant obtained $193,219.76 from the fraudulent scheme, and attempted but failed to obtain an additional $983,811.59.
Investigators were able to seize and forfeit $82,762.67 of fraudulently-obtained funds. In pronouncing the sentence of imprisonment, Judge Munley emphasized the number of victims who suffered from Merchant’s criminal activities. Judge Munley also imposed a $193,219.76 order of restitution as part of Merchant’s sentence.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
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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 Perez-Verdugo, age 37, a citizen of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on three prior occasions in August 2008, September 2013, and March 2014. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after March 2014, and was found in the United States in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Under federal law, Perez-Verdugo faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Jose Arguelles-Varillas, age 53, a citizen of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico 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 Luzerne County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In May 2012, he was convicted in the Third District Court, Salt Lake County, State of Utah for child abuse and attempted forcible sexual abuse, offenses which subject him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Arguelles-Varillas’ 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.
Maximino Mota-Ortiz, age 43, a citizen of Dominican Republic, was previously deported from the United States to the Dominican Republic in May 1997. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after May 1997, and was found in the United States in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In July 1995, he was convicted in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Middlesex Superior Court, for trafficking in a controlled substance, offenses which subject him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Mota-Ortiz’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.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the cases.
Francisco Michaca-Dominguez, age 41, a citizen of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States on three separate occasions on January 2006, August 2013, and December 2013. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States in Monroe County, Pennsylvania after he was arrested for a summary offense on April 30, 2017.
Under federal law, Michaca-Dominguez faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley is prosecuting the case.
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
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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Dominican Man Indicted for Federal Tobacco Excise FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Dominguez, age 52, a resident of the Dominican Republic, was indicted by a federal grand jury with conspiracy to defraud the United States in relation to federal tobacco excise taxes.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Dominguez was owner of Victor Sinclair Cigars, a cigar manufacturer located in the Dominican Republic. The indictment alleges that beginning in 2009 through 2012, Dominguez conspired with an importer of large cigars based in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, to evade the excise taxes imposed on the importation of Victor Sinclair manufactured cigars. Dominguez and the importer allegedly used fraudulent invoices to collect federal excise taxes from cigar retailers in the United States. Dominguez conspired with the importer to collect approximately $3.8 million in excise taxes. Of this amount, Dominguez and his co-conspirators, only payed $2.1 million to the government. Dominguez and the importer obtained approximately $1.8 million as a result of the scheme.
The case was investigated by the Department of Treasury, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph J. Terz is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law 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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South Abington Man Charged in Fraud, Extortion and Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Hiteshkumar Patel, age 51, a resident of South Abington Township, Pennsylvania, was indicted on June 20, 2017, by a federal grand jury with multiple counts of mail and wire fraud, extortion and aggravated identity theft charges. Patel’s initial appearance is scheduled for June 29, 2017, before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr., in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that beginning in or about August 2015 through May 2016, Patel executed a scheme whereby individuals falsely represented themselves as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents, as well as individuals associated with an illegitimate online loan business. The victims were told that they had to immediately make a monetary payment in order to satisfy outstanding IRS tax debt and/or IRS penalty fees. Victims were told that there would be severe consequences if they did not immediately comply, such as federal agents knocking on their door, notification to employers, garnishment of wages, and even arrest.
Victims of the online loan fraud scheme were instructed that in order to receive the proceeds of their on-line loan application, they had to first make monetary payments associated with the processing of the application, such as fees for expediting the loan and insurance. Some victims of the loan fraud scheme were also told that outstanding IRS debt had to be satisfied before their loan application could be processed.
All of the victims were instructed to remit monetary payments to a number of different individuals via the U.S. Mail, Western Union, MoneyGram, and/or RIA (Walmart to Walmart). It is alleged that monetary payments were received by Patel, or by members of the unlawful telemarketing organization and unindicted co-conspirators. It is estimated that Patel and his coconspirators received hundreds of thousands of dollars from victims of the scheme.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and remains an ongoing investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses are 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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York County 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 Jose M. Osorio, III, age 28, of York County, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for crack cocaine trafficking and possession of a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Osorio distributed crack cocaine on September 22, 2016, in York, Pennsylvania. The indictment also alleges that on December 1, 2016, Osorio unlawfully possessed a .357 caliber revolver and ammunition as a previously convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli 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 under federal law is twenty years of imprisonment for the drug trafficking offense, ten years of imprisonment for the firearm offense, 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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Florida Businessman Sentenced to Six Months’ Imprisonment for Failing to Remit Federal Payroll TaxesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Judge Richard P. Conaboy sentenced Joel Fuller, age 46, currently a resident of Florida, to six months’ imprisonment and a two-year term of supervised release, for failing to remit employee payroll taxes to the IRS.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Fuller, formerly owned Mabro Marketing, Inc. and Integrity Travel Solutions LLC, two Hazleton, Pennsylvania-based businesses that provided time-share marketing services to prospective clients on behalf of vacation companies. From 2010 through 2013, Fuller’s businesses withheld federal income taxes from employees’ paychecks, including income taxes and Federal Insurance Contribution Act taxes, but failed to remit those taxes and the businesses’ portions of those taxes to the IRS. The taxes were instead used by Fuller to fund his lifestyle. The total amount of unremitted taxes from both businesses combined was $180,783.
Fuller also failed to pay $136,734 that he owed to the IRS for his own personal income tax returns, from years 2005 through 2013.
In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Conaboy highlighted the interest in deterring others from committing similar crimes. Judge Conaboy also imposed a restitution order requiring Fuller to pay $317,517 to the IRS.
The investigation was conducted by the Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
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Hazleton Woman Charged with Making False Statements in the Purchase of Six FirearmsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jasmine T. Wing, a resident of Hazleton, PA, was charged on June 16, 2017 in a criminal information with making false statements in the purchase of six firearms in Luzerne County.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Wing, age 25, falsely represented that she was the actual buyer of six firearms purchased from Bob’s Sporting Goods in Hazleton, PA, and from Dave’s Gun Shop in Drums, PA between September 19, 2014 and April 14, 2015. The firearms were:
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a Glock 19 9mm;
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a Glock 23 .40 caliber;
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a Taurus PT745Pro .45acp;
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an Extar EXP556 5.56;
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a CAI/Romarm Micro Draco 7.62x39; and
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a Ruger P91DC .40acp.
The CAI/Romarm Micro Draco is a semiautomatic firearm that is capable of accepting a large capacity magazine.
The government simultaneously filed a plea agreement with Wing to the alleged charge, which is subject to approval of the court. As part of the plea agreement, Wing stipulated that she knew that her offense would result in the transfer of firearms to a person prohibited from possessing them. A date for Wing’s arraignment has not been set.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo.
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.
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 penalties under federal law for the charge are 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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Wilkes-Barre Man Sentenced to 13 Months for Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Davon Beckford, age 23, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania on June 16, 2017, to a time-served sentence of 13 months of imprisonment, for conspiring to distribute heroin.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Beckford pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin in February and March 2016. Beckford was charged with five other individuals in May 2016. Beckford was subject to a sentencing enhancement because his offense involved the possession of a firearm.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and by the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo.
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 Mohegan Sun Vice President Sentenced to Prison for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a former Mohegan Sun Vice President for Player Development was sentenced June 16, 2017 in federal court in Wilkes-Barre by Senior Judge A. Richard Caputo, to serve 32 months in prison on the charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Robert Pellegrini, age 51, of Mountain Top, pleaded guilty to a money laundering conspiracy in December 2016. According to the Indictment previously returned in this case, Pellegrini conspired with Rochelle Poszeluznyj, age 39, of Kingston, and Mark Heltzel, age 52, of Dallas, to defraud the Mohegan Sun Casino by engaging in a money laundering scheme involving the use of stolen names and PINs (personal identification numbers) that were tied to players’ loyalty club cards. It is alleged that while employed as a cocktail waitress at the casino, Poszeluznyj had access to the names and PINs of casino players as she served them beverages. Poszeluznyj stole the names and PINs of those players and provided them to Pellegrini, who then used the stolen information to create duplicate player club cards. Pellegrini then loaded the duplicate cards with “free play” credits and provided them to Heltzel to gamble with, primarily at poker slot machines. The scheme began in May 2014 and continued to April 2015, netting the defendants winnings in the approximate amount of $422,147.55.
Sentencing dates for Pellegrini’s co-defendants, Heltzel and Poszeluznyj, are pending.
In addition to the prison term, Senior Judge Caputo also ordered that Pellegrini be supervised by a probation officer for one year following his release from prison. He was further ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $420,147.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced for Assault with A Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Judge Malachy Mannion sentenced Johnny Biggs, age 38, on June 15, 2017 to 57 months’ imprisonment for assault with a dangerous weapon. Biggs committed the assault while serving a term of 36 months for a violation of supervised release and drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce Brandler, Biggs attacked another inmate on August 26, 2016, with a weapon fashioned from a padlock tied to a sock. The victim suffered multiple lacerations to his head, face, and back. The fight stemmed from a dispute between the two inmates’ prison gangs, rival sects of the Aryan Brotherhood. Judge Mannion ordered the latest prison term to run consecutive to Biggs’s current sentence.
The investigation was conducted by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers at USP Canaan. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
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Bradford County Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Transporting 47 Stolen Firearms and Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Jared S. Miller, age 28, of Sayre, Pennsylvania, to 84 months of imprisonment, after he pleaded guilty to transporting 47 stolen firearms and to conspiring to distribute heroin.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Miller admitted to conspiring with Aaron Vanderpool to transport 47 firearms from Pennsylvania to New York, after Vanderpool burglarized Fulmer’s Sporting Goods, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Wysox, Pennsylvania, on May 24, 2015. Miller admitted that he and Vanderpool traded the firearms in New York for heroin and cash, and distributed the heroin in Pennsylvania. Only three of the 48 total firearms stolen from Fulmer’s Sporting Goods have been recovered by law enforcement.
Miller also admitted to trafficking heroin in Pennsylvania from June 2012 through June 2015. In his plea agreement, he stipulated to trafficking between 400 and 700 grams of heroin, which is the equivalent of 16,000 to 28,000 potentially fatal doses of heroin.
As part of his sentence, Miller was ordered to pay $27,383.75 to the victims of his crimes.
Miller’s co-conspirator, Vanderpool, previously was sentenced to 77 months of incarceration for his role in the offenses. Two other individuals have been charged in relation to the Fulmer’s Sporting Goods burglary. Luis Mercado was charged in April 2017 and has entered a plea agreement to firearms and heroin trafficking offenses. Jose Espinosa was charged in April 2017 with firearms and heroin trafficking offenses, and awaits arraignment.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and by the Pennsylvania State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo.
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 also was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Williamsport Man Sentenced to 17 Years for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Troy Brown, age 40, was sentenced on June 12, 2017 by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to serve 17 years’ imprisonment for his leadership role in a large-scale heroin distribution network operating between Williamsport and Bloomsburg.
According to United States Attorney, Bruce D. Brandler, Brown was responsible for the distribution of between 700 and 1,000 grams of heroin, or between 28,000 and 40,000 individual doses of heroin. In sentencing Brown, Judge Brann considered his multiple prior convictions for drug distribution felonies, his possession of firearms during the commission of the offense, and his position as a manager of criminal activity involving five or more participants. Brown and 26 co-conspirators have been charged in connection with this drug trafficking organization.
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.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is assigned to AUSA George Rocktashel for prosecution.
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Honduran Woman Charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Approximately Three Kilograms of FentanylRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Honduran woman was charged with possession with intent to distribute approximately three kilograms of fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on June 13, 2017, authorities encountered Osiris Ninet Bonilla-Mejia, a citizen of Honduras, sleeping in the back seat of a vehicle at the White Haven rest area located on Interstate 80, White Haven, Pennsylvania. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately three kilograms of fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is commonly prescribed by doctors to soothe extreme pain in cancer patients. Because it is up to 100 times more potent than heroin and much cheaper to produce, it has been flooding communities across America resulting in skyrocketing fatal overdoses. It is so potent that an amount the size of a few grains of sand can kill you simply by touching it. Our office treats fentanyl cases extremely seriously and will prosecute those individuals who engage in this illicit activity to the fullest extent of the law” stated United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pennsylvania State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
This case was brought as part of a district-wide initiative to combat the national heroin and opioid abuse epidemic. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative in the Middle District of Pennsylvania 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. Fentanyl and its analogs are potent, synthetic opioid pain medications that can be hundreds of times more potent than heroin. Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin or sold as heroin by individuals involved in illicit heroin trafficking. Unauthorized recreational use of Fentanyl has resulted in thousands of overdose deaths across the country during the last 15 years.
A criminal complaint is only an allegation. 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 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Franklin County Man Sentenced to 75 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin 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 Kyle Gordon, age 29, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to 75 months’ imprisonment for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Possession of a Weapon in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in the fall of 2014, Gordon, a man on state parole for burglary, obtained heroin from Baltimore, Maryland and distributed heroin out of a residence in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. The Franklin County Drug Taskforce executed a search warrant at the residence where Gordon was staying in Franklin County and located 10 grams of heroin and a Ruger, 9mm, semi-automatic handgun inside.
This matter was investigated by officers and troopers comprising the Franklin County Drug Taskforce and special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour.
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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Harrisburg Man Sentenced to 15 Years’ Imprisonment for Distributing Crack Cocaine and for Possessing A Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking ActivitiesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on June 8, 2017, United States District Judge Sylvia Rambo sentenced Laquan Kellam, age 34, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to 181 months’ imprisonment, for trafficking crack cocaine and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, a jury convicted Kellam after a two-day trial of three counts of distributing crack cocaine, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute over 280 grams of crack cocaine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activities. Kellam distributed drugs in the Harrisburg area between June 20 and July 18, 2014.
Kellam has been in custody since the jury’s verdict.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Phillip J. Caraballo, Eric Pfisterer, and Meredith Taylor.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and by the Harrisburg City Police Department.
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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Hanover Businessman Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison on Bank Fraud and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Matthew S. Norris, Hanover, PA, age 34, the owner and operator of Norris Enterprises, d/b/a Aerus Electrolux, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to serve three years’ imprisonment and pay $148,852 in restitution on bank fraud and money laundering charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Norris devised and executed a bank fraud scheme in 2011 that defrauded GE Bank out of $157,785. In 2011 Norris was the owner /operator of Aerus Electrolux, an authorized independent franchisee of Electrolux International, which was then located at 1125 York Street, in Hanover, PA. Norris executed the scheme by submitting credit applications under the names and personal identifiers of 25 of his customers to GE Bank without his customers’ knowledge or consent. By inflating their income on the electronic credit applications, Norris succeeded in obtaining lines of credit for his customers to purchase Electrolux products. Norris would then charge the accounts for fictional merchandise and, as a result, GE Bank would deposit the loan proceeds into his business account.
When the customers’ monthly credit card payments became due, Norris would make payments on their behalf without their knowledge from the proceeds of the scam. Monthly statements were never sent to the customers because, Norris listed his business address as their home address on their electronic credit applications.
The scheme was discovered in October of 2011 when an Electrolux executive became suspicious of Norris’ unusual sales transactions and initiated an onsite audit. When GE Bank learned what Norris had done, they immediately credited all amounts owed by the unwitting customers.
Judge Rambo also ordered Norris to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison and ordered him to forfeit the sum of $157,782 to the United States. Judge Rambo directed Norris commence service of his three year sentence on July 26, 2017.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg offices of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Kim Douglas Daniel.
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Pittston Man Sentenced for Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on June 8, 2017, United States District Court Judge Malachy Mannion sentenced Landy Then, age 25, of Pittson, Pennsylvania, to 18 months imprisonment for his role in a drug conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from February through March of 2016 Then conspired with other individuals to distribute approximately 200 grams of cocaine throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Then was indicted by a grand jury on October 25, 2016, and pled guilty pursuant to a plea agreement on December 8, 2016.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Gotlob.
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Henryville Man Sentenced for Steroids TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on June 8, 2017, United States District Court Judge Richard P. Conaboy sentenced Robert Cartalemi, age 32, of Henryville, Pennsylvania to two years’ probation for possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids, a felony offense. Cartalemi pleaded guilty to a criminal information on March 2, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, investigators intercepted a package on October 15, 2014, addressed to Cartalemi from China containing multiple controlled substances, which he had ordered from a known steroid supplier. Investigators then delivered the package, which Cartalemi accepted, and executed a search warrant. Noting Cartalemi’s lack of any previous criminal history, his acceptance of responsibility for his conduct, and a finding that he does not pose a danger to the community, Judge Conaboy imposed a sentence of probation in lieu of imprisonment. As part of the sentence, the first three months will be served as home confinement. Cartalemi was also ordered to pay a fine of $2,000.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
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Former State Treasurer Barbara H. Hafer Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to Federal Law Enforcement AgentsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Barbara H. Hafer, the former Treasurer of Pennsylvania, entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, to making false statements to federal law enforcement agents in connection with a long-term FBI-IRS investigation of alleged pay-to-play activities involving Pennsylvania State government. Judge Jones accepted Hafer’s guilty plea and did not set a date for sentencing. Hafer was indicted on July 20, 2016, and was scheduled to stand trial on June 12, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Hafer was interviewed by federal law enforcement agents in May 2016, regarding her relationship with Richard W. Ireland, an individual that had financial relationships with businesses that provided asset management services to the Pennsylvania Treasury Department while Hafer served as Treasurer. After leaving office, Hafer operated a consulting firm known as Hafer and Associates, LLC, that entered into a contract with a business associated with Ireland. During Hafer’s interview, she denied receiving any money from Ireland or any businesses he was associated with and denied receiving any help from Ireland or any businesses he was associated with in connection with her operation of Hafer and Associates. Hafer admitted today that she lied to the federal agents during that interview because Ireland helped Hafer’s consulting business by causing $675,000 to be paid to Hafer and Associates between 2005 and 2007, an amount that was a substantial portion of Hafer and Associates’ revenue during that time period.
“Our system of justice depends on federal law enforcement agents receiving complete and accurate information from individuals who are being interviewed as part of a criminal investigation, particularly a high-profile public corruption investigation. Lying to federal agents is a serious crime and the United States Attorney’s Office treats these offenses accordingly. Today’s guilty plea will hopefully deter others from engaging in similar misconduct in the future,” stated United States Attorney Brandler. Brandler also congratulated the FBI and IRS agents who participated in this investigation and thanked them for their outstanding work.
“When public officials commit crimes, whether as part of their official duties or in their private lives, they are violating the public trust. Today’s guilty plea helps ensure that all Americans, including public officials, are held to the same standard.” said Greg Floyd, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.
"Willfully lying to federal agents, besides being a federal offense, threatens the integrity of the justice system," said Michael Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division. "The FBI can't properly pursue our investigative mandate – in this case, fighting public corruption – if the people we interview feel they can deceive us with impunity."
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service and is assigned to Senior Litigation Counsel Michael A. Consiglio and Assistant United States Attorneys William S. Houser, Phillip J. Caraballo and Carlo D. Marchioli.
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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Two 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 two 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, Carlos Emmanuel Bran-Enriquez, age 30, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in May 2014. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after May 2014, and was found in the United States in Franklin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Under federal law, Bran-Enriquez faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Carlos Bautista-Cruz, age 30, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in October 2012 and April 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after October 2012, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In October 2012, he was convicted in the Western District of Pennsylvania of illegal re-entry, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Bautista-Cruz’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.
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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Harrisburg Man Indicted for Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Harrisburg – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Doncarlos Urrutia, age 32, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that a .380 caliber Taurus handgun was found in Urrutia’s home on May 12, 2017. The indictment also alleges that Urrutia is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm.
The matter was investigated by the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, the Harrisburg Police Department, 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 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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East Stroudsburg Man Indicted for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Paris Wilder, age 30, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on June 6, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Wilder conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin and cocaine from January 2015 to January 13, 2017, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Chambersburg Woman Pleads Guilty to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rebecca Cramer, age 57, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania pled guilty today before United States District Judge John E. Jones, III, to social security fraud and theft of public funds.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Cramer pled guilty to a felony information alleging she collected over $22,000 in social security funds which were to be used for the benefit of her sister. Cramer’s sister passed away in February of 2015, and Cramer continued to collect the funds and fraudulently completed two annual reports to the Social Security Administration regarding her sister’s status.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford 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 25 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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Canton Woman Sentenced for Misappropriation of Postal FundsRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on June 6, 2017, United States District Court Judge Matthew Brann sentenced Lisa Belawske, age 53, of Canton, Pennsylvania, to a prison term of four months for misappropriation of postal funds by a postal employee. Belawske pleaded guilty to a criminal information on February 15, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Belawske acknowledged that she misappropriated over $12,000 in money orders and cash between October 2015 and June 2016, while employed at the Sylvania Post Office. In addition to the term of incarceration, Judge Brann ordered Belawske to pay full restitution.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
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Former McConnellsburg High School Basketball Coach Indicted for Creating and Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dane Robert Pollock, age 33, a resident of McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Wednesday, May 31, 2017, for sexual exploitation of children involving the production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Pollock took sexually explicit, nude photographs and videos of at least one female student who was under the age of 18 years of age in 2016.
United States Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson arraigned Pollock on these charges on June 1, 2017, and ordered Pollock detained until his trial date, August 7, 2017. This case is assigned to United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
If you have additional information about this case, please contact the FBI office in State College, Pennsylvania at (814) 234-0341.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Indictments 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.
Receiving child pornography carries a five year mandatory minimum prison sentence. Exploiting a child in order to create child pornography carries a penalty requiring a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment. The maximum penalty under federal law is 60 years of imprisonment, a lifetime 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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Dauphin County Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Bank Robbery and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Donell Williams, age 39, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on May 30, 2017, before Chief United States District Judge Christopher C. Conner to armed bank robbery and possession of a loaded firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on August 31, 2016, Williams entered the AmeriChoice Federal Credit Union, in Enola, Pennsylvania, with a loaded firearm and demanded money from the credit union’s employees. Williams fled with under $1,500 before becoming involved in a high speed chase with speeds up to 123 mph. At the end of the chase, Williams exited the vehicle and fled on foot. After a short foot chase, Williams was arrested and the loaded firearm used during the robbery and the money were recovered. Williams is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
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.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Pennsboro Township Police Department. The City of Harrisburg Bureau of Police assisted in Williams’ arrest. Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom prosecuted the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law, for Count one is 25 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty under federal law, for Count two is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Count two carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of seven years. 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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Orwigsburg Postmaster Pleads Guilty to Making False ClaimsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carl R. Bonser, age 56, of Lehighton, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today before United States District Judge James M. Munley to making false claims against the government. Bonser is scheduled to be sentenced on September 1, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from January 1, 2016 through October 31, 2016, Bronser, in his official capacity as Postmaster of the Orwigsburg Post Office, requested compensation for travel that never occurred, causing a loss of $6,500.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts 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 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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Hazleton Realtor Pleads Guilty to 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, pled guilty today before United States District Judge James M. Munley to conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions through a financial institution, with funds that were the proceeds of wire fraud. Beato is scheduled to be sentenced on August 31, 2017.
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.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, 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 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 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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Four Federal Inmates Charged with Possession of WeaponsRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four inmates at the Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Allenwood) were indicted separately by a federal grand jury for possessing contraband within a federal prison.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the following defendants, all inmates at FCC Allenwood at the time of the alleged incidents, were charged:
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Craig Pipps, age 43, charged with possession of a weapon (a 7.5 inch improvised knife) allegedly found in his boot on December 12, 2016, at the United States Penitentiary Allenwood (U.S.P. Allenwood);
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Zarqurous Sanders, age 32, charged with possession of a weapon (an 8 inch improvised knife) allegedly found on his person on December 11, 2016, at U.S.P. Allenwood;
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Ruben Esparza, age 37, charged with possession of heroin on June 27, 2015, at U.S.P. Allenwood; and
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Jeremy Harwell, age 30, charged with possession of a weapon (a 7 inch improvised knife) found on his person on December 18, 2016, at the Federal Correctional Institution Allenwood.
The investigations were conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael Figgsganter and Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur are prosecuting the cases.
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 statues and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the maximum penalty for each offense is five years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, 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 necessarily an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Federal Prison Inmate Charged with MurderRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Hernandez-Vasquez, age 57, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Lewisburg, was indicted by a federal grand jury for first-degree murder.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the charges stem from an incident at the United States Penitentiary Lewisburg in October 2015, in which Hernandez-Vasquez allegedly strangled his cellmate with a bedsheet.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statues and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is the death penalty or life in prison 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 necessarily an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Previously Deported Alien Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Eliverto Verdugo-Torres, age 27, of Mexico, was indicted 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, Verdugo-Torres was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in September 2014 and January 2017. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after January 2017, and was found in the United States in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In January 2017, he was convicted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania of illegal re-entry, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell 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.
Because of Verdugo-Torres’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. 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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Georgia Man Indicted for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jemel X. Williams, age 34, of Macon, Georgia, was indicted for illegal possession of firearms and possession of stolen firearms.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on February 15, 2017, Williams was in possession of firearms (a Glock 19, 9mm, and a Glock 36, .45 caliber) that were shipped and transported in interstate commerce. It is also alleged that Williams was previously convicted of a felony offense prohibiting him from possessing firearms.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy 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 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 the illegal firearm possession charge is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine; the possession of stolen firearms charge is punishable by 10 years 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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