Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Abington Man Sentenced to Probation for Unemployment Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rashaad Schell, age 27, of Abington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 24 months of probation with six months of in-home detention by United States District Judge John E Jones, III, for knowingly making false statements in order to obtain unemployment compensation.
Judge Jones also ordered Schell to repay $18,421 in restitution to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from February 2012 through September 2013, Schell worked as a mail handler for the Abington Post Office while also obtaining unemployment compensation from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry in Harrisburg.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour prosecuted the case.
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Hanover Man Pleads Guilty to Witness Tampering and Agrees to Pay $171,831 to Settle False Claims Act ViolationRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that David K. Shaqfeh, age 49, of Hanover, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on May 18, 2017, before U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner to tampering with a witness. No date has been set for sentencing.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Shaqfeh solicited and encouraged an unidentified witness to give a false statement about supplemental rent payments Shaqfeh received during 2014 and 2015, for a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) subsidized rental property in Levittown, Pennsylvania, to investigators from the HUD Office of Inspector General.
In the agreement to settle the False Claims Act violations, the United States alleged that Shaqfeh participated as a landlord in the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) and solicited and received unauthorized side payments from a HCVP participant over and above the authorized rent. HCVP is a program whereby the HUD provides rental subsidies for eligible low-income tenants who locate acceptable rental units on the private market.
The settlement agreement resolves allegations that Shaqfeh submitted a request for tenancy approval to HUD for a HCVP tenant, which was not approved because the rent exceeded the maximum initial rent burden under HUD guidelines. Thereafter, Shaqfeh submitted another request for tenancy approval to HUD for the same HCVP participant with a lower rent amount, which was approved by HUD. However, Shaqfeh continued to collect additional side payments from the HCVP participant to make up for the lower lease amount. HUD’s payments to Shaqfeh were contingent upon his certification that he would only charge the amount of rent approved by HUD and not receive additional rent payments from the HCVP participant. Additionally, HUD would not have paid Shaqfeh on two other HUD contracts had it known he was charging an HCVP participant additional rent on another HUD contract. Shaqfeh has paid $171,831 to resolve allegations that he violated the False Claims Act.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Kim Douglas Daniel and Melissa Swauger are prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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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 Maurice Garvin, age 27, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 9, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed on May 22, 2017, following Garvin’s arrest.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Garvin distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on two occasions and cocaine on one occasion in April 2016, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. All three instances are alleged to have occurred within 1,000 feet of a playground.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stroud Area Regional Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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’ 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 Naaje Torres, age 24, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 9, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed May 22, 2017, following Torres’ arrest.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Torres distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on two dates in April and July 2016, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. The indictment charges Torres with distribution of heroin within 1,000 feet of Stroudsburg School District property.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Stroud Area 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 40 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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New York Man Charged with Buying Bald Eagle PartsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Daniel E. Strachan, age 60, of Depew, New York, was charged in a one-count criminal information with illegal possession of wildlife.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Strachan received several items of illegally transported wildlife through the mail. It is alleged that Strachan bartered for and bought various eagle parts and a bald eagle carcass in violation of the Lacey Act, which prohibits the sale and receipt of wildlife taken in violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
The United States also filed a plea agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that Strachan intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is five years 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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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 Gustavo Mulato, age 25, 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, Mulato was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in April 2012, and twice in July 2012. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after July 2012, and was found in the United States in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In March 2012, he was convicted in the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas of resisting arrest, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
The case was investigated by 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 Mulato’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty for this offense of ten years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Scranton Tax Preparer Charged with Defrauding Taxpayers of More Than $250,000Read the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Donald Royce, age 40, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for tax preparation fraud charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Royce was a tax preparer in Scranton who defrauded a number of local residents in 2014. The indictment alleges that Royce prepared fraudulent tax returns for multiple taxpayers causing more than $250,000 in losses. Royce gave the taxpayers a client copy of their tax return, then made material fraudulent changes to the client copy, and submitted the false return to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for his financial benefit. The indictment further alleges that Royce took clients’ IRS payment checks and deposited them directly in to his own account without ever remitting the amount to the IRS, all without the taxpayers’ knowledge.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 23 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a maximum fine of $2,250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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New York Man Sentenced for Credit Card FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Shavouy Paisley, age 25, of Queens, New York, was sentenced today by United States District Judge William W. Caldwell to 17 months’ imprisonment for credit card fraud. Paisley was convicted after a jury trial in September 2016, for conspiracy to possess 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Paisley and his co-defendants were arrested on September 28, 2014, in Cumberland County by Hampden Township Police Department after making several suspicious purchases at CVS and Rite Aid establishments located on the Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The Hampden Township Police Department seized more than 100 counterfeit Visa cards from the vehicle the three men had been traveling in, along with 25 cartons of cigarettes and multiple gift cards. During the investigation, the United States Secret Service determined the account numbers associated with the magnetic strips on the cards belonged to account holders from dozens of banks and institutions across the country. After reviewing bank records, the United States Secret Service identified more than a half a dozen retail establishments on the Carlisle Pike where the defendants attempted to or actually did make purchases using these unauthorized account numbers. The intended loss was $50,500 and the actual loss was $6,414.
Codefendant Rushane Kennedy pled guilty on September 12, 2016, and is awaiting sentencing. Vernal Moffat remains a fugitive.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Hampden Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith A. Taylor and Joseph J. Terz prosecuted the case.
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Inmate Sentenced to Six Years for Assault with Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Levar Washington, age 37, an inmate at United States Penitentiary, Allenwood, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann to 72 months’ imprisonment for assault with a dangerous weapon.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Washington pled guilty on February 15, 2017, to charges that he attacked another inmate with a sharpened weapon commonly called a “shank.” The victim suffered between 13 and 15 lacerations to his back.
Judge Brann found that the violent nature of the crime together with Washington’s history of convictions for prior crimes of violence qualified Washington as a “career offender” under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, resulting in an enhanced sentence. The six-year prison term will run consecutive to the twenty-two-year sentence Washington is currently serving for conspiracy to levy war against the United States through terrorism and using and carrying a firearm in connection with crimes of violence. Washington had served approximately twelve years of that sentence at the time of the assault. His new sentence will not start to run until approximately 2025. Judge Brann further fined Washington $500 and imposed a special assessment of $100.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and USP Allenwood. Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni prosecuted the case.
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Nanticoke Man Indicted for Export Violations and Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Mark Komoroski, age 54, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 10, 2017, for violating federal export laws and unlawfully possessing ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The indictment was unsealed on May 11, 2017, following Komoroski’s arrest and initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in February and March of 2016, Komoroski attempted to export two riflescopes to an individual in Russia without first obtaining the export licenses required by federal law. The indictment also alleges that Komoroski, a previously convicted felon, possessed over 25,000 rounds of ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Commerce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 20 years of imprisonment for the export offenses, 10 years of imprisonment for the ammunition 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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Allenwood Inmate Sentenced to 21 Months’ Imprisonment for Indecent ExposureRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Glenvert Green, age 25, of Washington D.C., was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann, for indecent exposure at the United States Penitentiary Allenwood where he was incarcerated in 2016.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Green approached a female corrections officer, exposed himself to her, and began making obscene gestures while continuing to move towards her.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael P. FiggsGanter and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.
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Harrisburg Man Indicted for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Milton Mosley, age 45, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute crack, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Mosley was arrested by Harrisburg Police Officers on January 4, 2017, in the Allison Hill section of Harrisburg. The officers found crack on Mosley’s person and also found a .380 caliber Taurus handgun in his possession. The indictment also alleges that Mosley is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm.
The matter was investigated by the Harrisburg Police Department along with 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.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty for this offense is up to life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Guinea Man Indicted on Conspiracy to Use Fraudulent Credit Cards and Failure to Appear in CourtRead the Press Release
SCRANTON-The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Elhadj Barry, age 32, a resident alien originally from Guinea, was indicted on May 9, 2017, by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to use fraudulent credit cards and failure to appear in court.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in or about September 2008, Barry conspired with other individuals to obtain stolen credit card numbers. Those credit card numbers were then electronically loaded onto gift cards and used to make purchases at Toys R Us in Wyomissing and multiple Walmart stores. Barry also failed to appear at a jury trial scheduled for August 31, 2009. Barry was a fugitive until he was arrested on December 1, 2016.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. 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 maximum penalty under federal law for each 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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Former California Deputy Sheriff Convicted on Drug Trafficking and Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Christopher Mark Heath, 38, a former deputy sheriff of the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office, California, was convicted of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, conspiracy to manufacture and distribute 100 kilograms of
marijuana, conspiracy to launder drug proceeds and an additional drug trafficking count after a two-day jury trial in Harrisburg before U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane. Heath engaged in a conspiracy that trafficked hundreds of pounds of marijuana between Northern California, Florida and York County, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the jury returned with a verdict of guilty after less than two hours of deliberation. Following the entry of the verdict, U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane remanded Heath to the custody of the U.S. Marshals, at the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Heath and his co-defendants, who previously pleaded guilty, participated in a conspiracy that began in approximately September 2014 and continued to January 7, 2016. During this time, Heath was a deputy sheriff in Yuba County, California, assigned as a narcotics investigator but has since resigned. Heath and his co-defendants grew marijuana on property in Oroville, CA, and shipped it through the United States Postal Service to several locations, including post office boxes in York and Lancaster, Pennsylvania, as well as to a home address in the Hanover area. Money to purchase additional marijuana was mailed from the York County, PA area to Bangor, California.
In December 2015, Heath and his co-conspirators traveled from California to York County in two vehicles, transporting 89.5 kilograms of marijuana worth just under half a million dollars. Heath’s truck contained the entire quantity of marijuana as well as a loaded Glock firearm and his deputy sheriff’s badge. When Heath and his co-conspirators arrived to deliver the marijuana in York County, they were arrested by the York County Drug Task Force and Penn Township Police Department.
Heath has additional firearms charges pending in Butte County, California.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the York County Drug Task Force, Penn Township Police Department, the Butte County Sheriff’s Department (California), the United States Postal Inspection Service and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith A. Taylor and Joseph J. Terz are prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty for the offense of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking is life imprisonment and includes a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed. The maximum penalty for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to manufacture and distribute 100 kilograms and more of marijuana is 40 years’ imprisonment and carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment. The maximum penalty for conspiracy to commit money laundering is 20 years’ imprisonment. The count of manufacture, distribution and possession with intent to manufacture and distribute marijuana carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 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 indicate of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Wernersville Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robberies in York, Lebanon, and Berks CountiesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Derek Pelker, age 27, of Wernersville, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on May 8, 2017, before United States District Judge John E. Jones, III, to three counts of armed bank robbery, use of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Pelker pled guilty to charges related to the armed bank robberies of the BB&T Bank in East Prospect, Pennsylvania on April 24, 2015; the National Penn Bank in Oley, Pennsylvania on May 19, 2015; and, the M&T Bank in Lebanon, Pennsylvania on April 5, 2016. The guilty plea was made pursuant to a plea agreement, subject to the approval of the court, that specified that Pelker will receive a 25-year term of imprisonment when he is sentenced.
Pelker is the eighth and final defendant to plead guilty in relation to these robberies:
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Andrew Ishman, age 31, Wrightsville, pled guilty to the East Prospect bank robbery on October 3, 2016;
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Ryan Miller, a/k/a “Otis,” age 25, Robinson Township, pled guilty to the East Prospect and Oley Bank robberies on April 24, 2015 and December 6, 2016;
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Keith Pelker, age 28, Wernersville, pled guilty to the Lebanon bank robbery on October 3, 2016;
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Shannon Gadzouris, age 24, Shillington, pled guilty to the Lebanon bank robbery on October 3, 2016;
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Kelsie Bair, age 28, and Lindsey School, age 27, both of Lebanon, pled guilty to accessory after the fact after they disposed of the weapon used in the Lebanon bank robbery off a pier in Ocean City, New Jersey. The weapon was ultimately recovered by the FBI scuba diving team; and
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William Papoutsis, Pelker’s uncle, age 35, of Reading, pled guilty to obstruction of justice in relation to these robberies.
All defendants are awaiting sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force, the Pennsylvania State Police, the South Lebanon Township Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the Lebanon and York County District Attorney’s Offices. The Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force consists of representatives from the FBI’s Harrisburg Field Office and the Harrisburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott R. Ford and Daryl Bloom are prosecuting the case.
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.
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 the offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,250,000 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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Former Canadian Moneygram and Western Union Agent Pleads Guilty to $4.4 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG –The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Lucas Obi, age 53, of Toronto, Canada, a former Western Union and MoneyGram agent, pled guilty today before United States Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson to defrauding thousands of victims out of approximately $4.4 million via international mass marketing, consumer fraud schemes.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Obi was indicted in December 2012, and was extradited to the United States from Canada. Obi was not arraigned on his Indictment in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania until August 2016.
According to the indictment, Lucas Obi, A/K/A “Suleman Ajukwusualim, was the owner/operator of a Western Union and a MoneyGram agency, both of which were known as Canada Cash Express, Inc., and located at the same Toronto address. According to the indictment, Obi conspired with others between 1999 and 2010 to commit the wire fraud offense and was the leader of a group of fraud complicit MoneyGram and Western Union agents in the greater Toronto area. Obi was the group’s mentor and leader who taught others how to engage in mass marketing fraud and complicit money transfer agent activity. Obi trained the agents on how to process fraud induced money transfers and allowed them to keep a cut, 5% to 10%, for their role in the schemes. Obi also recruited persons to act as money transfer outlet owners on his behalf, gathered fraudulently induced money transfer checks from other fraud complicit agents, and deposited the checks with fictitious name endorsements into his bank accounts. Obi then distributed the fraud proceeds, less his cut, to numerous greater Toronto area fraudsters and money launderers.
The known total dollar loss associated with all fraud reported money transfers paid out at Canada Cash Express and Obi’s other fraud complicit check-pooling agents is $4,482,927. Pursuant to a deferred prosecution agreement with MoneyGram, a $100 million victim restitution fund was established for victims of Obi’s fraud. A $586 million restitution fund is also being established for victims who sent their money via Western Union pursuant to the recently filed, January 19, 2017, Western Union deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Justice Department.
Sentencing is tentatively scheduled for August 15, 2017.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Office of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Trade Commission, the Toronto Police Service, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, the Canada Competition Bureau, and the Ministry of Government Services. The Justice Department's Office of Internal Affiars provided assistance with the extradition of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel is prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for each count is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Lancaster Man Charged with Armed Bank Robbery and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Travis Jerome Jones, age 47, of Marietta, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 3, 2017, by a federal grand jury on charges of armed bank robbery, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and felon in possession of a firearm.
The indictment was unsealed on May 5, 2017, and Jones is scheduled for arraignment on May 9, 2017, before United States Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Jones robbed an M&T Bank in Spring Grove, Pennsylvania, on January 19, 2017, taking approximately $3,587. The indictment also alleges that Jones brandished a firearm (Hi-Point 9mm handgun) during the robbery and unlawfully possessed the firearm as a previously convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Southwestern Regional Police Department in York County, and the Investigation Division of the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office. 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 and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 25 years of imprisonment for the bank robbery, a lifetime term of imprisonment for the firearms offenses, 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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Three 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 three previously deported aliens were indicted separately on May 3, 2017, by a federal grand jury on illegal re-entry charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Jose Cruz-Ramirez, age 32, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on four occasions, October 2010, twice in December 2010, and February 2011. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after February 2011, and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Maynor Galiego-Mendoza, age 45, of Guatemala, was previously deported from the United States to Guatemala on two occasions, July 2009 and September 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after September 2010, and was found in the United States in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Edwin Mauricio-Flores, age 35, of Honduras, was previously deported from the United States to Honduras on two occasions, October 2009 and October 2011. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after October 2011 and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Cruz-Ramirez, Galiego-Mendoza, and Mauricio-Flores face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the cases.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Three Harrisburg Men Indicted for Firearms TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that William Chism, III, age 27, Richard Earl Davis, age 24, and Colby Syhur Grant, age 23, all from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on May 3, 2017, by a federal grand jury on charges related to an illegal firearms trafficking operation.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Chism, (from October 28, 2016 to April 26, 2017), Davis and Grant (from April 13-26, 2017) with making false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of firearms. The indictment also charges Grant with being an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of firearms, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Harrisburg Bureau of Police Street Crimes Unit. 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 false statements to a firearms dealer is 10 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine; for illegal possession with a firearm by a drug user is 10 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine; for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking is lifetime imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine; and for possession with intent to distribute controlled substance is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1 million 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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Owners of Biofuel Company Indicted on Conspiracy and False Statement ChargesRead the Press Release
A Pennsylvania biofuel producer and two of its officers have been indicted on conspiracy and false statements charges for participating in a scheme that generated over $10 million in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) renewable fuels credits (RIN credits) at Keystone Biofuels, Inc., a company that purported to produce and sell biodiesel for use as transportation fuel.
Ben Wootton, 52, of Enola, Pennsylvania; Race Miner, 48, of Buena Vista, Colorado; and Keystone Biofuels, Inc. were indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania yesterday, announced U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood for the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Lynn for the Philadelphia Office of the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Steven L. McQueen of the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office.
According to the indictment, Wootton and Miner were co-owners of Keystone Biofuels, Inc. located in Shiremanstown, Pennsylvania and later in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Wootton, serving as President of Keystone Biofuels and Miner, serving as Chief Executive Officer, are alleged to have participated in a scheme with other coconspirators to fraudulently claim RIN credits on non-qualifying renewable fuel. Although the credits required that the fuel pass standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the fuel produced by Keystone did not meet this standard, the grand jury alleges, and was placed into commerce despite being “off-spec.” The conspirators also allegedly generated fraudulent documentation and manipulated samples to be sent to laboratories for testing as part of their scheme. Keystone, Wootton and Miner also allegedly made false entries into an EPA tracking system in violation of the Clean Air Act.
The investigation was conducted by the EPA and FBI. Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart for the Department of Justice’s Environmental Crimes Section, Trial Attorney Adam Cullman, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur of the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting this 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 crime of conspiracy is punishable by up to five years in prison. The crime of False Statements is punishable by up to five years in prison. A fine of up to $250,000 for an individual and $500,000 for a corporation may also be imposed.
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, among other factors.
Owners of Biofuel Company Indicted on Conspiracy and False Statement ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania biofuel producer and two of its officers were indicted on May 3, 2017, on conspiracy and false statements charges for participating in a scheme that generated over $10 million in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) renewable fuels credits (RIN credits) at Keystone Biofuels, Inc., a company that purported to produce and sell biodiesel for use as transportation fuel.
Ben Wootton, age 52, of Enola, PA, Race Miner, age 48, of Buena Vista, Co., and Keystone Biofuels, Inc. were indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, announced Bruce D. Brandler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Jeffrey H. Wood, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, Jennifer Lynn, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Philadelphia Office of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, and Steven L. McQueen, Acting Assistant Special Agent In Charge of the Philadelphia Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to the indictment, Wootton and Miner were co-owners of Keystone Biofuels, Inc. located in Shiremanstown, PA and later in Camp Hill, PA. Wootton, serving as President of Keystone Biofuels and Miner, serving as Chief Executive Officer, are alleged to have participated in a scheme with other coconspirators to fraudulently claim RIN credits on non-qualifying renewable fuel. Although the credits required that the fuel pass standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the fuel produced by Keystone did not meet this standard, the grand jury alleges, and was placed into commerce despite being “off-spec.” The conspirators also allegedly generated fraudulent documentation and manipulated samples to be sent to laboratories for testing as part of their scheme. Keystone, Wootton and Miner also allegedly made false entries into an EPA tracking system in violation of the Clean Air Act.
The investigation was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Department of Justice Environmental Crimes Section, Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart, Trial Attorney Adam Cullman, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur of the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting this 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 crime of conspiracy is punishable by up to five years in prison. The crime of False Statements is punishable by up to five years in prison. A fine of up to $250,000 for an individual and $500,000 for a corporation may also be imposed.
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, among other factors.
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Inmate Charged with Failing to Report to Halfway HouseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dyckman Martinez, age 34, previously of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 3, 2017, by a federal grand jury for failing to appear at a halfway house in Harrisburg for service of his sentence.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in July 2014, Martinez was furloughed from the Federal Correctional Institution in Ottisville, New York, and instructed to report to the Residential Re-Entry Center at Capitol Pavilion in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to complete his sentence. Martinez failed to appear at the residential center. As a result, federal authorities issued a warrant for his arrest.
In September 2014, Martinez was arrested in New York City on drug related charges. New York officials prosecuted Martinez and sentenced him for the crimes he committed while on escape. Martinez has remained in prison since serving a sentence.
In 2010, Martinez was convicted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for crack cocaine trafficking in York, Pennsylvania. He was sentenced U.S. District Court Judge H. Sylvia Rambo to 70 months’ imprisonment for that offense.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Consiglio is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 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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Stroudsburg Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jackie Johnson, age 31, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed on April 25, 2017, following Johnson’s initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Johnson distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on two occasions in July and August 2016, and cocaine in December 2016, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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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Postmaster Charged with False ClaimsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Carl R. Bonser, age 56, of Lehighton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a one count criminal information on May 2, 2017, with false, fictitious or fraudulent claims.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that from January 1, 2016 through October 31, 2016, Bonser, in his official capacity as Postmaster of the Orwigsburg Post Office, falsely requested monetary compensation for travel that never occurred, causing a loss of $6,500.
The United States also filed a plea agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that Bonser intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 5 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Carlisle Man Sentenced to 11 Years’ Imprisonment for Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jeffrey Turns, age 33, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on May 1, 2017, before United States District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, to 132 months’ imprisonment for committing two bank robberies and federal firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Turns robbed two banks in August 2015, a Fulton Bank in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, on August 12, 2015, and a Santander Bank in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, on August 27, 2015. During the Santander Bank robbery, Turns threatened the tellers by brandishing a firearm. Turns was apprehended just after the August 27, 2015, bank robbery through a cooperative effort by Upper Allen Township Police Department, Camp Hill Police Department, Lower Allen Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. When taken into custody, Turns was fleeing from the bank in a stolen car with the firearm in his waistband, and nine additional stolen firearms in the back of the car.
As a part of his sentence, Judge Jones ordered Turns to serve a term of three years of supervised release at the conclusion of his prison sentence. Turns must also pay restitution in the amount of $3,471 to Fulton Bank. Officers recovered the money that Turns had stolen from Santander Bank from Turns at the time of his arrest.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mechanicsburg Police Department, and the Carroll Township Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor.
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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York County Man Indicted for Robbery and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Anthony Johnson, age 49, a resident of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury on robbery and federal firearms charges. The indictment was unsealed today.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Johnson and his co-conspirator robbed and shot a victim on Girard Avenue, York, on January 9, 2016. During the investigation, the U.S. Marshals Task Force and York City officers recovered a stolen Smith and Wesson 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol and three Luger cartridges from Johnson’s co-conspirator during her arrest.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor 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 is lifetime 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 for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Anthony Corsa, age 31, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges. The indictment was unsealed on April 28, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in October 2016, Corsa was in possession of an Iver Johnson .32 caliber revolver, acrylfentanyl, and drug packaging materials with intent to distribute. The drugs seized in this case tested positive for acrylfentanyl, which is a potent and dangerous derivative of fentanyl, and has already been responsible for several deaths in Pennsylvania. The indictment also alleges that Corsa is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the York County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith A. Taylor 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 lifetime 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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Nine Indicted for Firearms Trafficking in York County in “Operation Gun Grabber”Read the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that as a result of a joint ATF-York County Drug Task Force operation in York, Pennsylvania, nine individuals engaging in illegal firearms and drug trafficking have been federally indicted separately and detained since March 29, 2017. The final arraignment hearing occurred on April 25, 2017, before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab and these cases have now been unsealed. The indicted defendants are:
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Edward Harris, age 58, a resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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an UZI submachine gun with a partially obliterated serial number;
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a magazine with thirty-one (31) Winchester 9mm cartridges;
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fifty (50) PMC 9mm caliber full metal jacket ammunition;
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forty-four (44) .38 caliber ammunition and
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thirty-two (32) Winchester 9mm cartridges.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Harris on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable John E. Jones, III will preside over Harris’ case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Ernest Crosby, age 25, a resident of Manchester, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a .357 magnum Revolver, loaded with six .357 magnum Winchester caliber cartridges.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Crosby on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable John E. Jones, III will preside over Crosby’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 2, 2017.
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Jeremiah Ashford age 25, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a .22 caliber Ruger Revolver, and four .22 caliber cartridges.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Ashford on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. Chief Judge Conner will preside over Ashford’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Lykeem Bethune, age 20, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and on April 19, 2017 and charged with the sale and possession of:
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a stolen Intratec 9mm pistol with twenty-two 9mm caliber cartridges loaded in the magazine and
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a stolen Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol with nine .40 caliber Winchester Full Metal Jacket cartridges loaded in the magazine.
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Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Bethune on April 4, 2017 and then on April 25, 2017, and determined that Bethune should be detained pending trial. Judge Jones will preside over Bethune’s cases, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Derek Jones, age 23, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a stolen Intratec 9mm pistol and twenty-two 9mm caliber cartridges loaded in the magazine.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Jones on April 4, 2017, and determined that Jones should be detained pending trial. Judge Jones will preside over Derek Jones’ cases, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Edward Lee McDowell, III, age 20, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol and nine .40 caliber Winchester Full Metal Jacket cartridges loaded in the magazine; and
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a Ruger .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol with an integrated suppressor, and a 9mm Hi-Point rifle with five 9mm cartridges.
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McDowell also faces felony heroin trafficking violations.
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Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned McDowell on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Yvette Kane will preside over McDowell’s case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Quran Smallwood, age 22, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a 9mm Glock loaded with twenty 9mm caliber cartridges.
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Smallwood also faces felony heroin, crack cocaine and marijuana trafficking violations.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned McDowell on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Yvette Kane will preside over McDowell’s case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Fred Crowder, III, age 32, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a .12 gauge Mossberg shotgun and two 12 gauge Remington Peters shotgun shells.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Crowder on April 18, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner will preside over Crowder’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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Kenge Lewis, III, age 23, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:
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a .22 caliber I.J.A. & C.WKS revolver and eight Winchester .22 caliber Super X cartridges.
Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Lewis on April 18, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo will preside over Lewis’ case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.
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U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler stated, “President Trump and Attorney General Sessions have both made clear that reducing violent crime in our inner cities is a high priority for the U.S. Department of Justice. The illegal sale and use of firearms by criminals, particularly in drug transactions, fuels violent crimes and this effort taking guns out of the hands of criminals is part of our effort to reduce violent crimes in York.”
The guns seized in this case ranged from semiautomatic pistols to machine guns and assault-style rifles. Many of the firearms had high-capacity magazines, lasers and one was equipped with a silencer. A number of these firearms were stolen, straw-purchased or had obliterated serial numbers.
“This indictment is a result of the collaborative efforts between ATF and the York County Drug Task Force,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “ATF is dedicated to investigating and pursuing violent criminals who pollute our communities with drugs and gun violence.”
“Unfortunately, we know all too well the devastation which often occurs due to the illegal trafficking of firearms,” said Chief Deputy Assistant District Attorney Dave Sunday. “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the York County Drug Task Force, United States Attorney’s Office, and ATF, we have not only removed eleven firearms off the streets of York but have taken nine individuals off those same streets who desire to illegally traffic firearms in our neighborhoods which place our citizens and law enforcement officers in potentially deadly situations. Our community is safer today because of these efforts and I applaud all involved.”
These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the York County Drug Task Force, the York City Police Department, York County Adult Probation Department and the York County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the cases.
These cases were 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 varies depending on the offense, and includes 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 29 Years’ Imprisonment for Distribution of Heroin Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dameon Lattimore, age 40, of New York, was sentenced to 29 years’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, for distributing heroin and crack cocaine that led to the death of a York City man.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lattimore was charged by a grand jury in Harrisburg in December 2015, with codefendants Yushonda Durant, age 41, of New York, and Frederick Gladfelter, age 47, of York.
Gladfelter pleaded guilty in December 2016, to allowing his home to be used as a site for the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine. He is awaiting sentencing. Durant remains a fugitive.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the York City Police Department and the York County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William A. Behe 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.
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Former Owner of Internet Sports Memorabilia Businesses Sentenced to 60 Months’ Imprisonment for $2.5 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Joshua Aaron Shores, age 44, of Bel Air, Maryland and also of Ocean City, Maryland, was sentenced on April 27, 2017, by United States District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, to 60 months’ imprisonment for a $2.5 million dollar fraud scheme.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, between 2008 and 2013, Shores obtained money and property by dealing in counterfeit and fraudulent sports memorabilia. Shores created, owned, and operated internet businesses under the names of Dealakhan, LLC, Stadium Authentics, Autograph Showcase, Sunset Beach, End Game Sports, Authenticgraph, and others with facilities in York County, Pennsylvania and in Maryland, and used the businesses to traffic in counterfeit and fraudulent sports memorabilia.
In order to carry out his scheme to defraud, Shores used various mailbox receiving services as business addresses, created and registered dozens of PayPal and Amazon.com accounts in his name and in the names of others to receive payments from customers, purchased counterfeit sports jerseys in bulk from China and affixed fraudulent autographs to them representing them to be authentic autographs of well-known athletes and sports figures, and also using fake certificates of authenticity. He opened and maintained more than 80 different bank accounts in five different financial institutions, in his name and in the name of others without their knowledge.
The court also ordered Shores to pay restitution in the amount of $500,000, a fine of $5,000, and immediate forfeiture of assets including U.S. currency in the approximate amount of $140,000. His prison term will be followed by a 2-year term of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
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Five Men Associated with the Aryan Brotherhood Indicted for Illegal Possession and Transfer of Firearms and Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that five men were indicted on April 27, 2017, by a federal grand for illegal possession and transfer of machine gun parts and firearms, interstate travel in aid of racketeering activities, and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conduct money laundering transactions. The indictment was partially unsealed on April 27, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the redacted indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to transport methamphetamine, firearms, and machine gun parts to generate money to fund the activities of the Aryan Strike Force, including the acquisition of firearms. As stated in the indictment, in its on-line mission statement, the Aryan Strike Force describes itself as a “white nationalist organization” with the “goal to protect the honour of our women, children, and the future of our race and nation” using violence as a necessary tool to achieve its goals to the. The individuals charged in the indictment include:
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Joshua Michael Steever, Phillipsburg, NJ, age 37;
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Jacob Mark Robards, Bethlehem, PA, age 40;
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Henry Lambert Baird, Allentown, PA, age 40;
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Connor Drew Dykes, Silver Spring, MD, age 20;
- Justin Daniel Lough, Waynesboro, VA, age 26.
The indictment charges criminal violations involving the transfer of firearms to a convicted felon, possession of firearms by convicted felons, transfer of unregistered machine gun parts, distribution of methamphetamine, money laundering of drug proceeds, and conspiracy and interstate travel to facilitate drug distribution and money laundering.
On April 27, 2017, defendants Steever, Robards, Lough, and Dykes appeared in Williamsport for arraignment on the indictment before Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson, and they entered not guilty pleas. Trial and jury selection have been scheduled for July 10, 2017 before U.S. District Judge Matthew W. Brann in Williamsport. Magistrate Judge Carlson ordered that Steever, Lough, and Robards be detained pending trial and released Dykes on the condition of home confinement with electronic monitoring. Baird’s arraignment and a detention hearing are scheduled for May 4, 2017, in Williamsport.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, the Virginia State Police, Phillipsburg (New Jersey) Police Department, New York State Police, Waynesboro (Virginia) Police Department, and the Montgomery County (Maryland) Police Department . Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel 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 included 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 Charged with ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Ignacio Beato, age 46, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a one count criminal information on April 26, 2017, with conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions through a financial institution, with funds that were the proceeds of wire fraud.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Beato, who was a licensed realtor, and his coconspirators, engaged in interstate wire communications and Beato 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.
The information further alleges that Beato solicited and accepted money in the total amount of $751,082 from individuals who believed they were purchasing properties. Beato and his coconspirators fraudulently converted that money to their own personal use.
The United States also filed a plea agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that Beato intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.
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.
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 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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Harrisburg Man Indicted on Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Germaine D. Hill, age 39, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 5, 2017, by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge. The case was unsealed on April 26, 2017, following Hill’s arrest.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on January 11, 2017, in Harrisburg, Hill unlawfully possessed a 9mm Tauris pistol and ammunition as a previously convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Harrisburg 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 for this offense 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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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 on April 26, 2017, by a federal grand jury on illegal re-entry charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Humberto Vasquez-Mejia, age 29, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in December 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after December 2010, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania, after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In September 2010, he was convicted in the Adams County Court of Common Pleas of delivery or possession with the intent to deliver cocaine, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.
Because of Vasquez-Mejia’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of twenty years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Bedmar Osielito Gonzalez-Ramirez, age 24, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on two occasions, March 2015 and September 2015. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after September 2015 and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Jose Carmen Hernandez-Marquez, age 39, of Honduras, was previously deported from the United States to Honduras in November 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after November 2010, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Manuel Roblero-Ramirez, age 37, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on two occasions in April 2013. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after April 2013, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
Gonzalez-Ramirez, Hernandez-Marquez, and Roblero-Ramirez face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the cases.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Takeback DayRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania wants to encourage the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 29, 2017.
A news conference announcing this event was held on Thursday, April 27, 2017 at the State Capitol Media Center.
Speakers at the news conference included:
- SAC Gary Tuggle, Drug Enforcement Administration;
- Acting Secretary Jennifer Smith, Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs;
- U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Middle District of Pennsylvania;
- Executive Deputy Attorney General Robert K. Reed, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; and
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Captain Raymond S. Singley, Pennsylvania State Police.
United States Attorney Brandler stated, "The Department of Justice has a three part strategy dealing with the opioid crisis consisting of prevention, enforcement and treatment. The drug take back initiative is an important part of our efforts to prevent opioid addiction and we applaud our federal and state partners in joining us in this effort."
On October 22, 2016, the public turned in 731,269 pounds—almost 366 tons—of medication to DEA and more than 4,000 of its community partners at almost 5,200 collection sites nationwide. Over the life of the program, 7.1 million pounds (more than 3,500 tons) of prescription drugs have been removed from medicine cabinets, kitchen drawers, and nightstands by citizens around the country.
Unused medicines in the home are a problem because the majority of the 6.4 million Americans who abused CPDs in 2015, including the almost 4 million who abused prescription painkillers, say they obtained those drugs from friends and family, including from a home medicine cabinet, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health released last month. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers. Almost 30,000 people—78 a day—died from overdosing on these painkillers or heroin in 2014, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.
Collection sites will be set up throughout communities nationwide. To locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Office of Diversion Control web site at https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback where you can search by zip code, city, or state. The service is free and anonymous.
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New York Man Charged with Firearms and Heroin Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Espinosa, age 48, of New York, New York, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on heroin trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Espinosa conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin (approximately 4,000 doses) in the Middle District of Pennsylvania from June 1, 2012 through August 31, 2015. Espinosa is also charged with aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin on August 31, 2015.
In addition to the heroin trafficking charges, Espinosa was indicted for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his trafficking activities, and with aiding and abetting the use and carrying of a firearm in relation to drug trafficking activities. Espinosa was further charged with aiding and abetting the transport of a stolen firearm from Pennsylvania to New York.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo 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.
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.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalties under federal law for the charges are life imprisonment. The heroin conspiracy charge and firearms possession charge each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Kingston Woman Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Shavonne Saxon, age 29, a Kingston, Pennsylvania resident, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on crack cocaine trafficking, cocaine trafficking, and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Saxon possessed with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base (crack), and possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine, in March and April 2017. The indictment also alleges that Saxon possessed a firearm in furtherance of her drug trafficking and with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and by the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo 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 penalties under federal law for the charges are life imprisonment. The charge for possessing over 28 grams of crack cocaine, and the charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of narcotics trafficking each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Jim Thorpe Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Isaiah Moore-Brown, age 28, a Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania resident, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on crack cocaine trafficking, cocaine trafficking, and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Moore-Brown with conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base (crack), and with possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, from December 1, 2012 through January 11, 2017. Moore-Brown also is charged with possessing a firearm (Springfield Arms .45, Ruger LC .380, and Smith and Wesson .9mm) in furtherance of his narcotics trafficking and with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of the firearms and ammunition.
The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo 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 penalties under federal law for the charges are life imprisonment. The charge for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 28 grams of crack cocaine, and the charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of narcotics trafficking each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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California Man Sentenced to 188 Months in Prison for Large-Scale Methampetamine, Cocaine and Heroin Trafficking in Monroe CountyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a California man was sentenced on April 25, 2017, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to serve 188 months (15 years and 8 months) in prison for large-scale methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin trafficking in Monroe County.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Fontaine Horton, age 37, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute in excess of nine kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as additional amounts of cocaine and heroin, after a four-day jury trial before Judge Mannon in May 2016. Horton was also convicted of two counts of distributing methamphetamine. Another individual, Reginald Braddy, age 33, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin.
Horton and Braddy were charged with obtaining high-quality methamphetamine from sources in California, along with heroin and cocaine, which they then distributed for profit in the Monroe County area between 2012 and 2014. Previously, Judge Mannion sentenced Reginald Braddy to serve 235 months (19 years and 7 months) for his role in this drug-trafficking conspiracy.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Officers from the Orange County, California Sheriff’s Office, the Scranton Police Department, and Plainfield Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert J. O’Hara and Francis P. Sempa.
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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Wilkes-Barre Man Pleads Guilty to Crack Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jahkel Lamar, age 29, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on April 24, 2017, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to possession with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lamar admitted to possessing approximately 127 grams of crack cocaine on September 1, 2016, at a bus terminal on Lackawanna Avenue in Scranton after Lamar had returned to Scranton by bus from New York City.
Judge Mannion ordered that a pre-sentence investigation be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Scranton Police Department, Special Investigations Division. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara 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 is up to forty 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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Perry County Husband and Wife Charged with Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Perry County couple were indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg on production of child pornography charges.
The indictment was unsealed on April 21, 2017. Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Betty Jo Eckenberger on April 20, 2017, and James David Eckenberger on April 24, 2017. Both Defendants were detained.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Betty Jo Eckenberger, age 32, and James David Eckenberger, age 43, both of Perry County, Pennsylvania, are alleged to have sexually assaulted a minor between 2008 and 2011, and taken photographs of that assault. The four-count indictment charges the Eckenbergers with conspiracy to use a minor to produce child pornography, production of child pornography, receipt and ditribution of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of all electronic equipment used to take those images.
This case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the production of child pornography offenses is 50 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Those charges carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 25 years. The possession 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 10 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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New York Man Indicted on Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Derrel Wilson, age 32, of Mount Vernon, New York, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on sex trafficking charges.
The indictment was unsealed on April 14, 2017, and Wilson’s initial appearance was held April 18, 2017, before United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Wilson trafficked three women as prostitutes through force, threat, and coercion and that Wilson provided his victims with controlled substances, including heroin. The indictment further charges Wilson with transporting women in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Monroe County Detectives Office, Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. 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 a life term 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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Luzerne County Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Postal FundsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Luzerne County woman pleaded guilty on April 17, 2017, before United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani to misappropriating postal funds from the U.S. Post Office in Dallas, Pennsylvania.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Carol Sosik, age 55, of Shavertown, Luzerne County, admitted to embezzling approximately $4,600 from the Dallas Post Office between June 2014 and May 2016. Sosik was employed at the Dallas Post Office as a distribution window clerk, with responsibility for sales of postage stamps.
Sosik will appear for sentencing before Judge Mariani in Scranton on a date which has not yet been scheduled.
This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Scranton Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Armed Robbery of Econo Lodge in ScrantonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rodney Whiting, age 24, of Scranton, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to serve seven years in prison for the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge in Scranton on February 13, 2016.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Whiting previously pleaded guilty to the charge of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Rodney Whiting was one of four individuals, including Kwa’shon Roane, age 24, of Gloucester, Virginia, Tracy Whiting, age 24, of Newport News, Virginia, and Kelvin Robinson, age 24, also of Newport News, Virginia, who were indicted by a grand jury in March 2016, for the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge.
Previously, Kwa’shon Roane was sentenced to serve 111 months (9 years and 3 months) in prison by Judge Mannion for charges related to the incident. Kelvin Robinson and Tracy Whiting were each previously sentenced to serve seven years in prison.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Scranton Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office and numerous local law enforcement agencies, including the Taylor Borough and Moosic Borough Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.
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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Monroe County Man’s 12 Year Sentence for Investment Fraud Affirmed by Appellate CourtRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed the conviction and sentence of Richard J. Harley, age 73, of Shawnee on the Delaware, who was previously sentenced to serve 12 years in prison by United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo in November 2015. Harley was convicted after a two-week jury trial in December 2014, on multiple counts of wire fraud, bank fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and making false statements on bankruptcy schedules relating to an elaborate investment fraud scheme.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Harley defrauded investors and attempted to defraud the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and several financial institutions by soliciting money based on false claims that his company, RJH and Co. Inc., owned 10 million barrels of oil in Texas worth over $1 billion and had “unrestricted bond power” over billions of dollars of federal reserve bank instruments supposedly held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. As a result of the fraud, investors lost approximately $323,800.
The bank fraud charge relate to Harley’s attempt to deposit two phony $500 million checks purportedly issued by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York into several financial institutions. Harley also filed three fraudulent bankruptcy petitions in 2010, 2011 and 2012 where he attempted to discharge the debt he owed to one of the primary victims of the oil scheme.
Harley was previously convicted of mail and wire fraud and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment in 2001 for a scheme that defrauded AIDS patients and investors relating to a fraudulent ozone-enema treatment he claimed cured AIDS.
The prosecution was handled by United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler and the appeal was handled by Stephen A. Cerutti, II, Chief of Criminal Appeals.
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California Man Sentenced to 235 Months in Prison for Large-Scale Methampetamine, Cocaine and Heroin Trafficking in Monroe CountyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Reginald Braddy, age 33, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to serve 235 months’ imprisonment (19 years and 7 months) for large-scale methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin trafficking in Monroe County.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Braddy was convicted of conspiracy to distribute in excess of nine kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as additional amounts of cocaine and heroin, after a four-day jury trial before Judge Mannion in May 2016. Another individual, Fontaine Horton, age 37, also of San Bernardino, was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin, as well as two counts of distributing methamphetamine.
Braddy and Horton were charged with obtaining high-quality methamphetamine from sources in California, along with heroin and cocaine, which they then distributed for profit in the Monroe County area between 2012 and 2014. Fontaine Horton is currently awaiting sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Officers from the Orange County, California Sheriff’s Office, the Scranton Police Department, and Plainfield Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert J. O’Hara and Francis P. Sempa.
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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York Man Charged with Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Criminal Information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Harrisburg charging a York man with bank robbery.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Ryan Warnick, age 37, assisted Derek Bowman, age 34, of York in an armed robbery of the PNC Bank located in York, Pennsylvania on January 9, 2016, by acting as the get-away driver. Bowman was sentenced to serve 141 months’ imprisonment on February 16, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Springettsbury Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Schinnour.
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.
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 up to twenty-five years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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U.S. Attorney and IRS Announce Message to Potential Tax CheatsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - With the deadline for filing income tax returns rapidly approaching, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and the Philadelphia Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation Division, jointly announced a warning to those who are thinking about breaking the law by committing tax crimes including a listing of recent tax fraud prosecutions and sentences.
“During this time of the year, IRS will receive millions of tax returns from honest taxpayers who file their returns on time and pay all the taxes they owe,” said U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler. “Today’s warning is not for them; it is for tax cheats who break tax laws and abuse our tax system. If you belong in this category, pay close attention. My office will hold accountable anyone who participates in a tax fraud scheme that puts an added tax burden on honest taxpayers and drains our public finances.”
“With the 2017 tax deadline looming, it is important for people to have confidence that when they pay their taxes, their neighbors and co-workers are doing the same,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Gregory Floyd. "IRS Criminal Investigation will vigorously investigate those individuals who knowingly and willfully evade their tax obligation."
FILING FALSE TAX RETURNS AND EVASION
Over the last year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted and convicted numerous individuals for filing false federal tax returns and committing tax evasion. Defendants have received substantial sentences for tax fraud, ranging from several years in prison to home confinement. Restitution is mandatory and often includes substantial interest and penalties. For example, the following individuals were charged and/or sentenced for tax fraud recently:
Angel P. Oliva, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on April 14, 2017, for aiding in filing a false tax return related to payroll taxes. Oliva was part owner of the Middlesex Diner in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. It is alleged that Oliva evaded the payment of all employment taxes from 2011 through 2014, by reporting only a portion of the wages paid to the diner employees. The total tax loss alleged is approximately $809,000.
Michael Runco, of Olyphant, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on April 3, 2017, for failing to pay the IRS employment taxes withheld from his employees’ paychecks and filing a false personal income tax return omitting substantial personal income in 2010. Runco operated Runco Transportation, Inc., a business that provided school bus transportation services under contract with Mid Valley School District, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. During 2006 through 2010, Runco Transportation, Inc. employed as many as 12 individuals. While federal employee employment taxes were withheld from employee paychecks, Runco allegedly failed to account for and pay these tax monies over to the IRS on behalf of his employees. Runco also received compensation from his company but failed to report this income on his 2010 personal income tax return. The total tax loss to the IRS is alleged to be approximately $78,578. Runco is scheduled to enter a plea of guilty on April 19, 2017.
Joseph Andershonis, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 20, 2017, for failing to pay employment taxes. Andershonis owned and operated Just Very Affordable, Inc., a Stroudsburg home renovation business, and failed to pay employment taxes from the first quarter of 2010 to the last quarter of 2012, resulting in a tax loss of more than $212,000. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, 2017.
Diego Rojas, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 7, 2017, to making false claims against the government. Rojas deposited more than 350 United States tax refund treasury checks, at least 250 which were identified as fraudulent, into the check cashing company he owned and operated, Dunmore Check Cashing. The value of the checks was more than $1.6 million. Rojas agreed to make full restitution in the amount of $1,669,864 to the Internal Revenue Service. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2017.
Theodore Martin and his wife, Arminda Martin, of Ravenna, Ohio (formerly resided in York County), were both sentenced to one year and one day imprisonment on October 18, 2016. The Martins operated three cemetery businesses, including Suburban Memorial Gardens in Dover, Pennsylvania, and Grandview Memorial Park and Fairview Memorial Park in Ohio. The Martins failed to report to the Internal Revenue Service $786,533 they received from the operations of the cemeteries located in Ohio during the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The Martins were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $304,837.
Jeffrey Miller, of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on October 12, 2016, for failing to pay his companies employment taxes and failing to pay his personal taxes. From the first quarter of 2010 to the last quarter of 2012, Miller failed to pay the employment taxes for JMSI Environmental Corporation which he owned and operated. Additionally, Miller failed to file his own personal income tax returns from 2008 through 2011. These actions resulted in a tax loss of more than $473,000. Sentencing is scheduled for June 15, 2017.
Paul Biko, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 21, 2016, to 18 months’ imprisonment for federal tax fraud in relation to his three Harrisburg businesses: Clearview of Harrisburg, Clearview Landscaping and Clearview Builders. As owner, Biko controlled the financial affairs of the three companies including all business bank accounts. For the fourth quarter of 2008, Biko’s companies withheld employment taxes from employees but failed to pay to the IRS the federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes due to the United States. Biko was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $437,336.
Joel Fuller, formerly of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a Criminal Information on September 9, 2016, with failing to remit federal payroll taxes to the IRS. Fuller owned and operated two Hazleton, Pennsylvania-based marketing businesses that sold time shares to prospective clients on behalf of vacation companies, from 2010 through 2013. The Information alleges that Fuller withheld federal payroll taxes from his employees’ paychecks, but failed to then remit those taxes, totaling approximately $180,000 to the Internal Revenue Service. Fuller is scheduled to plead guilty and be sentenced on June 14, 2017.
STOLEN IDENTITY REFUND FRAUD
In addition to prosecuting tax evaders and fraudulent tax return preparers, the IRS and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are conducting a continuing major effort to investigate and prosecute individuals who steal the identities of taxpayers and file fraudulent tax returns.
Federal penalties for each count of conviction of tax crimes range from a maximum of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine for failure to file a tax return, false withholding exemptions, and delivering or disclosing false tax documents, to a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to defraud with respect to false refund claims. Other penalties include a mandatory term of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine for aggravated identity theft charges, three years in prison and a $250,000 fine for obstructing or impeding an investigation and filing or preparing a false tax return, and a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for tax evasion, failure to pay taxes, conspiracy to commit a tax offense or conspiracy to defraud.
TAX SCAM WARNING
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the IRS remind tax payers to exercise caution during tax season to protect themselves against tax schemes ranging from identity theft to return preparer fraud. Illegal scams can lead to significant penalties and interest and possible criminal prosecution. IRS Criminal Investigation works closely with the Department of Justice to shutdown scams and to prosecute the criminals behind them.
The IRS has issued its annual “Dirty Dozen” which lists common tax scams that taxpayers may encounter, particularly during filing season. Taxpayers are urged look out for, and to avoid, the following common schemes:
• Identity Theft
• Phone Scams
• Phishing
• Return Preparer Fraud
• Offshore Tax Avoidance
• Inflated Refund Claims
• Fake Charities
• Falsely Padding Deductions on Returns
• Excessive Claims for Business Credits
• Falsifying Income To Claim Credits
• Abusive Tax Shelters
• Frivolous Tax Arguments
Education is the best way to avoid these common schemes. To learn more about the Dirty Dozen scams and for help with recognizing and avoiding abusive tax schemes, the IRS offers educational material at www.irs.gov. Suspected tax fraud can be reported to the IRS using Form 3949-A found on the IRS.gov website.
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Schuylkill County Man Guilty of Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ernest Schaeffer, age 41, of Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Schaeffer admitted to committing the offense between June and October 2016. Schaeffer was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2017.
Judge Mannion ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Schaeffer agreed to forfeit to the government a residence and property in Schuylkill Haven that was connected to the drug trafficking operation, and four firearms.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police in Schuylkill County. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Two Men Indicted on Bank Robbery and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Sharif Layton, age 38, and Jamal Cooper, age 29, both of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on April 12, 2017, by a federal grand jury for conspiracy, bank robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Layton and Cooper robbed the Juniata Valley Bank located in Burnham, Pennsylvania, on March 27, 2017, in which over $20,000 in cash was taken. The indictment also alleges that Layton and Cooper were in possession of a .40 caliber, Sig Sauer handgun during a crime of violence. Layton and Cooper are convicted felons, making it illegal for them to possess a firearm.
It is further alleged that following the robbery, Layton and Cooper led officers of the Mifflin County Regional Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police on a high speed chase for several miles, until their vehicle was disabled using spike strips.
The matter was investigated by the Mifflin County Regional Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the FBI Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force. Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force consists of representatives from the FBI’s Harrisburg Field Office and the Harrisburg 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 for these offenses 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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