Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
York Man Sentenced to 70 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that U.S. District Court Judge William W. Caldwell sentenced Daniel Curran, 41, of York, Pennsylvania to 70 years of incarceration at a hearing today in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Curran pleaded guilty to producing, receiving and possessing child pornography on Dec. 4, 2014.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Judge Caldwell stated it was one of the most disturbing cases he had ever seen, thought the maximum sentence was completely justified, noted the defendant was a danger to young people and needed to be confined for their safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith A. Taylor had recommended the maximum sentence of 840 months.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter J Smith for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, the evidence established that Curran sexually assaulted a nine year old boy on multiple occasions and recorded the assaults of the child. In addition, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) located over at least 40,000 images and over 100 videos of child pornography on Curran’s computer and thumb drives.
Curran was originally charged in November 2013 and signed a plea agreement in November 2014.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI and the the Northern York County Regional Police Department.
York Man Sentenced to 70 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge William W. Caldwell sentenced Daniel Curran, age 41, of York, Pennsylvania to 70 years of incarceration at a hearing today in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Curran pleaded guilty to producing, receiving and possessing child pornography on December 4, 2014.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Judge Caldwell stated it was one of the most disturbing cases he had ever seen, thought the maximum sentence was completely justified, noted the defendant was a danger to young people and needed to be confined for their safety. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor had recommended the maximum sentence of 840 months.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the evidence established that Curran sexually assaulted a nine year old boy on multiple occasions and recorded the assaults of the child. In addition, the FBI located over at least 40,000 images and over 100 videos of child pornography on Curran’s computer and thumb drives.
Curran was originally charged in November 2013 and signed a plea agreement in November 2014.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern York County Regional Police Department.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to Prison for Unlawfully Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that today in Scranton a 39-year-old Wilkes-Barre man was sentenced to 27 months in prison today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Joseph White, of Wilkes-Barre, previously pleaded guilty to being in possession of a firearm in Kingston in June 2013.
White was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2014, as a result of an investigation by special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, and Kingston Police.
Judge Munley also ordered White to serve two years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and to pay a special assessment of $100.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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Scranton Man Charged with Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a criminal Information was filed today charging a Scranton man with receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the Information alleges that Marc Accardi, age 42, used a cell phone and a computer to download and distribute images of child pornography during March through May 2015.
The charge stems from an investigation by agents of Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police.
If convicted, Accardi faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a potential maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
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."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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 40 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Schuylkill Federal Correctional Institution Inmate Charged in the Assault of Corrections OfficerRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that a Criminal Indictment was returned yesterday by a federal grand jury sitting in Scranton charging federal prison inmate Darian Tensley, age 37, with allegedly assaulting a federal corrections officer at the Schuylkill Federal Correctional Institution in August of 2013, causing bodily injury. This is the second of two unrelated cases involving Schuylkill to be indicted by the grand jury.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law 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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York City Man Indicted Federally for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Larry Eugene DeShields, of York, Pennsylvania was arrested on May 27, 2015 on charges of involving illegal drugs.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, DeShields, a/k/a “Dunk”, age 41, trafficked in over 500 grams and more of cocaine and marijuana in York, New York, and elsewhere during February 2015. DeShields was indicted on the charges by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg on May 20, 2015. The indictment was made public after DeShields was taken into custody. The government also filed a notice with the court alleging that DeShields was previously convicted for distribution of crack cocaine in 2005, qualifying him for greater penalties if convicted on the new charges.
DeShields appeared in court in Harrisburg before U.S. Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson. DeShields was detained.
The new charges stem from the ongoing investigation by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives into drugs and gang violence in the Southside of York. The case was brought with the assistance of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, Springettsbury Township Police Department, and the York County Drug Task Force.
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 in this case 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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Two Wilkes-Barre Men Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that two Wilkes-Barre men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton for drug trafficking and firearms offenses.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the indictment charges Larry Hayes, age 28, with possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine and marijuana. The indictment also charges Disean Kendricks, age 26, with possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of firearms.
The charges stem from an incident in which investigators served a search warrant at a residence located on Sullivan Street in Wilkes-Barre and seized heroin, cocaine and marijuana from a bedroom in which Hayes was sleeping. From another bedroom in which Kendricks was sleeping investigators seized an additional amount of heroin and two firearms.
The investigation was conducted by the Wilkes-Barre Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF). Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.
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, 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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Schuylkill Federal Correctional Institution Inmate Charged with Possession of A WeaponRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced that a felony Criminal Indictment was returned by a federal grand jury sitting in Scranton charging federal prison inmate Dwayne Parker, age 30, today.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Parker was charged with allegedly possessing a homemade weapon in April of 2014, while an inmate at the federal prison.
If convicted, Parker could be imprisoned for a maximum sentence of up to 5 years and a fine in the amount of $250,000.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law 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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Schuylkill Federal Correctional Institution Inmate Charged in the Assault of Corrections OfficerRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that a Criminal Indictment was returned by a federal grand jury sitting in Scranton charging federal prison inmate Deshon Thomas, age 40, with allegedly assaulting a federal corrections officer at the Schuylkill Federal Correctional Institution in November 2014, causing bodily injury.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 8 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Saylorsburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 29-year-old Saylorsburg man was sentenced to 10 months in prison today by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani in Scranton, Pennsylvania for conspiring with others to distribute illegal drugs in the Monroe-Berks County area in 2011-2013.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Stephen Krpata, previously pleaded guilty to participating in the drug conspiracy that was responsible for distributing cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and oxycodone.
Krpata was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2013, as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and Berks County Detectives.
Judge Mariani also ordered Krpata to serve three years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and to pay a special assessment of $100.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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Luzerne County Couple Charged with Possession and Sale of A Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today the filing of criminal charges against James Pavlichko, age 29, and Kathryn Teter, age 28, of Nuremberg, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The Grand Jury sitting in Scranton returned an Indictment which charges that on April 13, 2015, in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, Pavlichko and Teter possessed and sold a stolen handgun. The Indictment also alleges that James Pavlichko illegally possessed that same firearm while having the status of a convicted felon.
United States Attorney Peter Smith stated that the charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Kingston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney John Gurganus is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this particular case, the maximum penalty under the federal statutes for each offense is 10 years’ imprisonment, a three year 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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Clarks Green Woman Charged with Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Lisa Alexis Jury, age 47, of Clarks Green, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton on charges of armed bank robbery.
Lisa Alexis Jury was charged with the robbery of:
Peoples Bank, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, on October 30, 2014;
P&G Federal Credit Union, Eynon, Pennsylvania, on May 19, 2015.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the robberies were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Pennsylvania State Police, with the assistance of the South Abington Township Police Department and the Archbald Police.
The maximum penalty under the federal statute for each count of armed bank robbery is 25 years’ imprisonment. Jury also faces a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine if convicted. She is in custody.
Prosecution of this case is assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney John Gurganus.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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York Man Charged with Coercion and Enticement of A Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Distribution and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a York man was charged in an Indictment by a grand jury yesterday with coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and distribution and receipt of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Gabriel Palmer, age 21, allegedly sexually assaulted a teenage boy and received and distributed child pornography to coerce the minor to engage in sexual activity between 2013 and 2015.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Silver Spring Township Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations and the Cumberland County Forensics Team. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl Bloom.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $500,000 fine. Count I carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of ten years. Count II carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of five years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Third Monroe County Man Enters Guilty Plea to Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a third Monroe County man pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Scranton, before Senior United States District Judge Edwin M. Kosik, to the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Fred Baumgartner, age 34, of Kresgeville, Monroe County, admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the Monroe County area in 2013 and 2014.
Baumgartner was one of seven individuals indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2014, after a several month investigation conducted jointly by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department and the Stroud Regional Police Department regarding methamphetamine trafficking in Monroe County.
Previously, Scott Borushak, age 51, and Emmanuel Tucker, age 39, both of Stroudsburg, pleaded guilty and admitted to participating in the same methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy. In addition, Jeannine Altemose, age 53, of Stroudsburg, previously entered a guilty plea and admitted to allowing methamphetamine to be stored and distributed from her residence. The charges against the remaining defendants are currently pending.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States 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 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,000,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Massachusetts Resident Charged with Mailing Drugs to InmateRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that criminal charges of attempted distribution of controlled substances have been filed against Sharon Magrath of Randolph, Massachusetts.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Magrath, age 51, is charged by the Grand Jury in a two-count felony indictment with attempting to distribute narcotics to inmates at United States Penitentiary Allenwood by mailing envelopes to the inmates with heroin contained therein.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statues and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute is 20 years imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000 for each offense. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Federal Inmate Charged with Threatening Correctional OfficialRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a grand jury in Williamsport returned an indictment against an inmate serving a sentence at the United States Penitentiary Allenwood, White Deer, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Wynn Sheldon age 50, of Albany, New York is charged with making repeated threats to kill a correctional officer and his family in June and July 2014.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statues and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute for each offense is ten years imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Waynesboro Man Charged with Six Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a felony Information was filed yesterday charging a Waynesboro man with six bank robberies.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, John Raymond Smith, age 38, allegedly robbed two banks each in Greencastle and Waynesboro, Pennsylvania and in West Virginia in 2014.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department, the Greencastle and Washington Township Police Departments and the West Virginia State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 120 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,500,000 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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Hamilton Health Center Agrees to Settlement of Federal Civil MatterRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Hamilton Health Center, Inc., a federally qualified health center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay the United States $270,000 to settle False Claims Act allegations. The settlement results from a self-disclosure by Hamilton to the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (OIG) through the OIG’s Provider Self-Disclosure Protocol.
Federal law prohibits Medicare and Medicaid from paying for any item or service rendered by an individual excluded from participation in those programs. According to the self-disclosure and the investigation that followed, from 2006 to 2013, Hamilton allegedly employed an individual who had been previously excluded from participation in Medicare and Medicaid. The United States alleged that it had civil claims against Hamilton resulting from Medicare and Medicaid payments it received during that period of time that reimbursed the company for the excluded individual’s services. Hamilton has since taken corrective action and voluntarily disclosed the matter. This settlement resolves the matter without the filing of litigation.
HHS OIG has the authority to “exclude” persons or businesses that engage in certain misconduct from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal healthcare programs. The effect of exclusion is that no federal program payment may be made for items or services provided by the excluded person/business, or provided because the excluded person prescribed or directed the item or service. The prohibited items or services goes beyond direct patient care and include such things as administrative and management services. If a person or business knows or should know that a claim may be submitted to one of the federal healthcare programs that covers one of these prohibited items or services, it exposes itself to liability.
The matter was investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The matter was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony D. Scicchitano for the United States Attorney’s Office.
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Bloomsburg Man Sentenced for Distribution of Controlled Substance Analogue and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner sentenced Adam N. Riegel, age 25, of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania today to three years’ probation with eight months’ home confinement for conspiracy to distribute and distribution of the controlled substance analogue, 5-flouro-PB-22, and money laundering of proceeds from the distribution of that substance. Riegel was also ordered to forfeit $25,000 cash.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Riegel conspired with other persons between September 2013 through February 20, 2014, to distribute 5-flouro-PB-22. Riegel deposited $52,000 in proceeds of that offense on February 20, 2014, at the Service 1st Credit Union in Danville, Pennsylvania. Riegel was charged in August 2014 and pled guilty in January 2015 pursuant to a plea agreement filed on December 23, 2014.
The case was investigated by the Danville Borough Police Department, the Mahoning Township Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Philadelphia Division. Prosecution of this matter was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney George J. Rocktashel.
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Monroe County Man Enters Guilty Plea to Theft of MailRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Monroe County man pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Scranton, before Senior United States District Judge Edwin M. Kosik, to the charge of theft of mail.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Jacob Tanner, age 29, of East Stroudsburg, Monroe County, admitted to stealing mail in the Stroudsburg area in 2014. The thefts were discovered after a number of Stroudsburg residents complained about missing, torn or discarded mail. Tanner was observed on surveillance video removing mail from a mailbox outside a residence in Stroudsburg. Postal Authorities later apprehended Tanner in possession of stolen mail in December 2014.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Postal Inspection Services, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.
Anyone who believes they may be a victim or have further information should contact Postal Inspector David Heinke, United States Postal Service, at 877-876-2455
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 5 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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Perry County Man Charged with Federal Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a federal grand jury in Harrisburg returned an Indictment charging David Auman, age 37, of Liverpool, with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Auman was also charged with trading the stolen handgun for heroin and being a user of illegal drugs while in possession of a firearm.
The matter was investigated by the Harrisburg Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Harrisburg Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe has been assigned to prosecute the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $ 750,000 fine. 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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Lebanon 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 a Lebanon man was indicted by a federal grand jury and arrested today for distribution of synthetic marijuana, possession of a stolen firearm and possession of body armor.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the Indictment alleges that Angel M. Pagan, age 41, distributed XLR11, a Schedule I controlled substance (synthetic marijuana) out of his residence in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. A search of the residence located synthetic marijuana, body armor and a stolen AK-47 rifle.
This case was investigated by the Lebanon County Drug Task Force, the Lebanon City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 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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Lebanon County Couple Indicted Federally for Distribution of CocaineRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Lebanon County couple have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg and arrested for possession of cocaine and criminal conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the Indictment charges that Ray Leonard, age 40, of Jonestown and Saleam Moeun, age 30, of Lebanon City, distributed and conspired to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine in Lebanon County, between January and April 2015.
The charges stem from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Robert Smulktis.
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 for Leonard and Moeun is 80 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $ 50 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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Dover Teacher Sentenced to 15 Years in Child Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Senior United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo sentenced Matthew B. Puterbaugh, age 47, of Dover, Pennsylvania today to 180 months imprisonment for production of child pornography.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Puterbaugh was a music teacher and band director at Dover Intermediate School in York County. Between 2010 and 2014, he secretly recorded images of female students at the school that constitute child pornography. In February 2014, school officials reported a complaint to the Northern York County Regional Police Department. Police conducted searches and allegedly found thousands of images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct on computers in Puterbaugh's home.
Puterbaugh was initially charged in August 2013. He pled guilty on January 21, 2015 pursuant to a plea agreement filed December 11, 2014.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern York County Regional Police Department in cooperation with the York County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor.
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New York Man Charged in Connection with Scranton Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that an indictment was returned yesterday afternoon by a federal grand jury in Scranton charging a New York man with armed bank robbery.
Jemel Laquan King, a/k/a “Melo,” age 37, a resident of New York, is charged with conspiring with others to commit the November 26, 2014 armed robbery of the NBT Bank on Keyser Avenue in Scranton. Approximately $91,000 was taken during the robbery. King is also charged with the use of a firearm during the commission of the crime.
Those previously charged with conspiring with King to commit the robbery include Jule Futrell, age 42, Endicott, New York, and Dorian Whitehead, age 29, Binghamton, New York.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Scranton and Binghamton offices. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski.
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 penalties in this case include 25 years’ incarceration, plus an additional minimum of 7 years’ incarceration for the use of the firearm during the commission of a violent crime. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Monroe County Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 45-year-old Tobyhanna man pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick in Scranton, to producing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Robert Ferraro, admitted to using and persuading a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing images of such conduct. Ferraro admitted to committing the crime between August 2013 and January 2015.
Ferraro was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2015, as a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office.
Senior U.S. District Court Judge Richard P. Conaboy will impose sentence in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative
launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Operator of Stroudsburg Business Charged Federally with Conspiring to Unlawfully Structure Financial TransactionsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Criminal Information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Scranton, charging Mirela Desouza, age 45, of Bangor, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, with conspiring to violate federal currency transaction requirements for the purpose of sending the proceeds of illegal activities out of the United States.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Desouza allegedly conspired with others from January 2008 through December 2011 to use a Stroudsburg-based money transmitter service operated under the name of Tropic Express, Inc., to send money electronically to the Dominican Republic in varying amounts and using names of “nominee” senders and receivers of the funds, to fraudulently evade federal record keeping and reporting requirements.
The government charges include a claim of forfeiture of property involved in the offense including a bank account at M&T Bank in the name of Tropical Express, Inc. and a $25,000 money judgment.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations.
The government also filed a plea agreement with Desouza, which is subject to the approval of the court.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the alleged crime of structuring consists of conducting transactions in currency for the purpose of evading federal reporting requirements. Banking institutions are required to file currency transaction reports (CTRs) with the Internal Revenue Service for each deposit, withdraw and/or exchange of currency, or a payment that involves currency of over specified amounts, in this case $3,000. The law also prohibits evading or attempting to evade record keeping requirements.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski.
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 5 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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Mini Market Store Owner Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Synthetic Marijuana and Bath SaltsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge Yvette Kane sentenced Kulwinder Singh Grewal, age 42, of Myerstown, today to 1 ½ years’ imprisonment for selling bath salts and synthetic marijuana.
Grewal pled guilty in February 2014 to the sale of misbranded drugs under names such as Eight Ballz, Fusion Herbal Potpourri, Joy, Crunky Monkey and Purple Haze.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Grewal operated a mini-mart and sold these items from his store and other stores he helped to supply. The substances were determined to be either controlled substances or analogues of controlled substances. The substances were packaged for retail sale and contain warning labels that they were not for human consumption.
Grewal admitted that he was aware that these products were being ingested by customers to get high. During a search of Grewal’s home in April 2012, agents recovered a white plastic bag in a tool box in the garage that contained packages marked “Eight Balls.” The DEA lab determined that the substances were α-PVP, Pentylone, 4-MEC, and α-PBP, all cathinones and analogues of Methcathinone, a controlled substance.
A substance is an analogue if it is substantially similar to the chemical structure of a schedule I or II substance which has a stimulant, depressant, or hallucinogenic effect on the central nervous system similar to or greater than that of the schedule I or II controlled substance. These substances (bath salts and synthetic marijuana) mimicked marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance or methcathinone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Proceeds from the sales of these products were deposited by co-defendant, Amerjit Singh Grewal, into business accounts. Funds from these accounts were withdrawn and used to purchase synthetic marijuana and bath salts products from vendors such as DZE, located in Houston, Texas. Grewal was ordered to forfeit the funds seized from these accounts which totaled almost $500,000. Co-defendant Amerjit Singh Grewal was previously sentenced by Judge Kane to 33 months imprisonment.
“The public is put at risk by the sale and distribution of potentially dangerous drugs that are disguised as innocuous consumer products,” said Special Agent in Charge Antoinette V. Henry of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ Metro-Washington Field Office. "We will continue to work to prevent such drugs from reaching the market and to bring to justice those who endanger the public health by circumventing FDA’s regulatory process."
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, the United States Attorney=s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Dauphin and Cumberland County Drug Task Forces, Homeland Securities Investigations, the Lancaster and Lebanon County Drug Task Forces, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Lewistown Police Department and Drug Task Force, Coal Township, Elizabethtown and Ephrata Police Departments.
Prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe.
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Luzerne County Man Charged with Heroin and Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a grand jury sitting in Scranton, Pennsylvania has returned an indictment charging Roberto Sanchez, age 37, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, with conspiracy to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin and more than 500 grams of cocaine. The grand jury also charged Sanchez with counts relating to the possession with the intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, and an additional count charging that he possessed with the intent to distribute an unspecified quantity of cocaine. The indictment further seeks forfeiture of $54,283.00 in US Currency.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the charges in the indictment stem from Robert Sanchez’s arrest by United States Marshals on a warrant issued by New York authorities. In the process of the arrest, the Marshals determined that there were drugs on the premises and contacted agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration to assist. Ultimately, Sanchez was found to have in his possession within the residence more than 300 grams of heroin, more than 100 grams of cocaine, and $54,283.00 in United States currency.
The maximum penalty under the federal statute for conspiracy to distribute more than 1 kilogram of heroin is life imprisonment. Sanchez also faces a term of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine, if convicted. Sanchez is presently in custody at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.
Prosecution of the case is assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney John Gurganus.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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 Charged with Theft of MailRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a criminal information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Scranton charging Jacob Tanner, age 28, of East Stroudsburg, Monroe County, with theft of mail.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the alleged theft was discovered after a number of Stroudsburg residents complained about missing, torn or discarded mail. Tanner was allegedly observed on surveillance video removing mail from a mailbox outside a residence in Stroudsburg. Postal Authorities later apprehended Tanner in possession of stolen mail in December 2014.
The government also filed a plea agreement in the case, which must be approved by the court.
The case is being investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Postal Inspection Services, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.
Anyone who believes they may be a victim or have further information should contact Postal Inspector David Heinke, United States Postal Service, at 877-876-2455.
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 5 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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Blain Pennsylvania Resident Charged with Distribution of Heroin in Federal Prison FacilityRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a criminal drug distribution charge has been filed against Lindalee Middleton of Blain, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Middleton, age 56, is charged with attempting to distribute heroin to an inmate at USP Allenwood during a visit on March 15, 2014. The government also filed a plea agreement in the case, which must be approved by the court.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Special Investigative Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Samuelson 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, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Two Scranton Men Charged with Sex Trafficking of A MinorRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG -The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that two Scranton men were indicted on April 28, 2015, by a federal grand jury for sex trafficking of a minor and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minor and related charges.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the grand jury alleges that Jimmy Cantelmo, age 26, and Mark Matis a/k/a “Koolaid,” age 26, conspired with each other and others to persuade a female minor to engage in prostitution and illegal sexual activity during February through August 2014. The indictment alleges that the defendants and/or their co-conspirators used a cell phone to post advertisements for “escort services” involving the minor female on a website, rented motel rooms in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties to facilitate the prostitution activities, purchased condoms for the minor to use when engaging in commercial sex acts, and acted as “bodyguards” for the minor during prostitution activities.
James Cantelmo and Matis are formally charged with Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking of a Minor and Sex Trafficking of a Minor as aiders and abettors. Cantelmo is also charged with attempting to commit sex trafficking of a minor on August 26, 2014, and using a means and facility of interstate commerce to attempt to persuade and induce a minor to engage in prostitution on August 26, 2014.
Cantelmo was arrested last week and Matis will be arraigned this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick.
The charges stem from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigators and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Each charge is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a possible maximum sentence of life in prison.
This case was brought as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office 2015 Human Trafficking Initiative and Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
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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Exeter Man Charged with Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that an indictment was returned on Tuesday, May 5, 2015, by a grand jury in Scranton charging an Exeter man with distribution of crack cocaine.
According to United States Attorney Peter J. Smith, the indictment charges that Sekou Lashley, age 36, of Exeter, Pennsylvania, distributed cocaine base (crack) in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, on March 19, 2015.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Peter Hobart is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for distributing cocaine is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,000,000 fine.
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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Wilkes-Barre Man Sentenced to 80 Months’ Imprisonment for Distribution of CocaineRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE- The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Senior United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Shawn Morse, age 43, of Wilkes-Barre, yesterday to 80 months’ imprisonment for his involvement in the distribution of cocaine between 2010 and April 2013.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Morse was involved in the distribution of cocaine in the Wilkes-Barre area. On April 3, 2013, FBI Agents arrested Morse at his Wilkes-Barre home. On November 17, 2014, Morse appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty to a criminal information which charged him with cocaine distribution.
In addition to the 80-month term of imprisonment, Judge Caputo ordered that Morse be placed under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for a period of three years following the service of his prison sentence.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney John Gurganus prosecuted the case.
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Second Monroe County Man Enters Guilty Plea to Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a second Monroe County man pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Scranton, before Senior United States District Judge Edwin M. Kosik, to the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Emmanuel Tucker, age 39, of Stroudsburg, Monroe County, admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the Monroe County area in 2013 and 2014.
Tucker was one of seven individuals indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2014, after a several month investigation conducted jointly by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department and the Stroud Regional Police Department regarding methamphetamine trafficking in Monroe County.
Previously, Scott Borushak, age 51, of Stroudsburg, pleaded guilty and admitted to participating in the same methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy. In addition, Jeannine Altemose, age 53, of Stroudsburg, previously entered a guilty plea and admitted to allowing methamphetamine to be stored and distributed from her residence. The charges against the remaining defendants are currently pending.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States 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 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,000,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Luzerne County Man Charged with Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Pittston man was indicted on April 28, 2015, by a federal grand jury for receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the grand jury alleges that Steven Wolfe, age 25, used a computer and other electronic devices to download and distribute images of child pornography during November 2013 through February 4, 2015. Wolfe is currently in Luzerne County Prison and will be appearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karoline Mehalchick on Friday, May 8, 2015.
The charge stems from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, and Pittston Police.
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."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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, 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 More Than 12 Years in Prison for Role in Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 28-year-old Scranton resident was sentenced today to 151 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley in Scranton, for his role in a sex trafficking conspiracy involving a minor.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Sean Cantelmo, previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to have a 17-year-old female engage in prostitution and illegal sexual activity during February through May 2014. Cantelmo admitted that he and others used a cell phone to post advertisements for “escort services” involving the minor female on a website, rented motel rooms in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties to facilitate the prostitution activities, and purchased condoms for the minor to use when engaging in commercial sex acts.
Cantelmo was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2014, as a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Lackawanna District Attorney’s Office.
Judge Munley also ordered Cantelmo to serve 10 years on supervised release following his prison sentence. Cantelmo must also undergo sex offender treatment and must comply with the registration and notification requirements of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
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."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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Bradford County Man Charged Federally with Defrauding 92 Year Old of $400,000Read the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a grand jury in Scranton returned an Indictment today charging a Bradford County man with defrauding a 92 year old victim of approximately $400,000.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the Indictment alleges that between April 2011 and December 2013, Alan J. Fassett, age 66, of Athens, Pennsylvania, engaged in a scheme to defraud an elderly woman, who, during 2012 and 2013 was a resident in a nursing home in Athens. The nineteen-count Indictment alleges that Fassett used the purported authority of a Power of Attorney to steal more than $400,000 from the victim, including unlawfully transferring securities and other assets of the victim into Fassett’s personal bank accounts and used them for his personal benefit. The Indictment charges counts of wire fraud, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service and the Athens Police Department. Prosecution is assigned to United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes crimes against the elderly as a matter of high priority.
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 the federal statute for wire fraud is 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine on each count. The maximum penalty under the federal statute for money laundering is 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine on each count. The maximum penalty under the federal statute for aggravated identity theft is 2 years imprisonment consecutive to the predicate crime, 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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Lackawanna County Man Charged with Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that an Archbald man was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Scranton on charges of receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the grand jury alleges that Michael J. Costello, age 41, used a computer to download and distribute images of child pornography during January through November 2014.
Costello is charged in separate counts with receiving and distributing child pornography, attempted receipt of child pornography, and distribution of child pornography. He is also charged with one count of possession of child pornography.
The Indictment stems from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office.
If convicted, Costello faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for the receipt and distribution charges, and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each charge.
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."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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.
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 Sentenced to 7 Years for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG-The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane sentenced Tashan Lantiqua Layton, age 24, of Harrisburg, yesterday to 84 months in prison for bank robbery.
During the sentencing hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Terz stated that on March 30, 2013, Layton entered the Sovereign Bank branch at 519 South 29th Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, pointed a gun at a bank manager, and demanded money. Layton admitted to the Court that the gun he pointed at the bank employee was loaded. Customers were present in the bank at the time of the incident.
The 84-month sentence Layton received represents the high end of the guidelines range he faced. The Court rejected defense counsel's request for a downward variance.
The investigation was conducted by the Harrisburg Police Department and the FBI.
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, 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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Illegal Alien Charged with Passport Fraud and Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a citizen of the Dominican Republic illegally residing in Hazleton has been charged with attempting to obtain a U.S. passport by false statements and with illegally possessing a firearm.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Jhonny Melenciano Marte, age 34, of Hazleton, was charged in a Criminal Information filed today in the United States District Court in Scranton. The Criminal Information was filed pursuant to a Plea Agreement which is subject to the approval of the court.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATFE). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law 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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Three Charged with Distribution of HeroinRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that three Shippensburg residents were indicted today by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg on charges of unlawful distribution of at least 100 grams of heroin.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Jonathan Santana, 33, Dorothy Washington, 28, and Angelo Joy Harrison, 38, all of Shippensburg, Franklin County were charged in a two count indictment with unlawfully distributing at least 100 grams of heroin and conspiring with each other to distribute heroin, from November 2014 to March 2015.
The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Harrisburg Resident Office, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Franklin County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe has been assigned to prosecute 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 40 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $5 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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New Jersey Man Charged with Federal Heroin Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a New Jersey man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg on multiple drug trafficking charges.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Ladon Huntley, 38, Newark, NJ, was charged by the grand jury with possessing approximately 32,000 bags (approximately two pounds) of heroin. The drugs were allegedly recovered after a search of Huntley’s car during a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in Lower Paxton Township on March 31, 2015. The grand jury also charged Huntley with conspiring with unknown individuals to distribute the heroin and with traveling interstate to facilitate heroin trafficking.
The matter was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the US Drug Enforcement Administration’s Harrisburg Resident Office. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe has been assigned to prosecute 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 45 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $2,250,000 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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Berks County Man Sentenced to 75 Months in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 36-year-old Reading man was sentenced to 75 months in prison today by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani in Scranton, for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy that operated in Monroe and Berks Counties.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Donald Patnelli, Jr., previously pleaded guilty to participating in the drug conspiracy responsible for distributing over one kilogram of heroin, more than 280 grams of crack cocaine, and other drugs from 2010 to 2013.
Patnelli was indicted by a grand jury in June 2013, as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Berks County District Attorney’s Office.
Judge Mariani also ordered that Patnelli serve five years on supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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Two Luzerne County Women Plead Guilty to Participation in Bath Salts ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that two Luzerne County residents pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion in Scranton, to participating in a two-year conspiracy to distribute alpha-pvp, commonly known as “bath salts,” in Luzerne County.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Maura Kathio, age 26, of Yatesville, and Marguerita Ann Davis, age 59, of Kingston, admitted to obtaining alpha-pvp from suppliers in West Pittston and distributing the drug to others in the Luzerne County area between December 2011 and August 2013.
The two women were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2014, as a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and West Pittston Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the cases.
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 both defendants under federal law is 20 years of 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.
Judge Mannion ordered a pre-sentence report to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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Pike County Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Receiving and Distributing Child PornographRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 29-year-old Dingmans Ferry man was sentenced to five years in prison today by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion in Scranton, for receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Daniel Decker, was charged and pled guilty earlier this year after an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Judge Mannion also ordered that Decker serve 15 years on supervised release following his prison sentence. Decker must also register as a sex offender, undergo sex offender treatment, and comply with all of the rules of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
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."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
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New York Man Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Banks, age 39, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III in Harrisburg to 21 months imprisonment for bank fraud.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter J. Smith, Banks used a stolen identity to open an account at the bank and fraudulently obtained a debit card to access a bank customer’s account to withdrawal money. Banks was initially charged in September 2013. He pled guilty on December 17, 2014.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
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Harrisburg Man Sentenced for Distribution of Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ronald Lee Goss, age 40, Harrisburg, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III in Harrisburg to 156 months imprisonment for distribution of crack cocaine.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Goss distributed crack cocaine in the Harrisburg area during 2011. Gross was initially charged in January 2015. He pled guilty on September 30, 2014.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Capital City Safe Streets Task Force and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
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Elmira, New York Men Sentenced on Drug Related OffenseRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert Howe, age 27, of Elmira, New York, was sentenced April 22 by U.S. District Court Judge Edwin M. Kosik in Scranton, Pennsylvania, for a drug related offense.
Judge Kosik sentenced Howe to 21 months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute Alpha-PVP, commonly known as “bath salts.”
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Howe was initially charged in a Criminal Indictment on December 10, 2013. Howe pled guilty on July 24, 2014.
The case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Athens Borough Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley prosecuted the case.
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Harrisburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Defraud the IRS of Approximately $1 Million in Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Vanny Son, age 33, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III to 37 months imprisonment to be followed by three years supervised release, and restitution to the IRS in the amount of $682,897, for a conspiracy to defraud the IRS of approximately $1 million in employment taxes between 2006 and 2012.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Son operated five employee leasing companies which supplied day laborers to several businesses in the Harrisburg area.
The employee leasing companies were known as V&S Services, Industrial Labor Services, Advance Labor Services, HD Staffing Services and TD Staffing. Between 2006 and 2012, these five businesses paid cash wages of more than $7 million to their employees without withholding any employment taxes, such as social security and Medicare taxes. As a result, approximately $1 million in employment taxes were not collected and paid to the IRS, as required by federal law.
Son was indicted by a grand jury on July 10, 2014 along with Son Thach and Hung Danh, also of Harrisburg. Thach and Danh helped Son operate the employee leasing companies. Thach was previously sentenced to serve one month imprisonment with two years supervised release and pay $682,897 in restitution. Danh remains a fugitive.
Son was ordered to report to the Bureau of Prisons on May 22, 2015 to commence serving his sentence.
The case was investigated by the Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce Brandler prosecuted the case.
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