Middle District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Bradford County Man Charged with Possessing Child Pornography and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 68-year-old Sayre, Pennsylvania resident has been charged with possessing child pornography and wire fraud.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, a Superseding Information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Scranton alleging that Harold Schrader possessed child pornography on a computer in 2012, and allegedly participated through willful blindness in a fraud scheme involving soliciting overseas loans that were never repaid.
The charges against Schrader resulted from an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Pennsylvania State Police.
If convicted of the charges, Schrader faces up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for wire fraud, and up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the child pornography 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."
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 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.
New York Women Sentenced for Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney=s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Merisol Merry, age 40, Brooklyn, New York was sentenced in federal court in Scranton on a charge of trafficking in excess of 100 grams of heroin.
United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Merry to 18 months imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release. Merry originally waived indictment and was charged by way of Information on April 18, 2013. The Information filed in the Middle District of Pennsylvania charged that between September 2011 through May 2012 in the Southern District of New York, Merry distributed and possessed with intent to distribute at least 100 but less than 400 grams of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
This case involved the prosecution of seven other defendants involved in a conspiracy to possess and distribute heroin from New York to Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The prosecution arose from the efforts of a joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Agency in Scranton, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office – Detective Division, the Pennsylvania State Police, as well as both the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
****Luzerne County Residents Arrested for Distribution of "Bath Salts", Alpha-PVPRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today the unsealing of an indictment of seven Luzerne County residents on charges relating to the unlawful distribution of bath salts.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the following persons were taken into custody:
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- David Folweiler, 27 of West Pittston
- Alan Folweiler, 21 of West Pittston
- John Pearce, 29 of West Pittston
- Frank Xavier Brennan, 33 of Kingston
- Maura Kathio, 25 of Yatesville
- Tiffany Pradel, 30 of Pittston Township
- Marguerita Ann Davis, 59 of Pittston
The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton in August 2014 for their alleged participation in a bath salts trafficking and distribution ring led by Todd Morgans. Morgans was arrested in July 2013, pled guilty and was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison in September 2014. The indictment was sealed pending the arrest of the defendants.
David Folweiler, Alan Folweiler, Mauro Kathio, and Margherita Davis were arrested on November 12, 2014, and subsequently appeared before Magistrate Judge Thomas M. Blewitt David Folweiler was ordered detained pending trial. The others were released on bail with conditions.
John Pearce and Tiffany Pradel were arrested on November 14, 2014. They appeared before Magistrate Judge Thomas M. Blewitt on November 17, 2014. Pearce and Pradel were ordered detained pending trial.
Frank Xavier Brennan surrendered to agents today and appeared before Magistrate Judge Thomas M. Blewitt. Brennan was released on bail pending trial.
The maximum sentence for the offense is imprisonment for 20 years, a fine of $1,000,000 and supervised release for a period of at least 3 years.
This case was the result of a joint investigation between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pennsylvania State Police, The United States Postal Inspection Service and the West Pittston, Jenkins Township, and the Pittston City Police Departments.
Bath salts are synthetic drugs which are analogues of controlled substances prohibited under federal statutes. A controlled substance analogue is a drug which has not been scheduled under The Controlled Substances Act but has a similar chemical structure and a similar stimulant or hallucinogenic effect on a person’s central nervous system. Such controlled substance analogues are treated as if the substance were the scheduled drug for prosecution and sentencing purposes.
Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
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Former Williamsport Resident Indicted for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Beverly Hannibal, age 48, formerly of Williamsport, but now lives in Lancaster, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Williamsport on November 13, 2014 for health care fraud in connection with a Medicaid program.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the indictment alleges that Hannibal fraudulently obtained $22,448 from the Pennsylvania Medicaid Home and Community Based Services Attendant Care Program, a federally funded health care benefit program.
According to the indictment, Hannibal submitted false and fraudulent applications identifying her nephew and, later in the scheme, a friend of hers, as direct care workers providing personal assistance to her. Although they performed no work, Hannibal allegedly prepared false timesheets reporting hours purportedly worked by them, forged signatures on the timesheets, and then submitted them for payment. The indictment alleges that Hannibal received reimbursement checks and had her nephew cash some of them and give her the proceeds, and that she also forged signatures on the checks and transacted them.
The indictment was sealed until today pending the defendant being taken into custody. Hannibal appeared yesterday before Chief Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson. Hannibal was released on bail. Trial is scheduled for January 5, 2015 before United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann in Williamsport.
If convicted of the health care fraud charge, Hannibal, faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 million, and a supervised release term of three years.The case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Prosecution has been assigned to Assistant United States Attorney George J. Rocktashel.
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.
Former Pennsylvania Department of General Services Worker Charged with TheftRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Michael A. Gantz, age 43, of Marietta, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal Information with theft concerning programs receiving federal funds. If convicted of the offense, Gantz faces up to ten years’ imprisonment and $250,000 in fines, as well as restitution. A plea agreement was also filed whereby Mr. Gantz has indicated he will enter a guilty plea to the charge when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Gantz was employed by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services until July 2014 and was an acquisition officer in the surplus property warehouse. In that position, Gantz had access to surplus military equipment which the federal government had provided the Pennsylvania Department of General Services for distribution to state and local law enforcement officers. The Information alleges that Gantz stole 610 U.S. Military combat helmets between July 2009 and January 2010 which were valued in excess of $5,000.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigation Service and the Defense Logistics Agency, Office of Inspector General. It is assigned to Senior Litigation Counsel Bruce Brandler for prosecution.
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 case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute is ten years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine, as well as restituition. 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.
Three Illegal Aliens Charged with Immigration ViolationsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), announced that separate criminal charges were filed yesterday in U.S. District Court in Harrisburg against three illegal aliens.
Jose Antonio Ramirez-Morales, age 36, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Ramirez-Morales, a Guatemalan citizen, who was previously arrested and deported from the United States on May 14, 2010, reentered the United States unlawfully and was found in Carbon County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Ramirez-Morales faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Mario Ramirez-Dominguez, age 33, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Ramirez-Dominguez, a Mexican citizen, who was previously arrested and deported from the United States on September 30, 2012, reentered the United States unlawfully and found in York County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Ramirez-Dominguez faces a maximum sentence of up to 2 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Gustavo Ramirez-Diosdado, age 44, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Ramirez-Diosdado, a Mexican citizen, who was previously arrested and deported from the United States on April 22, 2008, reentered the United States unlawfully and was found in Centre County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Ramirez-Diosdado faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The investigations were conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and are being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Alice Song Hartye.
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.
Peckville Women Charged with Theft of Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that a felony criminal information charging Michaelina Chivers, nee Vaughan, age 69, of Peckville, Pennsylvania, was filed in the United States District Court in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Chivers was charged in connection with theft of social security benefits are the result of her failure to inform the Social Security Administration of the death of her mother, and continuing to receive and use her deceased mother’s SSA benefits for her own personal use and gain. As part of the plea agreement filed with the Court, Chivers has agreed to pay restitution to the SSA in the amount of $218,869.00, representing the loss to the SSA as a result of her fraud.
If convicted, Chivers could be imprisoned for a total statutory maximum sentence of up to 10 years and a fine in the amount of $250,000.
The joint investigation was conducted by the United States Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Harrisburg Man Sentenced to Prison on Firearms Charges as Part of On-Going Partnership to Prosecute Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Harrisburg man was sentenced today, in federal court in Harrisburg by Senior United States District Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, to serve 150 months in prison on the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Elijah U. Brown, Jr., age 40, of Harrisburg, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in May 2014. Brown’s co-defendant Carlos C. Hill was previously sentenced by Judge Rambo to 235 months.
The charges were the result of an on-going partnership between the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced in August 2012 to respond to a surge of violent crime within the city. The charges against Brown arose from an incident in which, after Hill brandished a stolen firearm at a female victim in the 1600 Block of Park Street in Harrisburg, Brown hid the firearm. The firearm was subsequently recovered by the Harrisburg Bureau of Police.
In addition to the prison term, Senior Judge Rambo also ordered that Brown be supervised by a probation officer for three years following his release from prison.
Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 26, 2012, after an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor.
Wernersville Resident Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that a criminal charge of health care fraud has been filed against Edward Evans of Wernersville, PA.
According to United States Attorney, Peter Smith, Evans, age 50, is charged in a one-count felony information with health care fraud based on the submission of false claims to the Pennsylvania Attendant Care Medicaid Waiver Program. The information alleges Evans’ billed for and received reimbursement for attendant care services which were never performed.
The investigation which is ongoing was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Section. 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 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.New York Woman Sentenced for Distributing CocaineRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Jalani Kornegay, age 33, of New York, New York, for distributing cocaine. Judge Mariani imposed a time-served sentenced of 59 days and further ordered that Kornegay serve four-month of home confinement.
On July 16, 2014, Kornegay pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information which charged that she distributed cocaine in Luzerne County on May 18, 2013. The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police into the sale of cocaine at motels in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Gurganus.
In addition to the imprisonment and home-confinement sentence, Judge Mariani ordered that Kornegay be under the supervision of a United States Probation Officer for three years.
Former Millersburg Bus Company and Executive Plead Guilty to $1.4 Million Local School District Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that a Millersburg bus company and one of its former officers pleaded guilty today to charges they defrauded two area school districts out of more than $1.4 million.
According to the U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the Harris Transportation Corp. (HTC), and its former Vice President Todd M. Harris, age 49, a resident of Dalmatia, Pennsylvania, entered guilty pleas today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to an Information charging them with one count of Mail Fraud. The Information filed on November 5, 2014, charges the defendants with defrauding the Halifax Area and the Upper Dauphin Area School Districts out of approximately $1.4 million between 2008 and 2011. The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) is also alleged to have been a victim of the scam. U.S. Attorney Smith stated that the school districts and PDE cooperated with the federal investigators and that the Department of the Auditor General is working closely with his office.
As presented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel in U.S. District Court in Harrisburg today, HTC, a small, family owned business, provided student bus and van transportation services for the Halifax and Upper Dauphin school districts for many years. The compensation HTC received for its services was based upon a formula set up by PDE, including mileage incurred with and without students, the age and size of the bus or van, and the number of students transported. Based on the formula, PDE reimburses school districts for a major portion of their annual student transportation expenses.
HTC received approximately $1.3 million from Halifax and approximately $3.6 million from Upper Dauphin during the school years 2008 to 2011. The criminal Information alleges that between September 2008 and June 2011, Todd Harris routinely submitted false and grossly inflated mileage claims to the two school districts, resulting in substantial overpayments to HTC by Halifax ($566,556) and by Upper Dauphin ($898,057). PDE also was a victim of the scheme because it reimbursed Halifax for approximately 82 percent, and Upper Dauphin approximately 84 percent, of their approved 2008-2011 student transportation expenses.
The fraud was first discovered in the summer of 2011 following an audit conducted by Upper Dauphin School District. Subsequent audits by the Halifax School District and the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General revealed the mileage statements submitted by Todd Harris were typically inflated by 10 to 30 percent. The State Auditors spent hundreds of hours reviewing billing issues and reported that Harris Transportation had over-billed the school districts by falsely reporting school bus mileage over several school years.
“We need every dollar possible going toward classroom education for our students, but I realize that student transportation costs can be a big expense for any school district,” Pennsylvania Auditor General Eugene DePasquale said. “I urge all school districts to review transportation contracts and records to make sure they are not paying more than appropriate. Our school auditors will continue to closely examine transportation expenses. I am proud of our continued work with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Inspector General and U.S. Attorney to identify and stop corruption when we find it.”
The Auditor General’s audit reported that Harris Transportation Corp. greatly over-billed the districts by falsely reporting school bus mileage over several school years. Auditors spent hundreds of hours reviewing the transportation billing issues, ultimately referring the case to federal officials.
Interviews of former HTC drivers confirmed Todd Harris’ monthly mileage submissions were inflated and that Harris occasionally instructed them to take much longer routes on their runs than necessary. The investigation confirmed the combined losses sustained by both school districts for school years 2008 to 2011 totaled $1,464,613. Upper Dauphin and Halifax terminated their contracts with HTC in early 2012. The company ceased doing business shortly thereafter.
Todd Harris and HTC entered their guilty pleas pursuant to plea agreements with the government. The agreements require the defendants to cooperate with the government, to forfeit their interests in the $1,464,613 proceeds of the fraud, and to make restitution to the two school districts as directed by the court.
HTC’s plea agreement also required it to make a $425,000 lump sum restitution payment at the time it entered its guilty plea. Counsel for the corporation tendered a $188,000 check to the court as partial payment during the guilty plea hearing and agreed to pay the remaining $237,000 by Friday November 22, 2014. The HTC plea agreement also acknowledges that HTC refunded an additional amount, $337,715, to Upper Dauphin in 2011, bringing the total restitution paid by the corporation to date to $762,715.
The Mail Fraud charge has a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing has been deferred pending preparation of Presentence Reports.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, in conjunction with the Dauphin County Criminal Investigation Division and Office of General Counsel of the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel.
Former Clinton County Postmaster Sentenced to Two Years' Probation for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Macey Geyer, age 42, of Castanea, Clinton County, to two years’ probation and ordered her to pay $9,230 in restitution for misappropriation of postal funds.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Geyer took over $9,000 in postal funds from the Castanea Post Office. Geyer, who began her employment with the United States Post Service on June 23, 2007, served as Officer-in-Charge at the Castanea Post Office. The Postal Service terminated her employment in April 2014.
Geyer pleaded guilty on July 8, 2014.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Pfisterer prosecuted the case.
Buffalo Man Convicted of Transportation of A Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Trevoen Renel Parkins, age 23, of Buffalo, New York was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to 120 months’ imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release and a $1,000 fine after pleading guilty to the offense of Transportation of Minor With Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity on July 13, 2014.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Parkins met the 12-year-old victim online and on April 12, 2013, traveled from Buffalo, New York to Franklin County, Pennsylvania, waited all day for the victim to finish school and then drove the victim to Buffalo, New York without her parents’ knowledge. While in Buffalo, Parkins statutorily raped the young girl twice. Telephone records led law enforcement to Parkins who lied to police about the girl’s whereabouts and hid the girl for three days before she was ultimately located by police in a closet inside Parkins’ girlfriend’s apartment.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Buffalo City, New York Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
Allenwood Inmate and Visitor Sentenced for Passing ContrabandRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann sentenced Catherine Maione, age 29, of New Hampton, New York, to one year probation along with a $350 fine and Anthony Webb, age 28, an inmate at the Allenwood facility, to 6 months’ imprisonment consecutive to any other sentence for providing and possessing contraband consisting of balloons containing marijuana.
According to a United States Attorney Peter Smith, Maione, visited Webb at the Allenwood facility, several times between June 2013 and February 2014 and delivered marijuana to Webb on those occasions. Maione and Webb plead guilty on August 4, 2014.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney Eric Pfisterer prosecuted the case.
Port Jervis, New York Man Sentenced to 57 Months' Imprisonment for Attempting to Rob A Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Jeremiah Anderson, age 32, of Port Jervis, New York, to 57 months’ imprisonment for attempting to rob a convenience store in Milford, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Anderson previously pleaded guilty in federal court to entering the Hilltop Sunoco/Extra Mart, in Milford, Pennsylvania on October 5, 2011, wearing a mask, and attempted to rob it without success. Judge Mariani ordered that Anderson be placed on supervised release for two years following the service of his 57-month prison sentence.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Eastern Pike Regional Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney John Gurganus prosecuted the case.
Honduran Citizen Apprehended in York County Charged with Improper EntryRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) announced today that a 28-year-old native and citizen of Honduras has been charged with improper entry into the United States.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Orbin Izaguirre-Galvez, age 28, was charged in a one-count information filed with the Court in Harrisburg today.
The information alleges that Izaguirre-Galvez, an illegal alien, did enter the United States at any time or place other than as designated by immigration officers and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
If convicted, Izaguirre-Galvez faces a maximum sentence of up to 6 months’ imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Alice Song Hartye.
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.
Four Individuals Charged with Conspiring to File False Claims for Tax RefundsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that charges have been filed against four central Pennsylvania residents in connection with fraudulent federal income tax refund claims.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, separate criminal Informations were filed today in U.S. District Court in Williamsport charging the following persons:
Fatima Brooks, age 51, Williamsport, charged with filing 20 fraudulent income tax returns seeking $113,000 in fraudulent refunds.
Felicia Burks, age 44, Lancaster, charged with filing 52 fraudulent income tax returns seeking $85,000 in fraudulent refunds.
Valerie Burton, age 53, Williamsport, charged with filing 58 fraudulent income tax returns seeking $274,000 in fraudulent refunds.
Dawn Smith, age 44, Williamsport, charged with filing 41 fraudulent income tax returns seeking $88,000 in fraudulent refunds. Smith was also charged with making false statements relating to the Medicare Attendant Care Program and receiving payments for health care services which she never provided.
The fraud in each case allegedly took place between January 2012 and May 2013.
With respect to the fraudulent income tax billing scheme, each individual is facing up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Based on the false statements concerning the Medicare program, Smith is facing an additional 5 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
The government also filed a plea agreement in each case which is subject to approval of the assigned judge.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson 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 guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statues 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.Mt. Carmel Psychiatrist Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that charges have been filed against Andrew Newton, a resident of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney, Peter Smith, Dr. Andrew Newton, age 42, a psychiatrist with an office in Mt. Carmel is charged in a six-count Information with false billings for psychotherapy services. Specifically, it is alleged that between August 2010, and November 2011, Newton billed Medicare for face-to-face therapy sessions when he was in fact out of the country.
The government also filed a plea agreement in the case which is subject to approval of the Court.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Williamsport office. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute the case.Indictments 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 statutes is six years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Participating in A Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 38-year-old Pittston man pleaded guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Edwin M. Kosik to conspiring with others to distribute heroin in the Luzerne County area during a four-year time period.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Sal Biscotto, admitted to committing the crime between 2010 and February 2014.
Biscotto was charged in a criminal Information filed by the United States Attorney on October 7, 2014, following an investigation by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Biscotto faces a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing will be scheduled after the completion of a pre-sentence report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Video Gambling Company Pleads Guilty to Federal Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced that Pennsylvania Coin, LLC, a Scranton-based company, pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court to a charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering. The guilty plea was entered before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion.
Attorneys representing the company put into the record a corporate resolution signed by the members of the corporation, setting out the terms of the plea agreement with the government. The terms include:
- Entry of a plea of guilty;
- Forfeiture of $77,866 and 288 gambling devices to the government;
- Payment of restitution in the amount of $1,050,000 to the U.S. Treasury and payment of $300,000 to the Pennsylvania State Police.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith and as presented to the Court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson, the company was charged in a one-count criminal Information filed on October 22, 2014 with conspiracy to commit money laundering between January 2007 and October 2012.
The company maintained and operated approximately 288 video gambling machines throughout Lackawanna, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties. The machines were placed in establishments, including bars, restaurants and clubs. The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) began an investigation in 2007. PSP undercover agents visited those establishments and placed controlled bets and received payouts from establishment owners, and/or observed patrons receiving payouts after playing the video gaming machines. Agents also observed over 100 machines with switches used to erase accumulated credits from the game played, an indication that the machines were being used for unlawful gambling and not solely for amusement.
The IRS joined the investigation in 2012. Surveillance revealed that supplies of illegal gambling devices were stored in warehouses owned by the defendant.
In October 2012 search warrants were executed by the IRS at three business locations of the company. The Pennsylvania State Police-Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement searched approximately 180 bars and other non-liquor licensed establishments and seized 288 illegal gambling machines. U.S. currency totaling $77,866.15 was also seized.
Further investigation revealed that the defendant split with the site or establishment owners (approximately 100) the proceeds of the money generated by patrons of the establishments playing the illegal video games. The defendant maintained an account at a financial institution, and comingled the illegal funds with funds generated by the defendant’s legitimate business income-producing machines, such as pool tables and juke boxes. The comingled funds were used to pay employees who collected funds from the site owners and employees who maintained the video gambling devices in working order. A review of the defendant’s bank account showed approximately $1,700,000 was deposited as proceeds from the split of the illegal gambling funds. The co-mingling of the illegal gambling funds through a bank account constituted the violation of the federal money laundering statute.
A plea agreement containing the terms set out in the corporate resolution was filed at the same time the criminal Information was filed.
No sentencing date has been scheduled.
Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson prosecuted the case.
Hanover Man Convicted of Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rodney Corbin, Jr., age 54, Hanover, Pennsylvania was sentenced today by Senior United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to 97 months’ imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, anda $2,000 fine, for distribution and receipt of child pornography. Corbin pled guilty to the charges on October 1, 2013.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Corbin purchased 28 separate orders of child pornography videos from an international company that produced images depicting the sexual exploitation of children. After securing a search warrant, law enforcement officers located two full carts, each measuring two by four by six feet in size, containing child pornography in Corbin’s residence.
Judge Rambo noted, this case represents the largest collection of printed child pornography ever seized in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Corbin’s computer was also seized. During a search of the computer, investigators located thousands of images of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Hanover Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
Clarks Summit Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 20-year-old Clarks Summit man was sentenced today in Scranton by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley to serve 15 years in federal prison for producing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Taylor Bzdyr, previously pleaded guilty to using a computer and a cell phone to persuade a 13-year-old female from Canada to engage in sexual acts which were transmitted live via Skype. Bzdry committed the offense between October 2012 and October 2013.
Bzdyr was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Scranton in March 2014, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Border Patrol Agents in California, and the New Westminster Police Department in British Columbia, Canada.
Judge Munley also ordered Bzdyr to be placed on supervised release for life following his prison sentence. Bzdyr must also register as a sex offender and comply with sex offender notification requirements and restrictions.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
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."
Steelton Man Sentenced for Federal Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that the Honorable William W. Caldwell sentenced Donnell Thomas, 27, of Steelton, Pennsylvania, to serve 87 months in prison. Thomas had previously pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the charges against Thomas are a result of allegations that in February 2013, Thomas attempted to ram a vehicle being driven by uniformed officers from the Harrisburg Police Bureau. He then fled from those officers but was ultimately apprehended after discarding a firearm with an obliterated serial number from the waistband of his pants. Upon his arrest, bags containing a controlled substance were seized from his person and his vehicle.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Harrisburg Police Bureau and was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor as part of the on-going cooperative effort by federal, county and Harrisburg law enforcement agencies to fight violent crime in the city.
Moscow, Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Theft of Crucifix from VA PatientRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced that Warren T. Wells, age 43, of Moscow, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Edwin M. Kosik today in Scranton to two years of probation, to include six months of home confinement. Wells previously pleaded guilty to a felony criminal information charging him with theft of a golden crucifix necklace from a veteran/patient of the VA Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania on December 13, 2013.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Wells’s victim was admitted to the VA Medical Center as a critically ill patient; she died several hours after Wells, a nurse’s aide at the Center, stole the crucifix worn by her as a gift from her son. Wells has been dismissed from his job as a result of his conduct.
The investigation was conducted by the VA Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Lebanon County Man Sentenced for Million Dollar Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Burhans, age 65, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner today to 37 months’ imprisonment, two years supervised release and $1,658,205 in restitution. Burhans is scheduled to surrender to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons by January 8, 2015.
In sentencing Burhans, Chief Judge Conner said “these were not business mistakes. This was fraud; outright, clear, unmitigated fraud.”
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Burhans pled guilty in December 2013 to conspiracy to commit mail fraud. As presented to the Court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Terz, in 2003, Burhans started a private mortgage company known as Angelic Ventures. The stated business purpose was to solicit private investors to provide money for private mortgages. In about 2006, Burhans started a business known as Home Buyers Solutions, Inc. ("HBSI"). HBSI, like Angelic Ventures, was in the business of making private real estate loans financed with private investor funds. Burhans operated both businesses out of his home at 847 Maple Street, Lebanon, Pa.
Burhans carried out the scheme by placing advertisements in farming newspapers, including "Fish Wrapper," "Die Botschaft," and "Lancaster Farming," announcing an investment opportunity with Angelic Ventures and HBSI. In the advertisement, Burhans represented that the investments were insured, secured, and promised rates of return as high as 12%.
Burhans falsely represented to investors that their money would be solely used to make loans for the purchase of real estate.
In fact, Burhans misappropriated much of the money he received form investors. He diverted money to other businesses he owned and for his own personal needs and expenses, including payment of a salary for himself, his wife and son. Burhans also used investor money to purchase multiple timeshares he used for vacation.
In December 2009, Burhans wrote to the investors stating that, due to the downturn in the economy, Angelic Ventures and HBSI were no longer in business. In the December 2009 letter, Burhans misrepresented to investors that the business losses "ate up even our reserves and all our own personal belongings." Those statements were false.
At the sentencing, Burhans promised to pay back the lenders who lost money by investing in his company. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joesph Terz noted that those who lost their money were not “lenders” as Burhans repeatedly stated, but his victims.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations.
Four Illegal Aliens Charged with Immigration ViolationsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), announced that separate criminal charges were filed today in U.S. District Court in Harrisburg against two illegal aliens.
Alfredo Lopez, age 36, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Lopez, a Guatemalan citizen, who has previously been arrested and deported from the United States on November 18, 2009, reentered the United States unlawfully and was found in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Lopez faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Marvin Torres-Garcia, age 21, was charged in a one-count indictment alleging that Torres-Garcia, a Guatemalan citizen, who has previously been arrested and deported from the United States on February 3, 2012, reentered the United States unlawfully and was found in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Torres-Garcia faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Jesus Puente-Silva, age 22, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Puente-Silva, a Mexican citizen, who was convicted on March 27, 2012, for fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, and subsequently arrested and deported from the United States on February 1, 2013, reentered the United States illegally and was apprehended in Dauphin County.
If convicted, Puente-Silva faces a maximum sentence of up to 6 months’ imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.
Gonzalo Coronado, age 28, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury alleging that Coronado, a Mexican citizen, who was previously been arrested and deported from the United States on February 15, 2011, reentered the United States illegally and was apprehended in York County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Coronado faces a maximum sentence of up to 2 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The investigations were conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and are being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Alice Song Hartye.
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.
Inmate Sentenced for Assaulting Corrections OfficersRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Maurice Weaver, age 38, a federal inmate, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to 24 months imprisonment and three years’ supervised release. His sentence is to run consecutive to any other sentence being served by Weaver.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Weaver was charged in an indictment on September 11, 2013 with assaulting the Warden and Associate Warden at the Allenwood Penitentiary in January 2012. After these assaults, Weaver was transferred to the Lewisburg Penitentiary where he assaulted a corrections officer from that institution. The injuries to the three officers were not life threatening.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Pfisterer.
Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking of A MinorRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Wilkes-Barre man was sentenced today to serve nine years in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for sex trafficking of a minor.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Travis Humphrey, age 27, previously pleaded guilty to recruiting and transporting a then 16-year-old female to engage in commercial sex acts in motels in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In furtherance of the crime, Humphrey and others rented motel rooms and posted “escort” advertisements and photographs on a website during 2013.
Humphrey was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2014, as a result of an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office.
Judge Mariani also ordered Humphrey to serve five years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and to pay a $100 special assessment. Humphrey will also have to register as a sex offender and undergo sex offender treatment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
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."
Harrisburg Man Sentenced to 20 Years Imprisonment for Attempt to Obtain Children for Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on November 6, Matthew Baratucci, age 29, of Harrisburg, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to 240 months’ (20 years) imprisonment, a $1,100 fine and ten years of supervision following his release from imprisonment, after pleading guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, and as presented to the Court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom, in October of 2013, Baratucci solicited two women for the purpose of obtaining children with whom he intended to engage in sexual activity. One woman related that Baratucci wanted her to provide two children she babysat, ages five and nine, threatened the woman with violence if the children were not provided. Investigators assumed the woman’s identity and arranged to meet Baratucci for the exchange of $150 for the two children. When investigators attempted to arrest Baratucci, he tried to flee, crashing into a vehicle before he was ultimately stopped by law enforcement. Baratucci pled guilty on May 21, 2014.
This case was the result of a collaborative effort between federal and state law enforcement. Attorney General Kathleen Kane commented “we will continue to work with our Federal, State and Local partners to hunt down and convict these predators”
The investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police with the assistance of the Lower Paxton Township Police Department.
New York City Man Charged with Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today the filing of criminal charges against Timothy Smart, age 31, New York City resident. A criminal Information filed in the United States District Court in Scranton yesterday alleges that Smart distributed cocaine hydrochloride, cocaine base, (crack), and heroin in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties on numerous occasions between 2012 and September 20, 2013.
The government also filed a plea agreement in the case which is subject to the approval of the Court.
United States Attorney Peter Smith noted that the charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police into the sale of drugs at motels in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties.
Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States 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.
In this particular case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute is twenty years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
Freeland Man Sentenced to Prison for His Role in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 34-year-old Freeland resident was sentenced yesterday to 37 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy that operated in Monroe and Berks Counties during 2010 to 2013.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Arnando Diaz-DeJesus, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine, cocaine base (“crack”), and Oxycodone.
Diaz-DeJesus was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Scranton in June 2013, as a result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and Berks County Detectives.
Judge Mariani also ordered that Diaz-DeJesus spend three years on supervised release following his prison sentence and pay a $100 special assessment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Canadensis Chiropractor Sentenced to Prison on Tax and Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Canadensis chiropractor was sentenced today, in federal court in Scranton, by United States District Judge Robert Mariani, to serve 15 months in prison on charges of aiding the preparation and filing of a false federal income tax return and false statements relating to healthcare matters.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Dr. Maria Giacalone-Hewson, age 43, a resident of Canadensis who operated Canadensis Healthcare, Inc., pleaded guilty to the tax and fraud charges in September of 2013.
A criminal Information was filed against Giacalone-Hewson on July 15, 2013. The charges against her arose from the filing of a 2006 federal income tax return that falsely claimed her taxable income was $89,754, when, in fact, she had taxable income of $1,151,928, and owed at least $363,566 in taxes for that year. Giacalone-Hewson was also held accountable at sentencing for taxes of $113,821 that she owed for tax years 2007 through 2010.
The criminal Information to which Giacalone-Hewson pleaded guilty also charged her with making false statements relating to healthcare matters. At the time of her guilty plea, Dr. Giacalone-Hewson admitted that she made false statements in connection with payment for health care benefits by submitting false written statements claiming that chiropractic and other services were provided to certain patients when no such services were in fact provided.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Mariani ordered that Giacalone-Hewson be supervised by a probation officer for three years following her release from prison.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Insurance Fraud Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Houser.
Trio Charged Federally with Aiding and Abetting Series of RobberiesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that an Indictment has been filed by a grand jury in Scranton against Charles Conden, age 48, and Cindy Conden, age 28, both of Hanover Township, and James Hughes, age 26, Nanticoke, charging them with aiding and abetting in the commission of multiple robberies.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Jeffrey Townsley, age 43, Kingston, engaged in an 18-day crime spree beginning on December 24, 2013 and ending on January 10, 2014. The crimes included two bank robberies and seven robberies of local businesses. Townsley was arrested on January 10, 2014 and remains in custody in the Lackawanna County Prison.
The indictment returned today charges Charles Conden with aiding and abetting Townsley in the commission of the robberies at Aldi’s Market in Kingston on January 7, 2014, Thomas’ Market in Larksville on January 8, 2014, and the Family Dollar in Ashley on January 10, 2014. Cindy Conden and James Hughes are charged with aiding and abetting Townsley in the commission of the Aldi’s robbery.
The maximum penalties in this case include two years’ incarceration for each robbery, and fines of $250,000.
The indictment today is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of police departments of Kingston, Kingston Township, Larksville, Hanover Township, Wilkes-Barre, Plains, and Ashley, and the Luzerne County District Attorney Detectives. 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 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.
Federal Inmate Charged with MurderRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that charges have been filed against Jose Caldera, who is currently confined at United States Penitentiary, Florence ADMAX, Colorado.
According to United States Attorney, Peter Smith, Caldera, age 44, is charged in a one-count felony Information with murder. The offense is alleged to have occurred in May 2010, while Caldera was confined at the United States Penitentiary, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Caldera is charged with strangling another inmate.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the 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 statutes is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
Virginia Woman Charged Federally with Identity TheftRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced that criminal proceedings have been initiated against Deshanell Cannon, age 23, of Portsmouth, Virginia.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, a criminal information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Scranton charging Cannon with identity theft in connection with the unlawful use of a bank account number of a legitimate account holder on fraudulent gift cards and credit/debit cards. The case arose as a result of investigations by the Pennsylvania State Police and Dickson City Police and seizures of suspected credit/debit and gift cards from a vehicle in March 2014. The federal investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service.
The government also filed a plea agreement in the case, which must be approved by the court.
Cannon allegedly used fraudulent credit cards to gain access to the identification of another person.
Cannon faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of 24 months and a fine in the amount of $250.000.
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 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.
Kingston Man Sentenced to A 48 Month Term of Imprisonment for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that yesterday Senior United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo has sentenced Thomas Ceprish, age 32, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, to 48 months’ imprisonment for distributing cocaine on numerous occasions between 2008 and April 2, 2013.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Ceprish obtained cocaine in Wilkes-Barre for distribution to others in the Luzerne County area. On June 18, 2014, Ceprish appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty to the charge.
In addition to the 48-month term of imprisonment, Judge Caputo ordered that Ceprish 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.
Three People Charged in Monroe County-Based Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the unsealing of an indictment of three Monroe County residents issued by a federal grand jury in Scranton on October 14 for participating in a conspiracy that allegedly distributed heroin between November 2011 and the date of the indictment.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the grand jury alleges that Victor Tello, age 23; Jabril Greggs, age 24; and Yashmir Greggs, age 27, all of Tobyhanna, conspired with each other and with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin during a three-year time period.
The Indictment alleges that the suspects arranged to obtain heroin in New Jersey and transported it to the Monroe County area for further distribution. The indictment further alleges that the suspects communicated with each other and drug customers by cell phones.
Each defendant is also charged in separate counts with distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin.
The indictments were sealed until today pending the defendants being taken into custody. Tello is incarcerated and is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Court on October 30. Yashmir Greggs was arrested on October 22 and is being held pending a detention hearing scheduled for October 29. Jabril Greggs surrendered on October 23 and was released on bail.
The charges stem from an investigation by special agents and task force officers of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and Pocono Mountain Regional Police.
If the defendants are convicted of the charges, they each face a possible maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
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 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.
Carbon 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 47-year-old Kidder Township man pleaded guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Edwin M. Kosik to producing child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Todd Kowar, admitted to persuading and inducing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing images of such conduct. Kowar committed the crime between 2008 and December 2012.
The case against Kowar resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and Kidder Township Police. Kowar was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2014.
Judge Kosik ordered a pre-sentence report to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. Kowar is detained in prison pending sentencing.
Kowar faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 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."
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Shamokin Man Charged with Production, Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced that charges were filed yesterday against Abraham D. Gordon, a resident of Shamokin, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney, Peter Smith, Gordon, age 32, is charged in a three-count Indictment with production, distribution, and possession of child pornography. The offenses are alleged to have occurred between March and June 2014.
The investigation was conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police Computer Crime Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Williamsport Office. Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute 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 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 statutes is thirty 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.
California Man Charged with Identity Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office announced the return of an indictment yesterday by a federal grand jury in Williamsport charging Phil Nguyen of Garden Grove, California, with aggravated identity theft, and related offenses, in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain luxury wrist watches from jewelry stores in State College, Pennsylvania, and in New York, New Jersey, and Nevada.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the indictment alleges that from January 2014 through July 20, 2014, Nguyen used counterfeit California driver’s licenses in the names of other persons to purchase and attempt to purchase Rolex and Omega watches from Kranich’s Jewelers in State College and four other jewelry stores in Orchard Park, New York, Marlton and Wayne, New Jersey, and Las Vegas, Nevada. According to the indictment, Nguyen also used counterfeit California driver’s licenses and fraudulent credit cards in submitting on-line credit applications to Wells Fargo, GE Capital Retail Bank, and TD Bank to pay for the watches.
Nguyen, age 67, faces a combined maximum penalty of 67 years in prison, a fine of $2.25 million, and a supervised release term of five years.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Patton Township Police Department and the Centre County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney George J. Rocktashel.
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.
Wilkes-Barre Man Found Guilty of Heroin Trafficking and Firearm Charges After Five Day Federal TrialRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on Monday a federal jury in Scranton returned seven guilty verdicts against Terrell Stevenson, a/k/a “Inf”, age 36, of Wilkes-Barre, on charges involving trafficking in excess of 100 grams of heroin and related firearm offenses.
Following a 5-day trial before United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, the jury deliberated for about 2 ½ hours before returning guilty verdicts on 1 count of conspiracy to distribute 100 or more grams of heroin within 1,000 feet of a protected area (an elementary school), 1 count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, 1 count of unlawful use of a communication facility in furtherance of a violation of a controlled substance offense, 1 count of unlawful possession of a stolen firearm, 1 count of felon in possession of firearm, 1 count of fugitive from justice in possession of a firearm, and one count of unlawful possession of a means of identification as an aid in the commission of a federal violation. Stevenson was found not guilty of 1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
The defendants were first charged in a criminal complaint filed in 2012. The others charged include: William Nelson, age 42, and Merisol Merry, age 42, both of Brooklyn, New York; Lamar Thomas, age 40, Gregory Bush, age 52, both from Scranton; Michael Blondell, age 35, of Blakely; Christopher Taylor, age 26, of Binghamton, New York; and Sean Martinelli, 29, of Philadelphia. All pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
At Stevenson’s trial, the Government presented the testimony of 16 witnesses and evidence from a federal wiretap investigation. Communications between the co-conspirators and the defendant were played in court, admitted into evidence and presented to the jury. The communications involved discussions focused on possession and distribution of heroin, quantities of heroin, and drug proceeds.
Stevenson faces a possible maximum life sentence based on the offenses and his prior criminal record. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This case arose from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency Scranton office, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office – Detective Division, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
Six Charged with Participating in Luzerne County-based Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that six people were indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton October 21, 2014 for participating in a heroin trafficking conspiracy in the Luzerne County area since February 2014.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the grand jury alleges that the following individuals participated in the drug ring:
- Megan Fox, age 27, of Plymouth, PA, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin as an aider and abettor;
- Desmond Mercer, age 26, of Edwardsville, PA, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute heroin as an aider and abettor, two counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin, unlawful possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and carrying and possessing a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking offense;
- Shaliek Stroman, age 31, of Edwardsville, PA, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin, and three counts of distribution/possession with intent to distribute heroin;
- Antuan Jamison, age 34 , of Irvington, New Jersey, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin as an aider and abettor;
- Corey Wortham, age 18, of Montgomery, Alabama, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin as an aider and abettor;
- Shaquan Murphy, age 27, of Newark, New Jersey, charged with conspiracy to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin as an aider and abettor.
The Indictment also seeks to forfeit $15,887, and two vehicles seized during the investigation.
The indictments were sealed until today pending the defendants being taken into custody. Fox has been released on bail; Stroman was taken into custody yesterday and will appear in court today. The others have been detained.
The charges stem from an investigation by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Kingston Police, Plymouth Police, Wilkes-Barre Police, Edwardsville Police, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office.If convicted of the charges, Mercer faces up to life in prison and a $4.5 million fine; Stroman faces up to 80 years in prison and a $4 million fine; Fox, Jamison, Wortham, and Murphy each face up to 40 years in prison and a $2 million fine.
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 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.
****Philadelphia Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 32-year-old Philadelphia man was sentenced to 27 months in prison yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for participating in a conspiracy that distributed heroin during November 2013 to January 2014.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Luis Morales, previously admitted that he conspired with others, including Eudy Gonzalez, then an inmate at SCI Waymart, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin during a three-month time period.
Morales was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 11, 2014, as a result of an investigation by special agents and task force officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Scranton Police.
Morales’ co-defendants, Linda Reyes and Eudy Gonzalez, previously pleaded guilty and both were sentenced to prison by Judge Mannion for their roles in the drug conspiracy.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 35-year-old Philadelphia man was sentenced to 57 months in prison yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for his role in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the Hazleton area of Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Edwin Laureano-Suarez, previously admitted to conspiring with others to distribute heroin between May 2014 and June 18, 2014.
Laureano-Suarez was charged in a criminal Information filed on August 12, 2014, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Scranton Police.
Judge Mannion also ordered the defendant to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence, and pay a special assessment of $100.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Owner of Harrisburg Healthcare Services Firm Charged with Additional OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging Rose Umana, 47, Mechanicsburg, the owner and operator of Vision Healthcare Services, Inc., with additional health care fraud and money laundering offenses.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the superceding indictment charges Umana with health care fraud and money laundering in connection with operation of Vision Healthcare, 4113 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg. The new charges are in addition to 34 offenses brought in an indictment returned May 7.
The 36-count superseding indictment alleges that Umana created false identification documents and fictitious occupational licenses for workers not licensed at the level represented on the license and then submitted bills to Medicaid for medical services purportedly provided by the workers, billed Medicaid for services provided by someone other than the person claimed to be the provider, and billed Medicaid for services not provided or provided by someone not qualified to provide the service.
In addition, the grand jury charged that Umana laundered and concealed at least $291,000 in proceeds derived from this criminal activity. The superseding indictment alleges that Umana conducted at least 32 monetary transactions totaling $673,733 with proceeds derived from the fraud in amounts greater than $10,000. The superseding indictment also alleges that approximately $307,000 in three bank accounts held by Umana are forfeitable to the government.
“Medicaid Home Care companies that steal our health benefits, and lie about their level of competence, drain programs of money and put patients at risk ” said Nick DiGiulio, Special Agent in Charge for the Inspector General’s Office of the United States Department of Health and Human Services in Philadelphia. “We will continue to work energetically with our partners to investigate those that are accused of robbing health care dollars and mistreating Medicaid recipients.”
Health care fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, false statements relating to health care matters carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, money laundering is punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment, conducting monetary transactions with criminal proceeds in excess of $10,000 is punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment, and identity theft carries a two-year mandatory minimum sentence that must be served consecutively to any other sentence.
This case is part of a coordinated federal and state investigation involving the Office of Inspector General, Health and Human Services; Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations; and the Medicaid Fraud Control Section of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Albright of the State Attorney General’s Office and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy H. Fawcett are prosecuting the case.
Monroe County Man Sentenced to 47 Months in Prison for Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 32-year-old Stroudsburg man was sentenced to 47 months in prison yesterday by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley for distributing crack cocaine in the Monroe County area during a seven-month time period.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the defendant, Dominic Darby, previously pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine from October 2013 to April 30, 2014.
Darby was charged in a criminal Information filed by the United States Attorney on July 17, 2014, following an investigation by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Darby must also serve three years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and pay a $100 special assessment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa.
Former Harrisburg Bank Branch Manager Sentenced for Bank LarcenyRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Sandra R. Powers, 57, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to one year and one day imprisonment by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner for a bank larceny involving $125,815. Powers was ordered to surrender to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons by January 8, 2015 to commence serving her sentence.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Powers was employed as a branch manager for Integrity Bank's Allentown Boulevard and Colonial Road branches located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Powers previously pled guilty to stealing $125,815 from a customer's account between May 2012 and March 2013. Powers was terminated by Integrity Bank in March 2013 and subsequently made full restitution to the bank.
The case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, Office of Inspector General of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the FBI and was prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Bruce Brandler for prosecution.
Video Gambling Company Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced today that criminal charges were filed against Pennsylvania Coin, LLC, a Pennsylvania corporation, in U.S. District Court in Williamsport yesterday.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Pennsylvania Coin, LLC is charged in a one-count Information with conspiracy to commit money laundering between January 2007 and October 2012. Allegedly, Pennsylvania Coin, LLC maintained and operated illegal video gambling devices in establishments in Luzerne, Lackawanna, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties in northeastern Pennsylvania. Patrons at the establishments received cash payments based on credits; Pennsylvania Coin LLC received fees from the owners of the establishments and allegedly split proceeds from the use of the gambling devices with owners of establishments.
Pennsylvania Coin, LLC allegedly used its share of the proceeds to pay employees and maintain the devices, established accounts at financial institutions where the proceeds were deposited and co-mingled the illegal funds with legitimate business income to conceal the nature, source and amount of the proceeds from the illegal gambling activity, in violation of the federal anti-money laundering statute.
The charge arises out of the seizure of 288 illegal gambling devices and over $77,000 in U.S. currency from 180 business establishments in October 2012 by agents of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement as part of a joint investigation.
Filed simultaneously with the Information is a plea agreement which is subject to approval of the Court. The plea agreement provides that Pennsylvania Coin, LLC will enter a guilty plea and forfeit to the government $1,427,866 and the 288 seized gambling machines.
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 a fine of $500,000 and a five-year term of probation. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors when sentencing. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence.
Mexican Citizen Apprehended in Lackawanna County Indicted for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) announced today that a 26-year-old native and citizen of Mexico has been charged with illegal reentry into the United States.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Bairon Morales-Morales, age 26, was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg today.
The indictment alleges that Morales-Morales, an alien who has previously been arrested and deported from the United States on November 21, 2006, reentered the United States illegally and was apprehended in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Morales-Morales faces a maximum sentence of up to 2 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Alice Song Hartye.
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.
Harrisburg Couple Charged with Counterfeit U.S. Currency OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Richard Thomas Kramer, age 23, and Kristina Lynn Gates, age 21, both of Harrisburg were indicted today and charged with counterfeiting offenses. Specifically, Kramer was charging with both manufacturing counterfeit obligations of the United States and passing counterfeit obligations of the United States. Gates was charged with passing counterfeit obligations of the United States.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, in August of this year, the couple began passing counterfeit $20 bills at businesses throughout Dauphin County in Pennsylvania. It was later determined that Kramer was manufacturing the counterfeit $20 Federal Reserve notes. If convicted, Kramer faces 40 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $500,000. Gates faces 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Susquehanna Township Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom.
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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