Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Erie Woman Charged with Illegally Possessing FentanylRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Tiesha Lasha Henderson, 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on March 15, 2017, Henderson possessed with intent to distribute forty grams or more of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Erie County Detective Bureau, the Erie Police Department and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Indicted for Defrauding Woman He Met OnlineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of wire fraud and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The seven-count indictment named Henry James Corder, 63, of Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Corder stole from a victim that he met online, falsely stating that he was a U.S. Marshal that could help her with an advance fee scheme that she was a victim of. He also falsely claimed he needed money for cancer treatments, funeral services for relatives, business partnerships in which he promised to include the victim and items for a security business.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 100 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKeesport Drug Felon Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Trafficking Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On Thursday, May 4, 2017, a resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Edward Hicks, age 31, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around October 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around November 2012, Hicks and others conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. In addition, on November 6, 2012, and again on November 15, 2012, Hicks sold multiple ounces of crack cocaine to a confidential informant who was working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hicks has a prior state court felony drug-trafficking conviction.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2017, at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than forty (40) years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hicks.
Los Angeles Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Supplying Pittsburgh-Area with CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 11 years’ imprisonment on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak took the guilty plea and imposed the sentence on 42-year-old Jason Hunter.
According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. Jason Hunter was the California-based source of supply for kilogram quantities of cocaine, which were shipped via the United States Postal Service from California to Pittsburgh. During the FBI’s wiretap investigation, Hunter was also being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in Los Angeles. In that investigation, the DEA seized a substantial quantity of cocaine, heroin, cash, and jewelry from Hunter’s car and residence.
Hunter was the final defendant in this multi-defendant case to plead guilty. In total, 38 defendants were indicted and pleaded guilty in this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Caitlin Loughran prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Drug Enforcement Administration, Los Angeles Police Department and the Long Beach Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hunter.
Grand Jury Indicts Pittsburgh Man for Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges involving the unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession of stolen firearms, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on May 2, named Dalton Douglas Duschl, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, in January and February of 2017, Duschl unlawfully possessed four firearms, which he was prohibited from possessing under federal law due to prior criminal convictions. Duschl also was charged with violating federal firearms laws by selling two of those firearms, which were stolen.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and detectives from the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Dubois Man Charged with Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Dubois, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Filing False Tax Returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on May 2, named Gary E. Mills as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on April 15, 2015, April 15, 2014, and August 1, 2014, Mills filed false joint tax returns by intentionally under reporting his and his wife’s income to the IRS.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Saga Restaurant Owner Harbored Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of harboring illegal aliens, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Xing Zheng Lin, aka Steve Lin, age 44, of McKees Rocks, PA pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around 2009, until on or about January 10, 2014, Lin harbored illegal aliens who were employed at Saga Restaurant in Monroeville, Robinson, and Bethel Park, all of which were owned by Lin.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2017, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lin.
Mexican Subject to Deportation Following Conviction of Illegal Reentry After RemovalRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH A citizen of Mexico who was found by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) pled guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served subject to deportation on his conviction of Illegal Reentry After Deportation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jose Antonio Medina Melendez, 29, a citizen of Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, Melendez, an alien, who was removed from the United States by ERO on May 20, 2014, was taken into custody on March 12, 2017, by ERO.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended ERO for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Melendez.
Squirrel Hill Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding InvestorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Golan Barak, 49, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of 18 U.S.C. Section 1343 before the Senior U.S. District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
According to the information presented to the court, between 2013 and 2016, Barak falsely induced foreign nationals, mostly of Israeli descent, to invest with him in real estate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but fraudulently dissipated investors’ money for personal and business expenses, or to buy other properties, or to pay other investors. In particular, Barak admitted to defrauding one investor out of approximately $1,400,000 connected with the purchase of 12 pieces of real estate throughout the Pittsburgh area. The purchase money was used instead to buy other properties, or for Barak’s expenses in his management company, Ergo Management.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both at each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Trafficking Cocaine and HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, pled guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 13 years’ imprisonment on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute heroin Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak took the guilty pleas and imposed the sentence on Lionel Cannon, 52, of Cleveland, OH.
According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The government had wiretaps on three of Lionel Cannon’s phones, and Cannon was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine, which was shipped from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier. He also possessed with intent to distribute heroin, which he obtained in Ohio and transported to the Western District of Pennsylvania for further distribution.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Caitlin Loughran prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Long Beach Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cannon.
Chambersburg Man Sentenced to Prison for $2 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Chambersburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to one year plus one day in prison, three years’ supervised release, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,538,345 to numerous victims, on his conviction of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Douglas A. Stahl, age 54, of Chambersburg, Pa.
According to information the United States presented to the Court, it was established that between January 2008 and December 2013, Stahl devised and executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $2 million dollars from various investors.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stahl.
Army Staff Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Using Stolen UMPC Employee IDs to File Four False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Spanaway, Washington, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of False Claims against the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Justin A. Tollefson, age 26, of Spanaway, Washington, and an enlisted Staff Sergeant in the Army at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Washington, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, Tollefson used stolen identities of employees at UPMC to file four 2014 false federal income tax returns in which he made claims for tax refunds, which collectively totaled approximately $56,333.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August, 30, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Justin A. Tollefson.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty to Laundering Heroin Trafficking ProceedsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Lasean Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to launder heroin trafficking proceeds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Gardenhire, age 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that Gardenhire used thousands of dollars of the proceeds she obtained from the interstate heroin distribution business of her husband, Lance Gardenhire, to purchase and renovate certain residential properties in the Pittsburgh area and to purchase multiple luxury vehicles. She also converted the heroin proceeds into what appeared to be legitimate wealth that she could deposit into bank accounts with federally insured financial institutions.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Lasean Gardenhire to occur on August 30, 2017, at 11:30 a.m.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Heroin, Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Corey Cheatom was convicted of conspiring to engage in large-scale heroin trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Cheatom, age 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Cheatom and co-defendant Lance Gardenhire led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Cheatom admitted as part of his guilty plea to being responsible for the distribution of between 10 and 30 kilograms of heroin and for the possession of a dangerous weapon. Also as part of his guilty plea, Cheatom agreed to forfeit his interest in two vehicles, a Mercedes and a Jaguar.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Corey Cheatom to occur on August 31, 2017, at 1:30 p.m.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty on First Day of Trial to Leading Heroin Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Lance Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to engage in large-scale heroin trafficking and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Gardenhire, age 41, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Gardenhire led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Gardenhire admitted as part of his guilty plea to being responsible for the distribution of between 30 and 90 kilograms of heroin and for the possession of a dangerous weapon. Also as part of his guilty plea, Gardenhire agreed to forfeit his interest in several Mercedes, Infinity, and Nissan vehicles.
In support of the money laundering conviction, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that Lance Gardenhire, along with his wife, Lasean Gardenhire, filtered thousands of dollars of Lance Gardenhire’s heroin trafficking proceeds through Lasean Gardenhire’s bank accounts at federally insured banks that were engaged in interstate commerce. The heroin trafficking proceeds were thereby converted into bank funds and ultimately real and personal property possessed by Lance and Lasean Gardenhire.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Lance Gardenhire to occur on Aug. 30, 2017, at 9:30 a.m.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pittsburgh Police Bureau of Police, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Khyree Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to engage in heroin trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Gardenhire, age 20, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Lance Gardenhire, Khyree Gardenhire’s father, led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Khyree Gardenhire admitted as part of his guilty plea to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin, and to being responsible for the distribution of more than 700 grams of heroin.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Khyree Gardenhire to occur on August 30, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to forty years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
New York Man Sentenced to Prison for Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A resident of New York, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $73,720 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Funmilayo Aliyu, 55, of New York, New York.
According to information presented to the court, Aliyu allowed his bank accounts to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Aliyu would then withdraw the refunds in cash, keep a portion for himself and provide the remainder of the funds to his co-conspirators.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Aliyu.
Judge Sentences Brooklyn Man for Role in Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Brooklyn, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 4 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $38,656 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Festus Owusu, 44, of Brooklyn, New York.
According to information presented to the court, Owusu allowed his bank accounts to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Owusu would then withdraw the refunds in cash, keep a portion for himself and provide the remainder of the funds to his co-conspirators.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Owusu.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Alpharetta, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Willie Hugh Joy, 47, of Alpharetta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2009, to in and around January 2013, Joy and his co-defendants engaged in a fraudulent loan program in which a hierarchy of brokers, managers, processors and straw borrowers falsified bank loan documents and supporting documentation in order to obtain various auto and consumer loans and lines of credit from banks and credit unions.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Joy on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joy.
Father and Son Business Owners Get Prison Sentences for Failing to File TaxesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Two residents of Warren, Pennsylvania, have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of violating federal tax and currency transaction laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone sentenced John Branch, 45, of Warren, Pennsylvania, to 12 months and 1 day in jail, a $25,000 fine, and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $377,643.74. Judge Cercone sentenced Randall Branch, 65, of Warren, Pennsylvania to 24 months in jail, a $25,000 fine and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $420,117.40.
According to information presented to the court, the father and son defendants owned a business through which they sold oil and natural gas through various brokers. Between 2006 and 2012, the defendants received combined gross income from their oil and natural gas business in excess of $6,900,000.00. Despite their business income, the defendants stopped filing tax returns with the IRS after 1997. John Branch was sentenced for failing to file income tax returns. Randall Branch was sentenced for failing to file a tax return and of conspiring to defraud the United States for the purpose of impairing, impeding and defeating the functions of the IRS in the computation, assessment and collection of income taxes. According to the facts supporting the conviction of Randall Branch, while failing to file tax returns, he also began to dispute his obligation to pay taxes, and he challenged the authority of the IRS to assess and collect taxes. As part of the conspiracy conviction for Randall Branch, the evidence presented to the court disclosed that he avoided the financial threshold reporting requirements on the FinCEN Form 104, Currency Transaction Report (CTR) and impeded the function of the IRS to assess and collect taxes by structuring financial transactions in amounts less than $10,000.00. He then cashed those checks, regularly doing so with multiple checks, at different bank branches, on the same day.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Branches.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Daniel Warren Talley, 32, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 21, 2016, Talley knowingly possessed a stolen firearm which he unlawfully possessed while being a convicted felon. The firearm was seized by investigators after a search warrant was executed at Talley’s residence in Erie, Pennsylvania. The firearm had been stolen from a residence in Millcreek Township, Pennsylvania in September 2016.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Talley.
Former Boilermakers Business Manager Charged with Embezzling $1.5 Million, Income Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Information has been filed in federal court charging an Allegheny County resident with one count of embezzlement and theft of Labor Union assets and five counts of income tax evasion, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Raymond C. Ventrone, 59, of Pittsburgh, Pa. was the Business Manager of Local 154 of the International Association of Boilermakers from January 2010 to June 2015. According to the Information filed, during that time, Ventrone embezzled approximately $1,499,000 of union funds for his own use. In addition, Ventrone evaded payment of his income taxes on the embezzled monies.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Department of Labor-OIG and the Office of Labor Management Standards conducted the investigation leading to the information in this case.
A criminal Information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The filing of an Information generally indicates that the defendant intends to enter a guilty plea.
Pittsburgh Doctor and His Employee Charged with Illegal Rx Drug Distribution, Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBUGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, and Amphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 15-count indictment named Brent E. Clark, 55, a family care physician who practices in Pittsburgh, and Carl T. Wilson, age 49, an office employee of Clark, as the defendants.
According to the indictment, from February 26, 2015 through March 27, 2017, Clark distributed Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, on 13 occasions, and Amphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, on three occasions, outside the usual course of professional practice. The indictment also alleges that on March 27, 2017, Wilson knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute and distributed oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. The indictment further alleges that from February 2015 to February 2017, Clark knowingly and willfully executed, and attempted to execute, the above-described scheme to defraud and to obtain, by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, money and property owned by and under the custody and control of United Health Care and Medicare, health care benefit programs, in connection with the payment for health care benefits, items and services.
For Brent E. Clark, the law provides for a maximum total sentence on all counts of incarceration of up to 270 months, a fine of $13,250,000, or both. For Carl T. Wilson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brent E. Clark and Carl T. Wilson.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentences New York Woman to 5 Years in Prison for Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Erie, Pa. – A former resident of Springfield Garden, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $517,168.67 on her conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Bola Peters, 44.
According to information presented at her trial, Peters maintained multiple bank accounts which were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. After the fraudulently obtained refunds were deposited into accounts under her control, Peters would remove the funds, keep a portion for herself and remit the remainder of the refunds back to her co-conspirators. In addition, she was also in possession of numerous false identification documents. These documents matched the stolen identities listed on the fraudulent federal tax returns that generated the tax refunds deposited into the accounts Peters controlled. Other stolen identity documents found in Peters’ house matched the names on bank accounts Peters opened using stolen identities. Peters was also in possession of handwritten ledgers and lists containing hundreds of stolen identities that were used during the course of the conspiracy to file false federal tax returns.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Peters.
Man Admits Guilt in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme Using Hacked UPMC Employee InformationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A foreign national residing outside of the United States pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of money laundering and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Yoandy Perez Llanes, 33 pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that early in 2014, tens of thousands of present and former employees of UPMC had their personal information compromised by hackers, who intruded into a UPMC computerized database and stole names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and other personal identifying information. This data was then used to file over 900 false 2013 federal tax returns, which contained requests for tax refunds onto Amazon.com gift cards. Llanes and other conspirators laundered the Amazon.com gift cards to purchase electronic merchandise, which was shipped through reshipping services to Venezuela, and retrieved by Llanes and others. While the perpetrators claimed approximately $2.2 million in unlawful refunds, $1,475,000 million was actually disbursed in unlawful refunds.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yoandy Perez Llanes.
Investigations by IRS Lead to Cases Against Tax Return PreparersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations announced today recent actions to deter violations of the federal income tax laws. As the April 18th deadline approaches for the timely filing of income tax returns, citizens are reminded to fulfill their obligations and to rest assured those who chose not to do so will be prosecuted.
Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song stated, “Most people voluntarily pay their fair share of taxes in a timely manner. Criminal penalties are reserved for the most flagrant and egregious violators. Those who consider committing tax fraud should recognize that their actions negatively impact all of us and personally expose them to stringent monetary penalties and potential prison time.”
“Tax fraud exists in many forms, from unscrupulous tax preparers filing false and fraudulent returns, to identity thieves, to those who devise complex schemes to hide their income and evade paying the taxes they owe,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Greg Floyd. “IRS-Criminal Investigation pursues tax cheats year round. As the filing deadline quickly approaches, those who are contemplating engaging in tax fraud should know that they will be pursued.”
The offices continue to uncover the fraudulent refund schemes that occur in Western Pennsylvania and to bring those who perpetrate them to justice. Some of the recent cases being prosecuted by the district follow.
Man Admits Guilt in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme Using Hacked UPMC Employee Information
A foreign national residing outside of the United States pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of money laundering and aggravated identity theft.
Yoandy Perez Llanes, 33, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that early in 2014, tens of thousands of present and former employees of UPMC had their personal information compromised by hackers, who intruded into a UPMC computerized database and stole names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and other personal identifying information. This data was then used to file over 900 false 2013 federal tax returns, which contained requests for tax refunds onto Amazon.com gift cards. Llanes and other conspirators laundered the Amazon.com gift cards to purchase electronic merchandise, which was shipped through reshipping services to Venezuela, and retrieved by Llanes and others. While the perpetrators claimed approximately $2.2 million in unlawful refunds, $1,475,000 million was actually disbursed in unlawful refunds.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yoandy Perez Llanes.
New York State Man Sentenced for Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme
A resident of Rosedale, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months in jail on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Adetunji Gbadegeshi, 60, of Rosedale, New York.
According to information presented to the court, Gbadegeshi used the hundreds of stolen identities found in his house to open bank accounts that were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Gbadegeshi would then remove the money from the accounts and distribute it to his co-conspirators.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Monument Company Worker Embezzled $12.9 Million from Employer
An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering.
Cynthia A. Mills, 56, of McKees Rocks, Pa., pleaded guilty to six counts (one count of mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, one count of tax evasion, and one count of engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property) before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from February 1999 to May 2015, Mills embezzled $12,969,774.42 from Matthews International Corporation where she was employed as a Cashier and Treasury Specialist.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 28, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 95 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
$6 million DOD Fraud, $1 million paid in illegal gratuities, 5 charged with tax violations
Five Informations have been filed in federal court in Pittsburgh charging three local residents and two residents of the greater Detroit area with crimes of major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense, tax violations and illegal gratuities.
Thomas G. Buckner, 65, of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and his brother, John P. Buckner, 67, of Lyndora, Pennsylvania, were each named in three count Informations charging them in one count with defrauding U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM), and two counts of income tax evasion.
According to the Informations filed with the court, the Buckner brothers were 50/50 owners of Ibis Tek, LLC (hereinafter Ibis Tek). Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, Butler, Pennsylvania 16002, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Ibis Tek manufactured both military and commercial products but specialized in the development of transparent armor and accessory products for tactical and military combat vehicles. Ibis Tek itself was not charged with any violations. TACOM, located in Warren, Michigan, was responsible for letting and overseeing contracts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense, including contracts concerning High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (hereinafter Humvees). Ibis Tek had a subcontract to produce Vehicle Emergency Escape Window (VEE Window) Kits for Humvees. The Buckners inflated Ibis Tek’s costs to manufacture the VEE Window kits by creating Alloy America, LLC, (Alloy) a company that the Buckners controlled, by using Alloy to purchase the frames in China for $20 per frame, and by using false invoices from Alloy to make it appear that Ibis Tek paid $70 per frame. In addition, the Buckners sold scrap aluminum collected in the manufacturing process but failed to credit that money to TACOM. The losses to TACOM were $6,085,709. Both Buckner brothers were charged with income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting the cash from sales of scrap aluminum, and for taking unallowable business deductions described below.
Harry H. Kramer, 52, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, was named in a three count Information charging him in Count One for his role as CFO of Ibis Tek in the above described major fraud against TACOM. Counts Two and Three charge him with filing false returns for Ibis Tek for 2009 and 2010.
David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) was named in a one count information charging him with impeding the IRS by acting as a financial intermediary who received and then paid out money to Anthony Shaw, for the purpose of concealing that the monies were income of Shaw, concealing the true source of the monies, and concealing the purpose for the monies. David Buckner owned D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories.
Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, was named in a five count Information. Shaw, then a civilian employee at TACOM, was a Deputy Project Manager responsible for directing development of and managing government contracts for combat vehicle systems such as Humvees. Shaw is charged in Counts One and Two with demanding and receiving a total of $1,055,500 of illegal gratuities paid by checks and wire transfers by Thomas Buckner to and through D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories for Shaw. Counts Three and Four charge Shaw with income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting payments from Thomas and John Buckner totaling in excess of $1,000,000. In Count Five Shaw is charged with making false statements when he denied that he had socialized with Thomas Buckner and John Buckner, and denied that he had traveled in a car, boat and an airplane owned by Thomas Buckner or John Buckner.
For Thomas and John Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For Kramer, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 16 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For David Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 3 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For Shaw, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 19 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Physician Charged with Willfully Failing to File Income Tax Returns
A medical doctor has been charged by Information in federal court in Pittsburgh with three counts of willfully failing to file income tax returns.
According to the Information filed yesterday, Rodney J. Williams of Washington County failed to file tax returns from 2009 to 2011. During those three years he had gross income of $790,385.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine of $300,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Five Indicted Separately in Fraudulent Tax Return Scheme
Five residents of Western Pennsylvania have been separately indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud, bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States.
A two-count indictment returned by the federal grand jury, charging bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Sean Brooks, 27, currently incarcerated. Three two-count indictments returned by the federal grand jury, charging mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Amber Eubanks, 27, of Pittsburgh, Brandon Prater 29, currently incarcerated, and Simone Prater, 29, of Pittsburgh, as sole defendants in each indictment. A one-count indictment charging bank fraud named Tyrone Gossett, 63, of Pittsburgh as the sole defendant.
According to the indictments, Sean Brooks, who was, at all material times, incarcerated, prepared and arranged for the filing of more than one hundred fraudulent tax returns on behalf of fellow inmates and other individuals and generated more than $200,000 in fraudulent refunds. The fraudulent refunds were sent to a number of different addresses, and, after forging the endorsement of the payees, the checks were cashed through federally insured financial institutions and through check-cashing establishments. Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater, Simone Prater, and Tyrone Gossett assisted the conspiracy in a variety of ways, including sending the Internal Revenue Service the fraudulent tax returns, receiving forging, depositing and cashing the fraudulently obtained refund checks, disbursing the proceeds of the fraud amongst the conspirators, and proving personal identification information to Brooks for use in the fraudulent tax returns.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 35 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both for the charges pending against Sean Brooks. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both for the charges pending against Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater and Simone Prater. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both for the charge pending against Tyrone Gossett. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Most tax return preparers provide professional tax service. However, a few set out to use the personal and financial information provided to them to perpetrate fraud or other scams that can hurt their customers. Earlier this year, the IRS warned taxpayers that they are legally responsible for what is on the tax return even if someone else prepared the tax return. Taxpayers should be vigilant and ensure that their chosen return preparer reports accurate information. The IRS also warned the public about various schemes deployed by dishonest return preparers in its Dirty Dozen Tax Scams https://www.irs.gov/uac/newsroom/irs-summarizes-dirty-dozen-list-of-tax-scams-for-2017.
South Carolina Man Charged with Interstate Stalking and Aggravated ID Theft Targeting Pennsylvania ResidentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A South Carolina resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate stalking and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned on April 11 and unsealed today, named Nathaniel Earl Dunlap, 28, formerly of Shaler Township and now of Clover, South Carolina as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Dunlap placed false and fraudulent food delivery orders online, using the identity of another individual, which placed the victim L.W. under substantial emotional distress.
Dunlap will make his initial appearance in Federal Court today at 12:15 p.m.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 17 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Shaler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Operator of Horse Rescue Group Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Filing a False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and filing a false tax return, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Pamela A. Vivirito, 47, of Valencia pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud charged in a second superseding indictment and one count of filing a false tax return charged in an information before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Vivirito operated a not-for-profit charity called Equine Angels Rescue, Inc. (EAR) which solicited contributions to rescue and rehabilitate horses. Vivirito fraudulently solicited donations and used them for personal expenses. Additionally, Vivirito caused the filing of a fraudulent and false Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax wherein it was reported her compensation was $46,877, when in actuality, Vivirito received compensation in the amount of $93,606.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 20, 2017 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 23 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vivirito.
Two Pittsburgh Felons Indicted for Illegally Possessing Guns and AmmoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Julian Patton, age 26, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Marcus Smith, age 22, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the Indictment, on or about February 2, 2017, Patton, an individual with a prior felony conviction for burglary, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Smith & Wesson, M&P Shield 9mm firearm and ammunition, and Smith, an individual with several prior felony convictions for assault, trespass, and firearms crimes, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Glock 9mm pistol and ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
For Patton’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. For Smith’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the respective defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Amy L. Johnston are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Robbing Four Allegheny County BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned on April 11, named Derek Hanner, age 28, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, Hanner robbed four banks in December 2016 and January 2017, including two Citizens Banks located in Pittsburgh, as well as the Brentwood Bank, located in Bethel Park.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence at each count of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Bethel Park Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Officials Close the Investigation Involving Bureau of Police OfficersRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song issued the following statement today:
"Today, we announce that no federal civil rights charges will be brought related to the arrest of Montrice Bolden.”
"We met with Montrice Bolden’s family to inform them of our decision. We have also communicated our decision to the Erie Bureau of Police and to Mayor Sinnott. While the public, understandably, may have questions regarding the facts of what occurred, the Department of Justice considered only the narrow question of whether there is sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime was committed.
"Senior members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Pittsburgh, prosecutors from the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice and FBI special agents have conducted a thorough and independent review of this matter.
"After this review, we determined that the evidence does not warrant federal criminal civil rights charges against the Erie Bureau of Police officers who were involved in the arrest of Mr. Bolden on June 28, 2016.
“Under the applicable federal criminal civil rights laws, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a law enforcement officer’s actions were objectively unreasonable and that the law enforcement officer willfully deprived an individual of a constitutional right. To act ‘willfully,’ for purposes of the federal statute, means to act with deliberate and specific intent to defy or disregard the law. Neither negligence, accident, mistake, fear nor bad judgment is sufficient to establish such a criminal violation.
“Legal restrictions relating to the confidentiality of criminal investigations prohibit us from further discussing the specifics of this case.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to working with the Erie community to improve trust between the community and the police. The City of Erie and the Erie Bureau of Police have coordinated with our office and the U.S. Department of Justice to commence civil rights training with all members of the Erie Bureau of Police beginning Thursday, April 13, 2017. The Erie Bureau of Police has actively engaged with community members in an effort to improve relations and trust since August 2016. We commend the Erie Bureau of Police for its willingness to seek additional civil rights training and to enhance mutual trust between law enforcement and the citizens they serve. Due to the high interest in this investigation, we have engaged a federal mediator from the Department of Justice, Community Relations Service, who has traveled to Erie on multiple occasions and will continue to meet with Erie community members and officials.
“The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to assure that all allegations of civil rights violations are fully and completely investigated.”
Woman Charged with Filing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of western Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of filing false income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Tina Gordon as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, for the calendar years 2010 and 2011, Gordon failed to report “other income” of more than $195,000.
At each of the two counts, defendant faces a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Defrauding Pittsburgh-area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County, PA, has pleaded guilty in federal court on a charge of fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Maleake Clark, 26 of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
According to the indictment, Maleake and others agreed to defraud Pittsburgh-area banks by depositing counterfeit checks by remote mobile deposit, and then making a series of withdrawals against funds credited from the deposited checks.
Judge Cercone scheduled the sentence for sentencing for August 21, 2017 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of the defendant. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Physician Charged with Willfully Failing to File Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A medical doctor has been charged by Information in federal court in Pittsburgh with three counts of Willfully Failing to File Income Tax Returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
According to the Information filed yesterday, Rodney J. Williams of Washington County failed to file tax returns from 2009 to 2011. During those three years he had gross income of $790,385.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine of $300,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the filing of an Information in this case.
An Information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Business Owner Pleads Guilty in Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Tonia Vaughn, 41, of Portage, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customers” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Seymore.
Store Clerk Pleads Guilty in Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Cresson, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Melissa R. Seymore, 41, of Cresson, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. Ms. Seymore was an employee/clerk at the business. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customer” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Seymore.
Newark Drug Dealer Man Sentenced in Erie to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Newark, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court to 180 months in jail and 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Zavia L. Johnson, 48. The sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to a 14 year sentence Johnson is currently serving.
According to information presented to the court, on November 2, 2012, Johnson, who was from Newark, New Jersey, was traveling South on Interstate 79 after leaving Rochester, New York, and was pulled over by a Trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police after a traffic violation was observed. A certified drug detection canine alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle, and a search warrant was executed. During the search of the vehicle, law enforcement officers discovered 175 wrapped “bricks” containing 8,700 stamp bags, or dosage units, of heroin. In addition, $7,000.00 in cash was located in a duffle bag in the trunk of the vehicle.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.
New York State Man Sentenced for Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Erie, Pa. – A resident of Rosedale, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months in jail on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Adetunji Gbadegeshi, 60, of Rosedale, New York.
According to information presented to the court, Gbadegeshi used the hundreds of stolen identities found in his house to open bank accounts that were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Gbadegeshi would then remove the money from the accounts and distribute it to his co-conspirators.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gbadegeshi.
Gary’s Steals and Deals Owner Sentenced to 15 More Months in Prison for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 15 months in prison, consecutive to a sentence he is presently serving on a case prosecuted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and three years’ supervised release, on his conviction of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Gary E. Vaughn, 43, of Portage, Pa.
Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customer” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.
Franklin, Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 7+ Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Gun, HeroinRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Franklin, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 92 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Raheem Hasan Carney, 40.
According to information presented to the court, Carney possessed with intent to distribute more than an ounce heroin at a residence in Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, Carney unlawfully possessed a stolen .40 caliber Glock pistol, a .12 gauge shotgun, and ammunition while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carney.
Elkhart, Indiana Man Pleads Guilty to Transporting Cocaine from Texas to Pennsylvania and OhioRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Elkhart, Indiana, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ancelmo Ayala, 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Ayala engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The cocaine that was coming from Texas was being transported to Erie and Ohio for further distribution. According to information disclosed to the court, Ayala was one of the conspirators who transported the drug trafficking organization’s cocaine to Erie in a vehicle equipped with hidden compartments.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ayala.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Felon with Gun to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years imprisonment followed by 5 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Clifford Wood, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on February 18, 2016, a West Homestead police officer on patrol near the High Rollers Bar in Homestead, PA, observed Clifford Wood, who was previously convicted of felony drug offenses, carrying, and shooting, what appeared to be a firearm. The officer demanded that Wood drop his gun. Wood refused, and started to flee, dropping the firearm during his flight. Wood was arrested shortly thereafter, and the firearm, a Ruger Security Six .357 revolver, was recovered in the place where the officer had seen Wood discard it.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Stephen S. Gilson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Homestead Police Department, and the Homestead Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wood.
Former U.S. Postmaster Sentenced to Prison for Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former United States postmaster and resident of Glassport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years imprisonment and five years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute kilograms of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur Schwab imposed the sentence on Joseph Borrelli, age 49, of Glassport, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, between 2011 and 2015, Dante Lozano of Brownsville, Texas shipped dozens of cocaine packages, totaling approximately 8 kilograms (about 18 pounds), via the U.S. Postal Service to Jeffrey Turner and April Racan, who were living in the Elizabeth/McKeesport, Pennsylvania area. Borrelli, who was Postmaster in West Newton, Pennsylvania at the time, aided the conspiracy by advising Turner how to minimize the chances of their drug packages being detected by law enforcement.
The addresses of vacant homes were provided to Turner by Borrelli, and Turner then emailed these to Lozano, so that the packages could bear valid addresses. Borrelli also opened an untraceable post office box for Turner, and intercepted drug packages when they arrived at the post office, delivering them to Turner. These packages were usually intercepted by Borrelli before they went out for delivery by the mail carrier.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that Borrelli abused his position of trust as postmaster to aid the drug conspiracy.
Eight individuals were named in this indictment. Three others were previously sentenced, and four defendants – including Lozano, Turner, and Racan – will be sentenced in April and June.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Postal Service in Pittsburgh, the Drug Enforcement Administration in Brownsville, Texas, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Borrelli.
Wilmerding Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Sex Traffic a ChildRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on a charge of Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking of Children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr., age 45, of Wilmerding, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, in and around April of 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr., and another person knowingly entered into an agreement to conspire to recruit for sex trafficking a female minor who had not attained the age of 18 years.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police Department and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr.
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.justice.gov/psc.
Johnstown Man Charged with Filing a False Income Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of filing a false U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Anthony A. Masciantonio.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about April 15, 2011, Masciantonio, on his U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Form 1040, stated his taxable income for calendar year 2010 was $206,575, when he then and there well knew and believed his taxable income for calendar year 2010 was $297,147.63. Likewise, on or about April 15, 2012, on his U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Form 1040, Masciantonio stated his taxable income for calendar year 2011 was $397,099, when he then and there well knew and believed his taxable income for calendar year 2011 was $470,350.02.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 6 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing SuboxoneRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named John D. Barnett, Jr., 41.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 24, 2016, Barnett possessed a quantity of Suboxone.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Barnett.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to Prison for Reshipping Counterfeit CurrencyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Raeford, North Carolina, has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day on his conviction of conspiracy and transferring counterfeit currency, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Robert T. Dent, a/k/a Bullionaire, 31, of Raeford, NC.
According to information presented to the court, Dent was a reshipper in the United States for the distribution of Ugandan manufactured counterfeit currency that was being sold online by an individual using the moniker Willy Clock.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Secret Service, assisted by U.S. Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dent.
Mexican Citizen Charged with Immigration ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Samuel Quib-Chub, age 28, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about January 24, 2017, Quib-Chub was found in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on four previous occasions.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two (2) years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
3 Canadians and their Company Charged with Conspiring to Sell Foreign-Made Drugs to Western Pennsylvania PharmacistsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Three Canadian residents and their company have been charged by Information in Pittsburgh with conspiring to distribute wholesale quantities of misbranded prescription drugs made for the foreign market and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
According to the Information, Tony Lee, Billy Lee and Tarn Uppal, all Vancouver, B.C. residents, operated Quantum Solutions, SRL (hereafter, Quantum), a company registered in Barbados with offices in the Vancouver, British Columbia area. Quantum purchased prescription drugs made for foreign markets and sold wholesale quantities to three pharmacists in Western Pennsylvania. Quantum purchased the drugs from suppliers located in Turkey, Great Britain and other countries. The defendants arranged for these misbranded drugs to be sent to a re-shipper in the United Kingdom (UK). The UK re-shipper was instructed to unpack the drugs, repack them in several small packages, put misleading labeling and shipping documentation on them and understate the dollar value of the contents in order to create the appearance to U.S. Customs and Border Protection that the drugs were health care products for the personal use of the addressee. The small packages were sent to Washington State and New York State re-shippers known to the U.S. Attorney, where they were once again unpacked and repacked for delivery in the United States. Wholesale quantities of these misbranded drugs intended for use in foreign markets were purchased by three pharmacists in Western Pennsylvania. The wire transfers, checks and credit card payments from the pharmacists traveled from Western Pennsylvania to Canada and Barbados. None of the re-shippers were licensed in the United States to conduct this business. None of the prescription drugs met FDA approval because they were made and labeled for use outside of the United States. The information against Quantum seeks forfeiture of $4,235,000.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the filing of these Informations.
A criminal Information is an accusation.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The filing of an Information generally indicates that the defendant intends to enter a guilty plea.
Judge Sentences Zambelli Fireworks Company for Failing to Report Loss of Explosive MaterialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A corporation based out of New Castle, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court on a charge of Failure to Report Loss of Explosive Material, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company, Inc. pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, Zambelli was licensed by the federal government as an importer and manufacturer of explosive fireworks. Federal regulations require such licensees to make and keep accurate records relating to their inventories of explosive materials. Licensees must also subject themselves to inspections by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). In 2014, ATF conducted inspections of Zambelli’s business premises and inventories of explosives, at which time they found discrepancies between the actual inventories and Zambelli’s inventory records. In particular, ATF found that Zambelli had approximately 63,000 less units of explosives than was reflected in their inventories.
Consequently, Zambelli was charged with, and pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly failing to notify the United States Government of lost or missing explosive materials.
Pursuant to the terms of a plea agreement, Zambelli will pay a fine of $5,000 and, in addition, will forfeit $195,000 to the United States Government as part of the sentence for this violation. Those plea terms were approved by Judge Cercone, who imposed that sentence at the conclusion of the hearing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company, Inc.