Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Postal Employee Sentenced to Probation, Fined for Stealing Cash from MailRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Summerhill, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to three years’ probation and ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $1,000 on her conviction of theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kelly Gruss, 37, of Summerhill, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on September 22, 2014, Gruss stole $10, and on September 25, 2014, she stole $20 from greeting cards sent via U.S. mail.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Hickton commended the Office of Inspector General of the United States Postal Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gruss.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Keith Beck, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Keith Beck 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Beck.
El Salvadoran Sentenced for Re-Entering U.S. after DeportationRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of El Salvador pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, and was sentenced thereon to four months in prison and was ordered to be placed in the custody of the Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, for deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson accepted the guilty plea to the indictment and imposed the sentence on Walter F. Melgar, 41, of Blair County, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on Dec. 29, 2015, Melgar, an alien who had been deported from the United States on Dec. 9, 1996, was found in Blair County, Pa. He had unlawfully re-entered this Country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Melgar.
Blair County Man Sentenced to 2 Years Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hollidaysburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison, three years’ supervised release and ordered to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $1,590,605, on his conviction of income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on James C. Faith.
According to information presented to the court, Faith filed an individual income tax return for the calendar year 2009, whereby he failed to report $1,785,036 in taxable income, resulting in an underpayment of $632,237 in income tax owed to the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation for the successful prosecution of Faith.
Washington County Man Admits Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Michael G. Williams, 48, of Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea, from on or about June 18, 2015, and continuing thereafter to on or about June 25, 2015, Williams knowingly received visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphics and digital files, the production of which involved the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond scheduled sentencing for Oct. 18, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Williams.
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.
Indictment Unsealed Against Former Cranberry Twp. Man Considered to be a FugitiveRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Cranberry Twp, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of tax violations, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 17-count indictment, returned on Oct. 14, 2014 and unsealed on June 24, 2016, named Valeriy Vahil as the sole defendant. Vahil is a fugitive.
According to the 17-count indictment presented to the court, Vahil, between April 2009 and October 2012, failed to collect and pay over to the IRS quarterly federal income tax and F.I.C.A. (Social Security) taxes for wages of employees of his company, Absolut Service Company, a contract labor company operated out of his Cranberry Twp. residence. Vahil also filed a false quarterly Employer’s Federal tax return and assisted his return preparer in filing a false quarterly Employer’s Federal tax return.
Anyone with information regarding Vahil’s whereabouts is asked to call IRS-CI Special Agent Kevin Petrulak at 412-404-9555.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 81 years in prison, a fine of $4,250,000 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 Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, assisted by the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Labor-Office of Attorney General, and the Federal Bureau of 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.
Credit Union Manager Pleads Guilty to Embezzling $478,000Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charge of embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Catherine M. Linton, 58, of Washington, Pennsylvania, 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 January of 1998 to in and around May of 2015, Linton, as former manager of Trailblazer Federal Credit Union, embezzled the sum of approximately $478,000 from the credit union.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 25, 2016. 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 Linton’s release on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Linton.
Three Charged in Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances in Western PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh residents and a Michigan man have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charge of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named William Richardson, 55, and Nicole Miller, 29, both of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Kavon Dawkins, 23, of Clinton Township, Michigan.
According to indictment, between March and May of 2016, Richardson, Miller and Dawkins conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute quantities of oxycodone and oxymorphone, also known as ‘Opana,’ schedule II controlled substances, in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, 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 defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is the result of a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the New Castle Police Department and the Allegheny County Police Department.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 17+ Years in Prison for Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Kia Jones, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 210 months in prison for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction and for conspiring to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine in Western Pennsylvania, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jones, age 37, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Jones to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks 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 Drug Dealer Sentenced to 7+ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Chaz Lloyd, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 87 months in prison for conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine and at least 100 grams of heroin in Western Pennsylvania, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Lloyd, 30, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Lloyd to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence. In support of the conviction and sentence of Lloyd, the Court was informed that Lloyd was involved in the distribution of multiple ounces to kilogram quantities of cocaine and brick quantities of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks 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.
Duquesne Man Charged with Heroin PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Possession with Intent to Distribute 100 grams or more of Heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count superseding indictment named Carloto Neal, Jr., age 21, as the sole defendant.
According to the superseding indictment, on or about March 17, 2015, Neal possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, and members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Street Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Convicted Felon Charged with Guns, Ammo and Body ArmorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Stanley James Patterson a/k/a Robert Cook, 63, of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Patterson possessed firearms and/or ammunition on or about Dec. 16, 2015, after having been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those cases include one robbery conviction and two burglary convictions. The indictment further charges that on Dec. 16, 2015, Patterson possessed body armor despite his status as a convicted violent felon.
Defendants who have three prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses face a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison, under the federal Armed Career Criminal Act. 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case with valuable assistance from the Allegheny County Police Department, the Carnegie Police Department and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal. 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 merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Constable Stole More than $1 Million in Tax Payments from Baden Borough and Ambridge School District, Filed False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Baden, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and tax fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Keith Kristek, age 57, of Baden, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of filing a false income tax return before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from approximately January 2007 through February 2015, Keith Kristek, who was the elected Constable for Baden Borough, devised and executed a scheme to steal approximately $1,060,678.11 in tax payments from Baden Borough and the Ambridge Area School District. Additionally, Kristek failed to report his receipt of the stolen funds and filed false income tax returns with the IRS for tax years of 2011 through 2014.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Nov. 1, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 23 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service and the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Keith Kristek.
Carnegie Man Involved in High-Speed Chase Charged with Possessing Heroin Packaged for ResaleRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count superseding indictment named William Thompson, 33, of Carnegie, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on Aug. 7, 2015, law enforcement officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Thompson, who was driving a Porsche Cayenne without a valid license. Thompson refused to stop and fled from officers. A high-speed chase with speeds of more than 100 miles per hour ensued. Thompson eventually crashed and abandoned his vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and discovered in excess of one kilogram of heroin packaged for re-sale.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of $20,000,000, 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Oakdale Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Bedford County Felon Admits Illegally Possessing 19 Firearms and AmmoRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Everett, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Gene F. Bussard, 41, of Everett, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Nov. 7, 2013, Bussard, who had been convicted in 2003 in Allegany County, Md., of theft, unlawfully possessed 19 firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms. Theft is such a crime.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 20, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
According to Mr. Hickton, Bussard is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
Washington County Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – LeeVaughn Walls, formerly of Bulger, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 63 months in prison for conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine and at least 100 grams of heroin in Western Pennsylvania, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Walls, age 37, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Walls to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence. In support of the conviction and sentence of Walls, the Court was informed that Walls was involved in the distribution of kilogram quantities of cocaine and 10- to 50-brick quantities of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks 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.
Reality TV Performer Admits Defrauding Bankruptcy Court, Illegally Transporting Cash into the U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A reality television performer pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of concealing assets from the bankruptcy court and one count of failing to report an international currency transaction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Abigale Lee Miller, 50, formerly Penn Hills, Pa, and presently living in Los Angeles, Calif., pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was informed that in 2010, Miller filed a petition in bankruptcy seeking to reorganize debts from the operation of the Abby Lee Miller Dance Studio. The court was advised that during the bankruptcy case, Miller failed to disclose to the bankruptcy court revenue she earned from the sale of merchandise and ticket sales at Master Class dance sessions she hosted in cities in the United States in 2012 and 2013. Additionally, Miller failed to report to customs officials that she transported in excess of $10,000 in foreign currency from Australia into the United States in the summer of 2014, totaling approximately $120,000.
“Today’s guilty plea exemplifies the results that are achieved when law enforcement works collaboratively towards a common goal. IRS-Criminal Investigation, along with our partners at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security-Investigations strive to protect the American public from those who attempt to circumvent the laws of our country and abuse the Bankruptcy process”, said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Akeia Conner.
“Television celebrities are held in high regard by their fan base for the fictional roles they play,” said Gregory C. Nevano, acting special agent in charge of HSI Philadelphia. “But the crimes exposed as a result of this joint investigation were far from fictional and send a very real message about the consequences that await those seeking to defraud the government.”
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Oct. 11, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Trustee, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Abigale Lee Miller.
Twice-Removed Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Re-entering U.S. after DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Following a plea of guilty, a citizen of Mexico was sentenced in federal court to time-served on his conviction of Re-Entry into the United States after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Miguel Ramirez-Ramos, 38.
According to information presented to the court, Ramirez-Ramos was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 28, 2010 and Dec. 18, 2012. Ramirez-Ramos was found to be illegally present in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, on March 1, 2016.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ramirez-Ramos.
Judge Sentences Penn Hills Cocaine Dealer to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months (10 years) imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Lamont Wright aka Whitey, aka Mont, 42, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the investigation, which began in the fall of 2011 and concluded in mid-March 2012, involved Title III wiretaps on cell phones utilized by Lamont Wright, John Saban, and Dorian Gilliam.
The investigation revealed that Randee Gilliam, a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, obtained multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine from a source of supply in Tucson, Arizona, on a regular basis. Randee Gilliam then supplied those kilograms of cocaine to John Saban, a resident of Pittsburgh, on a weekly basis. Randee Gilliam arranged for the kilograms of cocaine to be transported from Tucson, Arizona to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they were divided up into numerous parcels, hidden inside computer monitors or leather binders, and shipped via UPS or FedEX to several different shipping facilities in the Pittsburgh area. The parcels were then picked up in Pittsburgh by John Saban and his associates.
Saban would then supply nearly all of that cocaine to Lamont Wright, the primary distributor for the organization. Wright, in turn, supplied quantities of this cocaine to countless individuals to include Eric Campbell, Genaro Coleman, and Frederick Ellis.
The drug proceeds collected by Saban from Wright were concealed in protein powder containers and provided to Dorian Gilliam or, on numerous occasions, to Myrene Gilliam. Dorian and Myrene Gilliam then hid the containers in their luggage and flew via commercial airline to Randee Gilliam in Las Vegas to deliver the money. The money was then used by Randee Gilliam to purchase additional quantities of cocaine from the sources of supply in Tucson.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lamont Wright. Also assisting in the investigation were the United States Marshals Service, the Penn Hills Police, the Monroeville Police, the Pennsylvania State Police and the McKees Rocks Police.
Storeowner Admits Selling Drug Paraphernalia, Counterfeit Sports HatsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of selling and offering for sale drug paraphernalia, conspiracy to sell and offer for sale drug paraphernalia, and trademark counterfeiting, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Akhil Mishra, 72, of Glenshaw, Pa., (Indiana Twp.) pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti advised the Court that the Mishra family has been selling drug paraphernalia for more than twenty years, mainly through two stores -- Giggles, located in downtown Pittsburgh, and Rock America, located in the North Hills. Akhil Mishra was federally convicted of selling drug paraphernalia in both 1992 and 2000, and he owned and operated the Giggles store, along with his wife. Both Giggles and Rock America, however, carried much of the same merchandise, including various types of drug paraphernalia. In February 2013, agents executed search warrants at the Mishra family businesses (Giggles and Rock America), and at the homes of both Akhil Mishra and his son, Mayank Mishra, and found evidence of drug paraphernalia, including products used to dilute heroin, glassine stamp bags for packaging heroin, various marijuana-related paraphernalia, and more than $900,000 in cash.
Based on the foregoing, Mayank Mishra was arrested and granted bond. Subsequent to his release, agents received information that Mayank Mishra was continuing to sell heroin cutting agents and glassine bags for packaging. Agents then utilized a confidential informant to purchase cutting agents and glassine bags, and the confidential informant successfully recorded the transaction. The confidential informant explicitly asked for “cut” and “bags”, and Mayank Mishra provided a material typically used to dilute heroin and the glassine stamp bags typically used to store heroin. Based on that information, agents obtained another set of search warrants for Mayank Mishra’s business and home. Once again, agents seized additional heroin cutting agents, glassine bags, marijuana paraphernalia, and cash ($86,000). Mayank Mishra was arrested a second time, and he was detained pending trial. Akhil Mishra was present in the courtroom when the evidence against his son was discussed, as well as the illegality of the drug paraphernalia.
The arrest of his son did not stop Akhil Mishra from continuing to sell cut and stamp bags to heroin dealers. The agents received information that Akhil Mishra was continuing to sell that merchandise, and a confidential informant was able to make a controlled purchase from his store in June 2014. That evidence led to the execution of a third set of search warrants at various locations associated with the Mishra family and their businesses in July 2014. Once again, the agents found cut, stamp bags, and marijuana-related paraphernalia.
Separate and apart from the drug paraphernalia investigation, investigators with the Pennsylvania State Police received information that Akhil Mishra was selling counterfeit Major League Baseball Hats. In December 2014, an investigator entered Giggles and observed counterfeit Pittsburgh Pirates winter hats and baseball hats. On Feb. 25, 2015, the same investigator purchased an unlicensed counterfeit Pittsburgh Pirates winter hat. The following day, Pennsylvania State Police investigators obtained and executed a search warrant at Giggles, resulting in the seizure of the following counterfeit merchandise: 137 Pittsburgh Steelers winter hats; seven Pittsburgh Steelers headbands; 79 Pittsburgh Pirates baseball hats; 23 various National Football League winter hats; 14 National Basketball Association winter hats; seven Philadelphia Eagles hats; two Miami Dolphins hats; one Baltimore Ravens hat, one Chicago Bears hat; five Denver Broncos hats; six Seattle Seahawks hats; one Green Bay Packers hat; eight Chicago Bulls hats; and six Los Angeles Lakers hats.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016, at 2:15 pm. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Oakdale Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Akhil Mishra.
Glassport Man Admits Guilt in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
William B. Rusnock, 35, of Glassport, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
According to the information presented to the court, Rusnock made fraudulent purchases of sporting event tickets on StubHub! without paying for them, defrauding StubHub!, PayPal and Huntington Bank by using a deceptive scheme. The fraud totaled approximately $44,000.
Judge Diamond scheduled the sentencing for Oct. 18, 2016 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Cranberry Twp. Woman Admints Embezzling $150,000 from UPMC SubsidiaryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzlement related to health care, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Elizabeth A. Rotto, 46, of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rotto embezzled funds in the amount of $150,000 that belonged to Askesis Development Group, a subsidiary of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Nov. 8, 2016 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of ten 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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Rotto on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rotto.
Chinese National will be Deported for Role in Fraudulent Test Taking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Chinese national has been sentenced in federal court to one year probation with immediate deportation on his conviction of conspiracy in relation to a scheme involving the fraudulent taking of college entrance exams, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Yudong Zhang.
According to information presented to the court, Yudong Zhang acted as a facilitator for two Chinese nationals, who were associates of his, to have the SAT and TOEFL examinations taken on their behalf by others. Using counterfeit passports that contained identifying information of Zhang’s associates and the impostors’ photographs, Zhang’s associates earned scores on three college entrance examinations which were then used by Zhang’s assoicates to earn admission to Virginia Tech University. Zhang’s associates were also able to obtain F-1 Visas to enter the United States as students on the basis of that fraudulent admission.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Conti stated that her sentence reflected the seriousness of the offense in that it allowed people who otherwise would not have been eligible to enter the U.S. to enter and also brought unfairness to the American education system.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of State for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Zhang.
Western Pennsylvania’s U.S. Attorney’s Office Participates in Largest National Medicare Fraud Takedown in HistoryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell announced today an unprecedented nationwide sweep led by the Medicare Fraud Strike Force in 36 federal districts, resulting in criminal and civil charges against 301 individuals, including 61 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving approximately $900 million in false billings. Twenty-three state Medicaid Fraud Control Units also participated in today’s arrests. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is suspending payment to a number of providers using its suspension authority provided in the Affordable Care Act. This coordinated takedown is the largest in history, both in terms of the number of defendants charged and loss amount.
“As this takedown should make clear, health care fraud is not an abstract violation or benign offense – It is a serious crime,” said Attorney General Loretta Lynch. “The wrongdoers that we pursue in these operations seek to use public funds for private enrichment. They target real people – many of them in need of significant medical care. They promise effective cures and therapies, but they provide none. Above all, they abuse basic bonds of trust – between doctor and patient; between pharmacist and doctor; between taxpayer and government – and pervert them to their own ends. The Department of Justice is determined to continue working to ensure that the American people know that their health care system works for them – and them alone.”
“Protecting citizens from health care fraud schemes that can devastate lives, undermine the integrity of our health care system and drive up costs for all consumers is a worthy priority for our office,” said David J. Hickton, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “By working cooperatively with the FBI, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, our office is making good on its promise to crack down on health care fraud wherever we find it.”
Following is a list of recent health care fraud prosecutions handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Only the first case is included in the nationwide sweep statistics.
June 21, 2016: An information was unsealed charging Elizabeth A. Rotto, 46, of Cranberry Township, Pa., with embezzlement related to health care. The information alleges that Rotto embezzled funds in excess of $100 that belonged to Askesis Development Group, a subsidiary of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. A plea hearing is scheduled for tomorrow, June 23, at 2 p.m. before U.S. District Judge David Cercone.
AUSA Robert Cessar; Federal Bureau of InvestigationJune 13, 2016: An indictment was unsealed charging Daniel Garner, a dentist who practices in Pittsburgh, Pa., with distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice, and omitting material information from required reports, records and other documents. According to the seven-count indictment, from Feb. 13, 2014 through June 11, 2015, Garner distributed Oxycodone on six occasions, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice. The indictment further alleges that on Jan. 14, 2016, Garner omitted material information from an application for a Drug Enforcement Agency registration number.
AUSA Cindy K. Chung; Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement AdministrationJune 2, 2016: Mary Ann Stewart, former chief operations officer of Horizons Hospice, LLC, pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud. Horizons Hospice LLC, located in Monroeville, provided end-of-life hospice care to eligible patients. A significant number of patients were eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Stewart admitted orchestrating a scheme whereby she caused her staff to place non-qualifying patients into hospice care that were not appropriate, and then recertified the patients for continued hospice care. JudgeMcVerry scheduled sentencing for Sept. 9, 2016.
AUSAs Robert S. Cessar and Nelson P. Cohen; Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office; Health & Human Services - Office of the Inspector GeneralMay 31, 2016: Kari Richards of Latrobe pleaded guilty to charges of healthcare fraud and obtaining prescription drugs through fraud. Richards, while addicted to prescription pain killers, caused Highmark to pay more than $600,000 in connection with claims in which she sought treatment over a 16-month period from more than 100 hospitals in 11 states on more than 300 occasions. Through this behavior, Richards obtained approximately 190 prescriptions for pain medications, including prescriptions for Oxycodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone. As part of the scheme, Richards falsely represented the circumstances of injuries, which were mainly shoulder dislocations. She also misrepresented the medications that she received and her medical history. Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Sept. 7, 2016.
AUSA Brendan T. Conway; Federal Bureau of InvestigationMay 17, 2016: Samirkumar J. Shah was indicted on health care fraud charges. The indictment alleges that Shah knowingly and willfully executed and attempted to execute a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, such as, Medicare, Medicaid, Highmark, UPMC and Gateway, in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits, items and services.
AUSA Nelson P. Cohen; Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s OfficeThe Medicare Fraud Strike Force operations are part of the Health Care Fraud Prevention & Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), a joint initiative announced in May 2009 between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations and since its inception in March 2007 has charged over 2,900 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $8.9 billion.
Including today’s enforcement actions, nearly 1,200 individuals have been charged in national takedown operations, which have involved more than $3.4 billion in fraudulent billings. Today’s announcement marks the second time that districts outside of Strike Force locations participated in a national takedown, and they accounted for 82 defendants charged in this takedown.
The cases announced today are being prosecuted and investigated by U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide - including the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania - along with Medicare Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices of the Southern District of Florida, Eastern District of Michigan, Eastern District of New York, Southern District of Texas, Central District of California, Eastern District of Louisiana, Northern District of Texas, Northern District of Illinois and the Middle District of Florida; and agents from the FBI, HHS-OIG, Drug Enforcement Administration, DCIS and state Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
A complaint, indictment or information is merely a charge, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Texas Man Admits Trying to Coerce a Minor to Have Sex with HimRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Arlington, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Ray Wickliffe Howland, 56, of Arlington, Texas, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea, on or about June 25, 2015, Howland used facilities and means of interstate and foreign commerce, specifically a computer, an iPad, the Internet and the telephone, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond scheduled the sentencing for Oct. 19, 2016, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $750,000.00, 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Howland.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Armstrong County Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing Money from Greeting CardRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A former Armstrong County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of mail, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
April Kovach, age 40, formerly of Yatesboro, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Oct. 8, 2014, Kovach, a then-highway contract route driver for the U.S. Postal Service in Kittanning, did abstract and remove two $20 Federal Reserve notes that had been the contents of a greeting card envelope addressed to an individual in Cranberry Township.
Judge Diamond scheduled sentencing for Oct. 19, 2016, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five 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.
The United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kovach.
Jamaican Citizen Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A citizen of Jamaica pleaded guilty to Illegal Re-Entry in the United States after Deportation and was sentenced in federal court to twelve months on his conviction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Dwayne Lawrence Facey, a/k/a Dwayne Brown; Kimarley Williams; Damien Weatherspoon; Dameon Weatherspoon; Euvin Hunter; Roy Facey; “Euvin,” 40, formerly of Jamaica.
According to information presented to the court, Dwayne Facey, an alien who was removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on September 22, 2000, and again on September 21, 2006, was found on August 5, 2015, by law enforcement authorities in Pittsburgh, PA.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dwayne Facey.
Federal Jury Finds Washington County Man Guilty on Charges of Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On June 15, 2016, after deliberating for approximately two hours, a federal grand jury of eight men and four women found Christopher Welshans guilty of Distribution and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Christopher Welshans, age 39, of Atlasburg, PA, was tried before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose in Pittsburgh, PA.
According to Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Shanicka L. Kennedy, who prosecuted the case, on or about February 11, 2014, Christopher Welshans distributed videos and images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. In addition, on or about March 21, 2014, Christopher Welshans knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
United States District Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 24, 2016 at 10 am. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Christopher Welshans.
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.
Conneaut Lake Man Charged with Possessing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named John P. Hoffman, 53, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Hoffman distributed and possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
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.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 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 Department of Homeland Security Investigations 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.
Three Homewood Men Charged with Attempted Robbery and Violating Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Three Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and attempt to commit robbery and violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on June 14, named Anthony Bailey, age 37; Raymond Denson, age 36; and David Lipinski, age 35; all of Pittsburgh.
According to the indictment presented to the Court, the defendants conspired and attempted to rob an individual of pharmaceutical products on April 27, 2016, and brandished a firearm while doing so. The indictment also alleges that the defendants, each of whom is a convicted felon, possessed firearms despite being prohibited by law from doing so.
The law provides for a minimum sentence for each defendant of not less than seven years and a maximum of 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
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. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Northern Regional 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.
Pittsburgh Dentist Charged with Illegally Distributing PainkillersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Monroeville resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice, and omitting material information from required reports, records and other documents, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The seven-count indictment, returned on June 7 and unsealed on Monday, named Daniel Garner, 44, a dentist who practices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from Feb. 13, 2014 through June 11, 2015, Garner distributed Oxycodone on six occasions, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice. The indictment further alleges that on Jan. 14, 2016, Garner omitted material information from an application for a Drug Enforcement Agency registration number.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence on all counts of incarceration of up to 124 years, a fine of $6,250,000, a term of supervised release of three years, 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 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Daniel Garner.
Penn Hills Man Sentenced for Role in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ probation with four months to be served in community confinement and six months’ home detention on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Lavon Hudgins, 45, of Pittsburgh, PA.
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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Lavon Hudgins 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hudgins.
Wilkinsburg Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Michael Lyons, 40.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Michael Lyons 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lyons.
Penn Hills Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Anthony Donald, 48, of Pittsburgh, PA (Penn Hills).
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Anthony Donald 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Donald.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man with Heroin and Guns to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Deontay Kendricks of Pittsburgh, Pa., was sentenced to 120 months in prison for distribution of heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kendricks, 27, was sentenced in Pittsburgh by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab also imposed a three-year term of supervised release to follow the federal prison sentence. Kendricks agreed to the sentence that was imposed as part of his plea agreement.
On Feb. 18, 2015, Kendricks was caught in possession of 10 bricks of heroin and four pistols, some of which were loaded and one of which had an obliterated serial number. He possessed the bricks with the intent to distribute them and he possessed the pistols to further his drug trafficking. His possession of the bricks and the pistols was part of a course of conduct that he continued even after Feb. 18, 2015, that involved over 100 grams of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case.
Former Lake City Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Pleads Guilty to Violating the Clean Water ActRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Girard, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the Clean Water Act by tampering with required monitoring methods and submitting false statements, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mark Ventresca, 52, 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 December 2008 to December 2012, Ventresca engaged in violations of the Clean Water Act and a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit by providing false information on the Discharge Monitoring Reports submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. According to information provided to the Court, Ventresca, who was a certified wastewater operator licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was employed by the Lake City Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant as the operator of the Plant until he gave up his wastewater operating license on March 25, 2014 and resigned as the Plant operator. The Lake City Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant (the Plant) is located at 1150 Maple Avenue, Lake City, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The Plant operated pursuant to a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, effective December 1, 2009 through November 30, 2014. Subject to specific discharge limitations, the permit allowed direct wastewater discharge into the Elk Creek, a water of the United States, which flows 2.08 miles into Lake Erie, an interstate waterway and a navigable-in-fact water of the United States. The Presque Isle State Park and swimming beaches are approximately six miles downstream from the Plant’s outfall. The Erie County Health Department conducted inspections of the Plant in August 2012 and January 2013 and found discrepancies between the water sampling test results which were reported by Ventresca and the actual sample test results obtained from a contracted laboratory. The matter was referred to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for further inquiry, and a criminal investigation referral was made to the EPA.
According to information presented in court, the Plant permit set discharge limits for pollutants, including, for example, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Fecal Coliform, Total Phosphorus, pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Total Residual Chlorine (TRC). During the timeframe between December 2008 and December 2012, Ventresca engaged in violations of the Lake City Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant NPDES permit, in part, by 1) failing to treat the wastewater by not adding adequate amounts of chemical reagents to disinfect the pollutants; 2) failing to properly test for pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and/or Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) by taking a daily grab sample as required under the permit; 3) falsifying sampling results for pH, DO and TRC when no daily samples were collected; 4) falsifying analytical laboratory results for the weekly 24-hour composite sample for phosphorus; 5) failing to use a required sampling method by substituting an 8-hour composite sampler for the required 24-hour composite sampler to collect phosphorus samples; 6) falsifying analytical laboratory results for the weekly grab sample for fecal coliform; 7) falsifying weekly 24-hour composite sample for Total Suspended Solids (TSS); and, 8) discharging pollutants into waters of the United States in violation of numerical permit limits. To cover up his failure to properly operate and maintain the Plant in accordance with the permit, Ventresca routinely submitted false sampling results in monthly Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The NPDES permit required submission of monthly DMRs which were supposed to contain sampling results representative of the monthly discharges. The criminal charge to which Ventresca pleaded guilty specifically identified examples of Ventresca’s false statements concerning the testing results for Fecal Coliform and Phosphorus. Based upon the violations of the Lake City Borough Wastewater Treatment Plant NPDES permit, PADEP issued a Consent Order and Agreement (CO&A) to Ventresca. On March 25, 2014, Ventresca signed his CO&A and surrendered his wastewater operator’s license. At the same time, he resigned as the Plant operator.
“Our office has taken an aggressive approach on environmental enforcement because it is the right thing to do for people and future generations,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “We are making effective enforcement of the federal Clean Air and Clean Water acts an important priority of our work.”
“Government regulators rely on accurate data to ensure water quality is maintained and this case underscores the serious nature of falsified sampling and laboratory data reports.” said Jennifer Lynn, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Pennsylvania. “The failure to follow the requirements of the Clean Water Act jeopardizes public health and could have resulted in the otherwise undetected pollution of recreational waterways near this wastewater discharge facility.”
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Nov. 21, 2016 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 2 years in prison, a fine of $10,000, 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 released Ventresca on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division; the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest Regional Office; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Erie County, Pennsylvania Health Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ventresca.
Erie Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in prison and 4 years of supervised release on her conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Sammar Aimee Melchor, 34.
According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Melchor engaged in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between five and fifteen kilograms of cocaine which she obtained from other co-conspirators. The court was also advised that on or about October 28, 2014, Melchor distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 6 ounces of cocaine. The court was advised that the cocaine was distributed in Erie as part of a large network transporting cocaine from Mexico into Texas, and from Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania concealed in hidden compartments in vehicles.
Judge Cercone also ordered the forfeiture of two cellular telephones and a 2004 Toyota Matrix vehicle that were utilized by the defendant in the commission of the offense.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended 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; and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Melchor.
Two New York Residents Indicted in Pittsburgh on Counterfeiting ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Jamaica, NY, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Ronald Heggs, 25, and Amelia J. Costa, 22, as the defendants.
According to the indictment, in April, 2015, Heggs and Costa produced counterfeit credit cards which they used to purchase gift cards at K-Mart stores in Western Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a total sentence of five 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Heggs and Costa.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Removed Alien Found Again by Homeland Security in Western PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An individual found by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Illegal Reentry After Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Benjamin Juarez-Luna, 36, a citizen of Mexico.
According to the indictment, Juarez-Luna, an alien, who was previously removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 18, 2014, Jan. 31, 2015, Feb. 22, 2015, and July 1, 2015, was taken into custody on May 11, 2016, by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two 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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations 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.
Greene County Man Named in 41-Count Indictment Charging Production, Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Greene County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production, distribution, and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 41-count indictment named Eric James Stull, age 48, of Clarksville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from May 8, 2006 to Dec. 26, 2015, Stull produced 41 video and image files of the sexual exploitation of a minor. The indictment further alleges that on or about July 21, 2015, Stull knowingly distributed a video containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor to an undercover Pennsylvania State Police Corporal. The indictment further alleges that on or about April 29, 2016, Stull possessed images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the production of child pornography counts, a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for distribution of child pornography, a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for possession of child pornography, a maximum term of supervised release of life, and a fine of $10,250,000. 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Greene County District Attorney’s Office 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.
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.
Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Gun and AmmoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of a federal firearm violation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named David Hammond, age 35, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on April 25, 2016, David Hammond, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh 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.
FBI Investigation Leads to Indictment of Braddock Man on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Jordan Brown, 25, of Braddock, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on March 3, 2016, Jordan Brown possessed with intent to distribute and distributed a quantity of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 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 Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of 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.
El Salvadoran Indicted on Immigration ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of El Salvador, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Jorge Hernandez-Flores, 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Hernandez-Flores, having previously been deported from the United States pursuant to law on Nov. 11, 2009, was present in the Western District of Pennsylvania on May 11, 2016, without having applied for and received permission from the Attorney General of the United States, or her successor, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, for re-application for admission into the United States.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than two 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 Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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.
Butler County Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years supervised release, on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the prison sentence on Earl F. Forsythe, 53, of Valencia, Pennsylvania. In addition, Judge McVerry ordered Forsythe to pay $2,500 in restitution to two minor victims.
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on Sept. 6, 2013, a search warrant was executed at Forsythe’s residence for the seizure of computers and electronic equipment, following an undercover investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police which revealed that Forsythe had been trading images of child pornography over an on-line chat network. The contents of Forsythe’s computers revealed his possession of hundreds of videos and photographs depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Forsythe.
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.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty in Cross-Country Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A local resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Brittanie Dickerson, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Brittanie Dickerson 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.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Oct. 6, 2016. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brittanie Dickerson.
Judge Revokes Wilkinsburg Drug Trafficker’s Bond Pending SentencingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kelvin Whittle, 58, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Kelvin Whittle 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.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Oct. 6, 2016. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court revoked the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kelvin Whittle.
Butler County Woman Facing Additional Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interference with commerce by extortion and mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The seven-count superseding indictment named Pamela A. Vivirito, 46, of Valencia, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the second superseding indictment Vivirito extorted property from persons known to the grand jury. The indictment further alleges that Vivirito operated a not-for-profit charity called Equine Angels Rescue, Inc. (EAR) which solicited contributions to rescue and rehabilitate horses. Purportedly, Vivirito fraudulently solicited donations and used them for personal expenses.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 140 years in prison, a fine of $1.75 million 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Beaver Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Copyright InfringementRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and copyright infringement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Michael K. See, 34, of Beaver Falls, PA pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2010, to in and around January 22, 2015, See purchased and imported copyright infringing DVDs of television shows and movies. See then sold these copyright infringing DVDs on eBay.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Oct. 6, 2016 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, 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.
Pending sentencing, the court released the defendant on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of See.
Safe Streets Task Force Investigation Results in Six-Year Prison Sentence for Pittsburgh ManRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Devonte White, 23, of Pittsburgh, PA.
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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Devonte White 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Devonte White.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
William Blair, 35, of Pittsburgh Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, William Blair was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin, which the conspirators obtained in Cleveland, OH, and transported to the Western District of Pennsylvania for further distribution.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2016. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William Blair.