Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Horizons Hospice Chief Operating Officer Pleads Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Cambria County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mary Ann Stewart, 48, of Carrolltown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
“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 U.S. Attorney Hickton.
“This was a case where millions of dollars were paid out due to fraudulent billings,” Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane said. “We are pleased that the defendant is accepting responsibility for her actions and acknowledging the personal benefits that she received through this fraud.”
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Stewart was the chief operations officer for Horizons Hospice LLC, which 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.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Sept. 9, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. 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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Section of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution ofMary Ann Stewart.
Citizen of Guatemala Gets 3-Year Prison Sentence for Illegally Returning to U.S., Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Guatemala has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of illegal re-entry after deportation and failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States Senior District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Edward Jacinto Garcia, 30, of Guatemala.
According to information presented to the Court on July 6, 2015, Jacinto Garcia, an alien who, on Oct. 6, 2011, had been deported and removed from the United States, and having reentered the United States without permission, was found in Butler County, Pennsylvania, after being arrested and charged with driving under the influence by the Butler Township Police Department. Jacinto Garcia had been deported following conviction in the State of Nebraska of sexual assault of a minor, 1st degree, and serving a period of imprisonment. By reason of this sex offense, Jacinto Garcia was required to register as a sex offender under the provisions of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Jacinto Garcia had failed, as required, to register in the State of Pennsylvania, the state in which he was employed during the period June 2015 through July 6, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jacinto Garcia.
Uniontown Man Sentenced to 25+ Years in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 310 months imprisonment, followed by a lifetime supervised release, on charges of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on David Kinteay Carson, age 39, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. During the sentencing, Judge Cohill remarked “having served as judge here for some years, the facts are amongst the most horrific before me.”
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 26, 2014, Carson produced visual depictions of his sexual exploitation of two minors.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Uniontown City Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carson.
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.
State Prison Inmate Sentenced to 21 Months in Federal Prison for Mailing Threatening Letter to the PresidentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An inmate of SCI Somerset, in Somerset, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court on a charge of making threats against the President, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Julio Segura, Jr., 22, pleaded guilty to one count and was sentenced to 21 months of imprisonment by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that while housed at SCI Somerset, Segura mailed a letter to the White House threatening President Obama.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Julio Segura, Jr.
Judge Sentences Felon Convicted of Illegal Gun Possession to 70 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Brandon Moorefield, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Moorefield was convicted after a jury trial in November, 2015. According to information presented during trial, on Nov. 13, 2014, Wilkinsburg police officers on patrol near Swissvale Avenue observed the defendant, Brandon Moorefield, who was previously convicted of felony drug and gun offenses, carrying what appeared to be a firearm with an extended clip protruding from beneath his clothing. The officers approached Moorefield, who then fled with the firearm in hand and briefly hid near a building located on Stoner Way. Moorefield was arrested minutes later, and when the officers returned to the area on Stoner Way where Moorefield had been seen hiding, officers discovered a loaded Sturm, Ruger and Co. model P-95, 9 mm firearm with an extended clip. The clip was loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, and one round was chambered.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wilkinsburg Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brandon Moorefield.
Judge Sentences Counterfeiter to 41 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 41 months incarceration and three years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy and making counterfeit currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on William Perry Bagley, 32, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around May 2013 to June 20, 2013, Bagley made counterfeit currency and Bagley had others pass counterfeit currency on his behalf.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bagley.
Glassport Woman Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Finney Funeral HomeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release and ordered to pay $249,664.80 in restitution on her conviction of issuing forged checks, theft of government money and access device fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Deborah A. Mattie, 48, of Glassport, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the Court at the guilty plea, Mattie defrauded the Finney Funeral Home.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Information in this case.
Latrobe Woman Admits Defrauding Highmark to Obtain Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of health care fraud and obtaining prescription drugs through fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kari Richards, 29, of Latrobe, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 Schedule II controlled substances Oxycodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone. As part of the scheme, Ms. 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 September 7, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of fourteen 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Richards.
Large-Scale Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Eric Ewell, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty and was sentenced to 144 months in prison for conspiring to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Ewell, age 33, was sentenced in Pittsburgh by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer also imposed a 5-year term of supervised release to follow the federal prison sentence.
In conjunction with the guilty plea, the Court was informed that, between 2011 and 2013, Ewell resided in North Carolina, but frequently returned to his native Pittsburgh for several days at a time. One of the reasons for many of Ewell’s return trips to Pittsburgh was to distribute heroin in Western Pennsylvania. Ewell acknowledged as part of his plea agreement that he was responsible for the distribution of between three and ten kilograms of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration in Pittsburgh, Charlotte (North Carolina), and New York City, the Internal Revenue Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, the Wilkins Township Police Department, the East Pittsburgh Police Department, the New York Police Department, the Blair County District Attorney's Office, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 25 years in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, possession of firearms in connection with a drug trafficking offense, possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and possession of an unregistered firearm, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Richard Bush, 53, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Bush supplied heroin to members of a violent street gang called the East Hills Bloods, who operated out of the East Hills section of Pittsburgh. A search warrant executed at his home on March 14, 2012 led to the seizure of more than 9,000 stamp bags of heroin and a cache of firearms secreted throughout his home, including a sawed-off shotgun. Bush conspired with among others, Mayank Mishra and Willis Wheeler, both of whom are awaiting sentencing. Mishra participated in the heroin distribution conspiracy by supplying stamp bags and material used to dilute heroin to Bush and numerous other Pittsburgh area heroin dealers for more than a decade at his Rock America store, which was operated out of the Northway Mall. Search warrants executed at Rock American and at Mishra’s home on Feb. 26, 2013 led to the seizure of more than two million stamp bags, which, if filled with heroin, would have amounted to more than 75 kilograms of heroin. Federal agents also seized a vast inventory of materials used to dilute heroin and more than $900,000 in cash, which the jury forfeited to the United States as proceeds of his crimes. Wheeler, who was convicted at a trial earlier this year, supplied the undiluted heroin that Bush processed for retail distribution in a laboratory he maintained in the basement of his home. On March 14, 2012, the federal agents found more than 700 grams of heroin in Wheeler’s car and an apartment he maintained for the purposes of storing heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Donovan Cocas prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bush, Mishra and Wheeler. The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consists of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Dept., Oakdale Police Dept, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force also received assistance in this case from the Pennsylvania State Police.
Federal Jury Finds North Side Man Guilty in Armed Robbery of Beaver Falls BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating just under two hours, a federal jury of nine men and three women found Derrick Grant guilty of three crimes on May 27, 2016: bank robbery, armed bank robbery, and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Derrick Grant, 27, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA was tried before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on October 9, 2015, Derrick Grant, robbed the First National Bank in Beaver Falls. Grant, armed with a firearm, entered the bank and stole a total of $5,523 from three tellers.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Sept. 27, 2016 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 7 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Ross Township Police Department and the Beaver Falls Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Derrick Grant.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Eric J. Westover, 30, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts of the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Dec. 18, 2013, Westover possessed less than 100 grams of heroin with the intent to distribute it.
In addition, in 2006 Westover had been convicted in Cambria County, Pa., of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. On Dec. 18, 2013, he unlawfully possessed a Bersa Arms pistol and a Harrington and Richardson pistol. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year from possessing ammunition or firearms. Possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is such a crime.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 4, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses 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 Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnstown Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Westover.
According to Mr. Hickton, Westover 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.
Felon Admits Illegally Possessing Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - On May 23, 2016, a former resident of Pittsburgh and Gibsonia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Issa Jamal Battle, aka “Ees-Bay,” pleaded guilty to the one-count federal indictment before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Battle had been previously convicted of several prior felony charges and was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for an unrelated incident when members of the United States Marshal Fugitive Task Force and Detectives from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police stopped him on California Avenue while driving a rental vehicle. Despite the clear and direct orders of the officers, the defendant was observed making hand movements toward the seat belt lock area. There, police located a 45 Auto caliber semi-automatic handgun loaded with ammunition.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Sept. 7, 2016 at 9:30am. The law provides for a total sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 for defendants who qualify as an “Armed Career Criminal” with at least three prior convictions for crimes of violence or serious drug offenses. 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.
The Judge ordered the United States Marshals Service to transport Battle back to jail and incarcerate him until his September sentencing date.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crime Section of the United States Attorney’s Office is prosecuting Battle on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney David J. Hickton commended all of the law enforcement efforts that brought Battle to justice.
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 crimes. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
New York Man Charged in Connection to the Illegal Acquisition of PA Guns Bound for Other StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A New York resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, making false statements in connection with the acquisition of firearms, and transferring firearms to residents of another state, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 17-count second superseding indictment named one defendant: Nathan Lawrence, age 33, of Brooklyn, NY.
According to the second superseding indictment, between December 2014, and September 2015, Lawrence conspired and caused others to make false statements in connection with the acquisition of at least 20 firearms from licensed dealers in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and also aided and abetted the transfer of firearms between residents of different states.
At nine of the seventeen counts, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. At the remaining counts, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than five years in prison. 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.
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. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with detectives from the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the second superseding indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A second superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indiana, Pa., Man Charged with Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Indiana County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Carmen Donofrio, 62, of Indiana, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around July 2013, through in and around May 2015, Donofrio received approximately $16,577 in Supplemental Security Income to which he was not entitled because he had concealed a retirement account from the Social Security Administration.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $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.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Illegal Alien Removed Four Times from U.S. Found Again in Pittsburgh-areaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Martin Esquivel-Hernandez, 35, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Martin Esquivel-Hernandez, an illegal alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Nov. 4, 2011, Dec. 8, 2011, April 11, 2012 and May 19, 2012.
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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
DEA and Pittsburgh Police Investigation Leads to Drug Charges Against Pittsburgh ManRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Michael Mills-Allen, 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Dec. 12, 2015, the defendant possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and 28 grams or more of crack.
The law provides for a maximum 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen S. Gilson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police 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.
Uniontown Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Fayette County resident has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 10 years on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Andre Saunders, 35, formerly of Uniontown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Saunders had regular loads of 20 or more kilograms of cocaine, and multiple kilograms of heroin, shipped from California, hidden in compartments inside of cars. Saunders then supplied multiple drug dealers in the Uniontown area, and laundered more than $350,000 through an account at 84 Lumber and through a Home Equity Line of Credit. Saunders also laundered his drug proceeds by using cash to buy postal money orders, which he would use to pay off luxury cars and other debts.
In addition to the sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, Saunders will forfeit the following property to the United States: a 2008 BMW sedan; five luxury watches and a necklace; $325,120.00 in cash; his home in Uniontown; the proceeds of the sale of a property in Uniontown; a 9mm pistol; and a money judgment of $100,000.00.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led the multi-agency investigation of this case. The investigation also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fayette County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Barbara K. Doolittle and Conor Lamb prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Removed Alien Sentenced to 5 Months in Prison for Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of Illegal Reentry after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Javier Morales-Bautista, 35, of Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, Morales-Bautista, who was previously removed from the United States on November 27, 2013 and September 20, 2014, was found in Butler County, Pennsylvania on December 26, 2015 without having applied for or received permission to reenter the United States from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
Imposing sentence, Judge Conti ordered that Mr. Morales-Bautista must serve 5 months incarceration to be followed by 3 years supervised release and 6 months home detention.
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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Morales-Bautista.
Washington, Pa., Woman Charged with Trafficking Heroin Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Quiote Guarino, of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of trafficking in heroin and fentanyl, which resulted in serious bodily injury, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 17 and unsealed today, charged Guarino, 24, with possession with intent to distribute and distributing heroin and fentanyl, which resulted in serious bodily injury to at least one person, in February 2016.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than twenty years, and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $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 Katherine A. King is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Washington County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, and numerous local police departments including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Donora Police Department, the Monessen Police Department, and the Charleroi Police Department, as well as the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, the Washington County Adult Probation Office, the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’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.
Warren County Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Youngsville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 35 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Tyler Mitchell Engle, 24, of Youngsville, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Engle possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Engle.
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.
Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Maryland resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Simon T. Tusha, 43, of Forest Hill, Maryland pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct and impede the IRS before United States District Judge Terrance F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Tusha, who during the relevant time was employed by a large international corporation in order to enter into agreements with data centers in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, had taken kickback or bribe payments from a company called Trammell-Crow Netherlands (TCN) and from a company called Evolved IT in the United Kingdom. The payments were in connection with favorable treatment and advantageous agreements that TCN and Evolved IT received from Tusha’s employer that they would not have received in the absence of his intervention. The evidence presented to the Court showed that during the time period 2008 through 2010 Tusha received in excess of $2,700,000 in payments that he did not report on his income tax returns, leaving a tax due of more than $960,000.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Sept. 16, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of up to $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.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tusha.
Former Erie Resident Admits He Failed to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of failure to register under SORNA, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Warren Gannoe, 57, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gannoe knowingly failed to update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Judge Cercone will schedule the sentencing at a later date. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal’s Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gannoe.
Texas Man Coordinated Cocaine Shipments in Large Scale Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Raul Gerardo Ruiz Maldonado, 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Maldonado engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine. According to information provided to the Court, the investigation revealed that an Erie area drug trafficking organization was being sourced primarily cocaine from individuals in Texas associated with organizations in Mexico. The drugs were imported into the United States and were then brought into Houston, Texas. Once in Houston, co-conspirators coordinated the drug loads to be brought into Ohio and Pennsylvania. According to information provided to the Court, the cocaine was transported from Houston, Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere using vehicles rigged with hidden compartments. The Court was advised that Ruiz Maldonado, known as Nariz, became the coordinator of the shipments of cocaine out of Texas to the Erie, Pennsylvania based organization. Members of the conspiracy in Erie would contact Ruiz Maldonado in Texas and place orders for the cocaine. Ruiz Maldonado would then work closely with other co-conspirators to communicate with the organizations’ drug couriers as they traveled to Texas. Ruiz Maldonado and others then arranged for the drug courier vehicle to arrive at the distribution point, to receive the shipments of drug money, and to coordinate loading the kilograms of cocaine into the hidden compartment.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 10:45 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Maldonado.
Ohio Man Admits Being Cocaine Courier for Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Akron, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Safa Gobah, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Gobah engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The Court was advised that Gobah’s specific role in the conspiracy was to assist in driving vehicles to the Houston, Texas area to pick up loads of cocaine and then to transport the cocaine to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, with the cocaine concealed in hidden compartments. According to information provided to the Court, on November 1, 2014, Gobah was driving one of the load vehicles with another co-conspirator as a passenger when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. The Court was advised that Gobah and her co-conspirator had just traveled to the Houston, Texas area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than 5 kilograms of cocaine.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The 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, and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gobah.
Michigan Man Charged with Possessing CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Michigan resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Carl McDaniel, age 52, of Helen, Michigan.
According to the indictment, on or about March 22, 2016, McDaniel possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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 Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Pennsylvania State Police 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.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty in Texas-to-Pennsylvania Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Wilson Enrique-Reyes, 33, 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 July 2014 through January 2015, Enrique-Reyes engaged in a conspiracy with two other individuals to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 5 and 15 kilograms of cocaine. According to information provided to the Court, Enrique-Reyes worked with his associates to have kilograms of cocaine transported from Houston, Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Further, the Court was advised that prior to his arrest in February 2015, law enforcement officers discovered that Enrique-Reyes and his associate in Erie, Pennsylvania, were working to modify an Audi vehicle with a hidden compartment large enough to conceal 10 kilograms of cocaine. When Enrique-Reyes was arrested in Lawrence, Massachusetts in February, 2015, the Audi vehicle, equipped with the electronically controlled hidden compartment, was found and was seized.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The 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, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Enrique-Reyes.
Kittanning Man Indicted on Health Care Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Samirkumar J. Shah, 53 of Kittanning, PA, as a defendant.
According to the information presented to the court, 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.
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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General 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.
Edinboro Woman Sentenced to Time-Served for Allowing Her Home to be Used as Stash HouseRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Edinboro, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to the 15½ months of time already served in jail and was ordered to forfeit $14,340.00 on her conviction of making her home available for drug activities, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Christian Urrutia Rojas, 30.
According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Rojas engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, ounces of high purity methamphetamine, and ounces of heroin. Rojas facilitated the conspiracy by knowingly having her home in Edinboro used as the drop-off point for drugs and money.
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 Rojas.
Donora Man Charged in Series of Mon Valley Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Washington County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Aaron Huey, age 39, of Donora, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Huey committed the unarmed robbery of the Frick Tri-County Federal Credit Union, located at 235 Pittsburgh Street, in Uniontown, PA, on Dec. 11, 2015, and the armed robbery of the PNC Bank at 101 South Vine Street, in Carmichaels, PA, on March 16, 2016. The indictment also alleges that Huey attempted to rob the PNC Bank at 141 Pennsylvania Avenue, in Charleroi, PA, on March 18, 2016.
For the unarmed and attempted bank robberies, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the armed bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Charleroi Regional Police Department, and the Uniontown 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.
Brooklyn Man Admits Paying Others to Purchase 44 Firearms for His UseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of making a false statement in connection with the acquisition of firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Michael Bassier, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bassier used straw purchasers to buy firearms for him in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The straw purchasers would state, at the time of purchase, that they were the actual buyers of the firearms, when in fact Bassier was the actual buyer. He provided money to the straw purchasers and told them what to buy, and then took possession of the firearms afterward. Overall, Bassier aided and abetted the purchase of 44 firearms between December 2014 and August 2015.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2016. 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 ordered that Bassier remain detained.
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. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with detectives from the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Oakmont Man Pleads Guilty to Structuring Cash Withdrawls to Evade Reporting RequirementsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of structuring financial transactions, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Louis Lammana, 49, of Oakmont, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lamanna structured cash withdrawals in 2011 and 2013 in a manner designed to evade the reporting requirements of the various financial institutions. Lamanna structured over $157,000 during those two time periods with the bulk of the structuring occurring in 2013.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 3, 2016. Pending sentencing, the court continued Lamanna on bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway, Michael L. Ivory, and Michael A. Comber are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Louis Lammana.
Cambria County Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Montez Ricardo Holland, 54, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Jan. 4, 2013, Holland possessed a Sturm, Ruger & Company, Model P95DC, 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. On Apr. 27, 1998, Holland was convicted in Lycoming County, Pa., of a drug trafficking crime, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 30, 2016, at 1:00 p.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 U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Holland.
According to Mr. Hickton, Holland 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.
West Mifflin Man Sentenced to 5½ Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 66 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 Aaron Atkins, 34, of West Mifflin, PA.
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, Aaron Atkins 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 Atkins.
McKees Rocks Man Gets 6 Years in Prison for Role in Cross-Country Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County 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 Ellis Harris, 45, of McKees Rocks, 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. The interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Ellis Harris 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 Ellis Harris.
Removed Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced 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 Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Jamie Parra-Serrano, 38, formerly from Mexico.
According to the information presented to the court, Jamie Parra-Serrano, an illegal alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Aug. 24, 2012. Jamie Parra-Serrano was located in Allegheny County on Oct. 20, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the successful prosecution of Jamie Parra-Serrano in this case.
Washington, Pa., Man Pleads Guilty to Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Washington County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kenneth Marcel Higgenbotham, age 50, formerly of Washington, PA, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around October 2013, and continuing until in and around April 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Higgenbotham conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams, but less than 112 grams, of crack cocaine.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for September 27, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street 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 Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Higgenbotham.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to Prison for Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment, followed by 4 years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Liban Dirie, 47, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information possessed by the Court, from in and around January, 2014, and continuing thereafter to on or about Feb. 11, 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Dirie conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET), and a task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dirie. The task force also was comprised of police officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Baldwin Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, Scott Township Police Department, Allegheny County Police, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Duquesne Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department.
Joint Investigation Leads to Indictment of Tyrone Man for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Blair County resident was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Joseph A. Mattern, 21, of Tyrone, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 19, 2015, he knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona 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.
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 better 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.
Floridian Sentenced to Prison for Hiding Assets from Bankruptcy CourtRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Florida resident has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $48,260.00 on his conviction concealment of bankruptcy assets, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Gregory M. Makozy, Sr., 55, of Port St. Lucie, FL.
According to the information presented to the court, the government represented to the court that Makozy concealed assets from the bankruptcy court in a Chapter 7 Petition in bankruptcy filed in 2013 by transferring assets he owned to others, including a 2005 Aston Martin automobile, and real estate located in Butler County, PA.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Office of the United States Trustee, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the successful prosecution of Gregory M. Makozy.
East Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Participating in Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 72 months (6 years), to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Allen William Turner, 48, of East Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from September 2013 to December 2013, Turner conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, and more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted 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 and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Other participating agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Munhall Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police Department.
Cresson Man Charged with Making False Statements on Loan ApplicationsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – On May 11, 2016, a Cambria County resident was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of making false statements on loan applications, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment named Justin M. Hickox, 28, of Cresson, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Sept. 4, Sept. 18 and Oct. 23, 2014, Hickox knowingly made false statements in applications for vehicle and personal loans from G.A.P. Federal Credit Union and Your Choice Federal Credit Union.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 90 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of 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.
Clairton Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking a ChildRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release, on a charge of Sex Trafficking of a Child, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Robert Allen Middlebrook, 41, of Clairton, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that in February 2015, Middlebrook knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided and obtained female minors to engage in commercial sex acts.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Middlebrook.
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.
Altoona Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pa. was indicted on May 11, 2016, by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Timothy Hufford, 55, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 18, 2015, he knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona 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.
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 better 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.
Ohio Man Charged with April Robberies at Erie Bank, Gas StationRead the Press Release
ERIE, PA. – A former resident of Wickliffe, Ohio, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Zachary Price, 33.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on April 24, 2016, Price robbed the Kwik Fill located at 3620 Peach Street, Erie, Pennsylvania. On April 25, 2016 Price robbed $2,000 from the Huntington Bank, located at 5808 Peach Street, Erie, Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie Police Department and the Millcreek 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.
New Kensington Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Violating Gun and Drug LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County resident has been has been sentenced in federal court to 144 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Kevin Witcher, 41, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania.
According to information possessed by the Court, on or about Feb. 3 and 4, 2015, Witcher, a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Ruger, .357 caliber revolver, and a Zastava Arms PAP, Model M85PV pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm. Additionally, Witcher possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and distributed and possessed with intent to distribute an additional quantity of heroin, while possessing the two firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Witcher.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer to 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH. – A resident of Allegheny Count, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 240 months, followed by 10 years supervised release, on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Rodney Howard, age 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about September 18, 2014, Howard possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance which contained heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Stephen Gilson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney David Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Howard.
Erie Man Charged with Violating Federal Bankruptcy LawsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal bankruptcy laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Douglas A. Grooms, 45, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Grooms concealed property from the United States Bankruptcy Trustee in connection with his bankruptcy case.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five 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 Christian A. Trabold 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.
Crawford County Man Charged with Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Crawford County, 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 superseding indictment named Alan Thomas Rigby, 68, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Rigby possessed and received 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 60 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police 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.
Charges Filed in Belarus as Part of an International Investigation into the Bugat BotnetRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two Belarus citizens have been charged in Belarus for participating in an international criminal conspiracy that used the botnet known as “Bugat” to steal banking and other credentials from infected computers, David J. Hickton, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pittsburgh Division announced today.
Aleskey Semeonovich Yaroshevich, 34, and Egor Nikolayevich Pavlenko, 41, both of Minsk, Belarus, are being investigated by the FBI as part of an international crime group responsible for the theft of money on the Internet and the distribution of malware programs. Yaroshevich and Pavlenko are in police custody.
An indictment returned in the Western District of Pennsylvania in August 2015 alleged that conspirators used the Bugat malware to steal banking credentials and then, using the stolen credentials, to initiate fraudulent electronic funds transfers of millions of dollars from the victims’ bank accounts into the accounts of money mules, who further transferred the stolen funds to other members of the conspiracy. The indictment detailed two electronic fund transfers from bank accounts held by Penneco Oil, based in Westmoreland County. According to the indictment, the conspirators caused the international transfer on Sept. 4, 2012, of $1,350,000 from a Penneco Oil account at First Commonwealth Bank to an account in Minsk, Belarus. Yaroshevich and Pavlenko are believed to be the recipients of that $1.35 million wire transfer.
“Chasing cyber criminals requires innovation, determination and international cooperation,” stated U.S Attorney Hickton. “As these arrests demonstrate, we will pursue participants in criminal organizations over borders and around the world to ensure they are held accountable.”
“We recognize and appreciate the willingness and efforts of our Belarusian law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute this matter,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Smith. “It is only through extensive international cooperation such as this, that we can ensure there is no safe haven for Cyber criminals.”
The Investigative Committee of the Republic of Belarus, Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Belarus Attorney General’s Office have posted a release in Russian detailing the Belarusian charges. The link to the press release is: http://sk.gov.by/ru/news-ru/view/sledstvennyj-komitet-belarusi-osuschestvljaet-sovmetsnuju-operatsiju-s-fbr-2588/