Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH - A native of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of reentry of removed alien and was sentenced to time served, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jose Alfredo Mora-Aguilar, 34, of Coraopolis, 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 Mora-Aguilar was found in the United States despite having been removed on two prior occasions.

Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jose Alfredo Mora-Aguilar.

PITTSBURGH - A Louisiana resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 11-count indictment named Rex Alan Harris, aka Michael Harris, Rex Rogan, Rex Alan, dba “Agents By City,” 40, of Covington, La., as a defendant. The indictment was returned on April 19, and unsealed yesterday following Harris’ arrest in Louisiana. His arraignment is scheduled for May 23, 2016, in U.S. District Court in Western Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, since 2008, Harris defrauded hundreds of realtors nationwide whom he promised television and internet advertising to generate home sales. Realtors were induced to pay thousands of dollars for advertising on major television networks based upon the realtors’ zip codes. However, the advertising never occurred, and Harris and others spent the money for their personal benefit including purchases of tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise through PayPal, Footlocker and Nike.com, and New Orleans Saints season tickets, totaling in excess of $2 million.

Realtors who paid money to any of the following entities - “Our Family First Realty,” “Better Realty Deals,” “Amazing Realty Deals,” “The Top Agent/Monolith Media Group,” “American Real Estate Idols” or “Agents by City” - may be victims and are encouraged to call the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or 1-800-2255-324.

The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 at each count 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 U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI 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.

A Louisiana resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced today.

The 11-count indictment named Rex Alan Harris aka Michael Harris, Rex Rogan, Rex Alan, dba “Agents By City,” 40, of Covington, Louisiana.  The indictment was returned on April 19, and unsealed yesterday following Harris’ arrest in Louisiana.  His arraignment is scheduled for May 23, in U.S. District Court in Western Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, since 2008, Harris defrauded hundreds of realtors nationwide whom he promised television and internet advertising to generate home sales.  Realtors were induced to pay thousands of dollars for advertising on major television networks based upon the realtors’ zip codes.  However, the advertising never occurred and Harris and others spent the money for their personal benefit including purchases of tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise through PayPal, Footlocker and Nike.com and New Orleans Saints season tickets, totaling in excess of $2 million.

Realtors who paid money to any of the following entities - “Our Family First Realty,” “Better Realty Deals,” “Amazing Realty Deals,” “The Top Agent/Monolith Media Group,” “American Real Estate Idols” or “Agents by City” - may be victims and are encouraged to call the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or 1-800-2255-324.

The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 at each count 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 U.S.  Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dorian D. Stephens, 29, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Nov. 18, 2014, Stephens distributed less than 500 grams of cocaine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stephens.

PITTSBURGH –A National Institute of Justice survey revealed that between 60 and 75 percent of ex-offenders are jobless up to a year after release yet many employers can’t find qualified employees to fill their jobs. (http://www.nij.gov/topics/corrections/reentry/pages/employment.aspx)

In light of this information a cluster of community organizations formed the Allegheny County Anchored Re-Entry Consortium (ACAR), which today is hosting an educational program for employers entitled Business Leaders’ Summit: Reentrants Work! at Community College of Allegheny County – Allegheny Campus. The Summit is designed to provide employers with valuable information they need to consider hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, also known as returning citizens or reentrants. Specifically, the Reentrants Work! Summit is designed to share best practices from leading employers along with a “How to Guide”; discuss the business case for hiring reentrants; and detail the cost-benefit analysis and tax credits for hiring reentrants. Nearly 200 business leaders, elected officials and heads of nonprofits were invited to attend.

U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, CCAC President Dr. Quintin B. Bullock and Michael J. Smith, President and CEO Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania welcomed participants. Ron Painter, President of the National Association of Workforce Investment Boards, provided the keynote address. Two 30-minute panels followed: the first - “Making the Business Case for Hiring Re-entrants” featured corrections and public policy officials and a second panel - “Models of Best Practice” – featured employers and reentrants. Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto and CCAC President Bullock provided closing remarks.

“We are committed to preparing those who have paid their debt to society for substantive opportunities beyond the prison gates and addressing obstacles to successful reentry that too many returning citizens encounter,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Supporting successful reentry is an essential part of our mission to promote public safety – because by helping individuals return to productive, law-abiding lives, we can reduce crime and make our neighborhoods better places to live.”

“In the county, we spend a great deal of time, effort and money providing those who are in the criminal justice system with the tools and resources they need to turn their lives around, but that effort is for naught if there are not organizations willing to look past their records to the individual they are and the skills and talents that they bring to the table,” said County Executive Fitzgerald. “We are trying to lead by example, which is why the county enacted a ‘Ban the Box’ policy last year. When permissible, we look at job applicants on a case by case basis with any criminal record just one piece of the overall process. This is an important conversation to have, and we’re proud to be part of it with our corporate partners.”

“CCAC is pleased to support the efforts of the Allegheny County Anchored Re-Entry Consortium and to host the ACAR Business Leaders’ Summit. With our shared commitment to providing innovative programming designed to transform lives, we look forward to our continued collaboration and to the positive outcomes that are sure to result for the individuals who are being reintegrated into their communities, as well as for the employers and for the region as a whole,” said CCAC President Bullock.

Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Secretary John Wetzel added, “Every American benefits when an individual who was incarcerated re-enters society and becomes a good citizen. Meaningful employment is a critical component in achieving that objective.”

Mayor Peduto said, “Ex-offenders are our returning Americans that deserve a second chance like anyone else. We are missing out on a huge potential source of our workforce if we aren't considering them in our hiring decisions.”

The ACAR began as an initiative led by CCAC to establish credit and non-credit programs for reentrants. The ACAR has since evolved into a consortium of members from local government, community service agencies, faith-based organizations, corrections, the justice system, training and education institutions partnering to reduce recidivism through training, educational and employment opportunities.

PITTSBURGH -A Squirrel Hill resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of contempt of court, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dov Ratchkauskas, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ratchkauskas is a defendant in a mortgage fraud case, and in 2011 the Court released him on conditions of bond that limited his travel to the Western District of Pennsylvania, required him to turn in his passport, and prohibited him from obtaining a new passport. Shortly after his arraignment, the defendant sought permission of the Court to travel to Hawaii, but the Court denied the motion. After a Superseding Indictment and numerous continuances, the defendant agreed to plead guilty, and, on Feb. 20, 2015, the Court scheduled the change of plea hearing for Feb. 24, 2015. On Feb. 20, 2015, Ratchkauskas, while in Florida without the permission of the Court, applied for a U.S. passport on an expedited basis. Later investigation revealed that he had traveled back and forth from Florida several times between December 2014 and February 2015. He did not have permission to travel to Florida or anywhere else outside of the Western District of Pennsylvania. While on bond, the defendant also obtained an Israeli passport without the permission of the Court. Ratchkauskas is a citizen of both the United States and Israel, and he has bank accounts in Israel. Interviews of associates indicated that the defendant intended to flee the United States to Israel, but the defendant was arrested before he could flee. The defendant, however, while admitting to willfully violating the conditions of bond, denies that he intended to flee the Country.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison. 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ratchkauskas.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months probation, with the first four months to be served on home detention with electronic monitoring, on his conviction of possession of a stolen firearm. In addition, Nolder, Jr. will pay $15,421.23 in restitution, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Daniel Thomas Nolder, Jr., 26, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around Aug. 1, 2014, through Dec. 15, 2014, Nolder Jr., aided and abetted Timothy Brown, Jr., who possessed, bartered, and disposed of 53 stolen firearms. Federal law prohibits individuals from possessing, bartering, and disposing of stolen firearms.

This case involved the theft of firearms from a licensed gun store which were ultimately traded for heroin.

Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney David Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Rochester Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and, Pennsylvania State Police – Beaver Barracks, for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nolder, Jr.

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.

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh woman and the local restaurant she owns have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on April 19 and unsealed today, charges Hsiao Yen Wu, aka Sophia Wu, age 40, of Pittsburgh, Pa, with falsifying, concealing, or covering up by trick, scheme, or device a material fact, and charges Sun Penang, Inc., located at 5829 Forbes Avenue, in Squirrel Hill with willfully violating the Fair Labor Standards Act.

“All employees working in Western Pennsylvania deserve to be treated fairly under the law,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Prosecutions like these demonstrate our commitment to stopping wage and hour abuses in the workforce.”

“An important mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate the alleged undermining of the enforcement responsibilities of Department of Labor agencies. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations,” stated John Spratley, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations.

According to the indictment presented to the court, after Sun Penang had agreed to pay back wage payments, Wu represented that Sun Penang had issued all back wage payments checks and provided faxed copies of these checks to the Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Office in Pittsburgh. However, Wu knew that the employees were not paid back wage payments because these employees were required either to deposit the checks into Wu's personal bank account or to work without pay until Sun Penang recouped the wages. The indictment also alleges that Sun Penang failed to pay minimum wages and overtime pay to their employees from Jan. 1, 2013 to Dec. 31, 2013.

With respect to Wu, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. With respect to Sun Penang, the law provides for a maximum fine of $20,000. 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 defendants.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division and Office of Inspector General jointly 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 - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to 14 months in prison for violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Juan Rivera-Santos, 39, of Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, on or about Sept. 17, 2015, Rivera-Santos was found in North Versailles, Pa., after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on several occasions.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Hickton commended the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the successful prosecution of Rivera-Santos.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of distributing cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on James K. Parker, 43, of Johnstown, Pa.

According to information presented to the Court, on Oct. 18, 2012, Parker distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Parker.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ probation, the first year of which to be served as home confinement, on her conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Donna M. Hawk, 50, of Johnstown, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, from Jan. 31, 2013, to April 23, 2013, Hawk, along with others, conspired to distribute less than 28 grams of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack.”

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hawk.

PITTSBURGH - A Chinese national has been sentenced in federal court to six months home detention on her conviction of conspiracy in relation to a scheme involving the fraudulent taking of college entrance exams, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Yue Zou, 22, of Blacksburg, Virginia.

According to information presented to the court, Yue Zou paid two individuals to take the SAT and TOEFL examinations on her behalf. Using counterfeit passports that contained Zou’s identifying information and the impostor’s photograph, two test-takers earned scores on the two college entrance examinations, which were then used by Zou to earn admission to Virginia Tech University. Zou was also able to obtain an F-1 Visa to enter the United States as a student 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 Zou.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Aaron Reed, 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, Aaron Reed 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 Aug. 16, 2016. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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 Reed.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Crawford County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Alan Thomas Rigby, 68, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Rigby 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 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 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.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 5 years’ probation with 10 months’ home detention on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Roger Dorsey, 32, of West Mifflin, 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, Roger Dorsey was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distributing crack cocaine, which was shipped from California in powder form 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 Dorsey.

PITTSBRUGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of falsification of a firearms purchase form, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Edwina Yancey, 31, of East 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 on or about July 28, 2014, Edwina Yancey, with the intent to deceive a licensed firearms dealer, made a false statement in connection with her purchase of a Glock, Model 23, .40 caliber pistol. Following her purchase of the pistol, Edwina Yancey transferred it to a person she knew to be a convicted felon, who was prohibited from possessing the pistol.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aug. 11, 2016. 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.

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 Edwina Yancey.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Somerset County resident pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Samantha E. McKenzie, 21, of Friedens, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on Jan. 14, 2013, McKenzie, along with another person, possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 10, 2016, at 11 a.m.  The law provides for a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.  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 U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pennsylvania State Police Troop A Barracks, the Somerset Borough Police Department and the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McKenzie.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hooversville, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ probation and restitution ordered to be paid to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $98,127.60, 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 Robert A. Varnish, Jr.

According to information presented to the court, during the calendar year 2011, Varnish received taxable income in the sum of $135,011.75, with an income tax due and owing of $28,760.00.  Likewise, in calendar year 2012, Varnish received taxable income in the sum of $108,453.61, with an income tax due and owing of $21,104.  During both of these calendar years, Varnish evaded paying the income tax due and owing to the Internal Revenue Service by concealing his true and correct income.  Mr. Varnish also had taxes due and owing, with interest, to the Internal Revenue Service from calendar years 2009 and 2010.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Varnish.

The Justice Department announced today that it has closed its investigation into the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PDOC) following significant improvements made by PDOC to its policies and practices that are intended to protect prisoners with serious mental illness and intellectual disabilities from the harmful effects of solitary confinement.  

The department opened its statewide investigation into the use of solitary confinement on prisoners with serious mental illness and intellectual disabilities in May 2013 after finding a pattern of constitutional violations as well as violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act at the State Correctional Institution in Cresson, Pennsylvania.  After working in cooperation with PDOC to conduct an intensive review of prisons across the state, on Feb. 24, 2014, the department notified PDOC that the same violations discovered at Cresson were present across the system. 

In its closing letter to PDOC, the department noted that PDOC demonstrated its commitment to reforming its use of solitary confinement by working closely with the department and beginning improvements at the outset of the investigation.  Since then, PDOC has worked to ensure that prisoners with serious mental illness and/or intellectual disabilities are no longer subjected to solitary confinement and are instead provided with specialized treatment to meet their individualized needs.  The closing letter also identifies areas where continued efforts at improvement would be appropriate. 

“Solitary confinement should be used only when necessary—never as a default solution,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.  “Today, Pennsylvania is headed in the right direction.  We commend the state for beginning to reform its system to ensure that prisoners with serious mental illness and intellectual disabilities receive care, rather than suffer harm.  Those prisoners are in a much better position than they were three years ago to return to the community.”

“Our civil rights enforcement efforts have led the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to provide effective mental health treatment to all prisoners throughout the Commonwealth so that they can successfully reenter their communities,” said U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania.  “We remain dedicated to vigorously enforcing the civil rights of those who have serious mental illness throughout Pennsylvania, regardless of their situation.”

The department initiated this investigation under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA), which prohibits a pattern or practice of deprivation of constitutional rights of individuals confined to state or local government-run correctional facilities.  This investigation was conducted by attorneys with the Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Pennsylvania.  Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.

Recently, the department also conducted a broader review of solitary confinement – and other forms of “restrictive housing” – to formulate policy solutions for reducing the use of these practices throughout the nation’s criminal justice system.  The department concluded that while there are occasions when correctional officials have no choice but to segregate inmates from the general population, as a matter of policy, this practice should be used rarely, applied fairly and subjected to reasonable constraints.  The department’s report, including a series of “Guiding Principles” for limiting the use of restrictive housing, is available on its website at https://www.justice.gov/restrictivehousing.

Closing Letter to PDOC

PITTSBURGH – A resident of New Kensington, Pa., was sentenced today in federal court to 12 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and a fine of $5,000, on his conviction of tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Court Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed sentence upon William Henry Julius.

According to information presented to the court, as the owner of Materials Design Evaluation, Inc., Julius falsified company records by understating receipts and inflating business expenses, and then conveyed these false numbers to the person who prepared his corporate tax returns. Julius then used the false business income amounts in preparing his own fraudulent personal tax return Forms 1040, for 2008-2010, wherein he understated his tax liability by a total of $121,046.00.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Julius.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident 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 Andre Collington, 44, of Pleasant Hills, 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, Andre Collington 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. 

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  Collington.

PITTSBURGH - A Maryland resident has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months and one day imprisonment, supervised release for three years and ordered to pay more than $1.2 million in restitution on his conviction of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Sigismond Senyo Segbefia, 29, of Silver Spring, Maryland.

According to the information presented to the court, Segbefia engaged in an online romance scam and defrauded victims out of money by posing as other persons on popular dating websites ChristianMingle.com and Match.com. He also is accused of wiring illicit funds to Ghana.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the successful prosecution of Segbefia.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months in jail and ordered to forfeit a 2008 BMW X5 SUV, a 2007 Lexus GS 350 Sedan, several cellular phones, a tablet computer and a laptop on his 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 Vincent Jamal Carter, 38.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around September 2013 to in and around January 2015, Carter conspired with three co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distribute kilograms of marijuana that had been shipped to Erie from California.

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 Carter.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Samuel Louis Dominick, 29, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 19, 2015, Dominick and a co-defendant were involved in the robbery of $1,565 from the First National Bank, located at 3310 West 26th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, on March 5, 2015, Dominick robbed $4,828 from the Marquette Savings Bank, located at 2320 West 12th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania..

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 1, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dominick.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Curtis L. Duck, 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 Duck conspired with a co-defendant to possess with intent to distribute and distribute approximately 40 grams of crack cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 1, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Duck on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Duck.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

James Darnell Pacely, 37, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on November 13, 2012, November 27, 2012 and December 7, 2012, Pacely distributed crack cocaine in Erie.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 1, 2016 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Pacely.

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Sekou Brooks, 40, of Pittsburgh, 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 December 2013, and continuing to in and around June 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Brooks conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin and more than 280 grams of crack cocaine.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aug. 10, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Tonya Sulia Goodman are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI 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 Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brooks.

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 – A Washington County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of trafficking in heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Fred Edward Stewart, Jr., age 37, of Ellsworth, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Stewart, Jr. possessed with intent to distribute and distributed heroin and fentanyl, on Feb. 12, 2016. The indictment further charges that on Feb. 12, 2016, Stewart, Jr. also possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute it.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 40 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Ross E. Lenhardt and Katherine A. King, of the Violent Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, are 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 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.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in on charges of deprivation of civil rights and falsification of a record, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on April 5, named Stephen Matakovich, 47, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 28, 2015, Matakovich, a police officer of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, willfully deprived an individual identified as G.D. by punching G.D., pushing G.D., and repeatedly striking G.D., without justification, thereby causing bodily injury to G.D. The indictment further alleges that on or about Nov. 29, 2015, Matakovich made false statements in the record related to the incident, falsely justifying the force used against G.D.

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 Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Stephen S. Gilson are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the 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.

PITTSBURGH – A Fayette County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on April 5, named Daniel P. Ternitsky, Jr., of Keisterville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Ternitsky, while serving as the Financial Secretary of the United Mine Workers of America, Local 285, AFL-CIO, embezzled approximately $10,680.05 from the union by cashing checks drawn on the union’s checking account for unauthorized expenses during the period from Aug. 12, 2013 through Dec. 20, 2013.

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 Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philipsburg, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation and a fine of $500 on her conviction of providing contraband to an inmate while an employee at Moshannon Valley Correctional Center.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Jennifer L. Robins, 36.

According to information presented to the court, in July 2013 Robins provided a phone to an inmate, which is a prohibited object under prison regulations.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Hickton commended the Office of the Inspector General of the United States Department of Justice for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Robins.

PITTSBURGH – Four southwestern Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on multiple charges of distribution and dispensing of Schedule III and Schedule IV controlled substances, conspiracy and health care fraud United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 238-count superseding indictment, returned on April 5, named Dr. Dominic W. Dileo, 67, of Uniontown, Pa., Rosalind Sugarmann, 61, of Allison Park, Pa., Brandon S. Eicher, 40, of Smithfield, Pa., and Louis M. Polito, 60, of Uniontown, Pa., as the defendants.

According to the superseding indictment, between January of 2013 and November of 2015, Dr. DiLeo, Sugarmann and Polito unlawfully dispensed or distributed Suboxone or Xanax on more than 200 occasions to Sugarmann and to two other persons whose names were not set forth in the superseding indictment. The superseding indictment further alleges that, from in and around February 2013 until in and around May of 2014, Sugarmann and Eicher defrauded Medicaid in connection with the performance of their duties at Addiction Specialists, Inc. (“ASI”). The superseding indictment describes Sugarmann as an owner of ASI and Eicher as the Clinical Director at ASI. The superseding indictment charges them with defrauding Medicaid by submitting bills to Medicaid for services which they knew were not covered by Medicaid, and by falsifying ASI medical records in preparation for an audit conducted on behalf of Medicaid.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison for each instance in which Suboxone was distributed, five years for each instance in which Xanax was distributed, ten years for health care fraud, plus a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count. 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 Attorneys Shaun E. Sweeney and Stephen R. Kaufman are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Department of Health and Human Service, Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania Office of 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Buffalo, New York, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Casey Swain, 37, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about Aug. 7, 2015, Swain stole $4,970 from the First Niagara Bank located at 484 Lincoln Avenue, Bellevue, Pennsylvania.

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 Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bellevue 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – On April 5, 2016, a resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment named Vantroy Godboat, 44.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Jan. 27, Feb. 2, and Feb. 4, 2016, Godboat distributed less than 100 grams of heroin on each of those dates, and on Feb. 5, 2016,  Godboat possessed with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 80 years in prison and 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Godboat.

An indictment is an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
  

PITTSBURGH – A federal grand jury today returned a second superseding indictment charging Price Montgomery with witness tampering crimes relating to the killing of federal witness Tina Crawford and the attempt to kill another witness on August 22, 2014.

The charges were announced by United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania David J. Hickton, Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Battiste of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ed Wirth of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane and Pittsburgh Police Chief Cameron McLay.

“With staunch determination we have endeavored to identify and charge the person responsible for the murder of Tina Crawford that August afternoon just minutes before she was scheduled to be interviewed at our office,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Today’s indictment demonstrates our unwavering commitment to seek justice for Tina and her family and shows we will use every tool available to pursue criminals who seek to intimidate and inflict harm on witnesses.”

“We will use every resource we have at our disposable to target those criminals who threaten or commit acts of violence against witnesses. Retaliation against witnesses will not be tolerated,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Rabadi. “Witnesses are integral to the investigative process, the judicial process, and to justice. ATF will work with our Federal, State and local law enforcement partners to investigate, charge and prosecute those who retaliate against witnesses to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The joint investigation targeting Price Montgomery and his co-defendants involved a significant amount of heroin and firearms,” said Gary Tuggle, the Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Montgomery’s alleged involvement in the murder of Tina Crawford and the shooting of another witness are horrific crimes, especially when they involve a witness. We will remain vigilant in pursuing cases against individuals that seek to tamper with witnesses.”

IRS-CI Asst. Special Agent in Charge Wirth added, “Today’s indictment demonstrates IRS-Criminal Investigation’s commitment to the pursuit of justice wherever the trail might lead us. We will work with our law enforcement partners to conduct a thorough investigation that incorporates all aspects of an individual’s illegal activity and hold him accountable for his actions.”

The 10-count second superseding indictment named Montgomery, 35, (currently incarcerated); James Perrin, 37, (currently incarcerated); Charles Cook, 49, of Pittsburgh, PA; and Andre Avent, 38, of Homestead, PA, as the defendants.

According to the second superseding indictment, from April 2013, and continuing to June 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Montgomery and Perrin conspired to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. The indictment also charges that on June 8, 2014, Montgomery and Perrin, who both have prior felony convictions, possessed 16 firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing firearms. Montgomery, Cook and Avent are charged with conspiring to commit money laundering. The second superseding indictment returned today further charges Montgomery with tampering with a witness by killing a person (victim: Tina Crawford), use of a firearm resulting in death (victim: Tina Crawford), tampering with a witness by attempting to kill that witness (victim: Patsy Crawford) and use of a firearm in relation to attempting to kill a witness (victim: Patsy Crawford).

The indictment also contains forfeiture allegations seeking cash, vehicles and jewelry involved in the commission of these offenses and constituting proceeds of these offenses.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison for Montgomery. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both for Perrin. Cook and Avent face a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Gregory J. Nescott and Shaun E. Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Western Pennsylvania offices of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, along with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.

A second superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A Penn Hills resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Gregory Price, 39, 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, Gregory Price 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 Aug. 10, 2016. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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 Gregory Price.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Anthony Allen Aubrey, 50 of White Oak, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Aubrey was a trade show manager for Phillips Home Healthcare Solutions (PHHS) responsible for setting up venues and hiring vendors for everything from carpentry to food. He had a good working relationship with Carpenter Connection (CC) and at Aubrey’s request CC would pay vendors and individuals on behalf of PHHS who could not be easily paid through the PHHS system due to timing and administrative issues. In turn CC would be reimbursed by PHHS. Aubrey developed a relationship with Melissa Dougherty and hired her to assist with some of the trade shows. However, the relationship became romantic and Aubrey began to request additional payments for her for services she did not perform or had already been paid for. He created and/or inflated Dougherty’s invoices on his company laptop to support the fraudulent payments. He asked CC by email to issue checks to her and have them overnighted by FedEx. One of those checks forms the basis for Count One. When an audit revealed discrepancies and Aubrey was questioned, he admitted what he had done and cooperated fully. The loss to PHHS was $376,603.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 29, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 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 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 United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Anthony Allen Aubrey.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of one count of conspiracy to make, deal, possess, pass, buy, sell, and transfer counterfeit currency both overseas and in the United States and one count of transferring counterfeit currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Michael Q. Lin, aka Mr. Casino, 22, of Bethlehem, PA.

Michael Q. Lin, using the online identity of mlin and Mr. Casino, joined a conspiracy to manufacture, deal, possess, pass, and transfer Ugandan-manufactured counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes. He bought counterfeit notes from Willy Clock, the self-proclaimed manufacturer of these counterfeit notes, and he was an active member and contributor to Community-X, a Dark Net website dedicated to the manufacturing, distribution, and passing of these Ugandan-manufactured counterfeit notes. In addition, after this conspiracy ended, Michael Q. Lin had another person ship to him $170 in counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes.

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 Lin.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to four years of probation, which includes eight months of community confinement, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Max Matthew Guardalabene, 31.

According to information presented to the court, Guardalabene was a lower-level distributor for a Detroit-to-Pittsburgh oxycodone ring operated by Telano White and Brandy Bara.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Guardalabene.

PITTSBURGH - A Washington County sex offender has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment returned yesterday named Clayton Mitchell, 31, of Washington, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from Oct. 23, 2015 to Feb. 16, 2016, Mitchell, who had been convicted of the felony sex offense of rape in 2010, failed, as required, to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH -- A Washington County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud and forging and counterfeiting a Seal of a Court of the U.S., United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment returned yesterday named Steven P. Grados, 51, of Monongahela, Pa.

According to the indictment, Grados created false documents that consisted of a Memorandum opinion and Court Order and mailed them to the Pennsylvania State Employees Retirement System offices in Harrisburg in order to deceive that office into discontinuing paying a portion of his State Police pension to his former spouse.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years on each count of mail fraud and five years on the single count for forging the signature of a federal judge, a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the three counts, 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 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft, embezzlement, and misappropriation by a bank employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 44-count indictment returned yesterday named Jessica N. Scola, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Scola, on 44 occasions between Jan. 2, 2015 and April 16, 2015, while employed at PNC Bank, embezzled and misapplied the bank's funds through electronic transfers, draft checks, and ATM withdrawals.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both, at each count of the indictment. 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment returned yesterday named Rosemary Thomas, 64, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from January 2001 to February 2014, Thomas converted to her own use $98,949 in Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits of another individual - benefits she knew she was not entitled to use.

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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Mount Vernon, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to 14 months (time served) in prison and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $82,619.00 on her conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Gcobisa Kehle, 38.

According to information presented to the court, Kehle allowed bank accounts in her name and under her control to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Kehle would then withdraw the fraudulently obtained refunds, keep a portion for herself and give the remainder of the money to another co-defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kehle.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on her conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Paulette M. Alt, 54.

According to information presented to the court, from Jan. 31, 2013, to April 23, 2013, Alt conspired to distribute less than 28 grams of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack.” 

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Alt.

ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Efrain Ramon Pagan Rosario, 25, 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, Rosario engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The 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 Rosario.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bronx, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months plus 1 day in prison and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $51,363.00 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Nana Baffour, 39, of Bronx, New York.

According to information presented to the court, Baffour allowed bank accounts in his name and under his control to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Baffour would then withdraw the fraudulently obtained refunds, keep a portion for himself and give the remainder of the money to another co-defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Baffour.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Altoona, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Matthew Fee, 33, of Altoona, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Jan. 9, 2014, to April 17, 2015, Fee conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 10, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, the Altoona Police Department, and the Cambria County District Attorney's Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Fee.

PITTSBURGH - A Washington County resident has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation, the first six-months of which are to be served on home detention, a $3.000 fine, and ordered to forfeit $200,000 on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute schedule II controlled substances and obtaining prescriptions by fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Dennis Devenney, Sr., 57, of Washington, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Devenney sold controlled substances, Oxycodone, Opana, and Morphine, for cash and fraudulently obtained prescriptions.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Devenney.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Verona, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years imprisonment, followed by 25 years supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on David Hudak, 46, formerly of Verona, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court at the time of the guilty plea, on Feb. 3, 2013, Hudak employed, used, and coerced a minor, approximately five years of age, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a video depicting her sexual exploitation. The court was further informed that the video was taken in Hudak’s Verona residence, while the child victim was in his custody and care. The video was discovered on a computer seized from Hudak’s residence during the execution of search warrant. The search warrant was issued following an undercover investigation during which Hudak distributed videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors to an undercover officer.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Conti stated that a 20-year sentence of imprisonment, followed by 25 years of supervision, was an appropriately lengthy sentence given the very serious nature of Hudak’s conduct and the harm done to the child victim.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other members of the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hudak.