Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Trade Show Manager Pleads Guilty to Defrauding his EmployerRead the Press Release
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.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Ugandan-manufactured Counterfeit Cash SchemeRead the Press Release
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.
Local Man Sentenced for Role in Detroit-to-Pittsburgh Oxycodone RingRead the Press Release
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.
Washington County Rapist Charged with Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
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.
Monongahela Man Accused of Creating and Mailing False Court DocumentsRead the Press Release
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.
Bank Employee Facing 44 Charges of Theft, Embezzlement and Misappropriation of FundsRead the Press Release
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.
Baldwin Twp. Woman Charged with Stealing Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
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.
New York Woman Sentenced to Time Served for Participating in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
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 Woman Sentenced to Prison for Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
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 Man Admits Participating in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
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.
Bronx Man Sentenced for Role in Tax Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
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.
Altoona Man Conspired to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
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.
Washington, Pa., Man Sentenced to Probation, Fined for Selling Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
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.
Verona Man Gets 20-Year Prison Sentence for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
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.
Woman Sentenced to Probation for Embezzling from Former EmployerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation on her conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Maria P. Makozy, 48, of Fort St. Lucie, Florida.
According to the information presented to the court, Makozy embezzled from her former employer, Keymax Settlement Services, to pay for personal credit card expenses using company checks.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the successful prosecution of Maria P. Makozy.
West Mifflin Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years supervised release, on a charge of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Paul Robert Fike, age 37, of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about June 11, 2014, Fike distributed images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of 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, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the West Mifflin Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fike.
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.
Washington Pa. Man Charged with Trafficking Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Quenten Vaden, of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of trafficking in heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment returned on March 8 charged Vaden, 32, with possessing with intent to distribute and distributing heroin and fentanyl, in February 2016.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years 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 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.
Monroeville Man Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years in Prison on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court for discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, as well as for possessing with the intent to distribute heroin, and possessing firearms after having been convicted of a felony, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed a sentence of imprisonment of 190 months, followed by five years of supervised release, on Dorian Cottrell, 22, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Dorian Cottrell was a heroin dealer who shot a .45 caliber pistol at one of his customers on Sept. 8, 2014. Cottrell’s bullet hit the customer’s friend, but by sheer luck, did not seriously injure him. Although Cottrell knew that he was under investigation for the shooting, he continued to sell heroin and carry firearms, and was stopped by the Monroeville police in December 2014 with approximately $20,000 in cash, a pistol with an obliterated serial number, and more than 200 stamp bags of heroin, while driving a BMW. Cottrell was then arrested in January 2015, at which time he possessed eight additional firearms, and more than 200 additional stamp bags of heroin.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer told Cottrell that “the severity of this offense cannot be overstated,” and that Cottrell was fortunate that his victim had not been hurt or killed. Judge Fischer noted, however, that “heroin, in itself, is a killer” which imposes high costs on the community and the nation. Judge Fischer also pointed out that Cottrell benefitted from a good upbringing and had received lenience in court before, which made his crimes an affront to the law and to the community.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Monroeville Police Department, as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, for their work in the investigation of this case. This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Grove City Man Sentenced for Stealing His Deceased Mother’s Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A resident of Grove City, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to a term of two years of probation and full restitution in the amount of $27,309.85 on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Alexander Viskovatoff, 57.
According to information presented to the court, in and around January 2011, through in and around September, 2012, Viskovatoff converted to his own use funds of the Social Security Administration that had been intended to be benefits for his deceased mother.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Viskovatoff.
Delmont Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in California to PA Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 21 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 Tieriq Pinnix, 22, of Delmont, 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, Tieriq Pinnix was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others, including his father, Cecil Pinnix, 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 Pinnix.
Butler County Woman Sentenced to 4+ Years in Prison for Stealing Walmart Customers’ IdentitiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Butler County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 57 months incarceration and three years supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Jennifer MacVittie, 32.
In connection with the information presented to the court, beginning around October 2013, through May, 2014, Jennifer MacVittie and Robert MacVittie used cell phone cameras to “shoulder surf” social security numbers from Walmart customers nationwide by taking cell phone video images of the customers who were cashing checks at the customer service counters. The stolen information was later used to negotiate counterfeit checks at Walmart stores throughout the U.S., including Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Kansas and other states. The MacVittie’s were arrested at a casino by law enforcement in Nevada on Nov. 29, 2014.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the indictment of the Jennifer MacVittie. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Illinois Woman Sentenced to Probation for Using Counterfeit Credit CardsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Bolingbrook, Illinois, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of three years of probation and restitution in the amount of $25,310.26 on her conviction of conspiracy and using unauthorized access devices, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Monique S. Morris, 33, of Bolingbrook, Illionois.
According to information presented to the court, on or about August 9, 2013, Morris used counterfeit credit cards to make purchases in excess of $1,000 at a high-end Pittsburgh retail store.
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 Morris.
Coraopolis Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment, followed by 12 years supervised release, on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer also ordered Stephen Hutchinson to pay $9,000.00 in restitution to victims, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Stephen Hutchinson, 30, of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about March 3, 2015, Hutchinson knowingly possessed images and videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
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 for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hutchinson.
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.
Aliquippa Man Identified by Fingerprint Ridges in Sexually Explicit Photo is Sentenced to 22+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 270 months, followed by lifetime supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Tyler Seevers, 25, formerly of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court at the time Seevers entered a plea of guilty, on July 20 and 21, 2014, Seevers produced sexually explicit photographs of a female child, 3 years of age, using an iPod Touch. The iPod Touch was turned over to law enforcement by Seever’s girlfriend, the victim’s mother, who had discovered the photographs of her daughter. Forensic analysis of the contents of the iPod Touch revealed images of both the 3-year-old and her older sister. One such sexually exploitive photograph depicted the ridges of the photographer’s fingertips. A fingerprint analyst with the Pennsylvania State Police was able to identify Seevers’ hand as that depicted in the photograph.
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.
Prior to imposing sentencing, Judge Ambrose stated that this case and other cases involving the sexual exploitation of children and the production of images depicting that exploitation are the most serious that come before the court.
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, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Hopewell Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Seevers.
Judge Sentences Heroin Dealer to 24 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Homestead, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in to 24 years’ incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Thomas Hopes, 24.
According to information presented to the court, Hopes played a major role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, and possessed a firearm in the course of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Hopes also possessed with intent to distribute heroin.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon concluded that Thomas Hopes was responsible for between one and three kilograms of heroin, which she called a poison that he chose to sell on the street for profit.
Assistant United States Attorneys Conor Lamb and Ryan Hart prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas Hopes. 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.
Whitaker Man Charged with Distributing Drugs Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Justin Thornton has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for acetylfentanyl and fentanyl trafficking resulting in the death of one person, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment charges Thornton, 32, of Whitaker, Pa., with distributing acetylfentanyl and fentanyl on August 7 and 8, 2015, that killed one person. The indictment also charges Thornton with possession with intent to distribute heroin, acetylfentanyl, fentanyl, crack cocaine and cocaine on August 13, 2015.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $6,000,000, 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 Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Allegheny County Police Department, the West Mifflin Police Department 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.
Fraud Charges Filed Against Erie Storeowner following USDA and Erie Police InvestigationRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of theft of government property and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment named Jasmin Omanovic, 35, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from October 2011 to February 2015, Omanovic, who is the owner and operator of International Market in Erie, committed food stamp fraud by exchanging food stamps for cash at fifty percent of face value and ineligible items. He also allowed customers to pay off store debt with food stamps and he took customers’ EBT cards and used them at Walmart to restock his shelves.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the Erie 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.
Erie Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing FirearmRead 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 firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Otemeo Dupree Williams, 32, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Williams unlawfully possessed a firearm while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.
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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
The Erie Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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 Convenience Store Owner Charged with FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of theft of government property and WIC fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named James Hunter, Jr., 37, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from July 2012 to June 2015, Hunter, who is the owner and operator of Melo’s Stop N Shops in Erie, committed WIC fraud by accepting food stamps and WIC checks for cash or ineligible items such as cigarettes.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 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 United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the Erie 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.
Deported Jamaican Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An individual found by the U.S. Marshals, with assistance from the Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Illegal Re-Entry into the United States after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Dwayne Lawrence Facey, aka Dwayne Brown; Kimarley Williams; Damien Weatherspoon; Dameon Weatherspoon; Euvin Hunter; Roy Facey; “Euvin,” 40, formerly of Jamaica.
According to the indictment, Facey, an alien, who was removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 22, 2000, and again on Sept. 21, 2006, was found on Aug. 5, 2015, by law enforcement authorities in Pittsburgh, Pa.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. 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.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ imprisonment on his convictions of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on 20-year-old Raymear Jernigan.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Oct. 17, 2014, after having been convicted of a felony drug offense, Jernigan possessed a Taurus, .38 special revolver. Jernigan also possessed over 200 grams of heroin with the intent to distribute it.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ambrose stated that the term of imprisonment of five years underlines the seriousness of the offenses.
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’s Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jernigan.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Ronald Broadus, 42, 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 government received authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications over Broadus’s phone for a period of 30 days. During that timeframe, Broadus was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for June 27, 2016. 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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Broadus on 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 Broadus.
Washington County Man Traveled across State Line to Have Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington County, Pa., has pleaded guilty to charges of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joseph Sabot, age 27, pleaded guilty to the felony count before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.
According to information presented to the Court at the time of the guilty plea, in 2010, when Sabot was 22 years old, he met a 15-year old female from Wheeling, West Virginia, through an online website. He met her in person shortly thereafter, and traveled to and from his residence in Washington, Pa., to her residence in Wheeling on numerous occasions between 2010 and 2012, on which occasions he engaged in sexual acts with the girl. In July of 2012, after bringing her back to his residence for a sexual encounter, Sabot asked the girl to hide in his garage until his parents went to sleep. Sabot’s father, who did not know her, found her in the garage and demanded that she leave the property. The girl then called 911, as she did not have a way to get back to Wheeling. After the North Franklin Police responded to her call, the joint investigation involving the North Franklin Police and the FBI was initiated, leading to the charges in this case.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for June 8, 2016. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years imprisonment, 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 Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and North Franklin Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
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.
Three Charged with Multiple Violations of Federal Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Three Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on charges of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, tampering with a witness by threat of physical force, and brandishing, using, carrying, and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 13-count superseding indictment, returned on March 1, named:
Joshua Bristo, 23, of Clairton, Pennsylvania;
Richard Van Holt, Jr., 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
James Pamplin, Jr., 21, of Clairton, Pennsylvania.According to the superseding indictment, from on or about Jan. 1, 2015, and continuing thereafter until on or about Oct. 28, 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Joshua Bristo, Richard Van Holt, Jr., and James Pamplin, Jr., conspired to commit offenses against the United States, that is, to falsify firearms purchase forms, and to possess firearms as convicted felons.
Additionally, Bristo, from on or about Jan. 7, 2015, through on or about Oct. 28, 2015, and Van Holt, from on or about and around May 5, 2015, through on or about Oct. 19, 2015, possessed firearms as convicted felons. Pamplin, Jr., is accused of aiding and abetting Bristo on May 28, 2015, in possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
The superseding indictment also charges that on or about March 6, 2015, through on or about March 10, 2015, Joshua Bristo tampered with a witness by threat of physical force by pointing a firearm and threatening to kill the witness.
The superseding indictment further charges that on or about March 6, 2015, Joshua Bristo knowingly brandished a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, thereby tampering with a witness by threat of physical force.
“Individuals who illegally sell guns end up arming violent criminals, who time and again pull the trigger on our streets and put the public’s safety at risk,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “ATF will continue to shutdown illegal gun running networks and put the traffickers behind bars to make our homes, streets, and communities a lot safer and more peaceful.”
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Bristo of not less than seven years and up to life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00, or both. Van Holt and Pamplin each face a potential sentence of incarceration of up to 15 years, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clairton Police Department, Homestead Police Department, and North Versailles Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crimes.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Robbing Banks in Wilmerding and White OakRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal bank robbery and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on March 1, named Leonard Gibbons, 55, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about July 17, 2015, Gibbons stole $7,828.00 from the Compass Federal Savings Bank located at 111 Westinghouse Avenue, in Wilmerding, Pa.; and on or about Nov. 19, 2015, Gibbons used a firearm to steal $3,971.00 from the First Commonwealth Bank located at 1527 Lincoln Way, in White Oak, Pa. It is unlawful for Gibbons, who has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, to possess a firearm. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than seven years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the McKeesport Police Department, the North Versailles Police Department, the White Oak Police Department, and the Allegheny County 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.
Pennsylvania Priest Sentenced to 200 Months for Sexually Abusing MinorsRead the Press Release
A priest of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 200 months in prison to be followed by lifetime supervised release for offenses related to his sexual abuse of two minor boys during trips to Honduras over a five-year period, announced Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Joseph D. Maurizio Jr., 70, of Central City, Pennsylvania, was convicted on Sept. 22, 2015, following an eight-day jury trial, of engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, possession of child pornography and international money laundering. Maurizio was also ordered to pay a $50,000 fine and $10,000 in restitution to each victim.
According to the evidence introduced at trial, in 2001, Maurizio created a charitable organization, then known as Honduras Interfaith Ministries (HIM), which was funded by donations from community members, including parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Central City. HIM became the largest donor for Pro Niño, a non-profit organization that provided shelter and rehabilitative services to poor, abandoned and at-risk children residing in a rural town near San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Between 2004 and 2009, Maurizio used HIM moneys to fund 13 separate trips between the United States and Honduras, during which he sexually abused two minor boys living at Pro Niño shelters.
Evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Maurizio used his position with HIM, Pro Niño’s largest donor, to gain unfettered access to the minors, as well as to purchase them gifts, including clothes, shoes and jewelry, in order to build the boys’ trust and to ensure their compliance during his sexual abuse. During his final trip to Honduras, Maurizio paid the boys to engage in sexual acts with him.
In addition, trial evidence showed that Maurizio kept digital media depicting the minors he sexually abused and other images of child sexual exploitation in the Our Lady Queen of Angels Church rectory.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation in Pittsburgh investigated the case. Trial Attorney Amy E. Larson of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Haines of the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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.
Pennsylvania Priest Sentenced to 16+ Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A priest of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by lifetime supervised release for offenses related to his sexual abuse of two minor boys during trips to Honduras over a five-year period, announced U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania.
U.S. District Judge Kim Gibson imposed the sentence on Joseph D. Maurizio Jr., 70, of Central City, Pennsylvania. He also ordered Maurizio to pay a $50,000 fine and $10,000 in restitution to each of the two minor victims. Maurizio was convicted on Sept. 22, 2015, following an eight-day jury trial, of engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, possession of child pornography and international money laundering.
“It is important to recognize the courage of the victims, the tenacity of the investigators and the resolve of the prosecutors to bring this child predator priest to justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “This sentence ensures that Joseph Maurizio will never again have the opportunity to travel beyond our nation’s borders to victimize children.”
“Child sex tourism is a scourge: adults preying on the young and vulnerable to satisfy dark desires,” said David Abbate, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, ICE Homeland Security Investigations. “As an agency, HSI is committed to the difficult but necessary task of ending this scourge--despite cost, distance, and international boundaries. There can be no place for the abuse of children here or abroad.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation will diligently work with our law enforcement partners to pursue those who violate the laws of the United States,” added IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Akeia Conner. “Our partnership with HSI in this investigation demonstrates that we will work together to address the full scope of an individual’s illegal activity, and we will follow that trail wherever it may lead us.”
According to the evidence introduced at trial, in 2001 Maurizio created a charitable organization, then known as Honduras Interfaith Ministries (HIM), which was funded by donations from community members, including parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Central City. HIM became the largest donor for Pro Niño, a non-profit organization that provided shelter and rehabilitative services to poor, abandoned and at-risk children residing in a rural town near San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Between 2004 and 2009, Maurizio used HIM moneys to fund 13 separate trips between the United States and Honduras, during which he sexually abused two minor boys living at Pro Niño shelters.
Evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Maurizio used his position with HIM, Pro Niño’s largest donor, to gain unfettered access to the minors, as well as to purchase them gifts, including clothes, shoes and jewelry, in order to build the boys’ trust and to ensure their compliance during his sexual abuse. During his final trip to Honduras, Maurizio paid two minor boys to engage in sexual acts with him.
In addition, trial evidence showed that Maurizio kept digital media depicting the minors he sexually abused and other images of child sexual exploitation in the Our Lady Queen of Angels Church rectory.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Pittsburgh investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Haines of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Amy E. Larson of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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.
Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on March 1, named William C. Miller, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pa, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Miller was found in possession of a firearm on or about Sept. 29, 2015, following four felony convictions in 2014. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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, 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.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
John Leonard Oleski, 66, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Oleski possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Oleski on bond.
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 that led to the prosecution of Oleski.
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.
Community Chevrolet GM Admits Ripping Off DealershipRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Edinboro, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Douglas A. Grooms, 44, 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 2008 to September 2013, while employed as the general manager of Community Chevrolet in Meadville, Pennsylvania, Grooms embezzled money from the dealership by writing dealership checks to a fictitious marketing company which he set up solely for the purpose of receiving the checks, resulting in a loss of $485,800 to Community Chevrolet.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2016 at 12:45 p.m. 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Grooms on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grooms.
Brothers Sentenced for Participating in a Violent Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh-area brothers have been sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
On Friday, United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed a sentence of imprisonment of 240 months, followed by five years of supervised release, on Keith Harris, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pa. She then imposed a sentence of imprisonment of 121 months, followed by five years of supervised release, on Gregory Harris, Jr., 27, of Homestead, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, both Keith and Gregory Harris conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, and used violence in the course of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Keith Harris played a major role in the conspiracy, and Gregory Harris, Jr. possessed a firearm.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon concluded that Keith Harris was responsible for between one and three kilograms of heroin, which she called an addictive and deadly poison that he chose to sell on the street for profit. Judge Bissoon concluded that Gregory Harris, Jr. was responsible for between 400 and 700 grams of heroin, and she noted that he turned his back on the opportunities given to him. Judge Bissoon also specifically credited the testimony of a victim who testified at trial that both Keith and Gregory Harris physically assaulted and injured him during the heroin conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorneys Conor Lamb and Ryan Hart prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Harris brothers. 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.
Court Accepts Pleas in Adulterated and Misbranded Cheese CasesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two cheese companies and a cheese company executive pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges relating to their introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to introduce misbranded and adulterated cheese products into interstate commerce and to commit money laundering before U.S. District Judge Mark R. Hornak for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Each company also agreed to forfeit to the United States $500,000. Castle Cheese Company executive Michelle Myrter, 44, of Harmony, Pennsylvania, also pleaded guilty as a responsible corporate officer to one misdemeanor count of aiding and abetting the introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, in violation of provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
“The Department of Justice prosecutes people and companies who introduce adulterated or misbranded food into interstate commerce,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “In this case, the fraud was perpetrated on consumers who purchased parmesan and romano cheeses that were inferior to what they believed they were buying.”
In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the corporate defendants packaged and sold cheese under various labels at the Castle Cheese facility in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. The cheese was distributed through retail, food service, and wholesale customers throughout the United States. The corporate defendants had knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulations and standards of identity for parmesan and romano cheese products and were aware that the products did not conform to FDA standards of identity for real parmesan and romano cheese, but represented to customers that the products contained 100 percent real parmesan and romano cheese. The corporate defendants also knew that the cheese products were misbranded because they did not bear labels that accurately reflected the products’ ingredients. The corporate defendants likewise knew that the cheese products were also adulterated in that certain ingredients had been substituted or omitted and other ingredients had been added. The defendants used proceeds from the sale of the misbranded and adulterated cheese products to continue the operation of the cheese manufacturing and packaging at the Slippery Rock facility.
The adulterated romano and parmesan products were sold under several brand names, the owners of which were unaware of the fraud. The adulterated products are no longer available for sale. At no time did the adulterated products pose a threat to the health or safety of consumers.
Judge Hornak will set sentencing date at a later time. For the corporate defendants, the law provides for a fine of $500,000 for each defendant. For the individual defendant, the law provides for a total sentence of one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court released Myrter on a personal recognizance bond.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tonia Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
Federal agents with the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecutions of Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc., International Packing, LLC and Michelle Myrter.
Court Accepts Pleas in Adulterated and Misbranded Cheese CasesRead the Press Release
Two cheese companies and a cheese company executive pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges relating to their introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to introduce misbranded and adulterated cheese products into interstate commerce and to commit money laundering before U.S. District Judge Mark R. Hornak for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Each company also agreed to forfeit to the United States $500,000. Castle Cheese Company executive Michelle Myrter, 44, of Harmony, Pennsylvania, also pleaded guilty as a responsible corporate officer to one misdemeanor count of aiding and abetting the introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, in violation of provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
“The Department of Justice prosecutes people and companies who introduce adulterated or misbranded food into interstate commerce,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “In this case, the fraud was perpetrated on consumers who purchased parmesan and romano cheeses that were inferior to what they believed they were buying.”
In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the corporate defendants packaged and sold cheese under various labels at the Castle Cheese facility in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. The cheese was distributed through retail, food service, and wholesale customers throughout the United States. The corporate defendants had knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulations and standards of identity for parmesan and romano cheese products and were aware that the products did not conform to FDA standards of identity for real parmesan and romano cheese, but represented to customers that the products contained 100 percent real parmesan and romano cheese. The corporate defendants also knew that the cheese products were misbranded because they did not bear labels that accurately reflected the products’ ingredients. The corporate defendants likewise knew that the cheese products were also adulterated in that certain ingredients had been substituted or omitted and other ingredients had been added. The defendants used proceeds from the sale of the misbranded and adulterated cheese products to continue the operation of the cheese manufacturing and packaging at the Slippery Rock facility.
The adulterated romano and parmesan products were sold under several brand names, the owners of which were unaware of the fraud. The adulterated products are no longer available for sale. At no time did the adulterated products pose a threat to the health or safety of consumers.
Judge Hornak will set sentencing date at a later time. For the corporate defendants, the law provides for a fine of $500,000 for each defendant. For the individual defendant, the law provides for a total sentence of one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court released Myrter on a personal recognizance bond.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tonia Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
Federal agents with the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecutions of Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc., International Packing, LLC and Michelle Myrter.
Chinese National Gets Probation with Home Detention for Fraudulent Test Taking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Chinese national has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation and six months home detention on his conviction of Mail Fraud 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 Xi Fu, 27, of Portland, Oregon.
According to information presented to the court, Xi Fu was one of the individuals who was paid to take TOEFL exams for other Chinese students. Fu took approximately three tests and used counterfeit Chinese passports which were mailed to him from China as identification at the testing locations.
Prior to imposing the 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 affected the integrity of the American college admissions process.
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 Fu.
Brackenridge Man Admits Defrauding Gatto Cycle ShopRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Brandon Bucinski, 36, of Brackenridge, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, Bucinski defrauded Gatto Cycle Shop of the proceeds from the sale of certain of its merchandise on eBay. Bucinski was employed by Gatto to sell certain Gatto merchandise on eBay and to have the buyer remit the proceeds of sale to Gatto’s Paypal accounts. Bucinski sold the Gatto merchandise using his personal eBay and Paypal accounts and kept the proceeds from the sales for himself.
Judge Hornak scheduled the sentencing for June 27, 2016, at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 offenses 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 United States Secret Service along with the Tarentum and Shaler Police Departments and detectives from the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Portage Man Pleads Guilty in Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown on a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Gary E. Vaughn, 41, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from Jan. 1, 2012, to Jan. 22, 2014, Vaughn, along with co-defendants, conspired with one another, and with others, to commit certain offenses against the United States, that is, to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce, which involved property representing the proceeds of a specified unlawful activity, that is, mail fraud, with the intent to promote the carrying on of the specified unlawful activity, and that while conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transaction knew that that property involved in the financial transaction represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity.
It was part of the conspiracy that the direction of and business decisions at Gary’s Steals and Deals were made by Tonia Vaughn and/or Gary E. Vaughn. It was further part of the conspiracy that, on a daily basis, customers would bring stolen new merchandise [aka “new in package (NIP)” or “new in box (NIB)”] to Gary’s Steals and Deals for purchase by Gary’s Steals and Deals. It was further part of the conspiracy that, on a daily basis, employees of Gary’s Steals and Deals would purchase the stolen new merchandise, knowing it had been stolen. It was further part of the conspiracy that employees at Gary’s Steals and Deals would tender a monetary percentage of the retail value of the stolen new merchandise back to the customer. It was further part of the conspiracy that on frequent occasions, the same customer(s) would bring numerous identical stolen new items of merchandise to Gary’s Steals and Deals (including but not limited to razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets), which were repetitively purchased from the customer(s) by employees at Gary’s Steals and Deals. It was further part of the conspiracy that the stolen merchandise that had been purchased from the customers by Gary’s Steals and Deals was thereafter sold by Gary’s Steals and Deals over the Internet on websites such as Ebay and Amazon. It was further part of the conspiracy that Gary’s Steals and Deals utilized the mail to deliver the stolen merchandise to persons who had purchased such merchandise over the Internet. It was further part of the conspiracy that Gary’s Steals and Deals would receive monetary payments for the stolen merchandise that had been sold over the Internet. It was further part of the conspiracy that, in connection with the above-described offense (mail fraud) the named defendants obtained proceeds of such conduct.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 9, 2016, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Dealing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to five years (60 months) imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of violations of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Dwayne Allen, aka Dewayne Allen, 41.
According to information presented to the court, in 2013 and 2014, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies targeted Allen and other drug traffickers in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. On Dec. 5, 2013, the agents utilized a confidential informant to purchase one ounce of crack cocaine from Allen for $1,300. The informant made another slightly larger purchase of crack cocaine for $1,900 from Allen on Jan. 28, 2014. And on Feb. 14, 2014, the informant paid $4,000 to Allen and obtained 3 ounces of crack cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended 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 Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Allen.
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.
Pain Doctor Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Overprescribing Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Glenn Davis, 63, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to 24 counts of the Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea to Counts one through 24, from June 4, 2012 to August 29, 2012, Dr. Davis prescribed and distributed thousands of Schedule II controlled substances (i.e., Oxycodone and Methadone) to “Patient A” outside the usual course of professional practice.
Immediately following his guilty plea, Dr. Davis was sentenced by Judge Gibson to 72 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $2,400 special assessment.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davis.
Kittanning Woman Gave False Information to Social Security to Continue Receiving BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Armstrong County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of making false statements to the Social Security Administration, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Sona Marie Murphy, 38, of Kittanning, 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 on July 30, 2012, in order to ensure continued receipt of disability insurance payments, Murphy submitted a signed statement to the Social Security Administration falsely reporting that she was not working, did not have wages or self-employment income, and had not worked since 2009. The Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General gathered evidence, however, establishing that Murphy had worked as a waitress at the Burrell Inn, located in Lower Burrell, Pa., as well as owned and was operating a catering business, most recently doing business as Sweet Pea's Catering and Sweets and "Every Day is an Occasion."
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for June 16, 2016, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court allowed Murphy to remain on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Murphy.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer to 8 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A local resident has been sentenced in federal court to 8 years (96 months) imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of violations of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Natel Blessitt, 39, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2014, and again on Sept. 23, 2014, Blessitt distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended 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 Bureau of Police for the investigation that led to the prosecution of Blessitt.
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.