Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Possessing Crack, GunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a 57-month term of imprisonment on each of his convictions of possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, followed by supervised release for a term of three years on each of his convictions, to be served concurrently. In addition, Poindexter was ordered to pay a Special Assessment in the amount of $200.00.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Cornell Poindexter, 29, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on or about July 2, 2014, Poindexter possessed with the intent to distribute less than 28 grams of a mixture and substance which contained cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack,” a Schedule II controlled substance. Further, on or about July 2, 2014, Poindexter, who has previously been convicted of carrying a firearm without a license, fleeing and eluding a police officer, and escape, was found to be in possession of two 9 millimeter pistols. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Poindexter.
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.
Mexican Sentenced for Role in Large-Scale Heroin and Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to 57 months of imprisonment with credit for time served, subject to deportation along with three years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Javier Ochoa, 53, of Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, Olufemi Young was a large-scale trafficker of cocaine and heroin in Pittsburgh, Pa. Following his release from federal prison in 2011, law enforcement collected evidence demonstrating that Young conspired to import multiple kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin into the Western District of Pennsylvania, with these narcotics coming mainly from California and Arizona. In April of 2014, law enforcement seized nearly $260,000 in cash from individuals associated with Ochoa in Munhall, Pa. At that time, law enforcement also recovered an “owe sheet,” indicating that Young had purchased 10 kilograms of cocaine and two kilograms of heroin from his co-conspirators. In May of 2014, law enforcement seized another $660,000 in cash from Ochoa and Young in the Lawrenceville section of Pittsburgh. In the late summer of 2014, law enforcement began wiretap interceptions of telephones utilized by Young and a co-conspirator, and pursuant to those interceptions, law enforcement stopped a tractor trailer, being driven by another two co-conspirators, in Somerset County, Pa., on Nov. 10, 2014. This tractor trailer was carrying 19 kilograms of cocaine destined for Pittsburgh and multiple pallets of food bound for Wal-Mart. Young is presently serving a 10-year prison sentence for his involvement in this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Rosen, Ryan K. Hart and Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ochoa.
Federal Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Drug Dealer to 30 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh drug dealer has been sentenced in federal court to 30 years in prison, followed by 10 years supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Kenyatta Robinson, 35.
According to information presented to the court at a non-jury trial on June 1, 2015, on Nov. 1, 2013, Robinson possessed with intent to distribute more than 280 grams of crack cocaine and less than 500 grams of powder cocaine. As noted by Judge McVerry, Robinson was “on the run from a half-way house” when he was arrested for this offense.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McVerry noted Robinson's lengthy criminal history, which includes three prior felony drug convictions, as well as numerous incidents involving firearms and assaults. As a result, Robinson has been properly designated as a Career Offender under the federal sentencing guidelines. While imposing the lengthy sentence, Judge McVerry further stated that Robinson’s extensive and ongoing contact with the criminal justice system reveals that he has no interest in changing his “destructive” behavior.
Assistant United States Attorneys Amy L. Johnston and Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kenyatta Robinson.
Airline Executive Charged with Attempting to Arrange Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An American Airlines executive from Texas has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on Aug 5, 2015, and unsealed today named Ray Wickliffe Howland, 55, of Arlington, Texas, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about June 25, 2015, Howland used facilities and means of interstate and foreign commerce, specifically a computer, an iPad, the internet and the telephone, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Louisiana Man Gets 10-Year Prison Sentence for Robbing Pittsburgh BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Crowley, Louisiana, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of bank robbery. Kirk Stutes, 52, received a sentence of 120 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release. Stutes was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $700.00, a Special Assessment in the amount of $100.00. In addition, the Court ordered that $3,148.00 shall be paid through forfeiture of funds recovered from Stutes.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Stutes.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 16, 2015, Stutes robbed First National Bank located at 6298 Steubenville Pike, in Pittsburgh, Pa. The bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Robinson Township Police Department, North Fayette Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stutes.
Florida Man Pleads Guilty in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Florida resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mark Anthony Sosso, 43, pleaded guilty to one felony count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
According to information presented to the Court, Sosso knowingly and willfully conspired with other individuals to commit an offense against the United States, that is, bank fraud, in connection with a co-conspirator’s purchase of the real property located in Longboat Key, Fla. Sosso, through a company controlled by him - Sosso Homes, Inc. - sold the property on July 27, 2007, to the co-conspirator for the ostensible purchase price of $3,000,000 and fraudulently induced Washington Mutual Bank into making a mortgage loan to the co-conspirator in the amount of $2,377,000 in order to fund the transaction.
It was part of the conspiracy that Sosso and the co-conspirator submitted false and fraudulent loan documents to Washington Mutual Bank. As part of the conspiracy, Sosso and the co-conspirator submitted to Washington Mutual Bank a HUD-1 Settlement Statement that falsely represented that the co-conspirator had paid Sosso Homes a $600,000 cash deposit, well knowing that the co-conspirator had never paid, or intended to pay, the $600,000 cash deposit. It was also part of the conspiracy that Sosso paid $458,350 of the mortgage loan monies to the co-conspirator as kickbacks, without the knowledge or approval of Washington Mutual Bank. It was further a part of the conspiracy that $1,677,598 of the mortgage loan monies were used to pay off Sosso Homes’ mortgage debt to another bank.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Jan. 14, 2016. 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentence, the court released Sosso on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service and the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the Information in this case.
Charity Director Admits Using Funds for Personal Use, Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and filing a false income tax return, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Steven R. Wetzel, 39, of Beaver Falls, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Steven R. Wetzel was the Executive Director of the Hero Program. He was responsible for collecting donations and making distributions of funds collected. The Hero Program was a charity operated through the Frontline Initiative, Inc., a Pennsylvania non-profit tax exempt organization, located in Beaver, Pennsylvania. The Hero Program funds were to be used to meet the needs of terminally ill children. Wetzel used the Hero Program grant and donation monies intended for the benefit of terminally ill children and their families for his own personal benefit and personal reasons by, among other things, paying his own Duquesne Light bills, spending approximately $5,000 at restaurants, spending approximately $1,500 for Starbucks Coffee purchases, purchasing flowers for three women and Sewickley Spa gift certificates for two women, spending approximately $3,600 for Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball game tickets, paying for his own treatment at a dentist and an eye doctor, purchasing glasses for himself, and paying for home remodeling projects at his own home. Wetzel attempted to cover up these personal expenditures by claiming that each was made for the benefit of Hero Program families. Approximately $91,000 was spent for his personal benefit, while approximately $10,000 went to the intended recipients of those grant and donation monies. In addition, Wetzel filed four United States Individual Income Tax Returns, Form 1040s for the calendar years 2010 through 2013 reporting less taxable income than was received in that he did not report the monies described above.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Jan. 14, 2016. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 23 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 Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Beaver Police Department initiated and worked together with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation to conduct the investigation leading to the Information filed in this case.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Dealing Crack Cocaine on Multiple OccassionsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Dwayne Allen, a/k/a Dewayne Allen, 41, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 $13,000. The informant made another slightly larger purchase of crack cocaine for $1,900 from Allen on Jan. 28, 2014. On Feb. 14, 2014, the informant paid $4,000 to Allen and obtained three ounces of crack cocaine.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 22, 2016, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Allen.
Suburban Pittsburgh Man Sentenced for Violating Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, the first year of which will include a condition of home detention, on his conviction of violations of federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Guy Amatangelo, 42.
According to information presented to the court, Amatangelo was intercepted on a federal wiretap that targeted large-scale heroin and cocaine traffickers in the Hill District section of Pittsburgh and beyond. That wiretap revealed that during September 2013 and October 2013, Amatangelo conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine. In addition, on Oct. 5, 2013, Amatangelo, an unlawful user of crack cocaine, possessed a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is the result of a federal OCDETF investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Other participating agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Munhall Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police Department.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the FBI, DEA and the other agencies for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Amatangelo.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Kevin Livsey, of Pittsburgh, pled guilty to heroin trafficking charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Livsey, 28, pled guilty to distributing heroin on June 24, 2014, and again on July 3, 2014. As of those dates, Livsey had already been convicted of drug trafficking in a case prosecuted in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer scheduled sentencing to occur on Jan. 22, 2016, at 9 a.m.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Pittsburgh Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Delmont Man Admits Participating in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County 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.
Tieriq Pinnix, 21, of Delmont, 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, 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.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for January 22, 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 on home detention with electronic monitoring.
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 Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tieriq Pinnix.
Virginia Man Charged with Traveling to PA for Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ashland, Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment named Kerry Eccles, 60, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Eccles traveled to Erie from Virginia for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with a minor. While in Erie, Eccles took sexually explicit photos of a ten year old victim.
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 90 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie County Detectives 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.
Puerto Rican Pleads Guilty to Participating in Interstate Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Adalberto Davila, a resident of Puerto Rico, pled guilty to conspiring to traffic kilograms of cocaine and heroin in Western Pennsylvania, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Davila, 42, pled guilty to conspiring to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine and at least one kilogram of heroin between 2011 and 2013 in the Pittsburgh area. Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti accepted the guilty plea and scheduled sentencing to occur on Dec. 16, 2015, at 3:30 p.m.
Davila was part of an interstate drug trafficking organization that operated in several locations throughout the United States. Davila was part of the multi-jurisdictional supply chain that resulted in the distribution of, among other things, numerous kilograms of cocaine and heroin in Western Pennsylvania between 2011 and 2013.
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. 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 Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department.
Johnstown Crack Dealer Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of distribution of 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 Willie Gene Gulley, Jr., 47.
According to information presented to the court, on Aug. 18, 2014, Gulley distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base.
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 Gulley.
Prior Drug Dealing + Gun = 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison on his conviction of federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence upon defendant Self Strawder, 31, on September 2, 2015.
According to information presented to the court, on June 1, 2014, Homestead Police responded to a domestic disturbance and observed the defendant drop a pistol handle extender as he fled into a building. In the hallway, they located a loaded pistol. Strawder was also located and found to possess 40 stamp bags of heroin and $1,804 in cash.
On Sept. 15, 2014, Pittsburgh Police observed Strawder, then a wanted fugitive, discarding marijuana as he fled on foot. He was apprehended and found to have a loaded pistol, 128 stamp bags of heroin and $765 on his person.
Judge Hornak determined that Strawder has multiple prior convictions including: burglary of a residence; theft of firearms and other items; and dealing heroin, cocaine and marijuana. Federal law precludes a person with any prior convictions for crimes punishable by more than one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Individuals with three or more felony drug convictions and/or crimes of violence face a minimum mandatory 15 years or more in federal prison.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak determined that a 15-year period of incarceration was a serious sentence imposed for serious offenses. The Court also determined that a 10-year period of supervision by the United States Probation Office after his release from jail was necessary to deter Strawder from similar criminal conduct in the future.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted 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 crime.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Homestead Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Strawder.
Allegheny County Man Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Crescent, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to imprisonment for a term of 12 months and one day followed by 12 years of Supervised Release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and further must register as a convicted sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Mark A. Chasey, 50, Crescent, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Chasey knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Chasey.
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.
Truck Driver Admits Ripping Off Social Security Disability ProgramRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Armstrong County truck driver pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Billy Joe Toy, 44, of Worthington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Toy received Social Security disability insurance benefit payments based on his alleged inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity, and thereby caused $55,012 in disability payments to be paid on behalf of his minor child. At the same time, he was employed as a truck driver, and had his wages paid to his wife’s business in order to conceal their payment.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Dec. 11, 2015 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued defendant’s release on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon 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 Billy Joe Toy.
Three Inmates among Four Charged in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Three federal prison inmates and a resident of Toledo, Ohio, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of credit/debit card fraud and identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Jermain R. Stevenson, 25, Antuane Hamilton, 42, and Herbie A. Matthews, 42, all inmates at various federal correctional institutions, and Selina Mack, 21, of Toledo, Ohio.
According to the indictment, from Dec. 23, 2013, to March 30, 2014, Stevenson, Hamilton, Matthews and Mack used debit and credit card information to obtain more than $1,000, knowing that the debit cards and credit cards belong to other persons.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each defendant of 12 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clearfield County Woman Charged with Stealing Social Security Benefit PaymentsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Clearfield County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of conversion of government funds, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Maryann Bowes-Dailey, 52, of Osceola Mills, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from June. 1, 2001, to Feb. 28, 2013, Bowes-Dailey received and converted falsely to her own use a total of $149,520.41, which represents 416 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to her, to which she was not entitled.
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 offenses 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 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.
Chicago Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Manufacture and Use Counterfeit Credit CardsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A resident of Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Conspiracy, Using Unauthorized Access Device in Aggregate of $1,000, Possessing Device-making Equipment, and Possessing Fifteen or More Access Devices, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joel M. Cosey, 26, pleaded guilty to five counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Cosey was charged with conspiracy, possessing device-making equipment, possessing fifteen or more access devices, and two counts of using unauthorized access device in aggregate of $1,000 on or about August 9, 2013.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Dec. 23, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cosey.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Eric Tyrone Bates, Jr., 29, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.
According to the information presented to the court, beginning in 2013, Bates and another person conspired together to steal bank account information belonging to an account holder at Citizens Bank in Pittsburgh, which information they used to make create accounts at other banks which they controlled to make multiple withdrawals of cash.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2016 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Bates. 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.
Erie Cocaine Dealer Ordered to Serve 5 Years Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail and ordered to forfeit $142,780 and a Cadillac Escalade 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 Levonne Rowan, 32.
According to information presented to the court, Levonne and his brother Dywon were arrested after ordering 3.5 kilograms of cocaine in exchange for $142,780. The cash was seized from them when they arrived in Edinboro, Pennsylvania to purchase the cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended OCDETF, a federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations and is comprised of members drawn from 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 Rowan. 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.
Western PA Financial Crimes Task Force Investigation Leads to Prison Sentence for South Side ManRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months plus one day term of imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release, and restitution ordered on his conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Warren H. Thompson, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to the information presented to the court, Thompson conspired with others to steal bank account information belonging to account holders at Citizens Bank in Pittsburgh. They used the information to create accounts at another bank into which they deposited the stolen funds. From these accounts, they made multiple withdrawals of the stolen cash.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) for conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Thompson. 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.
West Mifflin Child Porn Possessor Sentenced to 6½ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months in prison, followed by 10 years supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Judge Schwab also ordered Ryan Henry Miller to pay $2,881.28 in restitution to a victim, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Miller, 33, formerly of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Miller, on July 17, 2014, knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
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 Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department and the West Mifflin Police Department for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Miller.
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.
Former Beaver County Woman Charged with Embezzling from her EmployerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted in Pittsburgh by a federal grand jury on charges of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 28-count indictment named Maria P. Makozy, 47, now residing in Port St. Lucie, FL, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Maria P. Makozy embezzled from her former employer, Keymax Settlement Services, to pay for personal credit card expenses using company checks.
The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both at each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Floridian Charged in Bankruptcy Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Florida resident has been indicted in Pittsburgh by a federal grand jury on charges of bankruptcy fraud, concealment of bankruptcy assets, false bankruptcy declaration, false statement under oath, and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 10-count indictment, returned on August 25, and unsealed today, named Gregory M. Makozy, Sr., 54, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Makozy schemed to defraud the bankruptcy court by concealing assets he owned through pre-Petition and post-Petition transfers of real estate and an automobile. He is also alleged to have laundered fraud proceeds in the purchase of a home in Florida.
The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mark Spearman, 34, 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, Spearman was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was shipped, in powder form, from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 6, 2016. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Spearman’s bond and conditions of release.
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 Mark Spearman.
Penn Hills Man Admits Dealing Cocaine and HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Douglas Smith, Jr., 43, pleaded guilty to two counts 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, Douglas Smith, Jr. 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, and heroin, which the conspirators obtained in Cleveland, Ohio, and transported to the Western District of Pennsylvania for further distribution.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2016. For each count, 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 Douglas Smith.
PSP Investigation Leads to Indictment of New Bedford Man on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of New Bedford, Pennsylvania, was indicted on August 25, 2015, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Sean J. Barner, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on Jan. 25, 2015, Barner distributed visual depictions, namely videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment further charges that Barner, on March 28, 2015, unlawfully possessed in computer graphics files, photographs and videos depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
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 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 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.
Deported Guatemalan Charged with Illegal Re-entry into U.S., Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Guatemala was indicted on August 25, 2015, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Illegal Re-Entry after Deportation and Failing to Register as a Sex Offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Edward Jacinto Garcia, 30, of Guatemala, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on July 6, 2015, Jacinto Garcia, an alien who, on October 6, 2011, had been deported and removed from the United States, and having unlawfully reentered the United States, was found in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The indictment also charges Jacinto Garcia with traveling in interstate commerce and failing to register as a sex offender, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Jacinto Garcia’s registration requirement stems from a 2009 conviction for the crime of Sexual Assault of a Minor, 1st degree, in Platte County, Nebraska.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and 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.
Two Charged with Sex Trafficking MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking of a child, and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 11-count indictment, returned on August 11 and unsealed today, named Robert Allen Middlebrook, 40, of Clairton, Pennsylvania, and Kiari Nicole Day, 26, of Rankin, Pennsylvania, as the defendants.
According to the indictment, in February 2015, Middlebrook and Day knowingly entered into an agreement to conspire to recruit for sex trafficking four female minors who had not attained the age of 18 years. Also, in February 2015, Middlebrook and Day knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided and obtained four female minors, Minors A, B, C, D, to engage in commercial sex acts. The indictment further charges that in February 2015 Middlebrook conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.
For Middlebrook, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $2,750,000, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than 5, and up to life, or any or all. For Day, the law provides for a sentence of not less than 10 years, nor more than life, a fine of $1,250,000, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life, or any or all. 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 Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Katherine A. King are 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.
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.
CMU Student Pleads Guilty to Designing Malware, Selling it on Hacker ForumRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Carnegie Mellon University student pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Morgan C. Culbertson, 20, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill.
According to information presented to the Court, from on or about January 2013 to on or about August 20, 2014, Culbertson participated in a scheme to create and sell malware that could be used to spy on and steal personal information from a Google Android cell phone without the owner’s knowledge. Culbertson crafted a piece of malware ultimately named “Dendroid” which, through the use of a binder, could hide itself within a Google App and then download onto a Google Android phone when the user of that phone downloaded the Google App from a place such as the Google Play Store. Dendroid was designed to avoid detection by anti-virus scanners and Google Play security features and did not affect the functionality of the Google App that it was bound to. Once the malware was downloaded onto a Google Android phone, the malware would connect to a command-and-control server controlled by Culbertson. Dendroid was repeatedly advertised for sale on Darkode with explicit advertisements detailing the malware’s intended capabilities, which included commanding the phone remotely to take photos, intercepting text messages, stealing files, spying on internet browsing history and recording phone calls. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Culbertson intentionally caused damage without authorization to 10 or more computers.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2015 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Morgan C. Culbertson.
Another Man Pleads Guilty in FBI Investigation into Drug Dealing and Violence in HomewoodRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Damian Petty, 52, of Verona, 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, Damian Petty 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 Dec. 16, 2015. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, 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 Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Damian Petty.
Munhall Man Charged with Murder in State Court Gets 25 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Andre Ruffin, a former resident of Munhall, Pa., was sentenced yesterday to 300 months (25 years) in prison and five years of post-release supervision, by Senior U.S. District Judge Terrence F. McVerry, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. Ruffin was convicted of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition by a federal jury on March 4, 2015.
According to information that was presented to the court, Ruffin had been under investigation, by the Allegheny County Police – Homicide Section, for the death of Loretta Jackson that occurred on April 11, 2013. During that investigation, as was revealed at trial, a search warrant was executed at Ruffin’s home on April 22, 2013. During the search of Ruffin’s residence officers recovered an assault weapon and a component for an assault weapon known as a lower receiver. Officers also recovered multiple rounds of various caliber ammunition, a bullet proof vest, firearms holsters, firearms magazines, and various firearms paraphernalia and components.
Subsequent to the search, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives obtained records and conducted interviews that demonstrated that Ruffin had used his girlfriend (as a “straw purchaser”) to purchase the two firearms from Anthony Arms and Accessories, a West Mifflin firearms dealer, for his own possession. As a convicted felon, Ruffin was not legally permitted to purchase or possess firearms or ammunition. ATF also obtained records and information revealing more than a dozen deliveries of firearms-related parts and paraphernalia were made to the Ruffin home.
Federal law prohibits a person who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment in excess of one year from lawfully possessing a firearm, firearm components such as a receiver, and ammunition. Ruffin had been convicted of a multitude of felony offenses including: carjacking; using a firearm during a crime of violence; robbery; attempted theft; and aggravated assault. During the sentencing hearing Judge McVerry noted that Ruffin, through his criminal history, had displayed "absolutely no respect for the law" as well as a "complete and utter disrespect for the law."
Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan B. Ortiz and Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office - Crime Laboratory, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department and the United States Marshal Service conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
After being convicted in this federal case, Ruffin was charged by the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office for having committed the Loretta Jackson homicide. He is currently pending trial in the Court of Common Pleas, Allegheny County for that charge. Any person having information relating to Ruffin and/or the ongoing investigation being conducted by the Allegheny County Police Department – Homicide Section should contact Lieutenant Andrew Shurman at 412-473-1300.
Indianapolis Man Pleads Guilty in Pittsburgh-based Darkode CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a charge of violating the CAN-SPAM ACT, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Phillip Fleitz, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. Fleitz is one of 12 individuals charged in connection with a significant computer hacking forum known as Darkode, which has been dismantled.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Fleitz knowingly used a protected computer to relay or retransmit multiple commercial electronic mail messages with the intent to deceive or mislead recipients.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Nov. 24, 2015, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Phillip Fleitz.
Floridian Pleads Guilty in FBI-Led Investigation into Darkode ForumRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Tampa, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the CAN-SPAM ACT, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Naveed Ahmed, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. Ahmed is one of 12 individuals charged in connection with a significant computer hacking forum known as Darkode, which has been dismantled.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ahmed knowingly used a protected computer to relay or retransmit multiple commercial electronic mail messages with the intent to deceive or mislead recipients.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Nov. 24, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Naveed Ahmed.
California Drug Supplier Pleads Guilty to Distributing Millions of Dollars in DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - The primary supplier of more than 3,000 pounds of high-grade marijuana sent to Pittsburgh, Philong Chuong, 52, of San Leandro, Calif., entered a plea of guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana and money laundering conspiracy, according to United States Attorney David J. Hickton. The plea was entered in federal court before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. The wholesale value of the marijuana distributed here exceeded $14 million, with the ultimate retail, or “street value”, being several multiples of that.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that co-conspirator Jennifer Chieu moved to Pennsylvania from California in 2010, and by October of that year was in the drug business, using her old contacts to ship her 10-20 pound packages of high-quality marijuana from California on a daily basis. Chieu then resold the marijuana for $2,400-$4,600 a pound, depending on quality, to a small network of dealers. Philong Chong became Jennifer Chieu’s primary supplier.
United States Postal Inspectors eventually identified more than 250 inbound drug packages, and in excess of 350 outbound parcels containing drug proceeds, with $12,000-$20,000 in each package.
Postal inspectors and IRS and FBI special agents observed Chieu making deals out of her Green Tree home and a nail salon she owned on Liberty Avenue in the Bloomfield section of Pittsburgh.
Between January and April 2011, postal inspectors served nine search warrants on random outgoing parcels suspected to contain drug proceeds. Each of the parcels contained between $12,000 and $20,000 in cash, with the total exceeding $143,000. All were mailed to Chuong in California.
Wiretaps were approved for Chieu’s phones and several others between June and October 2011. Chuong and Chieu and their co-conspirators spoke four languages on the wiretaps – Vietnamese, English, and two Chinese dialects - often switching languages in mid-sentence in an obvious attempt to hamper law enforcement agents and interpreters who might be listening.
More than a hundred hours of calls were intercepted between Chuong and Chieu. On a daily basis, they discussed how much marijuana he would be sending, the quality or “brand name” of the product, how much Chieu would charge for it here, and how many packages of cash she planned to send to California the following day.
Large seizures of cash demonstrated the broad scope of this drug ring, with more than one million dollars seized. In one example, in April 2012, Chuong and Chieu were stopped in Utah for a traffic violation. Hidden within their car was more than $500,000 in cash. Both individuals refused to claim the cash, with Chieu telling officers she didn’t know how it got there.
Following the indictment of Chuong and Chieu and 18 other individuals, Chieu was arrested in April 2012, at which time more than $70,000 was seized from her Green Tree home, and $100,000 from a safe deposit box. Another seizure in 2011 of drug proceeds from a van leaving Pittsburgh for California turned up $136,000 in cash. In addition to the seizure of more than one million dollars in this investigation, homes and cars were also seized for forfeiture to the government.
Nineteen of the 20 indicted individuals have now entered pleas of guilty, with most sentenced.
On motion of the government, Philong Chuong’s bond was revoked and he was ordered detained pending sentencing on Dec. 10, 2015. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years to 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were the lead agencies in this case, and were assisted by the Pennsylvania State Police in this investigation that led to the prosecution of Philong Chuong.
Brackenridge Woman Used Social Security Benefits of Minor She Claimed Lived with HerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of theft of government property and false statements to the government, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kristyn Mazinski, 47, of Brackenridge, Pa., pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between Aug. 3, 2011, and April 3, 2013, Mazinski converted to her own use Social Security benefits totaling $24,760 which she received on behalf of a minor for whose use and benefit the payments were intended. On two occasions, April 12, 2012, and April 25, 2013, Mazinski also made false statements to the government in which she advised that the minor resided with her, when in fact the minor did not reside with Mazinski.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Jan. 20, 2016, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Mazinski on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking 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 Mazinski.
New York Man Admits Sending SpamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A New York resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the CAN-SPAM ACT, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Eric L. Crocker, 39, of Binghamton, NY, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill. Crocker is one of 12 individuals charged in connection with a significant computer hacking forum known as Darkode, which has since been dismantled.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Crocker knowingly accessed a protected computer without authorization, namely a computer that had been infected by the Facebook Spreader and Slenfbot, and did intentionally initiate the transmission of multiple commercial electronic mail messages from or through such computer.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Nov. 23, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 3 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eric L. Crocker.
Bronx Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Pass Counterfeit Bills in Western PA StoresRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A New York resident was sentenced today in federal court to 30 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,500.00 in restitution, on his conviction of conspiracy to possess and to pass counterfeit currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed sentence upon John Viloria, 26.
According to information presented to the court, Viloria conspired with codefendants Eric Seighman, Barry Robert Youger, Jr. and Cheryl Johnson, to pass thousands of dollars of counterfeit Federal Reserve notes at various retail store locations in the Western District of Pennsylvania during the period from July 1, 2014, through July 28, 2014.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Viloria.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5+ Years in Prison for Robbing 6 Area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction for six counts of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. Furay received a sentence of 64 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release, and Furay was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $16,645.80, of which $4,990.00 shall be paid through forfeiture of funds recovered from Furay.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence yesterday on Christopher Furay, 33, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, between Dec. 1, 2014, and Jan. 16, 2015, Furay robbed six different banks in the Pittsburgh area including a First Commonwealth Bank located in Dormont, Pa.; a First National Bank located in Castle Shannon, Pa.; a PNC Bank located in Bethel Park, Pa.; a Citizens Bank located in Bethel Park, Pa.; a First Commonwealth Bank located in West Mifflin, Pa.; and a Citizens Bank in Brentwood, Pa. All of the banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Dormont Borough Police Department, Castle Shannon Police Department, Bethel Park Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Brentwood Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Furay.
Johnstown Couple Sentenced for Under-reporting Income TaxesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Two residents of Johnstown, Pa., have each been sentenced in federal court to four years’ probation, the first 12 months of which must be satisfied by a condition of home detention; 100 hours of community service; $25,000 fine and to pay full restitution, including back taxes, penalties and interest to the Internal Revenue Service, on their convictions of filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentences on David J. Murphy and Joyce Murphy.
According to information presented to the court, the Murphys filed individual income tax returns for the calendar years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 failing to report $431,073 in taxable income, resulting in an underpayment of $140,834 in income tax owed to the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., 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 the Murphys.
PSP Fingerprint Expert Identifies Child Porn Producer by Analyzing Ridges in PhotoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Tyler Seevers, 25, formerly of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 20 and 21, 2014, Seevers produced sexually explicit photographs of a female child, three years of age, using an iPod Touch. The iPod Touch was turned over to law enforcement by 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.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2015, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years, nor more than 30 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.
Seevers will remain in custody pending the sentencing proceeding.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, The Pennsylvania State Police, and the Hopewell Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tyler Seevers.
Johnstown Woman Admits Possessing Equipment to Produce Counterfeit Credit Cards, Gift Cards and ChecksRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A Cambria County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of device-making equipment , United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kristina Joanna Barney, 33, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Oct. 22, 2010, Barney, along with a co-defendant, possessed counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, which included approximately 132 counterfeited identification cards, 73 counterfeited checks, 55 unauthorized gift cards, and 18 counterfeited credit cards. In addition to possessing these counterfeit or unauthorized access devises, Barney and a co-defendant also possessed device-making equipment, specifically Check Designer, Print Shop 2.0, check stock paper, and tools to modify checks and credit cards. Their possession of this equipment was designed primarily to produce counterfeit checks and credit cards.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 10, 2015, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, for Barney. 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 U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service and the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barney.
Wilkinsburg Man Pleads Guilty in Safe Streets Task Force Investigation into Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Larry Washington, 64, of Wilkinsburg, 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, co-conspirators were intercepted over the wire brokering crack cocaine deals on behalf of Washington. Also during that timeframe, agents were able to establish surveillance of Washington conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was shipped, in powder form, from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2015. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Washington’s bond and conditions of release.
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 Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Larry Washington.
South Side Resident Charged with Interstate StalkingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of interstate stalking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 5, named Frederick H. Banks, 47, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment Banks harassed an individual through telephone calls and a Craigslist posting.
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.
Magistrate Judge Keith A. Pesto ordered Banks detained pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Industry Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Receiving Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
David Tindell, 53, of Industry, 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 from in or around January 2005, to in or around March 2014, Tindell unlawfully received property of the United States, that is, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in the amount of approximately $70,654.80.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Dec. 4, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Tindell on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking 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 Tindell.
New York Resident Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
William Sarfo, 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 Sarfo allowed bank accounts in his name and under his control to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Sarfo would then withdraw the fraudulently obtained refunds, keep a portion for himself and give the remainder of the money to another co-defendant.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 21, 2015 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of loss to the victims, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sarfo.
Former Erie Man Facing 10 Years in Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of failure to register under SORNA, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
James Foster Wilcox, 28, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Wilcox knowingly failed to update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 21, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal’s Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wilcox.
Erie Woman Pleads Guilty in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Katrina A. House, 45, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that House conspired with another individual to defraud the United States by submitting false claims for income tax refunds using individuals’ identification information which was unlawfully obtained. House stole the identities of 71 individuals who were clients of a non-profit social service agency where House was employed. House and her co-defendant sought refunds from the IRS of more than $100,000.00 and used the stolen identities and falsified W-2 forms to perpetrate the fraudulent tax refund scheme. House and her co-defendant successfully obtained more than $60,000.00 in tax refunds from the fraudulent scheme and converted that money to their own use.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 21, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 2 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 House on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of House.