Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Latrobe Woman Facing Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Latrobe, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of health care fraud and obtained controlled substances through fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on June 9 and unsealed today, named Kari Richards, 28.
According to the indictment, Richards received health care benefits through Highmark and, in an attempt to obtain fraudulently various pain medications, caused Highmark to pay more than $600,000 in connection with claims in which she sought treatment over a 16-month period from more than 100 hospitals in eleven states on more than 300 occasions. Through this behavior, Richards obtained approximately 190 prescriptions for pain medications, including prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances Oxycodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone. As part of the scheme, Ms. Richards falsely represented the circumstances of injuries, which were mainly shoulder dislocations that she intentionally caused. She also misrepresented the medications that she received and her medical history.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 14 years of imprisonment, 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 Brendan T. Conway 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.
CFO Sentenced to Prison for Check Kiting Scheme, Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bradenton, Florida, has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months in jail, and ordered to make restitution to Thayer Power and Communication in the amount of $202,789 and to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $87,840 on his conviction of bank fraud and tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Brian M. Quimby,
According to information presented to the court, while Quimby was employed as CFO of Thayer Power and Communications, he engaged in an extensive check kiting scheme defrauding Key Bank and Thayer Power and Communication. In addition, Quimby failed to file his income tax return for calendar year 2007.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cohill stated that he was troubled that Quimby had falsely told the IRS that he had mailed his tax return knowing that he had not filed the return with the IRS.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Quimby.
UPMC Claims Department Employee Charged in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Armstrong County woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud and health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The eleven-count indictment named Francine Ann Priestas, 47, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Francine Ann Priestas was employed as a supervisor in the UPMC Health Plan Claims Department. Priestas generated billing statements which falsely represented that she and others known to the grand jury received medical services. She submitted 156 false statements on the UPMC system and received payments totaling $184,835.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 210 years in prison, a fine of $2,750,000 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 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.
Environmental Contractor Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Defrauding the NavyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Washington County resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, with the first 12 months to served on home detention, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Barry Kent Peterson, 48, of Canonsburg, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Peterson was the Vice President of Fullard Environmental Controls ("FEC") in Ford City, and that FEC performed demolition services in 2007 for the United States Department of the Navy in Beaufort, South Carolina. Peterson, along with another person employed at FEC, defrauded the government by submitting false information to the Department of the Navy regarding the costs that were incurred by FEC to perform the demolition services. Peterson, through FEC, defrauded the government in the amount of approximately $772,701.10. As part of the sentence, Judge McVerry ordered Peterson to forfeit $772,701.10 to the United States government.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge McVerry stated that the sentence of probation, rather than a sentence of imprisonment was due, in part, to Peterson’s extraordinary family hardships relating to the medical conditions of two of Peterson’s children.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General and Naval Criminal Investigative Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Peterson.
Carrick Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months’ incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating of the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Antwon Lamar Richards, 29.
According to information presented to the court, from October 2013 to April 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Richards conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over two kilograms of cocaine. In addition, on Oct. 22, 2014, Richards possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Richards.
Four Georgia Residents Sentenced for Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Four Georgia residents have been sentenced in federal court by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Darrell Jerome Ryles, 56, of Dalton, Ga., was sentenced to 48 months incarceration followed by four years supervised release and restitution in the amount of $67,806.00, on his conviction of wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. According to the information presented to the court, Ryles and others conspired to steal identities of other persons and inmates at correctional centers in Georgia which were used to electronically file unauthorized federal tax returns between 2010 and 2012. The tax returns sought tax refunds which were paid to Ryles and other conspirators in the false tax return scheme.
Beverly J. McHenry, 57, of Rome, Ga., was sentenced to probation for five years and restitution in the amount of $92,742.11, on her conviction of wire fraud conspiracy; Astrid P. Perry, 37, of Summerville, Ga., was sentenced to time served of 15 months incarceration, plus three years supervised release and restitution in the amount of $37,416.74 on her conviction of wire fraud conspiracy; and Heather A. Smith, 26, of Summerville, Ga., was sentenced to probation for five years and restitution in the amount of $98,331.41 on her conviction of wire fraud conspiracy. According to the information presented to the court, McHenry, Perry and Smith conspired to use stolen identities to file false federal 2010 and 2011 federal income tax returns requesting refunds payable to conspirators into banks and credit unions in Pittsburgh and Georgia.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, for the successful prosecution of these defendants.
Former Metropolitan Bank Director Gets 12 Years in Prison for Misapplying Bank FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former bank director was sentenced in federal court to 144 months of imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release, and $9,934,159.41 in restitution, on his conviction on nine counts of misapplication and theft of funds by a bank director, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Michael P. Bernick, 51, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Bernick, a Director of the Metropolitan Savings Bank, formerly located in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville section, embezzled and misapplied in excess of $350,000 from the bank between January 2005 and March 2006. Donna Shebetich, Bernick’s girlfriend and the former Director and Vice President of Metropolitan, provided him with nine monetary disbursements from the bank’s checking account in the form of seven cashier’s checks and two wire transfers payable to Bernick, himself, or to financial institutions used to pay off his loans.
Bernick did not complete any loan applications, sign notes, or provide security for the monetary advances. Metropolitan’s procedures required that all advances be approved by the Board of Directors. Neither Bernick nor Shebetich sought the authorization from the Board of Directors, either before or after the advances were extended. Bernick’s thefts jeopardized the soundness of the bank and ultimately caused the failure of Metropolitan on Feb. 2, 2007. Shebetich is currently serving a six-year term of imprisonment for filing false quarterly reports with the FDIC, which further secreted Bernick’s conduct.
Assistant United States Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Bernick.
Six Portage, Pa., Residents Charged in Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - On June 2, 2015, six residents of Portage, Pa., were indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Tonia Vaughn, 39; Gary E. Vaughn, 41; Melissa R. Seymore, 39; Jason A. Seymore, 39; Brandon Hill, 19; and Brittany Garrett, 21.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from Jan. 1, 2012, to Jan. 22, 2014, the named 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, in violation Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341, 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 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(a)(1)(A)(i).
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 [a/k/a “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, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341) the named defendants obtained proceeds of such conduct.
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, if any, of each of the defendants.
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 leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged in Series of Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal laws concerning robbery, use of a firearm, and firearm possession, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 11-count indictment named George Wilson, III.
According to indictment, Wilson committed a series of armed robberies of businesses throughout the Pittsburgh area from November 2014 through December 2014. During that time Wilson committed armed robberies of three stores called “The Exchange” and during one robbery Wilson discharged a firearm. Wilson also committed armed robberies of two Sunoco stations and one Exxon station. Due to a prior conviction for a felony offense, Wilson is prohibited from possessing firearms.
The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 25 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, the Ross Township Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Wilkins Township 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.
Penn Hills Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident pleaded guilty to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, and was subsequently sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Montay King, a/k/a Tay Loc, 39, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Dec. 20, 2012, King possessed with the intent to distribute 1,500 stamp bags of heroin weighing 37 grams, 171 grams of cocaine, and five grams of crack cocaine, while simultaneously possessing two assault rifles and a handgun in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. The drugs and firearms were found inside King’s 1998 Ford Expedition parked outside of his residence following searches by the Allegheny County Probation Office and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Adult Probation Office, and the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office Fugitive Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of King. 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.
Georgia Man Gets Probation, Ordered to Pay Restitution for Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of the State of Georgia has been sentenced in federal court to probation for a term of five years and restitution ordered in the amount of $139,357.27 on his conviction of wire fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Edward Claude Hammitt, 67, of Summerville, GA.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Hammitt and others conspired to steal identities of other persons which were used to file false electronic federal tax returns between 2010 and 2012.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the successful prosecution of Hammitt.
Georgia Man Living in PA Admits Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Christopher DeWayne Hayes, 50, formerly of Turner County, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 12, 2014 to Feb. 5, 2015, Hayes, while living in Pennsylvania, failed to register as a sex offender, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. He was required to register by reason of his 1990 conviction in the State of Georgia for child molestation of a child under the age of 14 years.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Sept. 9, 2015, at 10 a.m. 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.
The court detained Hayes pending his sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christopher DeWayne Hayes.
Former Bank Official Sentenced for Multiple Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to 90 months’ imprisonment on his convictions of bank embezzlement, bank fraud, mail fraud, tax fraud, conspiracy to commit counterfeiting and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Terrrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Joseph Graziano, Jr., 29, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from May 12, 2008 through March 25, 2011, Graziano was employed by Bank of New York Mellon as a Corporate Trust Administrator. In this position, he had the access and ability to wire funds in and out of accounts held by the bank’s corporate trust customers. Graziano used this access to embezzle $2,441,294.35 from Bank of New York Mellon by wiring funds from the corporate trust accounts into his own bank accounts. In federal income tax returns, he failed to report the embezzled funds as income.
In the time before and after Graziano was employed by Bank of New York Mellon, he also engaged in schemes to defraud five other banks including Dollar Bank, First Niagara Bank, First Commonwealth Bank, Ameriserv Financial Bank and PNC Bank. In these schemes, the defendant submitted fraudulent loan documents to induce the banks to extend credit to him.
Following the bank embezzlement and the bank frauds, the defendant began engaging in a new and separate scheme to defraud through the online marketplace www.ebay.com. The defendant defrauded eBay buyers by offering personal electronics for sale on eBay. After the buyers submitted payment to the defendant's PayPal account, the defendant sent the buyers empty boxes, falsely claiming that the boxes' contents had been stolen during shipping. After the defendant had been indicted on charges relating to those offenses, and while he was on pretrial release, the defendant began to engage in new and separate criminal conduct. Only a few months after he was charged in the original indictment, Graziano engaged in a conspiracy to purchase counterfeit United States currency through a source in the Republic of Uganda with the intent to pass the counterfeit currency at retail locations in the United States. The defendant used a stolen identity to set up a mailbox to receive the shipments of counterfeit currency from Uganda and also attempted to open a credit card and bank account using the stolen Identity.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McVerry stated that the defendant has cheated and stolen his way through life and that by continuing to commit offenses while on pretrial release, the defendant demonstrated no respect for the law or for himself.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted these cases on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Graziano.
Fifteen Chinese Nationals Charged in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Fifteen Chinese nationals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on charges of conspiracy, counterfeiting foreign passports, mail fraud and wire fraud, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced today.
The 35 count indictment, returned on May 21, 2015, and unsealed today, names the following 12 individuals as defendants: Han Tong, Xi Fu, Xiaojin Guo, Yudong Zhang, Yue Zou, Biyuan Li aka “Jack Li,” Jia Song, Ning Wei, Gong Zhang, Songling Peng, Siyuan Zhao and Yunlin Sun. The identities of the three additional defendants remain under seal.
According to the indictment, between 2011 and 2015, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy and a scheme to defraud Educational Testing Services (ETS) and the College Board by having imposters take college and graduate school standardized entrance examinations, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). In carrying out the scheme, the conspirators had counterfeit Chinese passports made and sent to the United States, which were used by the imposters to defraud ETS administrators into believing that they were other people, namely the conspirators who would receive the benefit of the imposter’s test score for use at American colleges and universities. The majority of the fraudulent exams taken by the conspirators were taken in western Pennsylvania.
“The perpetrators of this conspiracy were using fraudulent passports for the purpose of impersonating test takers of standardized tests including the SAT, GRE and TOEFL and thereby securing fraudulently obtained admissions to American institutions of higher education and circumventing the F1 Student Visa requirements,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “This case establishes that we will protect the integrity of our passport and visa process, as well as safeguard the national asset of our higher education system from fraudulent access.”
“These students were not only cheating their way into the university, they were also cheating their way through our nation’s immigration system,” said Special Agent in Charge John Kelleghan for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) of Philadelphia. “HSI will continue to protect our nation’s borders and work with our federal law enforcement partners to seek out those committing transnational crimes and bring them to justice.”
“The State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is committed to working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of crime related to passport fraud and to bring those who commit these crimes to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge David Schnorbus for DSS’s New York Field Office. “If criminal enterprises are able to manipulate instruments of international travel for profitable gain, then national security is at risk.”
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for each count of wire and mail fraud, 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for each count of counterfeiting foreign passports, and five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for conspiracy. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, HSI and the Department of State conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. U.S. Attorney Hickton acknowledged that ETS and the College Board cooperated fully in the investigation.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
15 Chinese Nationals Charged in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Imposters Using Fake Passports Took College, Grad School Entrance Exams for Prospective Foreign Students
PITTSBURGH—Fifteen Chinese nationals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, counterfeiting foreign passports, mail fraud and wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 35-count indictment, returned on May 21, and unsealed today, names the following 12 individuals as defendants: Han Tong, Xi Fu, Xiaojin Guo, Yudong Zhang, Yue Zou, Biyuan Li (aka “Jack Li”), Jia Song, Ning Wei, Gong Zhang, Songling Peng, Siyuan Zhao and Yunlin Sun. The identities of the three additional defendants remain under seal.
According to the indictment, between 2011 and 2015, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy and a scheme to defraud Educational Testing Services (ETS) and the College Board by having imposters take college and graduate school standardized entrance examinations, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). In carrying out the scheme, the conspirators had counterfeit Chinese passports made and sent to the United States, which were used by the imposters to defraud ETS administrators into believing that they were other people, namely the conspirators who would receive the benefit of the imposter’s test score for use at American colleges and universities. The majority of the fraudulent exams taken by the conspirators were taken in western Pennsylvania.
“The perpetrators of this conspiracy were using fraudulent passports for the purpose of impersonating test takers of standardized tests including the SAT, GRE and TOEFL, and thereby securing fraudulently obtained admissions to American institutions of higher education and circumventing the F1 Student Visa requirements,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “This case establishes that we will protect the integrity of our passport and visa process, as well as safeguard the national asset of our higher education system from fraudulent access.”
“These students were not only cheating their way into the university, they were also cheating their way through our nation’s immigration system,” said John Kelleghan, Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia Special Agent in Charge. “HSI will continue to protect our nation’s borders and work with our federal law enforcement partners to seek out those committing transnational crimes and bring them to justice.”
“The State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is committed to working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of crime related to passport fraud, and to bring those who commit these crimes to justice,” said David Schnorbus, Special Agent in Charge for DSS’s New York Field Office. “If criminal enterprises are able to manipulate instruments of international travel for profitable gain, then national security is at risk.”
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for each count of wire and mail fraud, 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for each count of counterfeiting foreign passports, and five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for conspiracy. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) 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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of State conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. U.S. Attorney Hickton acknowledged that ETS and the College Board cooperated fully in the investigation.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Shuman Center Youth Care Worker Sentenced to Probation for Federal MisdemeanorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was sentenced yesterday in federal court to one year probation on a misdemeanor charge of deprivation of civil rights under color of law, to which the defendant pleaded guilty earlier this year, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States Magistrate Judge Lisa Pupo Lenihan imposed the sentence on McArthur Mosley, 28, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on or about April 14, 2014, Mosley, while acting under color of law as a youth care worker with the Shuman Juvenile Detention Center, willfully deprived the victim of the right, secured and protected by the United States Constitution, not to be subjected to excessive force amounting to punishment by someone acting under color of law.
Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Shaun Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of McArthur Mosley.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH. - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 10 years imprisonment, followed by a lifetime supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on James Stover, 28, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Aug. 15, 2013, Stover 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 for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Stover.
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.
Gates, N.Y., Man Sentenced to 69 Months in Prison for Four Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Gates, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to 69 months in jail and ordered to make restitution of $16,370 on his convictions for bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Elizabeth A.Wolford of the Western District of New York imposed the sentence on Christopher Mancuso, 43.
According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 6, 2012, Mancuso robbed $10,060 from the M&T Bank at 1282 Long Pond Road, Greece, New York. On Dec. 18, 2013, Mancuso robbed $3,200 from the Chase Bank, located at 3917 Lake Avenue, Rochester, New York. On Jan. 17, 2014, Mancuso acted as the getaway driver during a robbery of Chase Bank, located at 2900 Dewey Avenue, Rochester, New York. Finally, on Jan. 31, 2014, Mancuso again acted as the getaway driver during a robbery at First Niagara Bank located at 12 Spencerport Road, Rochester, New York.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Wolfrod noted that Mancuso was on parole during each of the four bank robberies. Judge Wolford also took into account Mancuso’s lengthy criminal history dating back to his teenage years.
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, under the direction of Special Agent-In-Charge Brian P. Boetig, the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief James VanBrederode, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Phelan, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction Chief Michael Ciminelli for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mancuso.
Judge Sentences Felon to 7+ Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 92 months imprisonment on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jarron Darvez Jackson, 31.
According to information presented to the court, On April 16, 2011, Jackson became involved in a physical altercation inside the McDonald’s restaurant on Sassafras Street in Erie, Pennsylvania. After the altercation, Jackson retrieved a Kimber .45 caliber handgun from his vehicle and shot at other individuals as they were driving away from the restaurant. Jackson was prohibited from firearm possession because of his prior criminal convictions.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jackson.
Erie Man Sentenced for Violating Federal Gun LawsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 4 years probation, 24 months home detention and ordered to forfeit firearms, destructive devices and explosive materials on his conviction of violating federal gun laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Gerald Szymanowski, 67.
According to information presented to the court, on or about June 19, 2014, Szymanowski possessed approximately 38 unregistered firearms, including machineguns, silencers and destructive devices not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer record and manufactured approximately 372 devices of varying sizes containing explosive materials.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone commented on the seriousness of the offense, but imposed the sentence on Szymanowski primarily because of Szymanowski’s frail health.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Szymanowski.
Brothers Plead Guilty in Cocaine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Two residents of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Levonne Rowan, 32, and Dywon Rowan, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Rowans were arrested after ordering 3.5 kilograms of cocaine in exchange for $142,800. The cash was seized from the Rowans when they arrived in Edinboro, Pennsylvania to purchase the cocaine.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 31, 2015. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the Rowans on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Levonne and Dywon Rowan. The task force is 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. 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.
14 Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Following a multi-agency investigation into drug trafficking in Clairton, Pa., 14 people – 13 residents of Pennsylvania and one resident of New Jersey – have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws. The charges are contained in six separate, but related, indictments returned on May 12, 2015, and unsealed today.
“Through this investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts of cellular telephones, surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and other investigate techniques, we identified a number overlapping and interrelated violent drug distribution networks operating in Clairton, McKeesport, Washington County, Westmoreland County and New Jersey,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Our work to ensure that law abiding citizens have safe streets and peaceful neighborhoods continues.”
“The arrests today demonstrate, once again, the continued successful partnership of federal, state and local law enforcement in Western Pennsylvania,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “The Pittsburgh Division of the FBI remains committed to stopping the flow of illegal drugs and improving the quality of life in the communities we serve.”
“One of our primary obligations is keeping our communities safe, and I applaud the work of our OAG agents and the FBI for their great work in this endeavor,” Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane added.
THE INDICTMENTS
The first indictment, containing four counts, names:
Jarran Bell, 34, aka Screw, formerly of McKeesport, PA, currently incarcerated;
Krystle Barretto, 29, aka Krystal Barretto, of McKeesport, PA;
Amanda Santiago, 23, aka Mandy Santiago, of Jersey City, NJ; and
Donald Mitchell, 34, aka Don Mitchell, aka Curly Top, of New Eagle, PA.According to the indictment, from in and around January 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2015, the defendants conspired with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin; Jarran Bell, Krystle Barretto and Amanda Santiago are each charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; and Jarran Bell and Krystle Barretto are each charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin and possess of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison up to life in prison, as well as mandatory minimum sentences starting at five years in prison. Fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $20,000,000 may also apply.
The second indictment, containing one count, names:
Drake Cheadle, 22, aka Tootie, of Clairton, PA;
Oscar Woods, Jr., 51, of Clairton, PA;
Franklin Spence, III, 20, of McKeesport, PA;
Isaac Love, 23, of Clairton, PA;
Heidi Welsh, 27, of Connellsville, PA; and
Vance Gibson, 38, aka G-Hype. of Clairton, PA.According to the indictment, from in and around October 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2015, the defendants conspired with one another to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin (except for Welsh).
The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20,000,000, or both.
The third indictment, containing one count, names:
Bradley Dawkins, aka B-Dawk, 26, of Clairton, PA.According to the indictment, on or about April 1, 2015, Dawkins, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed an Intratec, Model TECDC9, 9mm caliber pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison or up to life in prison, as well as the possibility of a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, depending on the defendant’s prior criminal history. A fine of up to $250,000 may also apply.
The fourth indictment, containing one count, named:
Skylar Simmons, aka Bo, aka Bo Bo, of Clairton, PA.According to the indictment, in and around March 2015, Simmons, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Ruger, Model P97, .45 caliber pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison or up to life in prison, as well as the possibility of a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, depending on the defendant’s prior criminal history. A fine of up to $250,000 may also apply.
The fifth indictment, containing one count, names:
Kelli Johnson, 36, of Clairton, PA.According to the indictment, from in and around December 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around March 2015, Johnson conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $8,000,000, or both.
The sixth indictment, containing two counts, names:
Tyler Hurt, 22, aka Boski, of Clairton, PA.According to the indictment, from in and around February 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2015, Hurt conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin. Additionally, on or about April 1, 2015, Hurt, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed an Intratec, Model TECDC9, 9mm caliber pistol
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison or up to life in prison, as well as the possibility of a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, depending on the defendant’s prior criminal history. A fine ranging from $250,000 up to $2,000,000 may also apply.
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 Amy L. Johnston and Ross E. Lenhardt are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clairton Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania Physician Sentenced to Prison for False Tax Returns, Healthcare FraudRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of the Dominican Republic, has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day in prison and ordered to pay restitution of $121,000 to Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield on his conviction of filing false individual and corporate tax returns and health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Dr. William R. Acosta.
According to information presented to the court, Acosta, a physician licensed to practice in Pennsylvania, filed three false individual income tax returns and three false corporate income tax returns for calendar years 2001, 2002, and 2003, whereby he failed to report $561,129 in taxable income, resulting in an underpayment of $181,460 in income tax owed to the United States.
In addition, from Aug. 28, 2002, to Jan. 24, 2003, Acosta submitted false and fraudulent claims to Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield for levels of services higher than what he actually provided, and he unjustly received payment at the higher level from Highmark.
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 and the Department of Health and Human Services/Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Acosta.
Federal Jury Finds New Jersey Man Guilty of Supplying Heroin to Pittsburgh-based Drug RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for approximately 90 minutes, on May 13, 2015, a federal jury found Santino Drew guilty of two felony narcotics counts: conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Santino Drew, 36, of New Brunswick, New Jersey, was tried before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon in Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Rosen and Conor Lamb, who prosecuted the case, Drew was originally scheduled to proceed to trial with Brandon Thompson and Aldwin Vega as co- defendants. All three defendants were alleged to have supplied Jay Germany, a resident of Homestead, Pa. with heroin for distribution. On May 4, 2015, Vega pled guilty to heroin trafficking charges, and that same day, Thompson pled guilty to heroin and cocaine trafficking charges, as well as discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. Vega’s guilty plea called for a stipulated sentence of 16 years in prison, while Thompson’s guilty plea called for a stipulated sentence of 15 years in prison.
On May 4, 2015, with Thompson and Vega having pled guilty, Drew proceeded to trial alone. Over a period of four and a half days, the jury heard evidence establishing that over an approximately five-month period in 2012 and 2013, Drew conspired together with two other New Jersey-based heroin suppliers – Thomas Martinez and Hector Guadalupe – to transport heroin from New Jersey to Pittsburgh, where it was resold. One of the persons Drew sold heroin to was Jay Germany, who, in the fall of 2012, became the focal-point of an FBI-led investigation into violent gang activity in Homestead. Germany has pled guilty to the heroin trafficking charges against him, and he was sentenced to 15 years in prison. On Jan. 30, 2013, the FBI, who was monitoring a telephone utilized by Santino Drew, anticipated that a load of heroin was being brought to Pittsburgh by Thomas Martinez. That evening, a search warrant was executed at the Comfort Inn in Robinson Township, and 519 bricks of heroin, totaling 707 grams, were found under Drew’s bed.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Sept. 2, 2015 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 20 years in prison and not more than life, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the court continued the detention of Mr. Drew.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Santino Drew.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Theft of Deceased Mother's Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Theft of Government Property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 12, named Gilbert Anthony Lucas, 67.
According to indictment, Lucas converted to his own use Social Security benefits which were intended for his deceased mother.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten 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.
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.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Felon to 8 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A local man pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to eight years imprisonment on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mark A. Brazil, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count and was sentenced before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Brazil admitted in recorded conversations that he put firearms in his wife’s name because he was a convicted felon who could not lawfully possess firearms. Brazil specifically mentioned a .40 caliber Springfield pistol as a firearm he favored and described the unique way he loaded the magazine. During the execution of a search warrant at Brazil’s home on Oct. 16, 2013, a loaded Springdale .40 caliber pistol was found in Brazil’s bed in the master bedroom. The gun was loaded in the manner Brazil had earlier described.
Judge Diamond noted Brazil’s extensive criminal history in imposing sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brazil.
Glen Hazel Woman Charged with Using $70K in Benefits Intended to Support Her ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of government property and false statements to retain Supplemental Security Income Benefits, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on May 12, named Taisha Teresa Elmore, 35.
According to indictment, Elmore converted to her own use more than $70,000 of Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI) that were intended for her minor children. She also made false statements to the Social Security Administration by indicating that certain minor children were living with her when they were not and that she was using SSI benefits for their care and support when she was not.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison as to Count One and up to five years in prison as to Counts Two and Three, as well as a fine of up to $250,000 on each count, or both imprisonment and a 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.
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.
Indiana Pa., Woman Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Indiana, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months in prison and four years supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Tiffany N. White, 26.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2012 to March 8, 2013, White conspired with her co-defendants to possess and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
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 White.
Glassport Man Sentenced to 8+ Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania was sentenced in federal court to 100 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years supervised release, on his conviction of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Michael George Hadam, 60, of Glassport, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about April 9, 2014 to on or about April 11, 2014, Hadam distributed videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. Pursuant to the initial forensic review of Hadam’s external hard drive located at the time of the search of his residence, forensic examiners identified approximately 700,000 image files and 1,000 video files of child pornography. In addition to the videos and images found on the hard drive, more than 5,000 video files of child pornography also were recovered from Hadam’s desktop computer.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hadam.
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.
Bedford County Man Sentenced for Trafficking in Counterfeit Sports ApparelRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Everett, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first 12 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, a $3,000 fine, 100 hours of community service, and $113,218 restitution to the Coalition for the Advancement for the Protection of Sports Logos on his conviction of trafficking in counterfeit goods, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on John F. Crawford, IV, 48.
According to information presented to the court, on Oct. 25, 2012, Crawford trafficked in various counterfeit National Football League, National Hockey League and Major League Baseball logo apparel.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Crawford.
New Castle Man Sentenced to 27+ Years in Federal Prison for Producing Videos Showing Abuse of GirlRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of New Castle, Pa., was sentenced in federal court to 327 months imprisonment, 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.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Donald A. Miller, 43, of New Castle, Pa.
According to information presented to the court at the Oct. 22, 2014, guilty plea hearing and at the sentencing, Miller, on Dec. 22, 2013, used and coerced an eight-year-old victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing videos depicting her sexual exploitation. The child victim was identified and Miller arrested after the sexual videos depicting her abuse were discovered on a used Samsung Galaxy Tablet that Miller sold to a New Castle resident at a flea market in Ohio the day before Christmas 2013. The resident immediately notified the New Castle Police Department when she happened upon the videos depicting Miller and the child stored in the Galaxy’s memory. The witness was able to identify Miller as the perpetrator and the individual who sold her the electronic device.
Miller is scheduled to be sentenced in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, during the week of May 18, 2015, for child rape and other offenses related to the sexual contact with the eight-year-old 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, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the New Castle Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Miller.
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.
Former PPG Employee Charged with Theft of Trade SecretsRead the Press Release
A former PPG Industries, Inc. employee has been arrested and charged in federal court in Pittsburgh with theft of trade secrets, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced today.
The criminal complaint names Thomas Rukavina, 62, of Plum Borough, Pennsylvania.
“Theft, whether hands-on or through cyber intrusions, diminishes our competitive edge in technology and product development and deprives our citizens of economic opportunities,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “We will aggressively pursue intellectual property theft regardless of who commits the crime.”
The criminal complaint alleges that Rukavina retired from PPG in July of 2012. As early as June 2014, Rukavina passed proprietary and confidential information to J.T.M.G. Co., a glass company based in Jiangsu, China, that specializes in automotive and other specialty glass. The trade secret information he passed included PPG’s manufacturing specifications for windows, which are made of synthetic plastics and used for high-speed transportation, including airplanes.
The defendant was arrested yesterday and made an initial appearance today before federal magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy. He was ordered detained pending a formal detention hearing scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2015.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten 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.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.
Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the complaint charging Rukavina.
Former PPG Employee Charged with Theft of Trade SecretsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former PPG Industries, Inc., employee has been arrested and charged in federal court in Pittsburgh with theft of trade secrets, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The criminal complaint names Thomas Rukavina, 62, of Plum Borough, Penn.
“Theft, whether hands-on or through cyber intrusions, diminishes our competitive edge in technology and product development, and deprives our citizens of economic opportunities,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “We will aggressively pursue intellectual property theft regardless of who commits the crime.”
The criminal complaint alleges that Rukavina retired from PPG in July of 2012. As early as June 2014, Rukavina passed proprietary and confidential information to J.T.M.G. Co., a glass company based in Jiangsu, China, that specializes in automotive and other specialty glass. The trade secret information he passed included PPG’s manufacturing specifications for windows, which are made of synthetic plastics and used for high-speed transportation, including airplanes.
The defendant was arrested yesterday and made an initial appearance today before Federal Magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy. He was ordered detained pending a formal detention hearing scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2015.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 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.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the complaint charging Rukavina.
Maryland Man Charged with Defrauding Women Through On-Line Dating SitesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Maryland resident has been indicted in Pittsburgh by a federal grand jury on charges of wire fraud, money laundering and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 17-count indictment, returned on May 5, named Sigismond Senyo Segbefia, 28, of Silver Spring, Md., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Segbefia engaged in an online “Romance Scheme,” in which he defrauded victims out of money by posing as other persons on popular online dating websites ChristianMingle.com and Match.com. He also is accused of wiring illicit funds to Ghana.
The law provides for a total sentence of 322 years in prison, a fine of $4,500,000, 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 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.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Terrance Sitton, 42, 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. 22, 2015, to April 17, 2015, Sitton conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 8, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 Sitton.
Gun Store Burglar Goes Back to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to an additional 12 months and one day of incarceration as a result of violating the federal supervised release on his prior federal conviction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Alan Bloch imposed the sentence yesterday on Aaron Booker and added nearly three years of supervision to follow this latest incarceration.
According to information previously presented to the court, in 2009 the defendant was among a group of individuals who broke the front window at a New Kensington firearms dealer and stole 11 pistols and three assault rifles. Booker was originally sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for that incident, and then violated his supervision by assaulting a female victim. Booker was sentenced to “time served” in the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas for the assault and faced an additional sentence from Judge Bloch for committing the crime while on supervision following his release from federal prison.
Prior to imposing the new sentence for the supervision violation, Judge Bloch listened to the victim’s statement regarding the sexual nature of the assault and considered the seriousness of that incident.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Hickton noted that since firearms dealers are federally licensed, the burglary of the gun store was investigated by federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) who quickly identified and arrested Booker and his co-conspirators. U.S. Attorney Hickton also noted that Booker was prosecuted for the assault by the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office with the assistance of the local police department from the victim’s neighborhood.
Fayette County Postal Contractor Charged with Stealing $20 from EnvelopeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 5, named Scott E. Funk, 44, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Sept. 9, 2014, defendant, while working as a contract driver responsible for transporting mail and equipment for several post offices in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, stole $20 from an envelope addressed to a recipient in Ellsworth, Pa.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service 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.
Verona Man Facing Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Verona, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, which was returned on March 17, named David Hudak, 45 as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from Feb. 14, 2013 through March 8, 2013, Hudak distributed visual depictions, namely photographs in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment further charges that Hudak, on April 24, 2013, 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 $500,000.00, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and other members of the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force 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.
Statement on Execution of Federal Search Warrants in Fayette CountyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - David J. Hickton, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, issued the following statement today in response to media inquiries regarding searches conducted on May 5, 2015:
"On Tuesday, May 5, 2015, special agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police, and detectives from the Fayette County Drug Task Force - accompanied by Fayette County Tactical Medics from Fayette County EMS - executed federal search warrants at 11 locations in Fayette County, Pa., as part of an ongoing federal investigation.”
Penn Hills Man Charged with Firearms Violations, Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of firearms violations and making a false statement to the government, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on April 28 and unsealed today, named Michael David Woodson, 27, of Penn Hills, Pa.
According to indictment, Michael David Woodson purchased a gun giving false statements to the gun dealer, knowingly sold the gun to a convicted felon and gave false statements to the government when he was questioned regarding the firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 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 Soo C. Song is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
North Side Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Trafficking, Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Gerard Porter has been convicted of committing heroin trafficking and firearms crimes, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Porter, 39, pled guilty today to possessing heroin with intent to distribute and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Oct. 11, 2013. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond on Sept. 8, 2015, at 10 a.m.
In support of the guilty plea, Judge Diamond was informed that, on Oct. 11, 2013, Porter possessed more than 50 bricks of heroin, three loaded pistols, and $17,000 in cash that were found inside a house in Pittsburgh. The items were found inside the house after members of the Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force went to that location to serve five outstanding arrest warrants for Porter. Porter was not found inside the Shelton house on that date. He was apprehended in December 2013 inside a different house in the Pittsburgh area in possession of two cell phones and $1,900 in cash.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,250,000, or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Deported Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Illegally Reentering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Michocan, Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of reentry of removed alien and was sentenced to time served, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Hector Cardenas-Orozco, 37, of Michocan, Mexico, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea and sentence, the court was advised that Cardenas-Orozco, an alien who had been deported and removed from the United States on August 18, 2000, was found in the United States on March 25, 2014 without having received permission to reenter from either the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cardenas-Orozco.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty in Stolen Identify Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An individual from the State of Georgia pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mark Williams, a/k/a Frank White, 45, of Summerville, Ga., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, Williams, along with other co-conspirators, conspired to steal identities of other persons that were used to file false electronic federal tax returns between 2011 and 2015 which requested federal income tax refunds into bank accounts in Pittsburgh and in Georgia.
Judge Fischer scheduled the sentencing for Sept. 3, 2015. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 44 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mark Williams.
Pittsburgh-area Men Indicted on Drug, Firearms and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
Defendants with prior felony convictions face potential life sentences if convicted
PITTSBURGH - Four Pittsburgh-area residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics, firearms and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The six-count superseding indictment, returned on April 14, named Price Montgomery, 34, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., (currently incarcerated); James Perrin, 36, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., (currently incarcerated); Charles Cook, 48, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and Andre Avent, 37, of Homestead, Pa., as the defendants.
According to the superseding indictment, from April 2013 and continuing to June 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Montgomery and Perrin conspired to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and possessed with intent to distribute that heroin. The indictment also charges that on June 8, 2014, Montgomery and Perrin, who both have prior felony convictions, possessed 16 firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing firearms. Montgomery, Cook and Avent are charged with conspiring to commit money laundering.
Based upon their prior convictions, the law provides for mandatory minimum sentences of 25 years (Montgomery) or life (Perrin), and a maximum sentence of life. Cook and Avent face a maximum 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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indiana County Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An Indiana County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 16 months in prison and four years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Douglas A. Lydic, 31, of Commodore, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2012 to March 8, 2013, Lydic conspired with his co-defendants to possess and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
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 Lydic.
Westmoreland County Man Sentenced to Prison for Preparing Tax Returns in Violation of Court's OrderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to nine months imprisonment, to be followed by 12 months supervised release for violating his term of three years probation, on his conviction of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent individual income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. As a condition of probation imposed on July 26, 2012, Snow was prohibited from preparing tax returns for anyone but himself and his wife.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. imposed the sentence on Larry E. Snow, 65.
According to information presented to the court at the original plea and sentence, an IRS examination of a sample of returns defendant prepared for 17 taxpayers during the period from April 15, 2005 to April 15, 2009, showed that Snow prepared 63 false and fraudulent income tax returns, resulting in a tax loss of $98,414. At the revocation hearing on April 21, 2015, Judge Cohill determined that Snow had continued to prepare returns in violation of his probation.
In imposing sentence, at the top of the three-month to nine-month Sentencing Guidelines range, the Court stated Snow’s actions were a “blatant disregard” of the Court’s order.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon 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 Snow.
McKees Rocks Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Possession ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jarred Lynch, 29, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Feb. 21, 2014, Lynch knowingly possessed images in computer graphic and digital 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.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Aug. 7, 2015, at 9:30 a.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.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lynch.
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.
Moon Investor Admits Guilt in $2M Fraud Scheme Involving 130 VictimsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Moon Township resident has entered a plea of guilty in Pittsburgh on charges of wire and mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Ryan Blumling, 35, appeared before United States District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab and pled guilty to two counts of mail fraud and two counts of wire fraud in connection with a long running scheme whereby he swindled individuals who thought they were investing a coal mines and persons who were seeking loans to infuse cash into their businesses.
According to information presented to the Court, Blumling engaged in conduct over the period 2005 through 2014 in which he defrauded a series of potential investors and potential borrowers by making false representations and failing to use funds consistent with the promises he made to investors. Among his false representations were that the money given to him would be used in ongoing mining operations when, in fact, Blumling typically used the funds for personal expenses or to pay off previous investors who were threatening to sue him. In one instance identified for the Court, Blumling secured two wire transfers on the same day from an investor totaling $90,000. At the time Blumling received the money he had approximately $200 in his bank accounts. He used the investor’s funds to purchase a new Range Rover for himself, which a few weeks later he traded in on a new Lexus that he put into his wife’s name. In another instance Blumling sent an email to a potential borrower to assure the borrower that he has access to enough money to fund the borrower’s need for a loan of over $7,000,000. As a part of the email Blumling attached a bank statement for one of his accounts at PNC which showed a balance of over $9,000,000. However, as the investigation conducted by the FBI showed, in fact, at the time that account had a balance of zero.
According to the information provided to the Court there were more than 130 victims and more than $2,000,000 in losses suffered as part of Blumling’s fraudulent activities.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000 or both at each of the four counts (two counts of wire fraud and two counts of mail fraud). 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 guilty plea in this case.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Willie Gene Gulley, Jr., 46, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Aug. 18, 2014, Gulley distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Sept. 4, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gulley.
Four Arrested on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Three Altoona men and a Johnstown resident have been arrested and charged in federal court with violating the federal drugs laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The criminal complaint charges Shavoun Berry, aka Anthony, 39, of Altoona, Pa.; Terrance Sitton, 42 of Johnstown, Pa.; Darrin Canaan, aka Dirt, 35, of Altoona, Pa.; and Matthew Fee, 32, of Altoona, Pa., with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
“With the arrest of these individuals, we have disrupted a significant drug trafficking organization that has been distributing significant quantities of illegal substances in Blair and Cambria counties over the last several months,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “In fact, this case involves the largest seizure of packaged heroin in this part of Western Pennsylvania.”
“This case demonstrates the continued successful partnership of federal, state and local law enforcement in Western Pennsylvania,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “Like our partners, the Pittsburgh Division of the FBI is committed to stopping the flow of heroin and improving the quality of life in the communities we serve.”
According to USA Hickton, the complaint alleges that, between January 2015 and April 17, investigating agents intercepted dozens of drug-related telephone calls and text messages on phones used by the defendants, conducted physical surveillance and employed other investigative tools. Agents determined that Berry is the leader of a large-scale illegal drug distribution operation in the Cambria and Blair Counties, and elsewhere, and conspired with Sitton, Canaan and Fee to distribute large quantities of illegal drugs in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
According to the complaint, in the past few days, Berry arranged for Sitton to travel to Berry’s supplier in New York and retrieve a large quantity of illegal drugs. On April 17, at approximately 5:40 a.m., Sitton traveled from Western Pennsylvania to New York to retrieve what was believed to be a large quantity of cocaine. During the search of the suspect vehicle pursuant to the search warrant, an extremely well-concealed false compartment, or “trap,” was located in the rear portion of the Jeep. Upon entry into the trap, in excess of 300 bricks of heroin (more than 15,000 stamp bags) were located.
Berry was previously convicted in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania on drug trafficking charges. He is currently on federal supervised release.
The defendants will appear in federal court in Johnstown on Wednesday for detention hearings before Federal Magistrate Judge Keith A. Pesto.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence at each count of at least five years and up to 40 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.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Haines is prosecuting this case. Special agents of the FBI, and member of 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 complaint against these individuals.