Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fayette County Man Admits Threating the President, His FamilyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A resident of the Uniontown, Pa., area, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of threats against the President and the members of the immediate family of the President, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joseph H. Savage, 34, currently incarcerated for state convictions, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Oct. 26, 2012, while incarcerated and awaiting disposition on state charges, Savage wrote a graphic letter to the White House threatening to kill the President and the President’s family.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for June 17, 2015 at 4 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Savage.
Carmichaels Man Charged with Damaging Natural Gas Well PadRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Greene County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of damage of an energy facility, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 27, 2015, named Heath A. Rankin, 33, of Carmichaels, PA, as a defendant.
According to the information presented to the court, on or about March 26, 2014, Rankin damaged the Burchianti Pad, a pad of five natural gas wells operated by Chevron North America Exploitation and Production Company, a division of Chevron USA, Inc.
Rankin made an Initial Appearance in Federal Court on March 5, 2015. An arraignment and detention hearing are set for March 18, 2015, at 9:30 a.m. before Magistrate Judge Maureen P. Kelly. Rankin was ordered detained pending those proceedings.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Additional Defendants Named in Pittsburgh-area Drug Trafficking ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- Following the indictments of 40 defendants in October 2014, a grand jury last week issued additional and superseding indictments all relating to a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in the Homewood neighborhood Pittsburgh and other communities in the Greater Pittsburgh area. On Feb. 27, 2015, a federal grand jury issued four related superseding indictments and three new indictments adding an additional 14 defendants, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
“Maintaining the safety and security of our communities is paramount to law enforcement at all levels, and we remain relentless in our determination to bring to justice the violent criminals and drug traffickers who threaten neighborhood stability,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “The law-abiding residents of Homewood deserve to be free from fear of violent activity and drug trafficking. We are committed to ensuring they enjoy that freedom.”
“This long-term, multi-agency initiative centered in and around Homewood and the City of Pittsburgh has led to the indictment of more than 100 defendants, the seizure of more than $1 million as well as large quantities of weapons and drugs,” added Scott S. Smith, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI – Pittsburgh Division.
“ATF will continue to work side-by-side with our Federal, State, and local law enforcement partners to terminate gang violence that is often driven by the illegal drug trade”, said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods belong to its law-abiding residents, its rightful residents, not to armed drug gangs.”
THE INDICTMENTS
The first indictment (second superseding), containing two counts, named:- Lionel Cannon, 49, of Cleveland, Ohio, currently incarcerated;
- Cecil Pinnix, 45, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Misha Cannon, 44, of San Bernardino, CA, currently incarcerated;
- Jason Hunter, 40, of Los Angeles, CA, currently incarcerated;
- Tieriq Pinnix, 21, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Devonte White, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Ellis Harris, 45, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Aaron Reed, 34, of Wilkinsburg, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Douglas Smith, Jr., 43, of Penn Hills, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Gregory Price, 38, of Penn Hills, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Anthony Donald, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Michael Lyons, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
- William Blair, 33, of New Kensington, PA.
According to the second superseding indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, with the exception of William Blair, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Also according to the superseding indictment, during that same time frame, Lionel Cannon, Cecil Pinnix, Ellis Harris, Douglas Smith, Jr., and William Blair conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
For all defendants except for William Blair, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. For Blair, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both.
The second indictment (superseding), containing three counts, named:
- Tracey Yancey, 52, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- John Alexander, 50, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Andre Collington, 43, of Pleasant Hills, PA, currently incarcerated;
- David Irwin, 43, of White Oak, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Abdul Boyd, 38, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Brittanie Dickerson, 25, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Lavon Hudgins, 44, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Sidney Pinnix, 48, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Lamaca Davis, 42, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Edwina Yancey, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- James McCray, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Keith Beck, 22, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Kelvin Whittle, 56, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- John Phillips, 34, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Damien Petty, 52, of Verona, PA; and
- Aaron Atkins, 33, of Penn Hills, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, the defendants (not including Edwina Yancey) conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine; Tracey Yancey, John Alexander, David Irwin, Abdul Boyd, James McCray, and Aaron Atkins are charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Also according to the indictment, on July 28, 2014, Tracey Yancey, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a firearm. Also according to the indictment, on July 28, 2014, Edwina Yancey falsified a firearms purchase form in connection with the purchase of that firearm (i.e., was involved in the straw purchase of the gun).
The law provides for a maximum sentence on the drug charges of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. The law provides for a maximum sentence on the firearms charges of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.
The third superseding indictment, containing one count, named:
- John Alexander, 50, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Andre Collington, 43, of Pleasant Hills, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Roxanne Thompson, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Mark Spearman, 33, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Harold Neal, 53, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Larry Washington, 63, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Cora Everett, 45, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Roger Dorsey, 32, of West Mifflin, PA; and
- Paul Wheat, 42, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine. John Alexander and Andre Collington are charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both.
The fourth superseding indictment, containing four counts, named:
- Sekou Brooks, 38, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Abdul Qawee Daniels, 38, of Monroeville, PA;
- Eddie Garrett, 43, of Clarksburg, WV;
- David Earl Hamilton, 35, of Clarksburg, WV; and
- Kadesha Marie Mitchell, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing to in and around June 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, defendants Sekou Brooks, Abdul Daniels, David Earl Hamilton, and Kadesha Marie Mitchell conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the superseding indictment, on or about March 20, 2014, defendants Eddie Garrett and David Earl Hamilton possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Finally, on or about Aug. 19, 2014, Sekou Brooks, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a firearm, and possessed with intent to distribute quantities of crack cocaine and powder cocaine.
With the exception of defendant Garrett, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. For defendant Garrett, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both.
A fifth indictment, containing two counts, named Ronald Broadus, 41, of Penn Hills, PA. According to the indictment, from on or about May 1, 2014, and continuing thereafter to on or about May 28, 2014, Ronald Broadus conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine and heroin. Also according to the indictment, the defendant conspired with others to possess and carry a firearm in furtherance, and during and in relation to, a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $2,250,000, or both.
A sixth indictment, containing one count, named Dwayne Allen, a/k/a Dewayne Allen, 40, of Pittsburgh, PA. According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about Dec. 5, 2013, and Jan. 28, 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Allen distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine. In addition, on or about Feb. 14, 2014, Allen distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both.
A seventh indictment, containing one-count, named William Lowe, 36, of Pittsburgh, PA. According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about Nov. 6, 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Lowe distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the individual defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Tonya Sulia Goodman are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in this case
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Heroin Dealer Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Drug and Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Neil Thomas, a/k/a “Menace”, was convicted of conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Thomas, 30, formerly of Moon Twp. and Imperial, Pa., pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on July 8, 2015, at 11 a.m.
In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Thomas distributed hundreds of grams of heroin to other heroin dealers in Western Pennsylvania during the months leading up to his arrest in October 2013. The Court was also informed that Thomas stored heroin and firearms at his residence in Allegheny County and would meet customers there, sometimes while his children were also at the residence. A loaded Beretta pistol was found during the service of a search warrant at Thomas’s residence on Oct. 17, 2013, in a location that was accessible to children. In addition, the Court was informed that, had the case gone to trial, the prosecution would have presented evidence that Thomas threatened to harm an associate who owed money for heroin and Thomas fired shots into an apartment building in August 2013 where another drug-trafficking associate he was feuding with lived.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $8,250,000.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.
Former Utilities Workers Union President Admits Embezzling $31KRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former union official pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Michael C. Trembulak, 41, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Court Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Trembulak, while serving as the President of the Utility Workers Union of America AFL-CIO Local 475, embezzled approximately $31,528.65 from the union by making unauthorized debit card cash withdrawals, charges and purchases, and unauthorized teller cash withdrawals, from the union’s checking account during the period from April 19, 2012, to Sept. 19, 2012.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 29, 2015 at 10 a.m. 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.
Pending sentence, the court released Trembulak on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Federal Jury Finds Munhall Man Guilty of Illegally Possessing Weapons and AmmoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Andre Ruffin, a former resident of Munhall, Pa., was convicted by a federal jury of five men and seven women in front of Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry in Pittsburgh, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. Ruffin was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition.
According to information that was presented at pretrial hearings, Ruffin had been under investigation, by the Allegheny County Police – Homicide Section, for the death of Loretta Jackson that occurred on April 11, 2013. During that investigation, as was revealed at trial, a search warrant was executed at Ruffin’s home on April 22, 2013. During the search of Ruffin’s residence officers recovered an assault weapon and a component for an assault weapon known as a lower receiver. Officers also recovered multiple rounds of various caliber ammunition, a bullet proof vest, firearms holsters, firearms magazines, and various firearms paraphernalia and components.
Subsequent to the search, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) obtained records and conducted interviews that demonstrated that Ruffin had used his girlfriend (as a “straw purchaser”) to purchase the two firearms from Anthony Arms and Accessories, a West Mifflin firearms dealer, for his own possession. As a convicted felon, Ruffin was not legally permitted to purchase or possess firearms or ammunition. ATF also obtained records and information revealing more than a dozen deliveries of firearms-related parts and paraphernalia were made to the Ruffin home.
Federal law prohibits a person who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment in excess of one year from lawfully possessing a firearm, firearm components such as a receiver, and ammunition. The Superseding Indictment alleged that Ruffin has been convicted of a multitude of felony offenses including: carjacking; using a firearm during a crime of violence; robbery; attempted theft; and aggravated assault.
Judge McVerry ordered the forfeiture of the firearms and ammunition recovered, and scheduled Ruffin’s sentencing for June 26, 2015 at 10 a.m. Because of the type and number of his previous convictions, the law provides for a total sentence of at least 15 years in prison and up to life, a fine of up to $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain in jail and he was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan B. Ortiz and Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office - Crime Laboratory, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department and the United States Marshal Service conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Any person having information relating to Ruffin and/or the ongoing investigation being conducted by the Allegheny County Police Department – Homicide Section should contact Lieutenant Andrew Shurman at 412-473-1300.
Braddock Woman Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Using Her Children's Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County woman has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, four months of home detention, and ordered to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $11,276.00 on her conviction of theft of government property, involving conversion of Social Security benefits, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tawanda L. Moore, 37, of Braddock, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Moore stole more than $11,000 in government funds by converting to her own use Social Security Administration payments designated for the benefit of minor children.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Moore.
New Castle Man Charged with Robbing Two Banks in His HometownRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Lawrence County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Calvin Smith, 43, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Nov. 5, 2014, Smith robbed Huntington Bank located at 101 E. Washington St., in New Castle and on Dec. 2, 2014, Smith robbed First Commonwealth Bank located at 27 E. Washington St., also in New Castle. The banks are both insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
For each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Castle City 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.
Local Man Charged with Robbing 2 Pittsburgh-area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery and armed bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment named Christopher Wallace, 28, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Feb. 10, 2015, Wallace robbed two banks with a dangerous weapon: First Commonwealth Bank, located at 5200 Butler Street, in Lawrenceville, and PNC Bank located at 206 Rodi Road in Penn Hills. Both banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Charleroi Woman Sentenced to Probation for Counterfeit Currency SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today in federal court to two years probation, including eight months home confinement, on her conviction of conspiracy to possess and to pass counterfeit currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed sentence upon Cheryl Leigh Johnson, 36, of Charleroi, Pa.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that during the period from July 1, 2014, through July 28, 2014, Johnson conspired with codefendants John Viloria, Barry Robert Youger, Jr. and Eric Seighman, to pass thousands of dollars of counterfeit Federal Reserve notes at various retail store locations in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon stated that Johnson’s crime of conspiracy to possess and to pass counterfeit currency was a serious offense. However, a term of probation with a condition of home detention was appropriate due to Johnson’s current employment, her plea of guilty, and her acceptance of responsibility for her crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Johnson.
Belle Vernon Man Gets Prison Sentence for Counterfeit Currency SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Fayette County resident was sentenced today in federal court to 30 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to possess and to pass counterfeit currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed sentence upon Eric Seighman, 32, of Belle Vernon, Pa.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that during the period from July 1, 2014, through July 28, 2014, Seighman conspired with codefendants John Viloria, Barry Robert Youger, Jr. and Cheryl Johnson, to pass thousands of dollars of counterfeit Federal Reserve notes at various retail store locations in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Seighman.
Turtle Creek Woman Sentenced to Time Served for Heroin Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County woman has been sentenced in federal court to time served, followed by three years supervised release, for conspiring to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
On Feb. 25, Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Breya Bowles, 22, formerly of Turtle Creek, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, in the spring of 2014, Bowles conspired to distribute and possessed with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Amy L. Johnston and Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bowles.
Mexican Sentenced to Prison for Smuggling Meth in Frames of Religious ArtRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Mexican citizen living in Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months of incarceration and five years of supervision on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Carmelo Rojas- Perez, 31, born in Toluca, Mexico, and recently residing in Pittsburgh. Judge Conti noted that the defendant will be deported back to Mexico after serving his prison sentence.
According to information presented to the court, Rojas-Perez had initially received a “test” package from Toluca, Mexico, consisting of a framed religious picture, which contained no drugs. Rojas- Perez opened the package and assured himself that the package had not been tampered with, before storing it in his residence. Approximately one week later, Rojas-Perez received two additional framed religious pictures, containing nearly one kilogram of methamphetamine hidden inside the hollowed-out frames. Federal Homeland Security Agents and Pennsylvania State Police Western Interdiction Unit Troopers executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence before the methamphetamine could make it onto the streets. Investigators also located Rojas-Perez’s cellphone in his residence and determined that it contained both text messages with his methamphetamine co-conspirators and pictures of apparent drugs on top of piles of money. The methamphetamine seized is estimated to be worth between $22,000 and $45,000 on the street, depending on how much it was diluted before reaching actual drug users. Depending on that dilution, the drugs involved an estimated 3,500 to 7,000 individual hits of methamphetamine.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Conti noted that unlike American citizens who are jailed in federal facilities, illegal aliens are not eligible for early release from their sentences, do not get credit for completing drug programs, and often are unable to serve their time in a minimum security facility.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Pennsylvania State Police Western Interdiction Unit for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carmelo Rojas-Perez.
Former Hospice COO Charged with Health Care Fraud, Lying to A Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Louisiana woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of health care fraud and making false declarations before a grand jury, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The five-count indictment named Mary Ann Stewart, 47, of Bossier City, La., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Stewart was the chief operations officer for Horizons Hospice LLC, which provided end-of-life hospice care to eligible patients. A significant number of patients were eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. The indictment alleges Stewart orchestrated a scheme whereby she caused her staff to place non-qualifying patients into hospice care that were not appropriate, and then recertified the patients for continued hospice care. The indictment also alleges that Stewart testified untruthfully to a series of four questions before a federal grand jury.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison on the health care fraud count and five years in prison on the making false declarations before a grand jury counts, a fine of $250,000 on each count, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Section of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Uniontown Man Indicted on Child Pornography Production and Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Fayette County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment named David Kinteay Carson, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Sept. 26, 2014, Oct. 18, 2014, and Dec. 13, 2014, Carson produced visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of two minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about Dec. 18, 2014, Carson knowingly possessed images in computer graphic or digital files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum of 15 years imprisonment for each count of production of child pornography, a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for possessing child pornography, and a fine of $750,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Uniontown City Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to 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.
Mt. Pleasant Postal Employee Charged with Theft of MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail matter by postal service employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Frank J. Rysz, 49, of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the information presented to the court, Rysz, an employee of the United States Postal Service, engaged in the theft of three first class letters and their valuable contents from the U.S. mails. Rysz also took one advertisement from the U.S. mails.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. 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.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5 Years in Prison for Participating in Heroin Distribution RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Samuel Brooks, 28, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around June, 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around May, 2014, the Brooks conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Amy L. Johnston and Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brooks.
Felon Charged with Possessing Heroin, Three Loaded WeaponsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on Feb. 24, named Antonuan Smith, 28, of Munhall, Pa.
According to the Indictment, on Dec. 23, 2014, Smith possessed over 100 grams of heroin, and with that heroin, possessed three firearms, including a loaded Taurus .40 caliber semi- automatic, a loaded Smith and Wesson .380 caliber semi-automatic, and a loaded .22 caliber assault rifle. Smith allegedly possessed those firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking. Further, it is unlawful for Smith, who has previously been convicted of felony offenses, to possess firearms or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Munhall Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Duquesne Teen Involved in Heroin Trafficking Scheme Gets 57-Month Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 57 months in jail for a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and a charge of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of less than 100 grams of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Rahde Williamson, 19, formerly of Duquesne, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January of 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around April of 2014, Williamson conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and Williamson possessed with intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Amy L. Johnston and Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williamson.
Beaver Falls Teen Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Burglarizing New Brighton Gun StoreRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of stealing firearms from the inventory of a federally licensed firearms dealer, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Jaemere Scott, 19.
According to information presented to the court, on Feb. 7, 2014, Scott and Kyle Jones burglarized Shooters Place, a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer, located at 416-F Constitution Boulevard in New Brighton, Pa., and stole fourteen handguns.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Patterson Township Police Department, the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office, the Beaver County Detective Bureau, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Beaver Falls Police Department, and the New Brighton Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Scott.
Aliquippa Man Charged with Producing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on two charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and two charges of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned on Feb. 24, named Tyler Seevers, 24, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about May 14-15, 2014, and on or about July 20-21, 2014, Seevers employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced one of two child victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions, namely photographs, of such conduct. The indictment further charges that Seevers, on July 27, 2014, and on Aug. 2, 2014, unlawfully possessed, in computer graphics files, photographs depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Hopewell Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Reward Announced for Cyber FugitiveRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program, announced today a reward of up to $3 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of a prolific cyber criminal. Evgeniy Mikhailovich Bogachev was charged with numerous violations for his role as an administrator of the GameOver Zeus botnet.
The software was used to capture bank account numbers, passwords, personal identification numbers and other information necessary to log into online banking accounts. It is believed GameOver Zeus is responsible for more than 1 million computer infections, resulting in financial losses of more than $100 million.
Bogachev is on the FBI’s Cyber’s Most Wanted and is believed to be at large in Russia.
The TOC reward offer reaffirms the commitment of the U.S. government to bring those who participate in organized crime to justice, whether they hide online or overseas.
Bogachev was charged in 2014 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with conspiracy, computer hacking, wire fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering in connection with his alleged role as an administrator of the GameOver Zeus botnet. Bogachev was also indicted by criminal complaint in Omaha, Nebraska, in 2012 and charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud related to his alleged involvement in the operation of a prior variant of Zeus malware known as Jabber Zeus.
“To achieve justice in the cybersphere, we must be aggressive, innovative and relentless to ensure that those living outside our borders do not have a pass to commit crimes within them,” stated David J. Hickton, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “We are ready to bring Evgeniy Bogachev to justice in federal court in Pittsburgh. We will use every available legal and diplomatic means to bring all cyber-criminals to justice wherever they reside.”
Anyone with information on Bogachev should contact the FBI via the Major Case Contact Center, 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You may also submit a tip online via tips.fbi.gov. All information will be kept strictly confidential.
Removed Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Re-entering United States Without PermissionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico, plead guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served (5 ½ months incarceration) on his conviction of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Joel Sanchez-Lara, 38, of Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Sept. 8, 2014, Sanchez-Lara was found in Carnegie, Pa., after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on three previous occasions and not having applied for or received permission to re-enter.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sanchez-Lara.
Clearfield Woman Sentenced to Prison for False Tax Return SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Clearfield, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to defraud the government, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Juanitha Leach-Anderson, 37
According to information presented to the court, from Mar. 2007 to Aug. 23, 2008, Leach-Anderson conspired with another to defraud the Internal Revenue Service, an agency of the United States Department of Treasury, by obtaining and aiding to obtain payment or allowance of false, fictitious and fraudulent claims against the United States. Leach-Anderson and another person prepared or caused to be prepared and filed approximately 111 false, fictitious and fraudulent federal income tax returns wherein they claimed tax refunds totaling approximately $190,279.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Leach-Anderson.
Bucks County Man Sentenced to Prison for Robbing McKeesport BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Morrisville, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months on his conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Christopher Gaspersz, age 24.
According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 26, 2013, Gaspersz robbed Huntington Bank located at 1415 5th Avenue, McKeesport, PA, of $3,807.00. After exiting the bank, Gaspersz led police on a foot chase and was ultimately apprehended. Subsequent to being taken into custody, Gaspersz confessed to four additional bank robberies, which are still under investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the McKeesport Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gaspersz.
Accounting Firm Bookkeeper Sentenced to Prison for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release, and $270,085.46 in restitution to Cybergenetics Corporation, on her conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Mary L. Schneir, 42, of Bethel Park, Pa.
Schneir was employed as the bookkeeper and office manager at Karna C. Goldsmith, C.P.A., an accounting firm located at Summerfield Commons Office Park, Suite 611, 2555 Washington Road, in Upper St. Clair, Pa. Schneir devised and executed a fraud scheme during her tenure as an employee of Goldsmith, whereby she used funds of Goldsmith clients to make online payments to her personal credit card and mortgage accounts. To hide her activity, Schneir would regularly move money between the bank accounts of Goldsmith’s clients, to which she had access. Specifically, on Feb. 28, 2013, Schneir caused an electronic transfer of funds in the amount of $54,145.36, from the account of Cybergenetics Corporation, to an A.L. Brourman Associates, Inc. account maintained at Citizen’s Bank. At the time Schneir’s scheme was detected, Cybergenetics accounts were the only ones remaining affected. The total loss to the business was in excess of $270,000.
In imposing the sentence, the Court admonished Schneir for causing significant financial harm to Cybergenetics, which threatened the viability of the business and the work of its employees.
Assistant United States Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and detectives of the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Schneir.
McKees Rocks Man Charged with December Robberies of 2 Local BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A McKees Rocks resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Clarence Troutman, 38, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Dec. 23, 2014, Troutman robbed a First Niagara Bank located at 810 South Aiken Ave, Pittsburgh, Pa.; and on Dec. 30, 2014, Troutman robbed a Citizens Bank located at 31 Foster Avenue, Crafton, Pa. Both of the banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, per count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Crafton Borough 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.
Louisiana Man Charged with Robbing First National Bank on Steubenville Pike in JanuaryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Crowley, Louisiana, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charges of Bank Robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Kirk Stutes, 52, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Jan. 16, 2015, Stutes robbed First National Bank located at 6298 Steubenville Pike, Pittsburgh, Pa. The bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Robinson Township Police Department, North Fayette Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police 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.
Bon Air Man Charged with Robbing Six South Hills BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The six-count indictment named Christopher Furay, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, between Dec. 1, 2014, and Jan. 16, 2015, Furay robbed six different banks in the Pittsburgh area including a First Commonwealth Bank located in Dormont, Pa.; a First National Bank located in Castle Shannon, Pa.; a PNC Bank located in Bethel Park, Pa.; a Citizens Bank located in Bethel Park, Pa.; a First Commonwealth Bank located in West Mifflin, Pa; and a Citizens Bank in Brentwood, Pa. All of the banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, per count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Dormont Borough Police Department, Castle Shannon Police Department, Bethel Park Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Brentwood Police Department 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 Increases Prison Sentence for Mercer County Drug Dealer from 78 to 90 MonthsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County man has been re-sentenced in federal court to 90 months imprisonment, to run consecutive with his state court sexual assault sentence, on his conviction of violating federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Raymond Anthony Napolitan, 52, of Farrell, Pa.,
According to information presented to the Court, on Sept. 27, 2012, a federal jury found Napolitan guilty of possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on June 29, 2007. Judge Arthur Schwab then sentenced Napolitan to 78 months imprisonment. Both parties appealed from the judgment, and in August, 2014, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction but vacated the judgment, thereby remanding the case for re-sentencing before Judge Hornak. After extensive argument from both sides, Judge Hornak increased Napolitan’s sentence from 78 to 90 months.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Southwest Mercer County Regional Police Department, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and Drug Control, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mercer County Sheriff's Office, and the Mercer County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Raymond Anthony Napolitan.
18 Named in Superseding Indictment Charging Conspiracy, Aggravated ID TheftRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Eighteen individuals from around the United States have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The thirteen-count superseding indictment named Doherty Kushimo, 53, of Providence, Rhode Island; Saburi Adeyemi, 57, of Memphis, Tennessee; Abiodun Bakre, 50, of Ozone Park, New York; Adetunji Gbadegeshi, 57, of Rosedale, New York; Adebola Mejule, 55, of Hempstead, New York; Michael Idowu Olugbade, 43; Xerxes Shevar, 47, of Brooklyn, New York; Gcobisa Kehle, 37, of Brooklyn, New York; Loyiso Kula, 43, of New York City; Abiodun Tijani, 44, of Staten Island, New York; Funmilayo Aliyu, 53, of Laurelton, New York; Bola Peters, 43, of New York City; Samuel Sobaloju, 52, of Far Rockaway, New York; Daniel Freeman, 49, of Danbury, Connecticut; Nana Baffour, 38, of Bronx, New York; Kwame Asamoah, 35, of Brooklyn, New York; Robert Wireko, 47, of Brooklyn, New York; and Alaire Sanya, 47, of Far Rockaway, New York, as defendants.
According to the indictment presented to the court, the eighteen defendants conspired to commit wire fraud by submitting fraudulent federal tax returns in the names of individuals whose identities the conspirators stole. The conspirators then opened bank accounts using stolen identities and used those accounts as repositories for their fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. The conspirators obtained stolen identity information on the Internet and then traded that information among themselves using email accounts and other means of communication. All told, the indictment alleges that, for the tax years 2010 to 2013, approximately $38 million in fraudulent tax refunds was sought from the IRS by the conspirators, causing the IRS to pay at least $10 million in fraudulent refunds. The indictment also alleges that approximately 3,493 bank accounts were opened using stolen identities, affecting approximately 443 financial institutions, and that approximately 4,563 credit cards were obtained using stolen identities. Approximately 11,468 individuals are alleged in the indictment to have been victimized.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison for Saburi Adeyemi, Adetunji Gbadegeshi, Adebola Mejule, Michael Idowu Olugbade, Xerxes Shevar, Gcobisa Kehle, Loyiso Kula, Abiodun Tijani, Funmilayo Aliyu, Bola Peters, Samuel Sobaloju, Daniel Freeman, Nana Baffour, Kwame Asamoah, Robert Wireko, and Alaire Sanya. Doherty Kushimo faces 38 years in prison and Abiodun Bakre faces 36 years in prison. All eighteen defendants are subject to a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of loss to the victims. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Etna Resident Gets 10-Year Prison Sentence for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- A former resident of Etna, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years imprisonment followed by 25 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.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on David L. Roethlein, 26, formerly of Etna, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Roethlein, on June 1, 2012, distributed over a peer-to-peer network to an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New Haven, Connecticut, working in an undercover capacity, videos and photographs in computer graphics files which depicted the sexual exploitation of prepubescent minor females.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Roethlein.
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.
West Virginia Woman Pleads Guilty in Mystery Shopper ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A West Virginia woman pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Linda Walker, 60, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, Walker was involved in a Nigerian “Mystery Shopper” scam whereby she knowingly prepared and addressed fraudulent mail containing counterfeit instruments to victims, who believed they were acting as mystery shoppers. The victims unwittingly received the counterfeit commercial and Postal money orders and checks and cashed them to make small purchases for purposes of evaluating the commercial services provided. They then wire transferred excess funds back to Walker and others. After these transactions, the money orders and checks were returned as counterfeit by the victims’ banks and they were left to repay the bank from their own funds.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2015, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Linda Walker.
Twice Removed Illegal Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Again Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Mexico pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 6 months time served on his conviction of reentry of removed alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Salvador Lopez-Santiz, a/k/a Salvadore Santos, 24, of Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, alien Lopez-Santiz, who had been twice before removed from the United States - on Oct. 13, 2012 and Oct. 24, 2012 - was found in the United States in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Aug. 12, 2014 without having obtained permission to reentry the country.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary in this instance; but if defendant again re-enters the U.S. without permission a subsequent sentence could be substantially greater.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lopez-Santiz.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Multiple Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank embezzlement, bank fraud, mail fraud, filing a false income tax return, conspiracy and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joseph Graziano, Jr., 29, pleaded guilty to six counts in two cases before Senior United States District Judge Terrrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that from May 12, 2008 through March 25, 2011, the defendant 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, the defendant failed to report the embezzled funds as income. In the time before and after the defendant 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, Graziano 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. Graziano 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, he 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 Uganda with the intent to pass the counterfeit currency at retail locations in the United States. He 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 accounts using the stolen identity.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for May 22, 2015. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of two years, a total sentence of 90 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Judge McVerry ordered that the defendant remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigations that led to the prosecution of Graziano.
Man Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Unlawfully Procuring CitizenshipRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation on his conviction of unlawful procurement of citizenship or naturalization, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Lahbib Hannoune, 35, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to the information presented to the court, Hannoune falsely answered in the negative a question about whether he had committed a crime for which he had not yet been arrested during his naturalization proceedings. At the time he answered the question, Hannoune had already engaged in unlawful contact with a person represented to be a minor for the purpose of engaging in online video display of sexual conduct. The person was actually an undercover police officer. Hannoune procured naturalized U.S. citizenship based upon his answer.
Judge McVerry ordered Hannoune’s naturalized citizenship be revoked, undoing the result of his fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney commended Homeland Security Investigations and the Office of Attorney General for the successful investigation leading to the prosecution of Lahbib Hannoune.
FBI Investigation Leads to Fraud Charges Against Moon Twp. ManRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Moon Township has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire and mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Ryan T. Blumling, 34.
According to indictment 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.
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. Blumlling is currently incarcerated in the Allegheny County jail on unrelated state charges.
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.
Uniontown Man Charged with Possessing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Fayette County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on Feb. 3, named Ronald Rhodes, 57, of Uniontown, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about April 3, 2014, Rhodes distributed a video containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about Dec. 15, 2014, Rhodes 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.
Rhodes was detained today pending trial.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
Attorney Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An attorney has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Erik Sobkiewicz, 51, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Cercone.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Mr. Conway provided the following information to the Court at the time of the plea:
Sobkiewicz was an attorney involved in a number of interrelated schemes. The first scheme, involved Sobkiewicz embezzling funds from the law firm that employed him. He used the resources of the law firm to advance businesses that he, unbeknownst to the law firm, controlled. He had the law firm invoice those businesses, knowing that the businesses would not pay the bills. The billings lulled the law firm into believing that what the defendant was doing was legitimate. In addition, he diverted money from a real estate closing owed to the law firm to a personal account, and he diverted client funds held in the law firm’s escrow account to his personal account.
Sobkiewicz was also involved in several loan fraud schemes. He applied for a series of loans from Indiana First Savings Bank. For the last of the loans, which was for $350,000, Sobkiewicz used the securities account of an individual as collateral for the loan without that individual’s permission, and he falsely represented that Indiana First Savings Bank would be in first lien position with regard to the property serving as collateral for the loan when, in fact, Indiana First Savings Bank was not going to be in first lien position because of a previous loan Sobkiewicz obtained collateralized by that property.
Another loan fraud scheme involved Milestone Bank and a property in Philadelphia that Sobkiewicz claimed he was developing. As with Indiana First Savings Bank, Sobkiewicz falsely represented to Milestone Bank, the lender in the Philadelphia transaction, that Milestone Bank would sit in first lien position when, in fact, Milestone Bank was going to be in second lien position because of a previous loan obtained by Sobkiewicz and collateralized by this property. Sobkiewicz forged a mortgage satisfaction of the lender in first lien position to make it appear as though Milestone Bank would be in first lien position.
In addition, Milestone Bank wanted to see that Sobkiewicz had invested his own money into the Philadelphia property and that he had equity in the property. He was able to show them a $600,000 investment of purportedly his own money. In reality, however, the $600,000 was not Sobkiewicz’s money. He obtained that money by soliciting the investment of another individual using a series of misrepresentations, including that the investor would be in second lien position behind only Milestone Bank with regard to the Philadelphia property and in first lien position with regard to other properties owned by Sobkiewicz. In reality, the investor is in third lien position with regard to the Philadelphia property in the second lien position with regard to the other properties.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2015, at 10 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sobkiewicz.
Renewal Escapee Sentenced to 18 More Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A local man has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment to be served consecutive to the defendant’s other federal sentence, and followed by three years supervised release, on his conviction of escape, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Termaine R. Washington, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Washington was charged with escape on April 8, 2014. Washington had been transferred to the Renewal, Inc. Residential Re-entry Center located in Pittsburgh, PA. On April 8, 2014, Washington left Renewal, Inc. and did not return.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Washington.
Bloomfield Post Office Robber Gets Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 35 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $569 on his conviction of robbing a U.S. Post Office, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Joseph R. Filbert, 52.
According to information presented to the court, Dec. 14, 2011, Filbert robbed a U.S. Postal clerk at the Bloomfield Post Office of $569 in U.S. Currency, by flashing what appeared to be a gun and demanding money. Still photos from the Post Office surveillance camera, together with video from a surveillance camera at a nearby business, enabled Postal Inspectors to obtain positive identification of both the car Filbert was operating and of Filbert. Execution of a search warrant resulted in the recovery of the shoes Filbert is believed to have worn in the Post Office robbery.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Filbert.
Asst. Bank Branch Manager Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 6 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release on her conviction of bank embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Diana Phillips, 41.
According to information presented to the court, Phillips was an Assistant Branch Manager and Head Teller at First National Bank. Over a period of roughly three years from 2008-2011, Phillips embezzled approximately $120,000 from the bank by processing fictitious general ledger transactions, making it appear in bank records as though she was processing refunds to bank customers. The defendant then deposited the funds into an account owned by a family member and later transferred the money from the family member's account into accounts controlled by her and/or her husband.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Conti stated that the defendant’s embezzlement extended over a long period of time and was methodical and continuous.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Phillips.
Johnstown Crack Coaine Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of distribution of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Reginald Dervin Harris, 48.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 9, 2014, Harris distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.
Mom Admits Distributing Her Incarcerated Son’s HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Carrie Robinson of Pittsburgh has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Robinson, age 45, pled guilty on Feb. 1, 2015, in front of United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. In support of the guilty plea, Robinson admitted that, in late March and early April 2014, she agreed to distribute her son’s remaining heroin while he was incarcerated at the Allegheny County Jail on a heroin distribution charge. Robinson is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26, 2015, at 9:30 a.m.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Employee of Postal Contractor Charged with Taking Cash from Cranberry Township Mail RecipientRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A highway contract route driver has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on Feb. 3, named April Kovach, 39, of Yatesboro, Pa.
According to the indictment, on or about Oct. 8, 2014, Kovach did abstract and remove two $20 Federal Reserve notes that had been the contents of a greeting card envelope addressed to an individual in Cranberry Township.
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 Shardul S. Desai 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.
20 Facing Federal Drug Charges Filed in ErieRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – Twenty individuals from various locations in the United States have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie and/or have been arrested on charges of violating federal drug laws, retaliation against a witness or informant, and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
“Today’s actions demonstrate that our strategy to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal drug trafficking organizations is relentless,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “This prosecution will go a long way toward making the citizens of Western Pennsylvania safer.”
The first, 16-count Indictment, named the following individuals who have been arrested:
Raul Gerardo Ruiz-Maldonado, 41, Houston, Texas;
Maria Remedios Urrutia, 23, Erie, Pa.;
Marco Antonio Melchor, 34, Erie, Pa.;
Dana Scott Ball, 37, Waterford, Pa.;
Jorge Daniel Montes-Cervantes, 25, Erie, Pa.;
Jenny Eileen Urrutia, 34, Elkhart, Ind.;
Reyna Urrutia, 35, Elkhart, Ind.;
Christina Urrutia Rojas, 29, Edinboro, Pa.;
Sammar Aimee Melchor, 33, Erie, Pa.;
Ancelmo Ayala, 40, Elkhart, Ind.;
Jose Merced Gomez Murillo, 54, Columbus, Ohio;
Oscar Mata Garcia, 26, Forrest City, Ark.;
Safa Gobah, 21, Forrest City, Ark;
Juan Jose Ramos, 28, Akron, Ohio;
Robert Jovaun Harris, 36, Erie, Pa.;
Efrain Ramon Pagan Rosario, 24, Erie, Pa.; and
Nathanael Ortiz Andino, 28, Erie, Pa.According to the Indictment and additional information presented in Court, from June 2013 through January 2015, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute in excess of 150 kilograms of cocaine, ounces of high purity methamphetamine, and ounces of heroin. In addition, according to the Indictment and information presented in Court, multiple ounces of methamphetamine and heroin were distributed from the premises at 2709 West 12th Street, Erie, Pa., between August and December 2013 and multiple kilograms of cocaine and quantities of methamphetamine were seized in Erie in December 2013. In addition, according to the Indictment, a member of the conspiracy allegedly threatened to harm an individual for giving information to law enforcement. In September and October 2014, according to the Indictment, members of the conspiracy distributed more than 500 grams of cocaine, and defendant Marco Melchor engaged in money laundering activity in the purchase of a BMW vehicle.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for all counts of life in prison, a fine of $38,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
The second, two-count indictment, named Marco Antonio Melchor, 34, Erie, Pa., and Wilson Enrique-Reyes, 32, Lawrence, Mass., as defendants.
According to this Indictment, from in and around July 2014 to in and around January 2015, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. In addition, they are charged with using a communication facility in the commission of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
The final, one-count indictment, named Dana Scott Ball, 37, William Condon, Jr., 26, Erie, Pa., and Vincent Jamal Carter, 37.
According to this Indictment, from in and around September 2013 to in and around January 2015, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute one hundred kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both for each defendant. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Detectives conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in these cases.
In addition to the indictments and arrests announced today, law enforcement operations as part of the investigation commenced at nine residences in Erie, Pa., one residence in Waterford, Pa., one residence in Conneaut Lake, Pa., one residence in Pittsburgh, Pa., one garage in Erie, Pa., three business locations in Erie, Pa., one business location in Pittsburgh, Pa.. Additional law enforcement activity occurred in Texas, Ohio, Indiana and Massachusetts. In addition, as part of today’s law enforcement operation, 20 vehicles were seized.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Cash from Greeting CardsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Summerhill, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Kelly Gruss, 35.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Sept. 22, 2014, Gruss stole $10, and on Sept. 25, she stole $20 from greeting cards sent via U.S. mail.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Office of Inspector General of the United States Postal Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jamaican Charged with Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Jamaica has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Hubert E. Minott, 31, of North Miami Beach, Fla.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Feb. 6, 2014, Minott, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 12, 2008, was found in Somerset County, Pa. He had unlawfully re-entered this country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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.
Brothers Sentenced for Food Stamp Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Two brothers, one a resident of Carnegie, Pa., and the other a resident of Greentree, Pa., have each been sentenced in federal court to two years’ probation with six months of home detention on their convictions of conspiracy to commit food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. The defendants were also ordered to pay restitution of $199,605.38 pursuant to related Civil Settlement Agreements entered into by the defendants and the United States.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentences on Wesam Ibrahim, 41, of Carnegie, Pa., and Hadi Ibrahim, 43, of Greentree, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, the Ibrahim brothers co-own and operate City News & Arcade, a convenience store located on Wood Street in Pittsburgh, Pa. City News participated in the United States Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as the food stamp program. Food stamp recipients could purchase eligible food items using food stamp benefit cards at City News. As owners and operators of City News, the defendants were aware that food stamp program rules prohibited the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash and/or ineligible items. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, the defendants exchanged customers’ food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving customers only .50 cents on the dollar for food stamp benefits. The defendants also permitted food stamp customers to purchase ineligible non-food items, such as cigarettes, with food stamp benefits.
Judge Cohill stated that the sentences imposed were sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the ends of justice.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted these cases on behalf of the government. Assistant United States Attorney Colin Callahan litigated these cases on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney's Office.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture along with Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Ibrahim brothers.
Owner of ACS Herbal Tea Company Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
A resident of Middletown, Ohio pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and one count of Introduction of Misbranded Drugs into Interstate Commerce, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
David Neal, 61, pleaded guilty to a two-count Information before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Neal is the owner ACS Herbal Tea Company, a national Internet business located in Middletown, Ohio. Neal, using ACS Herbal Tea Company and the Internet websites www.123zip.com and www.passthetest.com, conspired to defraud the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the United States Department of Heath and Human Services by obstructing and interfering with the lawful governmental functions of SAMHSA in overseeing, monitoring and establishing scientific and technical guidelines for federal workplace drug testing programs, and standards for certification of laboratories engaged in urine drug testing for federal agencies and federally-regulated industries, under the Federal Agency Drug-Free Work Place Program. For the past eight years, through the Internet websites www.123zip.com and www.passthetest.com, Neal sold, in interstate commerce, products such as the “Magnum Unisex Synthetic Urine-Never Fail a Urine Drug Test” and “Urine Luck” to customers who intended to use the products for the purpose of defeating federal, and federally regulated, employment drug urine tests overseen by SAMHSA. Some of the products sold through Neal’s websites were drugs, as defined by the Food and Drug Administration, but did not bear appropriate labeling.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2015. The law provides for a total sentence of 6 years in prison, a fine of $350,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court released the defendant an unsecured $10,000 bond
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Neal.