Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, with three years of supervised release to follow, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Daniel J. Isabella, Jr., 30.

According to information presented to the court, from January through September of 2012, Isabella advertised online the sale of tickets to entertainment events. Although Isabella had no tickets to these events, potential purchasers were instructed to send money for the advertised tickets. Isabella defrauded over 250 potential ticket purchasers of over $70,000.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai 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 Isabella.

PITTSBURGH – A Tennessee woman has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Pope, 49, of Loudon, TN, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

According to the information presented to the court, Pope was in business to assist trucking companies with compliance and testing of their commercial truck drivers pursuant to the Drug and Alcohol Testing Program of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The program includes pre-employment and random testing, testing for cause and post-accident testing. The Pittsburgh-based victim is InTransit, LLC, an administrative and service company for several national transport companies. InTransit used Pope d/b/a Eastgate Laboratory Testing as a third party administrator to handle the DOT drug and alcohol testing for them. DOT regulations require that a percentage of negative tests and all positive drug or alcohol tests must be reviewed by a licensed doctor, known under the DOT regulations as a Medical Review Officer (MRO), to oversee the program and determine if there were any innocent reasons why a test was positive. On all FMCSA and DOT required paperwork Pope, without authority or permission, used a computer generated signature of a doctor who had previously worked for her as an MRO for a short time predating the charges in the indictment to create the impression that he had done the necessary oversight and reviews when he had not. The fraud came to light when a commercial truck driver with 18 years of experience tried to contact the MRO after his pre-employment drug test reported as “diluted” for three consecutive tests. When he was unable to get the contact information from Pope for the MRO, he searched for the MRO on the internet. The MRO in turn contacted InTransit to report the unauthorized use of his name. InTransit conducted an internal investigation and referred the matter to the Inspector General for the Department of Transportation. Pope billed InTransit as though her company had actually performed the all required services, causing InTransit to send her checks totaling approximately $109,000.

Judge Ambrose scheduled the sentencing for Nov. 4, 2014. 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 Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Transportation-OIG conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Elizabeth Pope.

PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of receipt and possession of materials depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mark Beres, 54, formerly of Slippery Rock, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 1, 2008, Beres knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct by computer and the United States Mail. In addition, the indictment charges that on or about April 23, 2013, Beres knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 31, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Beres.

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.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man pled guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Daniel Lewis Dolde, 44, of Coraopolis, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 10, 2012, Dolde possessed visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dolde.

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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession of ammunition by an illegal alien and use of a false social security number, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Guillermo Manuel Justo, a/k/a Rolando Velez Latorre, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 28, 2014, the defendant, an illegal alien, unlawfully possessed 81 rounds of .40 caliber Smith and Wesson ammunition and a social security card which falsely identified him as Rolando Velez Latorre.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ralph Samuels, Jr., 50, of Farrell, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in the early morning hours of Oct. 3, 2012, Samuels, who has a prior felony conviction in Ohio, engaged in a gunfight with Daniel Odem, Jr. Both Odem and Samuels fired shots at each other, and both were wounded in the shootout. The shootout stemmed from a bar fight earlier that evening between Deandre Chambers and Corey Odem at Rockabilly’s Bar.

Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Oct. 10, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Southwest Mercer County Regional police, and the Mercer County District Attorney conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ralph Samuels.

PITTSBURGH – An Etna resident pleaded guilty on July 3, 2014, in federal court to charges of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

David L. Roethlein, 26, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 17, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years nor more than twenty years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court detained Roethlein.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Roethlein.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months in prison and ordered to pay $5,000.70 in restitution on his conviction of robbery of a person in possession of property of the United States, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Elijah Devon Sherrod, 19.

According to information presented to the court, on or about July 16, 2013, the defendant, along with a co-defendant, displayed a handgun, threatened, and robbed an individual of money and property that was under the control of the United States.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone commented on the seriousness of the offense and determined that Sherrod and his co-defendant who planned the robbery, Latisha Marie Palochak, were equally culpable for the crime.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sherrod.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in jail and 6 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Joshua Michael Falk, 22.

According to information presented to the court, Falk possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Falk.

Launched in February 2006, Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months probation on his conviction of conspiracy to possess firearms by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on David Arthur Blashaw, 57.

According to information presented to the court, Blashaw entered into a conspiracy with Francis Anthony Milliard in order for Milliard to possess firearms while being a convicted felon.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Blashaw.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man was indicted on June 24, 2014, 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 three-count indictment named Michael George Hadam, 59, of Glassport, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from on or about April 9, 2014 to on or about April 11, 2014 and from on or about April 12, 2014 to on or about April 13, 2014, Hadam distributed videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about May 15, 2014, Hadam 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.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Paulette M. Alt, 52, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Jan. 31, to April 23, 2013, Alt conspired with her co-defendants to distribute less than 28 grams of cocaine base.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 15, 2014, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - An alien found in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of charge of Illegal Re-Entry After Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Jose Hernandez-Segura, age 35, of El Salvador.

According to the information presented to the court, Jose Hernandez-Segura, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on January 25, 2012. Jose Hernandez-Segura was found to be illegally present in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 2014.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the successful prosecution of Jose Hernandez-Segura.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Windber, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Donald T. Reese, 69, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on April 28, 2011, Reese knowingly possessed videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 15, 2014, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Southwest Computer Crime Task Force of the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Reese.

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 Attorney's 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.

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Beaver Falls, Pa., pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to time served (approximately five months) on his conviction of reentry of removed alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Jose Guardado-Quezada, 33, of Mexico.

According to information presented to the court, Guardado-Quezada, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 30, 2007. Jose Guardado-Quezada was found to be illegally present in Beaver Falls on Feb. 6, 2014.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Diamond stated that the sentence imposed was sufficient but not greater than necessary to serve the need for deterrence, punishment and incapacitation.

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 Guardado-Quezada.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Patton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to ten months in prison and four years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess marijuana, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Christopher J. Jolly, 40.

According to information presented to the court, from March 2009 to May, 9, 20ll, Jolly conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jolly. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and Paint Township Police Department.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating various federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Rukiya R. Smith, 35, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Smith distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack," and less than 100 grams of heroin on March 5, 2013, and she possessed less than 100 grams of heroin on April 24, 2013, with the intent to distribute it.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 11, 2014, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

Quinn Abdul Baxter, 24, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Nov. 7, 2012, Baxter distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 8, 2014, at 1 p.m. 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 defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Farrell, Pa., pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to charges of violating federal Hobbs Act conspiracy and Hobbs Act robbery laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Joshua Stewart, 20, was 18 years old at the time that he robbed the B&M Market in Farrell on Dec. 20, 2011. Stewart, who is serving two life sentences for murder relating to the December, 2011 killing of Farrell bar owner William Basilone, Jr., pled guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court learned that on Dec. 20, 2011, Stewart, acting together with another, entered the B&M Market, a local convenience store. Upon entering the store, Stewart’s co-conspirator, using force and intimidation, demanded that the store owner open his register and hand over more than $100 in cash. While the co-conspirator did this, Stewart kept watch and served as a “lookout,” making sure that the police did not come in the store. In addition, Stewart stole cigarettes from the store. After these items were taken, both robbers fled from the store.

On Jan. 17, 2014, Stewart’s co-conspirator Devine Campbell pled guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and Hobbs Act robbery in federal court and was sentenced to 15-years in prison. Campbell admitted that he shot the owner of B&M Market during the course of the Dec. 20, 2011 robbery.

Subsequent to pleading guilty, Stewart waived a pre-sentence report and was sentenced by Judge McVerry to 10 years in prison. Under the terms of the plea agreement, this sentence is to be served concurrently with Stewart’s life sentence for murder. In September, 2013, a jury in Mercer County convicted Stewart of murdering Basilone. The remaining five years of Campbell’s federal sentence is to be served consecutively to Campbell’s state court murder sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Southwest Mercer County Police, and the Mercer County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joshua Stewart.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An Alabama resident has been sentenced in federal court to one year probation on her conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Linda Reed, 70, of Florala, Al.

According to information presented to the court, from June 9, 2007, to April 15, 2008, Reed conspired with others to defraud the United States by assisting a co-conspirator in concealing money from the Internal Revenue Service in order for the co-conspirator to avoid paying income tax.

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 Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Reed.

PITTSBURGH - After a trial that began on June 9, 2014, a federal jury deliberated for just the afternoon on June 26, 2014, before finding Robert Russell Spence, a former resident of Duquesne, Pa., who is also known as “Slick” or “Little Russ”, guilty of taking part in both a cocaine conspiracy and a conspiracy to launder drug money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Like dozens of his co-conspirators, Spence’s case was held before United States District Judge David Cercone in Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Ross Lenhardt, who prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States, the evidence presented at trial established that Spence was the fulcrum of the entire drug trafficking organization due to his role as the main Pittsburgh-area recipient and trafficker of multiple kilograms of cocaine from California. AUSA Lenhardt indicated in court filings that the overall conspiracy involved approximately 2,000 kilograms of cocaine, valued at more than $200 million on the street. This amount of cocaine is enough for every man, woman and child who is currently a resident of Pennsylvania to have their own dose of cocaine. These doses of cocaine are commonly snorted in “lines” when it remains in powder form and “rocks” of crack cocaine are commonly smoked in pipes after being easily converted into that form in a microwave or over an open heat source such as a stovetop.

The testimony revealed that Spence was initially obtaining cocaine from California by use of common couriers such as DHL, Federal Express and the U.S. Mail until law enforcement made seizures of both cocaine packages coming to the Pittsburgh area and drug money headed back to California. The conspiracy thereafter changed the mechanism of transportation multiple times from tractor trailers and other vehicles, to flights from the Oakland, Calif. airport, to flights from the San Francisco airport, and ultimately to one way private jet flights costing approximately $40,000 each- paid for with bags of cash delivered by members of the conspiracy. Spence also conspired to launder his drug money in multiple ways including making purchases of vehicles, prepaid credit cards, hotels, houses, flights, drug processing materials and businesses in the names of other people, as well as depositing cash in amounts less than $10,000 in order to avoid federal laws which require banks and others to report such transactions.

Spence testified that he had paid for and fired numerous prominent local and out-of-state criminal attorneys, then he fired the attorney appointed by the court to represent him free of charge, and ultimately waived his constitutional right to counsel and represented himself throughout the trial with the assistance of Attorney Thomas Brown as his “stand-by” counsel.

The jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the final charge against Spence.

Judge Cercone indicated that sentencing will occur after the preparation of a Presentence Investigation Report by the United States Probation Office detailing Spence’s background including his criminal, familial, employment, educational and other histories. For cases involving these large amounts of cocaine, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison, in addition to a fine of up to $4.5 million. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of his crimes and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

The defendant has been in jail awaiting trial, in part because these crimes were committed while Spence was on state parole for previous convictions involving his sale of a firearm and “cloned” phones to an undercover state Trooper. Pending sentencing, the court continued Spence’s incarceration.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) agents joined forces as the lead investigators in the case that led to the prosecution of Spence. The investigation also involved the valuable assistance of many other federal, state and local agencies including the West Homestead Police Department, the Cleveland Police Department, The Las Vegas Metro Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Oakland (California) Police Department and the Frederick (Maryland) Drug Task Force.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to twelve months and one day in prison and three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on, Fred Claycomb, Jr., 51.

According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 17, 2013, Claycomb, Jr. distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

Assistant U.S. 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 Claycomb, Jr.

BOSTON – A Pennsylvania woman affiliated with a Massachusetts-based broker dealer was indicted today in U.S. District Court in Boston on charges that she orchestrated a multi-million dollar investment fraud scheme.

Patricia S. Miller, 67, was charged with five counts of wire fraud.

The indictment alleges that Miller used her position as a trusted financial adviser, as well as her association with the Massachusetts broker dealer, to obtain money from clients for purported investments never made on the behalf of clients. Specifically, Miller promised high returns if clients put their money into “investment clubs” called, among other things, “KS Investments” and “Buckharbor.” Miller represented, among other things, that funds put into her investment clubs would be placed in fixed-income notes and other investments. Miller was able to obtain over $2.5 million from more than 20 clients for these purported investment clubs. Instead of investing the money as promised, however, she misappropriated client funds for her own use.

If convicted, Miller faces a maximum sentence under the statute for each count of wire fraud of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. U.S. Attorney Ortiz also expressed appreciation for the help and cooperation her office received from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Field Division. The case is being prosecuted by Ryan M. DiSantis of Ortiz’s Economic Crimes Unit.

Those who believe that they are a victim of the crimes alleged against Patricia S. Miller should contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts at [email protected]. Information regarding the case can be found at http://www.justice.gov/usao/ma/news/Miller/index.html. Identified victims will receive notification through an automated victim notification system. Those who have not received notification, and believe they should be included as a victim, should contact the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney’s Office at [email protected].

Pittsburgh-Area Victims:

Residents of the Pittsburgh, Pa. area, who believe they are a victim, should contact the victim witness unit at 412-644-3500. Pittsburgh victims may also find information at http://www.justice.gov/usao/paw/.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Today’s announcement is part of the ongoing efforts of President Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Working Group. The interagency FFETF was created to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. The task force, chaired by Attorney General Eric Holder, includes representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities, inspectors general and state and local law enforcement who, working together, bring to bear a powerful array of criminal and civil enforcement resources. The task force is working to improve efforts across the federal executive branch, and with state and local partners, to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, combat discrimination in the lending and financial markets and recover proceeds for victims of financial crimes. For more information about the FFETF, please visit: www.stopfraud.gov.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Frackville, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to fifteen months in prison and three years supervised release on his conviction of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Walter Johnson, 29.

According to information presented to the court, on Apr. 4, 2013, Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine.

Assistant U.S. 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 Johnstown Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Asia M. Harris, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Aug. 16, 2011, Harris purchased a Springfield XDM-40 .40 caliber pistol from a Pittsburgh-area sporting goods store. On Oct. 16, 2013, Allegheny County Police officers executing a search warrant in Pittsburgh found the loaded gun on the bed in the master bedroom shared by Harris and Mark A. Brazil. Brazil was a convicted felon who, under federal law, could not lawfully possess a firearm. In a later interview with agents of the FBI, Harris advised that Brazil had asked her to purchase the firearm for him because he was a convicted felon and could not buy it himself. Harris stated that Brazil gave her $800 to buy the gun and told her which gun to buy. Harris advised that she considered the firearm as belonging to Brazil and knew what she did was wrong.

Judge Diamond scheduled sentencing for Oct. 11, 2014, 2014 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Harris on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Harris.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident was sentenced yesterday in federal court to a total term of imprisonment of 163 months (13 years, 7 months) on his conviction of possession of a firearm by convicted felon, and for committing this crime during his federal supervised release for a prior federal drug-trafficking and firearms conviction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Gregory Earl Nash, 33, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Feb. 9, 2013, Nash, a convicted felon, possessed a Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm. Nash had been convicted in federal court in Pittsburgh in 2003 for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possessing and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to that drug-trafficking crime. Nash was sentenced to a lengthy period of incarceration for those prior crimes, and following his release from incarceration, he was serving a period of federal supervised release when he was arrested again with the aforementioned firearm.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nash.

PITTSBURGH - A Washington County man pled guilty on Monday to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Michael Howard, 29, of Venetia, Pa., was convicted of possessing firearms while he was using and/or addicted to a controlled substance. He was also convicted of providing false information on multiple occasions to a federal firearms licensee about his use of, or addiction to, a controlled substance. That is, during the process of making firearms purchases, Mr. Howard falsely represented that he was not a user of, or addicted to, a controlled substance. As Mr. Howard later admitted during an investigation into his many firearms purchases, he had been using heroin for years when he purchased the firearms.

Sentencing is scheduled to occur on Sept. 26, 2014, at 3 p.m., in the courtroom of United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.

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

Keith D. Nash pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nash filed an individual income tax return for the calendar year 2009, whereby he failed to report $161,267 in taxable income, resulting in an underpayment of $52,466 in income tax owed to the United States.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 8, 2014, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of three years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nash.

PITTSBURGH - A Wilkinsburg man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Richard Gerald Davenport, Jr., 26, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

According to the information presented to the court, Davenport conspired with another individual to steal credit card numbers, which he and others used to buy gift cards and merchandise at Rite-Aid stores and others.

Judge McVerry scheduled the sentencing for Sept. 26, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation led to the prosecution of Richard Gerald Davenport.

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

Robert M. Spruill, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2007, Spruill was prosecuted in federal court in the Western District of Pennsylvania for drug-trafficking and firearms offenses. On June 6, 2008, he was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.

Spruill was released from custody and began his supervised release on Dec. 27, 2011. During the following year, Spruill was convicted in state court of misdemeanor Criminal Trespass and Theft by Unlawful Taking. He also failed to comply with various conditions of his supervised release, including refraining from illegal marijuana use.

The United States Probation Office filed a petition to revoke Spruill’s supervised release. A hearing was held on Dec. 14, 2012, after which the Honorable Terrence F. McVerry revoked Spruill’s supervised release and sentenced him to six months’ incarceration. Judge McVerry initially stated that Spruill would commence his term of imprisonment immediately. Spruill’s counsel, however, requested that the Court allow Spruill to spend the holidays with his family, and Judge McVerry agreed to permit Spruill to remain at home for the holidays. He was specifically instructed to surrender to the United States Marshals Service’s office on the Second Floor of the United States Federal Courthouse, in downtown Pittsburgh, on Jan. 3, 2013, by noon, to begin to serve his sentence.

Spruill disobeyed that Court Order, and he failed to turn himself in as directed. On Jan. 4, 2013, a bench warrant was issued for Spruill’s arrest.

On Jan. 10, 2013, the United States Marshals Service’s Fugitive Task Force found and arrested Spruill at his girlfriend’s residence in Mercer County. Spruill was found hiding in the attic, under clothing.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Oct. 9, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of an unlimited period of incarceration, an unlimited fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Spruill.

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment returned on June 17 named Jerome Johnson, 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Feb. 26, 2014, Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $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 Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig Haller are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department.

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

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment named Tony Gay, 24, currently incarcerated, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on Nov. 6, 2013, Mr. Gay possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, unlawfully possessed a Glock 9mm pistol and ammunition, and possessed that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police, and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Sewickley resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mary Monica Wilson-Lefler, 63, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.

According to the information presented to the court, Wilson-Lefler was a salesperson who offered two durable medical equipment companies in the Pittsburgh area a business arrangement involving special air mattresses, known as powered pressure reducing mattresses or PPRAMS. PPRAMS are designed to reduce serious skin ulcers on patients who are essentially bedridden. She visited long term care facilities (LTC) to find patients, and handled all of the paperwork necessary to enable the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) companies to bill Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield's Security Blue Medicare Program (Security Blue). In order to qualify for Medicare coverage for these PPRAMS, a doctor must order the item in writing. In this case, Wilson-Lefler prepared and sent by fax to attending physicians requests for orders for the PPRAMS. The faxed information included patient skin condition reports that falsely reported that the patients all had serious skin ulcers. Some of these patient skin condition reports contained forged signatures of the LTC staff and some had forged signatures of physicians. In reality, none of the patients had serious skin ulcers or any other qualifying conditions that would meet the Medicare coverage requirements. There were about 83 patients from four facilities in whose names the false claims were made. The total billed was approximately $400,000, and the total paid to the two DME companies was about $200,000.

Judge Hornak scheduled the sentencing for Oct. 10, 2014. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine 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 defendants.

Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mary Monica Wilson-Lefler.

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of possession of a fraudulent alien document, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment returned on June 17 named Francisco Aguilar-Moreno, 40, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 28, 2014, Aguilar-Moreno possessed a fraudulent Permanent Resident Alien Card (Form I-551), which he knew to be forged, counterfeited, altered and falsely made.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. 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.

PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Joseph L. Bryer, 53, of Grove City, Pa., pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bryer, on Aug. 23, 2011, possessed photographs and videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The videos and still images were downloaded and shared using peer-to-peer software installed on Bryer’s computer. The videos included those depicting prepubescent females engaging in sex acts with adults.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Oct. 9, 2014, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted Bryer to remain on bond.

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

The Homeland Security Investigations - Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with assistance from the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bryer.

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.

PITTSBURGH – Michael Jones, a former resident of New Kensington, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for crack cocaine trafficking and firearms crimes, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment returned on June 17 names Jones, 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on Feb. 26, 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Jones possessed crack cocaine with intent to distribute it, he possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and he possessed five firearms after having been convicted of a felony drug- trafficking crime.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Kensington Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Donna M. Hawk, 48, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Jan. 31, to April 23, 2013, Hawk conspired with co-defendants to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 4, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Hawk on bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Jose Hernandez-Segura, 35, of El Salvador, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Jose Hernandez-Segura, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 25, 2012. Jose Hernandez-Segura was found to be illegally present in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 2014.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 2 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Mahanoy City, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first 14 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, and pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $128,105 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 Kimberly Lynn Snyder, 38.

According to information presented to the court, from April 2008 to Oct. 2010 Snyder conspired to file 72 false and fictitious income tax returns claiming tax refunds totaling $210,581.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mark Janosko, 48, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

According to information presented to the court, on or about July 3, 2013, Janosko received images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Oct. 9, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Indiana County and Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office and the McCandless Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Janosko.

This case was brought as part of the 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 marshal federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Matthew John Claycomb, 22, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on Jan. 25, 2013, Matthew John Claycomb along with co-defendants, distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Matthew John Claycomb on Dec. 2, 2014, at 10 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Matthew John Claycomb 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 defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County woman pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of misappropriation of postal funds, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jessica L. Croyle, 32, of Greensburg, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Court Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Nov. 1, 2012, to July 19, 2013, Croyle, while employed with the United States Postal Service at the Latrobe, Pennsylvania post office, wrongfully converted to her own use, postal money orders and cash having a total value of $55,362.90.

Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Sept. 22, 2014 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentence, the court released Croyle on a $25,000 unsecured bond.

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

The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Croyle.

PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for approximately five hours, a federal jury of five men and seven women found James Lignelli guilty of three counts of bank fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Lignelli, 59, of Presto, Pa., was tried before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry in Pittsburgh.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Lignelli was an appraiser who provided fraudulently elevated appraisals in support of fraudulent loan applications in connection with two different mortgage fraud schemes. The first scheme involved Michael Pope, who operated Pope Financial Services and Tiffany Sprouts, who operated Sprouts Mortgage. Lignelli participated in a bank fraud scheme by preparing fraudulently elevated appraisals for the property located in McMurray, Pa., which was sold through the conspiracy for approximately $1.2 million. The second scheme involved a mortgage broker named Michael Staaf, who operated Beaver Financial Services, a mortgage broker company. Lignelli participated in a bank fraud scheme by preparing a fraudulent appraisal for a property located on Perry Highway in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.

Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Sept. 26, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for 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 on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Mortgage Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lignelli. The Mortgage Fraud Task Force is comprised of investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and others involved in the mortgage industry. Federal law enforcement agencies participating in the Mortgage Task Force include the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the United States Secret Service. Other Mortgage Fraud Task Force members include the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection; the Pennsylvania Department of Banking; the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation; and the United States Trustee's Office.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Bedford, Pa., was indicted on June 3, 2014, by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of distribution and possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Wade C. Baer, 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Feb. 19, 2013, Baer distributed a picture via the Internet which depicted a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, and on March 7, 2013, he knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 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 Southwest Computer Crime Task Force of the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better 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.

PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of receipt and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment named Mark A. Chasey, 49, of Crescent, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 2, 2012, Nov. 4, 2012, and Nov. 5, 2012, Chasey knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct by computer. The indictment further alleges that from in and around November of 2012, and continuing until in and around October of 2013, Chasey knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 70 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, 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.

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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Farrell, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jashaad Coleman, 20, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill. The plea agreement entered into in this case calls for a stipulated sentence of seven years, to be served consecutively to the 4-year to 11-year sentence Coleman is currently serving in Pennsylvania state custody for a firearm and robbery conviction.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that in the early morning hours of July 31, 2012, a vehicle carrying two individuals known to be associated with drug trafficking was stopped by officers employed by the Southwest Mercer County Regional Police Department. Coleman knew that this vehicle was carrying a quantity of crack cocaine for distribution, and upon learning that this vehicle had been subject to a traffic stop, he rode to the scene of the stop. There, Coleman pulled out a 9mm firearm, which he discharged towards the officers, with the goal of distracting the officers from the vehicle that they had stopped. Law enforcement took cover, and both the occupants of the vehicle and the crack cocaine were not recovered by the police.

In February, 2013, Coleman was tried before a Mercer County jury for unauthorized possession of a firearm as it related to the abovementioned shooting. Coleman was acquitted of this crime. Federal charges were then brought resulting in the guilty plea to the federal firearms charge.

Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Sept. 16, 2014, at 2:30 p.m.

Pending sentencing, the court detained Coleman pursuant to the 4-year to 11-year sentence Coleman is currently is serving in the State of Pennsylvania.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pennsylvania State Police, the Southwest Mercer County Regional Police, the Mercer County District Attorney's Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jashaad Coleman.

PITTSBURGH - A citizen of India, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months incarceration on his conviction of violating federal law, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Karthikeyan Natarajan, 27, of La Jolla, Calif.

According to information presented to the court, on April 5, 2013, Natarajan willfully transmitted a threat via interstate commerce to injure the person of another, that is, he sent a threat via computer electronic communications to an individual threatening to rape her.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Carnegie Mellon Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Natarajan.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Laverne Russell, 73, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Russell converted to her own use over $78,000 in Social Security Income Benefits from the Social Security Administration.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Oct. 15, 2014 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued bond pending sentencing.

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

The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Laverne Russell.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Patrick Taylor, 34.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Nov. 12, 2011, and continuing thereafter to on or about March 6, 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Taylor conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methylone, a Schedule I controlled substance. Specifically, Taylor contacted a source of supply in China via the Internet, and arranged for the importation of kilogram quantities of methylone into the United States for further distribution.

Methylone is a psychoactive chemical that is structurally and pharmacologically similar to the Schedule I substance MDMA. On April 12, 2013, the Administrator of the DEA issued a Final Rule, which scheduled methylone as a Schedule I controlled substance. Schedule I status is reserved for those substances with a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted use for treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug under medical supervision.

Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Service, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Patrick Taylor.

PITTSBURGH - A Whitehall resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation with eight months’ home detention and ordered to pay $101,333 in restitution on his conviction of wire fraud and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Samson Dweh, 32 of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Dweh was the owner and operator of Mariama African Store, a retail specialty food store on Brownsville Road in Pittsburgh. Mariama 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 at Mariama using food stamp benefit cards. The defendant was 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 defendant exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving his customers only 50 cents on the dollar for food stamp benefits. The defendant also permitted food stamp customers to purchase ineligible items with food stamp benefits and accepted food stamp benefits as payment on credit accounts and loans.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated that the sentence, which was within the advisory range established by the United States Sentencing Guidelines, was a necessary and appropriate sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. Assistant United States Attorney Colin Callahan litigated the case 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 and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dweh.