Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Post Office Manager Gets 4 Years Probation for Misusing Funds, Stealing from MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former U.S. Post Office employee was sentenced today in federal court to four years probation and restitution of $5,729.65 on her convictions of misappropriation of postal funds and theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Court Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed sentence upon Jennifer M. Soltis.
According to information presented to the court, from Oct. 8, 2012 to Jan. 9, 2013, Soltis, while employed as the Acting Officer in Charge with the United States Postal Service at the Smock, Pa., post office, converted to her own use, postal money orders, stamps and cash having a total value of $5,729.65. On Dec. 9, 2012, Soltis also embezzeled a Wal-Mart gift card from an item of mail.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Soltis.
Brazilian Removed Three Times from US Charged with Illegal Re-entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Pittsburgh 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 Valber Silva-Brito, 26, of Brazil, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Valber Silva-Brito, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Oct. 16, 2007, Jan. 10, 2008 and Sept. 16, 2010. Valber Silva-Brito was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh on June 9, 2013.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 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.
Beaver Falls Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of Beaver Falls, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 108 months in prison followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Anitwon Maurice Peoples, 31.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about Dec. 4, 2009, and continuing thereafter to on or about Sept. 30, 2011, Peoples conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Additionally, on or about Sept. 30, 2011, Peoples, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of members drawn from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, and the Beaver Falls Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Peoples.
Jury Finds Former Texas Man Conspired to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for two hours, a federal jury found Dominique Jackson guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Dominique Jackson, 26, formerly of Denton, Texas, was tried before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose in Pittsburgh.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that from in and around July 2010, and continuing thereafter to on or about Oct. 7, 2010, Jackson conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for July 14, 2014, at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the McKeesport Police Department, the Clairton Police Department, the Allegheny County Housing Authority Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Munhall Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dominique Jackson.
Clearfield County Man Sentenced for Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Irvona, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first 18 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, and 250 hours of community service on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Justin D. McElheny, 36.
According to information presented to the court, from Dec. 2007 to Oct. 15, 2011, McElheny stole 72 firearms, including revolvers, pistols and rifles of various calibers, from East Coast Gun Sales. In addition, during the same time McElheny was in possession of the stolen firearms, he was an unlawful user of Percocet, Oxycontin, Roxicet and Vicodin.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Allegheny Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McElheny.
According to Mr. Hickton, McElheny 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.
Bedford County Man Stole 31 Firearms, Transported Them to MarylandRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Saxton, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of theft of firearms and interstate transportation of stolen firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Garrett G. Sherlock, 26, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Jan. 28, 2013, Sherlock stole 31 firearms from Saxton Outdoor Supply, Inc., which is a business licensed to deal in firearms. On the same day he transported the stolen firearms from Pennsylvania to Maryland.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 5, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police-Bedford Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sherlock.
According to Mr. Hickton, Sherlock is being 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.
Bank Director Charged with Embezzling $336K in Bank FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former bank director has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft, embezzlement and misappropriation by a bank officer or employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The nine-count indictment, returned on March 19, named Michael P. Bernick, 50, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Bernick, a Director of Metropolitan Savings Bank, the deposits of which were insured by the FDIC, from April 19, 2005 through March 27, 2006, embezzled and misapplied bank monies and funds on nine occasions, totaling approximately $336,000. The indictment alleges that the monetary disbursements were made in the form of checks and wire transfers.
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 offenses 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 Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Drug Dealer Prosecuted in Federal Court for "Designer" or "Bath Salt" Substances Called AnaloguesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Michael Anthony Stokes, 27, of New Brighton, Pa., pleaded guilty to eight counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 12, 2011, New Brighton Police observed an apparent drug purchaser leaving the residence of Stokes and Ryan Konarski. The marijuana purchaser was apprehended and confirmed that he bought from that residence, (about a block from the police station). Police obtained a state search warrant and located not only marijuana and indicia that it was being both used and sold there, but over 900 grams of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethcathinone, a so called "bath salt" commonly known as methylone or "Molly", typically used at Rave-type gatherings. Police also located empty capsules and handguns in both Stokes' and Konarski's bedrooms, along with money orders and common carrier packages indicating the methylone was coming from China.
Drug suppliers, especially those involved in Rave-type drugs such as ecstasy (MDMA), will often tweak the chemical manufacturing process causing minor modifications to the chemical formula of the end product. The result is a product that is not yet specifically listed as a controlled substance. Congress closed this loophole by creating the analogue statute at 21 U.S.C. '802(32), which essentially makes these new "designer" or "bath salt" creations a Schedule I drug if they are similar to an already controlled substance and are intended for human consumption.
Both Stokes and Konarski were prosecuted for the felony marijuana charges in state court, but since Pennsylvania has no "analogue" statute these other actions went un-prosecuted. Stokes received "Intermediate Punishment" where he served six months’ house arrest followed by probation. Law enforcement then received information that Stokes was again dealing drugs once off of house arrest.
When Stokes was arrested on the federal charges by DEA on March 14, 2013, drugs and other items were again located at the same drug house. These indicate that Stokes was still dealing. The drugs located were MDMA [ecstasy], DMT and Methylone. Methylone was included as a Schedule I drug on Oct. 21, 2011.
Ryan Konarski previously pleaded guilty. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 22, 2014, at 11 a.m.
Judge Fischer scheduled Stokes’ sentencing for Aug. 6, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 160 years in prison, a fine of $7,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Brighton Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Michael Anthony Stokes.
$1.5M Settlement with West Penn Allegheny Health System Resolves False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - West Penn Allegheny Health System, Inc. (“WPAHS”) has agreed to pay the United States $1,529,281.50 to settle False Claims Act allegations, United States Attorney David Hickton announced today.
The settlement results from a self-disclosure by WPAHS to the United States Attorney’s Office. Based on information provided by WPAHS, the United States alleged that WPAHS leased space to physicians at below-market rates to induce referrals of patients to WPAHS, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute and Stark Law. The United States further alleged that these referrals resulted in improper claims being submitted to federal health care programs.
The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and other federally funded programs. The Stark Law forbids a hospital from billing federally funded programs for certain services referred by physicians who have a financial relationship with the hospital, unless certain limited exceptions apply.
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Assistant United States Attorney David Lew handled this matter on behalf of the United States.
York Man Sentenced to Prison for Filing Dozens of False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of York, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in prison, three years supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $128,105 on his conviction of conspiracy to defraud the government and filing false claims with Internal Revenue Service, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Wendell Parker, 41.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2008 to Oct. 2010 Parker conspired to file 72 false and fictitious income tax returns claiming tax refunds totaling $210,581, and from Dec. 15, 2008, to May 26, 2010, he prepared and filed federal income tax returns claiming refunds knowing the claimant's address, wage information and withholding information was false and fictitious.
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 Parker.
West Virginia Woman Facing Fraud Charges for Nigerian "Mystery Shopper" ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A West Virginia woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of fraud conspiracy and wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Linda Walker, 60, as a defendant.
According to the indictment, 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.
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 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 indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tampa Man Took $3.9M from More Than Three Dozen InvestorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Tampa, Fla., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Fotios Geivelis, Jr., a/k/a Frank Geivelis, a/k/a Frank Anastasio, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Geivelis, through operation of his Florida company, Worldwide Funding III, Ltd. (WWF), obtained approximately $3.9 million in increments of $60,000 or $90,000 from more than three dozen investors, to each of whom he promised to obtain a $10 million “non-recourse” overseas loan for a “humanitarian” or “job- creating” project. The funds were wired into the escrow accounts of a Florida attorney Geivelis designated as the “Paymaster,” and thereafter paid out to that attorney, brokers who had referred the investors to WWF and to Geivelis, who spent his share on personal expenses such as hotels, casinos, restaurants, strip clubs, automobiles, clothing and jewelry. No loans were ever obtained for the investors, who Geivelis attempted to lull by repeated assurances that their deals would close within a short period of time. .
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Geivelis.
Romanians Used Skimmers at Postal Centers to Steal Customers' Bank InfoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Romanians residing in Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Florin Popescu, 31, and Ion Carligeriu, 29, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the defendants conspired to produce ATM skimming equipment which they installed on APC kiosks at Postal Centers on McKnight Road and in Squirrel Hill, which were designed to steal customers’ bank account information.
Judge Hornak scheduled Florin Popescu’s sentencing for July 17, 2014, at 11 a.m., and Ion Carligeriu’s sentencing for July 17, 2014, at 9 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 Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of these defendants.
Postal Worker Charged with Taking $20 from Greeting CardRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A U.S. Postal Service employee has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal law, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Pamela D. Vogt, 44, of Parker, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about Feb. 6, 2014, Vogt, while working as a U.S. Postal Service employee, removed a $20 bill from a greeting card contained in an envelope which was addressed and intended for delivery by the U.S. Postal Service.
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. Bond of $5,000 unsecured has been requested.
Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service-Office of Inspector General (USPIS) 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.
Georgia Woman Charged in Nigerian "Mystery Shopper" ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Georgia has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of fraud conspiracy and wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Monica Mason, 48, as a defendant.
According to the indictment, Mason was involved in a Nigerian “Mystery Shopper” scam whereby her coconspirator Shawn Foote 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 Mason, Foote, 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.
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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement’s 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.
Bedford County Man Helped Transport 31 Stolen Firearms from Pennsylvania to MarylandRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Saxton, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of stolen firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joshua M. Faircloth, 27, 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 Jan. 28, 2013, Faircloth aided in transporting 31 firearms stolen from Saxton Outdoor Supply, Inc., from Pennsylvania to Maryland.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 31, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police-Bedford Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Faircloth.
According to Mr. Hickton, Faircloth is being 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.
Natrona Convenience Store Owner Pleads Guilty to Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A convenience store owner pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy, food stamp fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Waqar A. Malik, 56, of Cheswick, Pa., pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, Malik, the owner of the Natrona Mart in Natrona, Pa., allowed federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food stamp beneficiaries to purchase non-eligible items such as cigarettes, tobacco products and soap with their EBT benefit card. Because of these transactions, Malik received funds from the United States government to which he was not entitled.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 35 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Waqar A. Malik.
Sharon, Pa., Tobacco Businesses, Owner Charged with Fraud, Filing False ReportsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two tobacco wholesale businesses located in Sharon, Pa., and their owner and manager have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud and filing false reports of cash transactions, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 32-count Superseding Indictment named Tareq Alasadi, 38, of Youngstown, Ohio, Raid Zaghari, 41, of Brooklyn, New York, and USA Trading Corporations I and V, both located at on West Budd Street, in Sharon as the defendants. The Superseding Indictment describes Zaghari as the owner of those corporations and Alasadi as the on-site manager.
According to the Superseding Indictment, Alasadi and USA Trading Corporation I, pursuant to federal regulations pertaining to the obligations of businesses to report receipts of cash in excess of $10,000, submitted 28 reports to the United States Government between July and September of 2011. The Superseding Indictment also alleges that those reports related to USA Trading's receipt of approximately $579,000 in cash between July and September of 2011. The Superseding Indictment charges that the reports filed by Alasadi and USA Trading Corporation contained false information regarding the sources of that cash.
The Superseding Indictment charges that Zaghari and his Pennsylvania based corporations defrauded the State of North Carolina and the State of New York by falsely representing the amounts of tobacco products that those two corporations distributed in North Carolina and New York. According to the Superseding Indictment, the false representations were made in tax forms which Zaghari submitted, or caused to be submitted, to the State of New York and the State of North Carolina. Alasadi is also charged in the scheme to defraud the State of North Carolina.
Alasadi faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the 28 counts that charge him with filing false reports, and a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the two counts in which he is charged with defrauding the State of North Carolina.
Zaghari faces a maximum of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the four counts in which he is charged with defrauding the State of North Carolina and the State of New York.
The corporations face penalties ranging from fines and/or forfeitures to divestiture of assets
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Saxton, Pa., Woman Helped Gun Store Burglar Avoid CaptureRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A Bedford County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of accessory after the fact, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kelley L. Foster, 23, of Saxton, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Jan. 28, 2013, Foster assisted Garrett G. Sherlock in his attempt to avoid apprehension by law enforcement authorities for the theft of firearms from Saxton Outdoor Supply, Inc.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $125,000, 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 Foster on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police-Bedford Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Foster.
According to Mr. Hickton, Foster is being 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.
Retired Turnpike Commission Employee Facing Federal Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Jeannette, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to produce material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and production, distribution and receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The eight-count indictment, returned on March 5 and unsealed today, named John S. Longo, 57, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Longo, a retired employee of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, during the period June 5, 2009 through Nov. 12, 2010, conspired with another person to produce material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. He is also charged with producing images of child pornography on January 30, 2010, distributing images of child pornography on June 5, 2009, and receiving images of child pornography on Jan. 31, 2010, Feb. 16, 2010, March 28, 2010, May 26, 2010, and Nov. 12, 2010.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 140 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) 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.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Possessing Crack and Powder CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on March 11, named Kenyatta Robinson, 33.
According to the indictment, on Nov. 1, 2013, Robinson possessed with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine and less than 500 grams of powder cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years to up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Lancaster, Pa., Man Facing Federal Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Lancaster, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal gun and drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Nicholas Alexander Reynolds, 22, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about December 19, 2013, Reynolds possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon and also possessed with intent to distribute less than fifty kilograms of marijuana.
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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal’s Service and the Titusville 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.
Erie County Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Corry, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named William Jay Blazes, 46, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Blazes possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Corry Police Department, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of 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.
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.
Deported Alien Charged with Re-entering U.S. IllegallyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Guanajuato, Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Alfredo Ramos-Gallegos, 40, as the sole defendant. According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about February 8, 014, Ramos-Gallegos was found to be unlawfully present within the United States. Ramos-Gallegos had been previously deported and removed from the United States on May 8, 2000. The defendant subsequently reentered the United States, and was found to be present in this country without the permission of either the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
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 Christine A. Sanner is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Mentor Police Department and the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection 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 Man Found Guilty of Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On Feb. 28, 2014, after deliberating approximately one hour, a federal jury of nine men and three women found Thomas David Steiner guilty of one count of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Steiner, 39, formerly of Charleroi, Pa., was tried before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti in Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that in and around August of 2007, Steiner, a convicted felon, possessed assorted ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm or ammunition.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for June 26, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison, to a maximum of life, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Steiner.
Bellevue Man Attempted to Possess Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Lee Michael, 25, waived prosecution by indictment and pleaded guilty to a one-count information before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about March 6, 2013, Michael attempted to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methylone, a Schedule I controlled substance.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for July 30, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 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 Attorneys Katherine A. King and Troy Rivetti are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lee Michael.
Monessen Woman Pleads Guilty in Credit Card SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Lashara Martia Holmes, 28, of Monessen, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
In connection with the guilty plea, Holmes conspired with other persons to use an unauthorized credit card at a retail store in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Judge Diamond scheduled sentencing for July 8, 2014, at 12 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Holmes. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in $700K Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Peter Jerard Turk, 61, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Turk convinced an acquaintance to send him over $700,000 by falsely claiming that the money would be used to pay the Nigerian government certain fees related to a five million dollar Nigerian government contract that Turk had been awarded. The contract never existed. Turk then kept over $100,000 for himself, unbeknownst to the victim, and forwarded the balance of the victim’s money to bank accounts and individuals across the world.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for August 4, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 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 continued Turk on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Turk.
Attorney Admits Underreporting Income on Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of filing false tax returns on April 14, 2008, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Zenford A. Mitchell, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Mitchell filed false tax returns on April 14, 2008, for calendar year 2006 and for 2007, by deliberately underreporting his income from his law practice and from withdrawals from his individual retirement account.
Judge Ambrose scheduled to sentencing for June 30, 2014. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of three years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for each count of conviction. 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 Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zenford A. Mitchell.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On March 6, Terrious Harper was convicted of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute in excess of 100 grams of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Harper, 29, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pled guilty before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing to occur on July 29, 2014, at 9:30 a.m.
In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that, during 2012 and up to May 2013, Harper was supplied with bricks of heroin on credit by members of a drug-trafficking organization based out of Pittsburgh’s Larimer neighborhood after the members of the organization received the heroin from their out-of-state sources of supply. Over the course of that time period, Harper received hundreds of bricks of heroin and then distributed them in the Pittsburgh area and paid those who supplied him back.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration in Pittsburgh and New York, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, the Wilkins Township Police Department, the East Pittsburgh Police Department, the New York Police Department, the Blair County District Attorney's Office, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Former Family Physician Sentenced to Probation, Community Service for Selling Drug SamplesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh-area family doctor has been sentenced in federal court to one year of probation with 200 hours of community service and a $5000 fine on his conviction of the unlawful sale of pharmaceutical drug samples, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Douglas Dunham, 77, of McDonald, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Dunham operated a family practice medical office in McDonald, Pa., for over 20 years. In his practice, Dunham received free samples of prescription drugs from pharmaceutical drug company representatives. The free samples were not intended to be sold, and were intended to be given free-of-charge to patients to promote the sale of the drugs. For roughly the past eight years, Dunham received the drug samples free-of-charge from the pharmaceutical drug company representatives and then sold the samples to his patients for a fee, instead of providing the samples free-of-charge.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that he considered the defendant’s voluntary surrender of his medical license to be part of the defendant’s punishment in this case.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Federal Agents with the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dunham.
Two Former Guardsmen Charged in Fraud Against the United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two former-enlisted Guardsmen at the 171st Air Refueling Wing in Coraopolis, Pa., have been charged with defrauding the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard of hundreds of thousands of dollars in military pay and benefits, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
A 110-count indictment, charging conspiracy, honest service wire fraud, false claims and theft of government property, named Gerard J. Mangis, 59, of Glenshaw, Pa., (Shaler Twp.), as the sole defendant.
According to the government, Mangis, a Colonel and former Vice-Wing Commander at the 171st Air Refueling Wing, conspired with Robert St. Clair, a contract employee at the National Guard Bureau at Andrews Air Force Base, to defraud the United States Air Force in false claims for military pay between 2002 and 2011. Mangis is also charged with a scheme to defraud the United States Air Force by enlisting St. Clair in a “no show” job at the 171st, for which in exchange, Mangis received military workdays.
In an Information filed by the government, Robert St. Clair, 50, of Bel Air, Maryland, is charged with one count of conspiracy, eight counts of false claims, and one count of theft of government property. According to the Bill of Information, between 2002 and 2011, St. Clair conspired with Mangis at the 171st Air Refueling Wing to defraud the United States by accepting a ‘no show” enlistment position as a “contracting specialist” at the 171st in exchange for St. Clair providing military work days to Mangis.
“These cases involve two public officials, who engaged in a corrupt, mutually beneficial scheme for personal gain,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Investigating and exposing corruption, wherever it occurs, is a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI, and we are fully committed to prosecuting violators of the public trust regardless of position, title or rank.”
“The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue allegations of government fraud in order to root out those who are in the position to abuse their power and defraud the Unites States, “said SAC Perdue. “The indictment of Colonel Mangis demonstrates Pittsburgh FBI’s commitment in that endeavor.”
The law provides for a maximum total sentence per count of five or 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.
The indictment charging Gerard J. Mangis was returned under seal on March 4 and unsealed today following Mangis’ arrest this morning at his home. He made an Initial Appearance before a federal magistrate judge Wednesday afternoon. He was released on $10,000 unsecured bond.
The Information charging Robert St. Clair was filed today. He will be ordered to appear before a U.S. District Judge at a date and time not yet determined.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the charges in these cases.
An indictment is an accusation. An Information is a determination that probable cause exists to believe that offenses have been committed by a defendant. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty in Stolen Identity Tax Refund SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
John M. Chapman, 33, pleaded guilty to 26 counts before David S. Cercone, United States District Judge.
According to the information presented to the court, between 2007 through 2011, Chapman stole identities of other persons, including their names and social security numbers, which he then used to file fraudulent electronic federal income form 1040 tax returns in their name, in which he sought tax refunds, and then instructed that the refunds be directed to bank accounts which he controlled. Losses from the scheme totaled approximately $113,000.
Judge Cercone scheduled the sentencing for July 11, 2014, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 515 years in prison, a fine of $6,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of John M. Chapman.
Charleroi Man Sentenced to Prison for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Washington County man has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Jerome C. Pryor, Jr., 27, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania.
According to information provided to the court, Pryor conspired with others to use unauthorized credit cards to purchase gift cards and merchandise at stores in Western Pennsylvania. At sentencing, Judge Diamond emphasized the seriousness of identity theft crimes, and the impact upon victimized accoutholders.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Pryor. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Wilmerding Felon Sentenced to 5+ Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Wilmerding, Pa., resident has been sentenced in federal court to 64 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Monte Blair, 40.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Sept. 28, 2012, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police obtained a warrant for Blair’s arrest on charges of attempted homicide and aggravated assault stemming from an incident that occurred on Sept. 9, 2012. Shortly after the warrant was issued, Blair was arrested as he exited a residence on Brushton Avenue in Pittsburgh. A search of Blair incident to arrest revealed a loaded Ruger 9mm pistol that had been previously reported as stolen. Blair, who has several prior felony convictions, is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. As to the attempted homicide and aggravated assault charges stemming from the incident on Sept. 9, 2012, Blair was recently convicted of aggravated assault and acquitted of attempted homicide in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County. Sentencing in that matter is scheduled for April 2, 2014.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Blair.
Judge Sentences Tarentum Woman to 3 Years in Prison for Defrauding Citizens BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Tarentum woman has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on her conviction of bank fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Suzanne Czwalga Andre, 48.
According to information presented to the court, from July 2011 to November 2011, Andre negotiated fraudulent checks at various branches of Citizens Bank that she knew would not be honored by the banks on whose accounts the checks were drawn.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Andre.
Cocaine Courier Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Role in Massive Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A California resident has been sentenced in federal court to 240 months imprisonment followed by 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ruben Mitchell, 45, of Antioch, Calif.
The IRS Criminal Investigations section joined the Drug Enforcement Administration as major partners in the investigation of the current case with the valuable assistance of multiple other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. In part, the investigation relied upon search warrants, court orders, consensually-recorded conversations, surveillance and information supplied by confidential sources, as well as records and documents obtained by Grand Jury and Administrative subpoenas. The investigation revealed a major cocaine distribution conspiracy which resulted in cocaine being transported to Pittsburgh and other areas from 2000 through 2010.
The investigation revealed that the conspiracy involved over 2000 kilograms of cocaine and millions in laundered drug money. Over time, the conspiracy involved enough cocaine for every current man, woman and child resident of Pennsylvania to have their own $20 rock of crack cocaine. Conspiracies commonly change both members and mechanisms to adapt to changes, and this conspiracy is no different. Aside from changing cocaine sources over time, the conspiracy changed its common manner of doing business over time, as well. For example, prior to the summer of 2007, the conspiracy utilized packages of cocaine being shipped by the US mail or various common carriers from California to recipients in Pittsburgh. Documents and evidence reveal the large number of packages of cocaine shipped to the conspirators, as well as the packages of drug money being shipped back. Multiple seizures of both money and cocaine packages occurred. For example, on June 7, 2007 Postal Inspectors intercepted six kilograms of cocaine from the mail that was earmarked for the conspiracy. On Aug. 5, 2007, Postal Inspectors also seized a package containing $99,850.00 intended for one of Mitchell’s co-defendants.
The conspiracy began using couriers to transport cocaine to Pittsburgh and money back to California. The investigation has revealed that between 2007 and 2010 at least 11 different couriers took approximately 100 flights for the conspiracy. These involved the transportation of cocaine to the Pittsburgh end of the conspiracy and the transportation of drug money back to California. Again, multiple packages of both money and cocaine were intercepted. For example, in February of 2008 Ruben Mitchell boarded a plane in Oakland bound for Pittsburgh with cocaine in his luggage. Since the flight attendant had trouble getting the carry-on bag into the overhead bin, an airline employee called a “ramper” put a tag on the bag mistakenly causing it to be removed from the plane during a layover in Las Vegas. There, airline employees opened the bag and discovered it to contain 19 kilograms of cocaine. Mitchell was observed, along with others, looking for the bag in Pittsburgh and he also filed a claim for the bag. On August 8, 2009, over $335,000 in cash, just one part of approximately $700,000 that was sent on this occasion, was seized from the luggage of a conspirator.
During other times, the conspiracy arranged transportation of cocaine or money by means such as chartered private flights and vehicles including tractor trailers. Individuals indicted thus far involve many different roles within the conspiracy. Some conspirators are suppliers, couriers or recipient drug dealer/distributors. Other conspirators played a variety of roles such as: shipping or receiving packages; arranging for couriers, flights and flight payments; money launderers; and those who circumvented security procedures at airports.
The evidence revealed that Mitchell flew cocaine from California to Pennsylvania five times during 2007-2008 for this massive drug conspiracy. District Judge Cercone noted the connections between Mitchell and other defendants and held that Mitchell’s actions make him responsible for 69 kilograms of cocaine. Testimony from a narcotics expert has revealed that this much cocaine would be worth over $7 million on the street and results in over 350,000 doses of cocaine or crack. Judge Cercone held that Mitchell’s 20-year jail sentence and 10-year period of supervision was sufficient, but not greater than necessary given Mitchell’s prior felony cocaine conviction.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the IRS-CI, DEA, Pennsylvania Attorney General and many other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mitchell.
Businessman Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Indiana resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years supervised release, on his conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Mark M. Palombaro, 55, of Carmel, Indiana.
According to information presented to the court, Palombaro was the Senior Vice President of Development at Simon Property Group, Inc., which had a principal place of business in Indianapolis, Indiana. Simon Property Group, Inc., entered into two contracts with R.E. Crawford Construction, Inc., located in Springdale, Pa., one in September of 2006 for the construction and redevelopment work on the Northgate Mall in Seattle, Washington, and one in November of 2007 for the construction and redevelopment work on the Laguna Hills Mall in Laguna Hills, Calif. Robert E. Crawford paid approximately $766,000 to Palombaro, who in turn used his authority and influence at Simon Property Group to select Crawford's company to be the general contractor for those jobs.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Palombaro.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced for Collecting Federal Housing Subsidies in Pittsburgh and New YorkRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh woman was sentenced yesterday in federal court to three years probation and restitution of $10,513.80 on her conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Court Judge Gustave Diamond imposed sentence upon Sherrie Williams, 65.
According to information presented to the court, Williams fraudulently received federal housing subsidies totaling $10,513.80 during the period from March 2009 through May 2011. During this period, Williams was the tenant of record at a federally subsidized apartment located in Staten Island, New York, and received rent subsidies for this apartment. Throughout this same period, Williams was living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in other federally subsidized housing.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the New York City Housing Authority, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Williams.
Incarcerated Fayette County Man Charged with Threatening the President and His FamilyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of West Leisenring, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of threats against the President and the members of the immediate family of the President, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on Feb. 25, named Joseph H. Savage, 34.
According to the indictment, 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.
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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Cambria County Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Carrolltown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison and three years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to commit money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Gerald G. Lowmaster, 67.
According to information presented to the court, from March 2008 to May 9, 2011, Gerald G. Lowmaster conspired to commit money laundering. In addition, evidence presented to the Court at the time of Gerald G. Lowmaster's sentencing reflected that he conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others to conduct financial transactions involving proceeds generated through George M. Lowmaster's drug distribution organization with the intent to conceal the source of the proceeds and with the intent to promote the carrying on of George M. Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.
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 Gerald G. Lowmaster. 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.
Aliquippa Man Charged with Defrauding His Employer by Submitting Fraudulent InvoicesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on February 25, named Peter A. Kalemon, 45, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Kalemon defrauded his former employer of $359,389.32 over approximately three years by submitting 126 fraudulent invoices which were paid to Kalemon’s fictitious transportation company via 81 checks mailed to his P.O. Box in Wheeling, West Virginia.
The law provides for a maximum sentence at each count 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 Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Verona Woman Charged with Theft of Government MoneyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Deborah E. Matthews, 69, of Verona, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, from December 2004 to September 2012, Matthews converted to her own use $57,621.40 in Social Security Title XVI, Supplemental Security Income benefits of another individual, benefits she knew she was not entitled to receive.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Pittsburgh Chief Harper Sentenced to 18 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Former Pittsburgh Police Chief Nathan E. Harper has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment and one year of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $31,986 in restitution on his conviction of conspiracy and willful failure to file income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Harper, 60, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Harper was the Chief of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. From 2009 to 2012, he caused checks received by the Special Events office of the Department to be diverted to two “off the books” accounts at the Greater Pittsburgh Police Federal Credit Union. Using Visa debit cards, Harper obtained over $31,000 in ATM withdrawals and debit purchases, all for his personal benefit. Harper also failed to file federal tax returns for the years 2008 to 2011.
“The vast majority of elected and appointed officials serve their constituents with integrity an honor,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “But when those whom the public entrusts with authority place greed over good, they must be held accountable. It is our hope that through this prosecution we can shape the future of Pittsburgh by deterring other officials from stealing from taxpayers and by attracting honest public servants to office.”
Gary Douglas Perdue, Special Agent in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, said, “Stemming public corruption is the FBI’s top criminal investigative priority. It will not be tolerated in our community – no matter the level, the amount, or the individuals involved. We invite the public to report information concerning public corruption to the FBI through the public corruption hotline at (412) 432-4122.”
“No public official gets a free pass to ignore the tax laws,” added Asst. Special Agent in Charge Ed Wirth of the IRS-Criminal Investigation. “The IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, together with our partner agencies and the Department of Justice will investigate and prosecute those who violate our tax system to ensure that everyone pays their fair share.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harper.
Deported Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Beaver Falls, Pa., 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 Jesus Espinoza-Fernandez, 30, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Espinoza-Fernandez, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 6, 2009. Espinoza-Fernandez was found to be illegally present in Beaver Falls on Feb. 6, 2014.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney 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.
Cambria County Woman Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Marijuana Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Carrolltown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first 12 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute marijuana, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Marguerite G. Lowmaster, 67, of Carrolltown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from March 2009 to May 9, 2011, Marguerite G. Lowmaster conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 10 kilograms, but less than 20 kilograms, of marijuana. In addition, evidence presented to the Court at the time of Marguerite G. Lowmaster's sentencing reflected that she conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others with the intent to facilitate and promote George M. Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.
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 Marguerite G. Lowmaster. 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.
Michigan Woman Gets 4 Years in Prison for Participating in Oxycodone Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of West Bloomfield, Michigan, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in prison for her conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora B. Fischer imposed the sentence on Jill Eisenshtadt, 36.
According to information presented to the court, Eisenshtadt served as a “runner” for Jason Weitzner, the leader of a large oxycodone distribution ring. Weitzner procured fraudulent prescriptions from doctors in Florida, and then used runners to fly to Pittsburgh and fill these oxycodone prescriptions at various pharmacies in the metro Pittsburgh area. Weitzner then sold the obtained oxycodone pills to local Pittsburgh drug dealers. Eisenshtadt, a one-time paramour of Weitzner, repeatedly obtained fraudulent prescriptions in Florida, filled these prescriptions in Florida, and then, when Weitzner realized that he could maximize profits by filling the prescriptions in Pittsburgh, flew to Pittsburgh on multiple occasions to further the drug conspiracy. In exchange for obtaining the oxycodone, Weitzner paid for all of Eisenshtadt’s personal expenses. Weitzner has pled guilty to the charges against him, and is due to be sentenced in April, 2014.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Allegheny County Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lawrence Weitzner.
Altoona Spa Owner Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Suwanee, GA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, with home detention for the first 12 months, on his conviction of laundering of monetary instruments, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Steve Park, 56, of Suwanee, GA.
According to information presented to the court, between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 10, 2010, Park, while the owner of The SunSet Health Spa, located on Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, Pa., conducted financial transactions which involved proceeds derived from the unlawful interstate transportation of individuals for illegal sexual activity. By conducting these financial transactions with the illicit proceeds, he intended to engage in conduct constituting a violation of Sections 7201 or 7206 of the Internal Revenue Code.
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, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Park.
Altoona Spa Co-Owner Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Transporting Person for ProstitutionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A Georgia woman has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, with home detention for the first ten months, on her conviction of transportation for illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Yon Park, 61, of Suwanee. Ga.
According to information presented to the court, on Feb. 14, 2011, Park, while the owner of The SunSet Health Spa, located on Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, Pa., caused an individual to be transported in interstate or foreign commerce, with the intent that such individual engage in prostitution, or in any sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense.
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, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Park.
Postal Carrier Charged with Stealing from MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Leetsdale, Pa., woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of mail by postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on Feb. 18, named Michelle M. Frizzell, 44, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Frizzell, being an employee of the United States Postal Service, did steal, abstract and remove gift cards from greeting cards on two separate occasions. In addition, she was also charged with embezzling a greeting card on another occasion.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each count 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 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.