Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Police Chief Will Spend 11+ Years in Prison for Corrupt ActsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former East Washington Police Chief has been sentenced in federal court to 135 months imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of Hobbs Act violations, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Donald Abraham Solomon, 57.
According to information presented to the court, Solomon was the Chief of Police of East Washington Borough, in Washington County, Pa. He received payments from a purported drug dealer, who was an undercover FBI agent, to protect drug shipments and to purchase law enforcement restricted police equipment.
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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Solomon.
Bridgeville Man Possessed Sexual Images and Videos of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County 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.
Kenneth Lee Jones, 67, of Bridgeville, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 10, 2012, Jones possessed visual depictions, namely, images and videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Oct. 16, 2013, at 9:30 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.
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 Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Possessing Violent Pornographic Images and Videos of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months imprisonment followed by 20 years supervised release on his conviction of possessing child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on James E. Tronsberg, age 26.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 27, 2010, Tronsberg possessed visual depictions, in the form of numerous still images and videos contained in computer graphics files, that depicted minors, some of whom had not reached the age of 12, engaging in sex acts. Some of the pornographic videos involved acts which were sadistic, masochistic, or otherwise violent in nature.
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 the Pittsburgh High Tech Crimes Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tronsberg.
Pittsburgh Man Taken Away to Prison for Bank Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day incarceration for counts one through nine to run concurrently with count one, plus 5 years supervised release on his conviction of bank fraud and identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Anthony Jose Marchionno, 29.
According to the information presented to the court, Marchionno used several means of stealing identities of others which he then used to pursue schemes to steal from victim's bank accounts, including producing counterfeit checks, impersonating account holders, and producing counterfeit identification documents such as a Pennsylvania photo ID card.
Marchionno agreed to be taken into federal custody immediately to begin serving his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Inspectors from the United States Postal Inspection Service and Allegheny County Police, who as part of the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Anthony Jose Marchionno. 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.
Johnstown Child Pornography Possessor Gets 4-Year Prison TermRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in prison, followed by 20 years supervised release, and was required to register as a convicted sex offender on his conviction of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Austin J. Correll, 32.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 24, 2011, Correll knowingly possessed pictures and 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.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Correll.
Erie Man Charged with Production, Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named David Montgomery, 43, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Montgomery produced images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of lnvestigation and the Erie County Detectives Bureau 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.
Child Pornography Collector Sentenced to 7+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Beaver County man has been sentenced in federal court to 87 months imprisonment followed by 10 years supervised release on his conviction of possessing and receiving child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Kenneth A. Michel, 51, of Aliquippa, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Michel knowingly possessed and received visual depictions, namely, images and videos contained in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Mr. Michel possessed more than 200,000 images depicting child pornography.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Michel.
VA Worker Made False Document Claiming Deployment, Then Collected Active Duty PayRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Washington County, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of theft of government money and making a false document, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Richard A. Ward, 42, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ward, while a VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System employee, submitted to the VA a false and fictitious Special Order drawn on the authority of the Department of the Air Force, Pennsylvania Air National Guard 171st Air Refueling Wing. The false Special Order indicated that Ward, who is also a Pennsylvania Air National Guardsman, was deployed for active duty. The VA placed Ward in a special pay status for VA employees who are activated for military duty. The pay and benefits wrongfully obtained by Ward equaled approximately $14,164.91.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentence, the court placed Ward on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Police, conducted the investigation leading to the information in this case.
Ross Twp. Man Charged with Cashing Deceased Mother’s Benefit Checks for 40 YearsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - 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 Chauncey Clinton, 65, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, from June 1, 1973, to April 3, 2012, Chauncey Clinton converted to his own use $304,853.00 in Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefit payments of his mother, Clara Clinton, who died on May 7, 1973, to which benefits he knew he was not entitled.
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.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Distributing and Possessing Pornographic Images of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An Allegheny County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment named Christopher Malinak, 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from on or about April 28, 2013, to on or about May 7, 2013, Malinak distributed images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors to an individual located in Madison, Wis. The indictment further alleges that on or about May 1, 2013, Malinak distributed images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors to an individual in Scranton, Pa. Finally, the indictment alleges that on or about May 15, 2013, Malinak possessed visual depictions, namely, images and videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, Lackawanna County Police Department and Madison, Wisconsin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Deported Alien Sentenced to Time Served for Re-entering U.S. Without PermissionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to two months including time served on his conviction of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Sotero Gomez Alvarado, 35, formerly from Mexico.
According to information presented to the court, Sotero Gomez Alvarado, an alien, who had been removed from the United States on Aug. 18, 2006, was found in Pittsburgh without having been given permission to re-enter the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sotero Gomez Alvarado.
Californian Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Large-Scale Cocaine Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - On June 5, 2013, a California man was sentenced in federal court to 10 years incarceration on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Tywan Staples, 43, of Oakland, Calif.
According to information presented to the court, the Staples was part of a conspiracy that brought over 2000 kilograms of cocaine to Pittsburgh and other cities between 2000 and 2010.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Staples.
Pittsburgh Man to Spend 3 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident was sentenced in federal court on June 5, 2013, for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Donald Goodwine, 24, was sentenced by United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. From May 2, 2012, to May 9, 2012, Goodwine conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine in the Pittsburgh area.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation that led to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Incarcerated Man Admits Escaping from Renewal Halfway HouseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of escape from federal custody, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Derric Mason, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Aug. 28, 2012, Mason, who had been incarcerated based on a supervised release violation resulting from a 2006 conviction for violating federal firearms laws, escaped from Renewal, Inc., a halfway house located in Pittsburgh.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Oct. 1, 2013 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than five years incarceration, 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Derric Mason.
North Hills Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Gibsonia, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Peter Cicero, 41, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David Cercone, and Cicero agreed to accept responsibility for the other six counts of the Indictment.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Cicero participated in several fraud schemes. Cicero defrauded Community Bank in connection with the $1.8 million loan made to fund Cicero's $3.3 million purchase of certain companies associated with closing real estate transactions. Cicero defrauded Community Bank by overstating the true sales price of the companies, falsely representing that sources outside of the closing companies would make substantial payment toward the purchase of the companies, when, in fact, Cicero took money from the very companies that he was purchasing to fund the purchase. Cicero submitted to Community Bank a forged subordination agreement and received $500,000 back from the seller of the companies after the closing, which represented an overstatement of the sales price.
In separate schemes, Cicero caused the submission of fraudulent loan applications and other documents to lenders to obtain loan collateralized by real estate. The false representations to secure loans including overstating income, understating liabilities, and failing to pay liabilities associated with the collateral servicing the loan. He also directed an individual to remove a lien from a title report. Cicero committed money laundering by causing a wire transfer of some of the proceeds of the mortgage fraud scheme to an account at Mars National Bank.
Cicero also committed bankruptcy fraud by concealing money and jewelry in connection with his bankruptcy filings, and access device fraud by using a credit card without authorization.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Oct. 15, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Mortgage Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cicero. 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 Investigations; 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.
Mt. Lebanon Man Sentenced to 8+ Years in Prison for Possessing Sexually Explicit Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Mt. Lebanon, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 97 months in prison and 15 years of supervised release on his conviction for possessing sexually explicit images of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Andrew Thomas Dahmen, 23.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 2, 2012, Mt. Lebanon police responded to a pizza restaurant at 713 Washington Road, after the father of a five year-old child reported that Dahmen had attempted to produce a cellular telephone image of the child in the bathroom. Further investigation resulted in the seizure of the cellular phone as well as computers and storage media from Dahmen's residence. Dahmen was found to be in possession of hundreds of images of child pornography, including images depicting prepubescent minors, and had produced images of children with his cellular telephone.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Diamond stated that the sentence was warranted to protect the public and to prevent the defendant from "being a potential sexual predator of young people," and "pursuing conduct directly detrimental to children."
Assistant United States Attorney Soo C. Song prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Mt. Lebanon Police Department, assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dahmen.
Indiana County Man Pleads Guilty in Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Indiana County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Daniel Pikel, 57, of Home, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between 2009 and 2012, Daniel Pikel conspired with another person to conceal through his business banking account approximately $2.9 million in funds embezzled by former company controller, Cheryl Brooks, and another former company officer, from Falcon Drilling, LLC, a drilling contractor located in Indiana, Pa.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Aug. 22, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the 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 U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police in Indiana, Pennsylvania, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Daniel Pikel.
Hermitage Couple Charged with Defrauding the IRSRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County couple have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of conspiracy, making or subscribing a false tax return, and aiding and assisting the making or subscribing of a false tax return, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 10-count indictment, returned on June 4, 2013, named Eric Graven and Barbara Graven of Hermitage, Pa., as the defendants.
According to the indictment, Barbara Graven, the President of Custom Stone and Tile, Inc., and her husband, Eric Graven, the Vice President and co-owner of Custom Stone and Tile, Inc., located in Hermitage, Pa., conspired with each other and other persons to defraud the Internal Revenue Service by intentionally failing to report cash earnings of the business in each of the calendar years 2005 through 2008, thereby avoiding the payment of income tax due and owing on such earnings. The indictment further charges Barbara Graven and Eric Graven with preparing and filing, or aiding and assisting in the preparation and filing, false individual and corporate income tax returns for each of the calendar years 2006 through 2008.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 23 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000, 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue 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.
Contractor Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A construction company executive pleaded guilty in federal court to an Information charging him with mail fraud and filing false tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Robert E. Crawford, 54, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
The Information filed by the United States Attorney alleged that Crawford was the President and Chief Executive Officer of R.E. Crawford Construction, Inc., located in Springdale, Pa. The information also alleged that R.E. Crawford Construction, Inc. entered into two contracts with Simon Property Group, Inc., one in or around September of 2006 for the construction and redevelopment work on the Northgate Mall in Seattle, Washington, and one in or around November of 2007 for the construction and redevelopment work on the Laguna Hills Mall in Laguna Hills, California. According to the Information, Crawford fraudulently overstated the costs incurred on these contracts, causing Simon Property Group to over-pay Crawford's company for the work done on both of those projects. In addition, the Information states that Crawford paid approximately $766,000 to a vice president employed by Simon Property Group, 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.
Crawford also pled guilty to charges of assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, and with filing false tax returns for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Dec. 13, 2013, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 23 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Crawford.
Mexican Citizen to Be Deported for Illegal Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico entered a plea of guilty to a one-count indictment and has been sentenced in federal court to two months in prison, no supervised release, and ordered immediately turned over to the custody of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation to Mexico on his conviction of re-entry of a removed alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Adrian Flores-Flores, 22, of Bedford, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on March 27, 2013, Flores-Flores, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 19, 2009, was found in Bedford, Pa. He had unlawfully re-entered this country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Flores-Flores.
Judge Sentences Glenshaw Man to 5½ Years in Prison for Possessing Sexually Explicit Videos of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County man has been sentenced in federal court to 66 months imprisonment and to be followed by 10 years supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Daniel L. King, 24, of Glenshaw, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on June 21, 2012, King possessed visual depictions, namely, videos 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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of King.
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 Felon Sentenced to 92 Months in Prison for Unlawfully Possessing A GunRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 92 months in prison and three years supervised release on his conviction of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on John A. Hinton, 32, as the sole defendant.
According to information presented to the court, on April 3, 2012, Hinton, who had been convicted in 2007 in Cambria County, Pa., of delivery of cocaine, unlawfully possessed an H & R pistol. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms. Delivery of cocaine is such a crime.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Johnstown Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hinton.
According to Mr. Hickton, Hinton 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.
Indiana County Woman Charged with Stealing Postal Service Money Orders, Stamps and CashRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Indiana County resident 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 Jo E. Sandoval, 54, of Ernest, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from Sept. 30, 2011 and continuing until Feb. 16, 2012, Sandoval embezzled and converted to her own use $2,107.15 in U.S. Postal Service money orders, stamps and cash, to which property she knew she was not entitled.
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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton and Special Assistant United States Attorney Koleen Kirkwood are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
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.
Duquesne Man Sentenced for Role in Counterfeit Credit Card SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation with a condition of six months home detention, and restitution in the amount of $33,988.33 on his conviction of conspiracy to use counterfeit credit cards, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Devin Alexander Murphy, 24, of Duquesne, Pa.
According to the information presented to the court, between June, 2010 through June, 2011, Murphy, along with his co-defendants Rayvon Oscar Kyles and Janie Beys used counterfeit credit cards at Walmart stores in Western Pennsylvania to purchase merchandise.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Inspectors from the United States Postal Inspection Service along with agents from the United States Secret Service who, as part of the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Murphy. 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, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Murphy.
Couple Pleads Guilty in Computer Hacking CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Mt. Washington couple pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of recklessly damaging a computer and password trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jonathan Cunningham, 29, and Alyson Cunningham, 25, both of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts of the five-count superseding indictment before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Nov. 28, 2011, Alyson Cunningham had been fired from a law firm located in Pittsburgh, referred to as "VG," In retaliation for the firing, Matthew West, acting at Alyson and Jonathan Cunningham's encouragement, logged into VG servers using an internal company password provided to him by Alyson Cunningham over Facebook. West utilized a VPN proxy server located in Germany to use the password to access VG servers, so as to shield his identity. Once West accessed the server, he installed software on the server which could be used to capture passwords of anyone on the firm’s network.
On Nov. 29, 2011, West sent a partner at VG law firm an email from the account [email protected] that stated that the firm’s web servers had been compromised, and that their backup files had been copied and deleted. This email, which was used to notify the victim company of the hack caused by the usage of the illegally trafficked password, electronically traveled from West's computer in Pennsylvania, to Google's servers in California, before arriving back at VG's server in Pennsylvania. The email further stated that “we are not interested in ruining your business, but routinely checking that business is fair and just. Our motive is to solely capture and record 100% of Pittsburgh business records and operations and protect it or use it against you as we could if Anonymous had a reason and needed to.” Anonymous is a loosely connected network of computer hacker/activists who are known to intrude upon computer networks for political purposes.
According to the victim company, neither Alyson Cunningham, Jonathan Cunningham, or Matthew West had authority to access their computer server, nor did they have authority to place malware onto VG's servers.
Internet chats indicate that Jonathan Cunningham was actively communicating with West during the hack into VG's servers, providing instruction and suggestions, including suggesting the use of specific VPN servers. When IM chatting with West on the night of the hack, Jonathan Cunningham and Alyson Cunningham alternated in their use of Alyson’s Skype account when communicating with West about the hack.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Oct. 15, 2013, 2013 at 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $200,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the Cunningham's on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jonathan and Alyson Cunningham.
Cambria County Man Pleads Guilty in Marijuana Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Elmora, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess marijuana, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Joshua V. Bradley, 36, 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 March 2009 to May 9, 2011, Bradley conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. In addition, evidence presented to the court at the time of Bradley's guilty plea reflected that Bradley conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 31, 2013, at 10:30 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Bradley on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bradley. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation; Pennsylvania State Police; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office; the Cambria County District Attorney's Office; the Carrolltown Police Department; the Patton Police Department; the Ebensburg Police Department; the Portage Police Department and the Paint Township Police Department.
California Man Charged with Emailing Rape ThreatRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of La Jolla, Calif., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of sending a threat via email, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 7 and unsealed last week, named Karthikeyan Natarajan, 26, of La Jolla, California, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about April 5, 2013, Natarajan sent an email to L.S. threatening to rape her.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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 offense 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 and the Carnegie Mellon University 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.
Federal Inmate Admits Escaping from Renewal CenterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of escape from custody, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Alfonso Evans, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Sept. 29, 2012, Evans escaped from federal custody at the Renewal Center in Pittsburgh, while serving a 39-month term of incarceration for a previous federal conviction for conspiracy and identity theft in 2010.
Judge McVerry scheduled the sentencing for Sept. 12, 2013. 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 and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Alfonso Evans.
Felon Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Firearms LawRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Norman Warren, 24, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 4, 2012, Warren, being a convicted felon as a result of a prior firearms conviction, illegally possessed a Hi- Point, .380 caliber pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Sept. 23, 2013, at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Norman Warren.
Allegheny County Man Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Make Counterfeit CurrencyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Elizabeth, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to make counterfeit United States currency and making counterfeit United States currency, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Justin S. Holliday, 29, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
Holliday was charged with two counts alleging conspiracy and the making of counterfeit currency during the period June 21, 2012 through June 24, 2012.
Judge Hornack scheduled sentencing for Oct. 6, 2013, at 9:30 am. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both for Holliday. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Justin S. Holliday.
Washington Man Facing 15 Years to Life in Prison for Drug, Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - On Tuesday, May 28, 2013, a resident of Washington, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal firearms and narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Richard Brown, 32, pleaded guilty to three counts - two narcotics counts and one firearms count - before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in August 2009, and then again on Sept. 18, 2009, Brown distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine. In addition, in August 2009, Brown, who has prior felony convictions, possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Sept. 18, 2013 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of between 15 years to life in prison, a fine of $4,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case 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.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Richard Brown.
Judge Sentences Heroin Dealer to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to 188 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Jimmie McLaughlin, 36.
According to information presented to the court, on or about July 8, 2011, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, McLaughlin possessed with intent to distribute between 80 and 100 grams of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Robinson Township Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jimmie McLaughlin.
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months in prison and three years supervised release on his conviction of distributing crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kevin L. Scott, 37.
According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 12, 2009, Scott distributed less than five grams of crack 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 Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Scott.
Detroit Woman Pleads Guilty in Heroin Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A Michigan woman pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Megan Holton, 27, of Detroit, Mich., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from the spring of 2011 to May 15, 2012, Holton, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 16, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison and 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, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Indiana Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Holton. Other agencies participating in this investigation included the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, the Cambria County Sheriff’s Department, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, the Indiana County Drug Task Force, and the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office.
Felon with Six Prior Convictions Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing A PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A convicted felon from Pittsburgh pled guilty to unlawfully possessing a pistol despite his six prior felony convictions, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Byron Stevens, 33, pled guilty before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. Sentencing is scheduled to occur on Sept. 4, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. Prior to May 30, 2012, Stevens had been convicted of at least six felony crimes in several different state cases some of which resulted in state prison sentences. On that date, Stevens possessed a .380 caliber AMT pistol. He discarded the pistol while attempting to run from Pittsburgh police officers during a traffic stop.
The law provides for a maximum 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 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of 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.
Charleroi Man Charged with Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Charleroi, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for failing to register as a convicted sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 23, and unsealed yesterday, named Kerry McFeely, age 53, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, McFeely was required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act after having been convicted in 1993 in Vermont Superior Court, Chitteden Criminal Division of the felony sex offense of Sexual Assault of Minor Under the Age of 16. The indictment states that from around April of 2011 through May 23, 2013, McFeely traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update a registration, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The law provides for a maximum 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offense 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 United States.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Washington, Pa., Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Coercion and Enticement of A Minor and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A Washington, Pa., man was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for coercing and enticing a minor and possessing child pornography, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania David J. Hickton, and Special Agent in Charge John Kelleghan of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Philadelphia, announced today.
Jeffrey W. Herschell, 54, pleaded guilty in January before U.S. District Judge David Cercone. According to a statement of facts entered into the record by the government and agreed to by the defendant, Herschell sent money to the Philippines in February 2010 for a live, online sex show that included a 12-year-old minor female engaging in sexual activity. Herschell also admitted to possessing child pornography videos at his Pennsylvania residence.
This case was investigated by ICE-HSI Pittsburgh and the ICE-HSI Attache’s Office in the Philippines with significant assistance from the National Bureau of Investigation (Philippines) and the Philippine National Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Bonnie L. Kane of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. 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 rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Probation and Restitution for Stealing BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, restitution of $27,926 and 50 hours of community service and a $100 special assessment on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Douglas Ward, Jr., 37.
According to information presented to the court, Douglas Ward, Jr., converted to his own use over $27,926 in Supplemental Security Income Benefits from December 2006 through July 2010.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Special Agent Kenneth Grubb, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ward.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Internet Extortion Scheme Targeting PittRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Loveland, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to one year plus one day imprisonment followed by two years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to commit internet extortion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Alexander Waterland, 25.
According to information presented to the court, on April 25, 2012, Waterland downloaded a large amount of data from the University of Pittsburgh server, which was located in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Waterland downloaded this data, which included identifying information of students and faculty, at the suggestion of Brett Hudson, who was his co-worker in Ohio, who sent him the weblink where the information could be downloaded from. The purpose of this download was to include it in an Internet threat that they would send to the University of Pittsburgh.
On or about April 26, 2012, using a YouTube account they had created in the name of AnonOperative13, the conspirators in Ohio created and posted a video onto YouTube claiming to be members of the hacking group Anonymous, which a loosely connected international network of computer hackers that have increasingly become associated with international hacktivism, usually with the goal of promoting Internet freedom and freedom of speech. The video claimed that the University's servers containing confidential student and instructor information had been compromised, that the University's Hydrogen server had been compromised with 200 gigabytes of data stolen, and that unless the University of Pittsburgh altered their webpage domain to include an apology from the Chancellor of the University, such confidential information would be released. This video threat was received by the University of Pittsburgh staff in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
On or about April 26, 2012, an email was sent by the conspirators in Ohio from an email account they had created at [email protected], to the email address at the University of Pittsburgh at [email protected] which contained the weblink to AnonOperative13's YouTube extortionate threat.
On or about April 27, 2012, Brett Hudson set up a Twitter account in the name of AnonOperative13, which was associated with the [email protected] email account and the AnonOperative13 YouTube account.
On or about April 28, 2012, Brett Hudson, from Ohio, posted a weblink to the April 26, 2012 YouTube video threat against the University of Pittsburgh by AnonOperative13 onto the Twitter account of AnonOperative13. This tweet was received by the administration of the University of Pittsburgh.On or about May 2, 2012, the conspirators in Ohio posted a comment to the YouTube video of April 26, 2012, which was still up on YouTube. The comment, which was posted in response to numerous other comments posted by other viewers of YouTube who had seen the threat video against the University of Pittsburgh, stated "we are NOT going to release this information unless Pitt admins don't follow our very simple request! We are giving Pitt until Monday, May 6, 2012 and should remain posted for no less than 15 days. To help determine if this threat is real or not, we have posted very little and near useless information, but should prove our point!! We also would like to mention that we have no ties with the current bomb threats as we do not condone violence or harm to any person. This would directly violate our rules of engagement. Enjoy the information and Pitt can stop the release of information; however, the morning of Monday." The bomb threats referenced by Hudson and Waterland in the posting were a series of high profile bomb threats which were sent over the internet to the University of Pittsburgh administrators from March 30 until April 21, 2012. Similar to Hudson and Waterland's internet demands of the administration of the University of Pittsburgh beginning five days later, the perpetrator of the bomb threats also extorted the administration of the University of Pittsburgh. As proof of their seriousness, the conspirators posted personal data they purported to have stolen from the University of Pittsburgh servers.
On May 6, the purported deadline, Hudson texted Waterland stating "Dude scan Pitt.edu we need something to post," indicating the need to download more data from the University of Pittsburgh server in order to make good on their threat.
On or about May 14, 2012, the conspirators in Ohio sent an email to both [email protected] and [email protected], received on servers in the Western District of Pennsylvania from their email account at [email protected], which was entitled "proof of recent breech." The email stated "do what's best, time is of the essence, so you have seven days to have the public apology to the students released...otherwise user names and passwords are next! We are anonymous! We are legion! We are your brothers and sisters! We are the students and faculty of Pitt! We are your worst nightmare! The internet is here! You will now Expect us!" Again, the email included attachments which purported to be personal information stolen from the University of Pittsburgh's computer servers in order to prove their credibility.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Waterland.
McKees Rocks Woman Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Dealing Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A McKees Rocks woman was sentenced to imprisonment today on a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone sentenced Carol Combs, 55, to 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release, on her conviction for conspiracy to distribute oxycodone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Combs conspired to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone between Aug. 24, 2010 and Jan. 20, 2012. Combs purchased oxycodone tablets from runners who filled fraudulent prescriptions, and she also obtained oxycodone prescriptions from Dr. Oliver Herndon, who was sentenced last year to 135 months imprisonment for violating the federal narcotics laws.
In imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated, "Prescription drugs are ruining more lives than crack cocaine today."
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Combs.
Cambria County Man Indicted on Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
Prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - On May 23, 2013, a resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Montez Ricardo Holland, 51.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Jan. 4, 2013, Holland possessed a Sturm, Ruger & Company, Model P95DC, 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. On Apr. 27, 1998 , Holland was convicted in Lycoming County, Pa., of a drug trafficking crime, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms or ammunition.
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 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 leading to the indictment in this case.
According to Mr. Hickton, Holland 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Loretto, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Carlos Alberto Prieto, 47, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Mar. 19, 2013, Prieto was in possession of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant 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 Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Deported Alien Charged with Illegal Re-entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Pedro Vidal-Garcia, 41, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on May 3, 2013, Pedro Vidal-Garcia, an alien, who had been removed from the United States on Sept. 28, 2004, and on April 5, 2009, was found in Pittsburgh without having been given permission to re-enter the United States.
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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Tarentum Drug Dealers Gets over 12 1/2 Years for Drugs and GunsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH. Pa. - A resident of Tarentum, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 151 months imprisonment on his conviction of federal drug and firearms offenses, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Curtis Veasley, 35.
According to information presented to the court, Veasley stored and sold both crack cocaine and heroin from the Tarentum residence where he lived with his girlfriend Kayshala Lincoln and two small children ages 9 and 3. When police searched the home they found drugs, guns, ammunition, a bullet-proof vest and $7,540 in cash. As a felon, the defendant is precluded from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge McVerry stated that the illegal drug trade is the "root of evil" and that the defendant had harmed his children by involving himself in drug trafficking.
Veasley has charges from Lower Burrell pending before Westmoreland County Judge Alfred Bell for an alleged armed home invasion from 2008.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tarentum Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Veasley.
Slippery Rock Man Charged with Receiving, Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Butler County, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of receipt and possession of materials depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The six-count indictment named Mark Beres, 53, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on July 1, 2008, Aug. 30, 2008, Feb. 1, 2009, Dec. 20, 2010, and April 11, 2011, 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.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 110 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Removed Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An individual found in Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.The one-count indictment named Antonio Valencia-Martinez, 26, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, Antonio Valencia-Martinez, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Nov. 1, 2007 and Sept. 19, 2009. Antonio Valencia-Martinez was found on May 3, 2013 in Pittsburgh.
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, Enforcement and Removal Operations, 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 Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of filing false income tax returns, submitting false writing or document to the government and making a false statement to government, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment named Wayne R. Lieberman as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Lieberman submitted false personal income tax returns to the IRS for the years 2007 and 2008. He also allegedly made false statements to the IRS in matters relating to income tax returns filed for clients of his business as a Tax Return Preparer.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 16 years in prison, a fine of $100,000, 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 James Y. Garrett is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents Robert Kickbush of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and Rob Lasich, TIG/TA, 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.
Lower Burrell Man Named in 79-Count Indictment Charging Violations of Federal Drug, Gun and Money Laundering LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Lower Burrell, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics, firearms and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The 79-count superseding indictment named Omali McKay, 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around 2006, and continuing thereafter to on or about Aug. 25, 2012, McKay conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack. Additionally, on or about Aug. 25, 2012, McKay possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possessed an assault-type rifle in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.
The superseding indictment further charges that from in and around May 2011, and continuing thereafter to on or about Aug. 25, 2011, McKay conspired with others to launder the proceeds of the illegal drug trafficking. McKay then laundered the proceeds of the illegal drug trafficking and engaged in monetary transactions in property derived from the illegal drug trafficking.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Lower Burrell Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Georgia Man Charged in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Atlanta, Ga., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate transportation of stolen property, fraudulently transmitting postal money orders, and making, uttering and passing counterfeit security, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The four-count indictment named Shawn S. Foote, 46.
According to the indictment, Foote traveled to Pittsburgh from Atlanta Georgia, to sell counterfeit U.S. Postal Money Orders and counterfeit bank checks to another for the purpose of being fraudulently negotiated.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 35 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 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.
Felon Admits Illegally Possessing PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jaamayl Crosby, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 14, 2012, Crosby, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Walther, Model PK380, .380 ACP caliber pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.
Judge Bloch scheduled sentencing for Aug. 22, 2013 at 12:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jaamayl Crosby.