Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Beaver Falls Man Sentenced to Prison for Violating Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch imposed the sentence on Carlos Cleckley, 36.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about Dec. 4, 2009, and continuing until Sept. 29, 2011, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Cleckley conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Additionally, on or about July 29, 2010, Cleckley distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack.
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, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Beaver Falls Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cleckley.
Murrysville Woman Charged in Two Schemes to Steal MoneyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westmoreland County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, credit card fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The seven-count indictment named Dawn Penzera-Lackey, 40, of Murrysville, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, after having previously been convicted of credit card fraud in 2006, Penzera-Lackey engaged in two new schemes to steal money. In the first scheme, while employed as a food manager at a country club, Penzera-Lackey stole an $1800 check from her employer that she was supposed to use to pay a vendor. After depositing the check into her personal bank account, Penzera-Lackey attempted to defraud the vendor by mailing to the vendor a bogus check drawn on an account that had long been closed. In the second scheme, Penzera-Lackey stole three credit cards from friends, who were owners of a small business. Penzera-Lackey then used the credit cards to make various purchases for herself and family members totaling over $16,000.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison as to each count of mail fraud and credit card fraud, a fine of $250,000, or both and a mandatory minimum sentence of two years imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft counts. 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 Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case in conjunction with the Belle Acres Borough Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police, Belle Vernon Barracks.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Local Man Pleads Guilty in Welfare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh-area resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Mahmoud Al-Rifai, 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about Jan. 12, 2012, and continuing to on or about July 25, 2012, Al-Rifai filed a fraudulent online application with the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare which resulted in the receipt of benefits to which he was not entitled.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Aug. 22, 2013. 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(s) and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 Mahmoud Al-Rifai.
Brookline Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding State Welfare DepartmentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kamil Al-Rifai, 56, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about Feb. 9, 2012, and continuing to on or about Jan. 14, 2013, Al-Rifai defrauded the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare when he misrepresented that his dependent mother was residing at his home in his application for benefits.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Aug. 22, 2013. 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(s) and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 Kamil Al-Rifai.
Bank Official Charged with Embezzling Funds, False Entry in Bank RecordsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank embezzlement and false entry in bank records, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Diana Phillips, 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Phillips was an Assistant Branch Manager and Head Teller at First National Bank. Over a period of roughly three years, Phillips embezzled approximately $129,318.38 from the bank by processing fictitious general ledger transactions and making cash-in deposits into an account owned by a family member. The defendant then transferred money from the family member's account into accounts controlled by her and/or her husband.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Castle Man Pleads Guilty in Oxycodone Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
David Wooley, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between September 2008 and June 2011, a drug ring operated in the New Castle area, selling highly-addictive narcotic pills containing oxycodone on the street to drug users. Larry Dorsey, a former New Castle resident who was living in Florida during the conspiracy, was the supplier for Wooley and others charged in this indictment. Wooley was a distributor of oxycodone as well as a drug and money courier between Pennsylvania and Florida. In September 2010, Wooley was stopped by police in North Carolina, on his way to Florida. A search of his car turned up $158,409 in cash, hidden inside a door. The evidence showed that the oxycodone, purchased for $14 a pill in Florida, was being resold in New Castle for up to $25 a pill.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2013 at 9:30 am. 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of David Wooley.
Johnstown Man Tells Court He Distributed HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Maurice L. Lindsay, 37, 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 Nov. 3, 2011, Lindsay distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Sept. 5, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lindsay.
Indiana, Pa., Man Charged with Possessing Sexually Explicit Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Indiana County, Pa. has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Christopher Murdock, 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 17, 2012, Murdock possessed visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police 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.
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.
Texas Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Houston, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years in prison followed by six years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloh imposed the sentence on Gathon Dudley Shannon a/k/a Gathow Dudly Channon, 46.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about Dec. 4, 2009 and continuing thereafter to on or about Sept. 29, 2011, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Shannon conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
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, the Pennsylvania State Attorney General's Office and the Beaver Falls Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shannon.
Restaurant Owner Sentenced to Probation with House Arrest for Defrauding the GovernmentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, eight months of which must be served under house arrest, as well as ordered to pay $76,969.53 in restitution to the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Roy G. Arthrell, Jr., 61.
According to information presented to the court, Arthrell was receiving a disability annuity from the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board since November 2006. He opened a restaurant named Roys by the Tracks in Finleyville that affected his eligibility for the disability annuity, but he failed to notify the RRB as he was required to do. As a result he defrauded the United States and converted approximately $65,000 of its property for his own use.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Arthrell.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 108 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of Distribution of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on James W. Vertullo, 51.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Feb. 19, 2012, and Feb. 26, 2012, Vertullo distributed images in computer graphics files containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, as well as knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct by computer. It was also alleged that on or about Feb. 29, 2012, Vertullo 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Vertullo.
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 Convicted on Firearms Violations Sentenced to 92 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - On Thursday, April 11, 2013, Ebon P. D. Brown, a/k/a "E-Murder" was sentenced in federal court to 92 months of incarceration on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Brown, 28, was tried before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti in Pittsburgh.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Pittsburgh Police Impact Unit Detectives observed Brown removing an object from his waistband and hiding it under his seat. The object was determined to be a 9mm semiautomatic handgun loaded with 10 rounds.
The defendant's tattoos include "E Murder 187" on his arm and two smoking semiautomatic handguns on his back with "crimeythugs.com" written between them. As shown by the recent 2010-2011 ABC television show "Detroit 187" about that city's leading homicide investigators, 187 is a common street term for murder derived from section 187 of the California Penal Code. The defendant's criminal history includes juvenile arrests, starting at the age of 13, for assault, credit card fraud, heroin possession and possession of a pistol with the serial number obliterated. As an adult, Brown has had felony drug convictions, including for the Delivery of Heroin, in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. The defendant's girlfriend Brittany McCoy bought the 9mm pistol Brown was found to have possessed while the defendant was working to be released from federal prison in New Jersey. The defendant was serving a sentence there as a result of his federal convictions on a federal heroin distribution charge and carrying a loaded .40 caliber handgun during his drug trafficking.
The defendant recently finished serving a 14-month sentence for violating his federal supervised release on that prior federal case.
Judge Conti noted that Brown had a serious criminal record that required her to impose a lengthy sentence to protect the public.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ebon "E-Murder" Brown, with valuable assistance from the Allegheny County Department of Laboratories and the United States Probation Office.
Pittsburgh Man Conspired to Falsify Firearms Records to Illegally Obtain GunsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Eric Beverly, 20, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around June 2012, and continuing thereafter to on or about July 27, 2012, Beverly conspired with a known individual to falsify firearms transaction records in connection with the purchase of two firearms. Specifically, the individual indicated on the ATF purchase records that the firearms were being purchased for herself when, in truth, the firearms were being purchased for Beverly, who was prohibited from purchasing and possessing firearms due to his age.
Beverly was one of seven individuals charged in February 2013 as part of a Western Pennsylvania law enforcement initiative to vigorously enforce federal and state firearms laws that target prohibited possessors.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Aug. 13, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. 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(s) 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 Eric Beverly. 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.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Possessing Powder Cocaine and CrackRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An Allegheny County resident has been convicted of violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Edward Harris, 38, of Pittsburgh, pled guilty during a hearing conducted by United States District Court Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr., to possessing over 100 grams of powder cocaine on June 18, 2010, with intent to distribute. Harris also pled guilty to possessing over five grams of crack cocaine on January 27, 2011, with intent to distribute. Both crimes were committed in Allegheny County.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing to occur on Aug. 7, 2013, at 11:00 a.m.
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 conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud, Witness Tampering & False StatementsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of North Huntingdon, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of mail fraud, one count of witness tampering and one count of false statements to the government, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Danny A. Patel, 45, pleaded guilty to three counts before Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Patel managed a BP gas station in McKeesport, Pa. Patel submitted false insurance claims to Harleysville Insurance Company arising from a December 25, 2011 accident at the BP. Patel also admitted that he lied to FBI agents and obstructed justice by asking witnesses to lie to FBI agents.
Judge Lancaster scheduled sentencing for Friday, July 26, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $750,000.00, 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 bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Patel.
Judge Sentences Fayette County Heroin Dealer to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Uniontown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to120 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Gregory Moore, Jr. a/k/a G, 31, of Uniontown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from in or around April 2012, and continuing thereafter to in or around May 2012, Moore conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 300 grams of heroin. Moore was owed $94,000 for heroin that he had previously provided on consignment to a drug distributor.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Redstone Township Police Department, the Uniontown Police Department, and the Fayette County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Moore, Jr.
Credit Union Assistant Manager Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling Funds, Evading TaxesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Butler County woman has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on her conviction of embezzlement from an institution insured by the NCUA and income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Stacy L. Attisano, 44, of Portersville, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, between 2004 and 2010, Attisano embezzled approximately $222,000 from the Lawrence County School Employee Federal Credit Union, where she was employed as the assistant manager. Attisano was also convicted of tax evasion for the years 2006 through 2009, for failing to pay taxes on the embezzled funds.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Attisano.
Former St. Marys Man Pleads Guilty to Embezzling over $422,000 from the Elk County Humane SocietyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Richard Danz, 48, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Danz was the financial advisor/accountant for the Elk County Humane Society. From in and around September 2008 to in and around June 2012, Danz embezzled $422,017.81 from the Elk County Humane Society and another individual for his own personal use.
Judge McLaughlin scheduled sentencing for September 10, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Danz.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Sylvester Tate, 50, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Tate possessed with intent to distribute and distributed approximately seven grams of cocaine on two occasions.
Judge McLaughlin scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Tate on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Erie Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tate.
Cambria County Man Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Defraud the U.S.Read the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Vintondale, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Alvin Miller, 60, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from June 9, 2007, to April 15, 2008, Miller conspired with others to defraud the United States by assisting a co-conspirator in concealing money from the Internal Revenue Service in order for the co-conspirator to avoid paying income tax.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 10, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. 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 Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and Ebensburg Borough Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Miller.
Johnstown Man Produced Sexually Explicit Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of producing child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Stephen J. Goniea, 47, 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 2008 to August 2011, Goniea produced visual depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct using materials that had been mailed, shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Sept. 3, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Southwest Computer Crime Task Force of the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Goniea.
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.
Centre County Drug User Admits Unlawfully Possessing PistolsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Patton, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of unlawful possession of firearms by a user of illegal controlled substances, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
John B. Zollinhofer, 41, 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 Sept. 22, 2011, Zollinhofer, who was an unlawful user of, and addicted to, illegal controlled substances, possessed two Smith and Wesson pistols, a Ruger revolver and a Rossi revolver.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Sept. 3, 2013, at 10:30 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zollinhofer.
According to Mr. Hickton, Zollinhofer 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.
Pittsburgh Man Charged in Johnstown with Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Warren Charles Green, IV, 27.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Apr. 5, 2013, Green possessed with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 Pennsylvania State Police, Somerset Turnpike Barracks, and the Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
Kuchera Brothers Plead Guilty to Fraud Against the Government and ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Fines and Penalties of $4M to be Paid Back to USA
JOHNSTOWN, PA. - Two brothers who owned a major defense contracting firm waived indictment and pleaded guilty today in federal court to charges of major fraud against the government and conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced.
William Kuchera, 58, of Summerhill, Penn., and Ronald Kuchera, 51, of Johnstown, Penn., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that William and Ronald Kuchera owned and managed Kuchera Defense Systems, Inc. (KDS), a contractor for the Department of Defense. KDS submitted cost certifications to the government containing unallowable expenses that inflated costs for overhead and general and administrative expenses. These unallowable expenses included the leasing of a private airplane, vacations to Jamaica, personal car leases, improvements on a private residence and lobbying fees.
The Kuchera brothers also submitted a false invoice for $650,000 to Coherent Systems International, Inc. (Coherent), a defense contractor owned by Richard S. Ianieri. As the prime contractor, Coherent was responsible for an $8 million Department of Defense contract for the Ground Mobile Gateway Systems, which involved the development of a new prototype unmanned vehicle that was designed to prevent friendly-fire incidents. The invoice sought payment for a component that had never been manufactured or delivered to Coherent. After receiving the $650,000 payment from Coherent, the Kuchera brothers kicked back to Ianieri approximately $200,000.
The court was further advised that each of the Kuchera brothers filed false income tax returns for themselves and KDS. Their personal tax returns were false because they failed to disclose as income certain personal expenses paid for by their companies. The KDS tax returns were false because they included as business deductions certain expenses that were personal expenditures of the two brothers. The brothers also caused the submission of a false corporate tax return which illegally claimed the kickback to Ianieri as a legitimate business expense.
In July 2009, Ianieri pleaded guilty to a one-count criminal information charging him with soliciting kickbacks and filing false purchase orders related to an Air Force contract in Florida. In February 2010, he was sentenced to five years probation and was ordered to pay a $200,000 fine.
Each brother also agreed to pay a $50,000 criminal fine to the United States. Ronald Kuchera agreed to the civil forfeiture of an additional $450,000 and agreed to make payment to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $121,313, which represents taxes owed due to his filing of false personal tax returns and his share of the taxes owed by KDS. William Kuchera similarly agreed to the civil forfeiture of $450,000, and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $257,168.
The Kuchera brothers and KDS will also pay $2.7 million to resolve their civil liabilities with the United States Department of Defense under the False Claims Act. Ronald Kuchera will pay $950,000 and William Kuchera will pay $829,566. KDS, now doing business as Currency, Inc., will pay $920,434 as a result of an audit conducted by the Defense Contract Audit Agency, which uncovered inflated billings for overhead.
“The Kucheras cheated the government by claiming improper reimbursements, submitting a false invoice, and then kicking back $200,000 to the prime contractor,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Such blatant and outrageous fraud against the United States cannot and will not be tolerated.”
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 7, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nelson P. Cohen and Paul E. Skirtich are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Defense Contract Audit Agency, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William Kuchera and Ronald Kuchera.
Johnstown Woman Facing Heroin Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of distributing heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Desalynn L. Coleman, 32, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Oct. 30, 2012, Coleman distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Indicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Nieves Calderon, III, 36, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on Nov. 19, 2012, Calderon distributed a quantity of alprazolam, a controlled substance, and on Feb. 19, 2013, he possessed less than 100 grams of heroin with the intent to distribute it.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Charged with Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of distributing heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The indictment named Damian C. Jeffers, Sr., 42, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on Jan. 7, 2013, Jeffers distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Jefferson County Man Pleads Guilty in Oxycodone Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clearfield, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jason Shaffer, 38, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between February 2010 and September 2011, a conspiracy to distribute thousands of oxycodone tablets existed in Jefferson County in Northwestern Pennsylvania, and surrounding counties. Jason Shaffer conspired to distribute these drugs, selling them on the street after purchasing them for $25-$30 apiece. Oxycodone is a highly-addictive narcotic drug that is frequently abused in Western Pennsylvania.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2013 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jason Shaffer. The Jefferson County District Attorney's Office also assisted in a related investigation targeting other oxycodone distributors.
Deported Alien Charged with Re-entering United States Without DHS PermissionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Adrian Flores-Flores, 22, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on March 27, 2013, Flores-Flores, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 19, 2009, was found in Bedford, Pennsylvania. He had unlawfully re-entered this country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Charleroi Man Admits Straw Purchasing Firearm for Drug-addicted FelonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Charleroi, Pa., pleaded guilty on Monday to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jeffrey Cochenour, 41, was convicted of providing false information to a federal firearms licensee by indicating that he was the actual buyer of a particular firearm when he was actually acting on behalf of someone else. Cochenour purchased a RomArm/Cugir 7.62x39 caliber semi-automatic rifle with a high-capacity magazine capable of accepting over 15 rounds of ammunition. Cochenour bought the firearm for, and provided the firearm to, an acquaintance who was a convicted felon and who was addicted to a controlled substance and could not lawfully purchase or possess firearms.
Sentencing is scheduled to occur on Aug. 9, 2013, at 10:30 a.m., in the courtroom of United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five 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 Pennsylvania State Police investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
Jury Finds Title Manager Guilty in Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - After deliberating for seven hours, a federal jury of four men and eight women found Catherine Slane guilty of four counts of conspiracy and wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Slane, 53, of Tarentum, Pa., was tried before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer in Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Slane was employed as the Senior Title Manager at First Olympic Settlement Services and specialized in closing residential real estate transactions.
Russell Goggin, who passed away prior to Indictment, operated a company called Triplex Properties, which was a company that purchased properties in distressed circumstances -- from estates or from people attempting to sell their homes themselves and not through a real estate broker. He would enter into contracts in which he agreed to purchase properties at certain prices. Normally, before the closing on that transaction, Goggin would then attempt to locate buyers for the properties. He would advertise the house as "rent-to-own" which attracted individuals who could not typically afford to buy home because of credit issues, lack of a down payment, or for some other reason.
Despite their economic circumstances, Goggin convinced the buyers to purchase the homes promising to make improvements on the homes and by claiming that they would not have to make any down payments associated with the purchases. Based on those misrepresentations, the buyers agreed to purchase the properties from Goggin for many times the values of the homes.
Goggin, working through a Peter Kamaras, a mortgage broker who operated Single Source Mortgage, obtained financing for the buyers the purchase the homes through a series of fraudulent representations and bogus document. In the loan application process, the misrepresentations included overstating the borrowers' incomes and assets. In addition, Goggin and Kamaras submitted fake documents to support those and other misrepresentations.
The closing documents reflected that the borrowers were making substantial down payments, and that Goggin was not getting any money from the transactions. The sales price reflected the price that the buyer agreed to pay Goggin for the home, and not the price that the seller agreed to sell the property to Goggin for. In addition, the closing documents reflected that the buyers were making substantial down payments associated with the purchase of the properties, when, in fact, they were not making any payments.
Catherine Slane was the co-conspirator who did the closings. In addition to the fraudulent closing documents, Slane also wired funds received from the lender to Goggin. Goggin would then use those funds to obtain a certified check that he would bring back to Slane after the closing falsely evidencing to the lender that the buyers made the down payments.None of this fraud, however, was possible without fraudulent appraisals that supported the fraudulently elevated sales price shown to the lenders. Sam Shaheen was the appraiser who provided the fraudulent appraisals. Both Shaheen and Kamaras previously pleaded guilty based on their roles in the conspiracy and are awaiting sentencing.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Slane for Aug. 9, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Mortgage Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Slane. 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 Fraud 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.
Grove City Man Charged with Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Mercer County was indicted on Wednesday, April 3, 2013, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Joseph L. Bryer, 52, of Grove City, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Aug. 23, 2011, Bryer 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 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations - Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with assistance from 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.
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.
Butler Man Pleads Guilty in Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Butler, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Jeffrey Garbinski, 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Garbinski owned and operated the Closing Company of PA ("Closing Company"), which closed residential real estate transactions. Sabrina Spetz was an attorney who closed many of the transactions at issue. Garbinski also operated a mortgage broker business called Main Street Mortgage Services, which did business as Asset Mortgage and Financial Services, Inc., and he was a title insurance agent.
Closing companies have trust accounts. What is supposed to happen is that the money from the lenders funding the loans goes into the trust account. At or shortly after the closing, those funds are disbursed consistent with the lender's instructions and the settlement statements. Most significantly with regard to this case, is that liabilities associated with the collateral are supposed to be paid immediately. Thus, the liens related to the property are paid and the lender stands in first lien position.
Rather than immediately paying the liabilities, Garbinski, with Spetz's knowledge and assistance, siphoned money from the company for years to support his lifestyle and for other business ventures. He would then use the money from the next transactions to pay the liabilities from the previous transactions. He would pay the monthly mortgage payments on the outstanding mortgages that should have already been paid to avoid discovery of his fraud. Eventually, the liabilities grew so large that Garbinski was no longer able to pay the liabilities and he filed for bankruptcy.
Although Garbinski committed this scheme regarding customers of the Closing Company, he also committed this scheme with his own personal residence. Dollar Bank funded a $600,000 loan to Garbinski arranged through his mortgage broker business and closed by the Closing Company. Basically, the loan through Dollar Bank was a typical refinance transaction in which all of the liabilities associated with the collateral, which was Garbinski's personal residence, were supposed to be paid off. Garbinski submitted a loan application that failed to report two significant mortgages on the property, and he also arranged to submit fraudulent title search records that did not reveal the two mortgages. Long after the loan closed, Dollar Bank discovered that they were in third lien position rather than first lien position. Now that Garbinski has filed for bankruptcy, Dollar Bank expects to suffer a total loss on that loan because the sale of the collateral is unlikely to pay off the first two liens on the property.
Ultimately, the title insurance company will likely have to pay substantial claims because of this fraud. The Closing Company was a representative of Fidelity National Title Insurance Company ("Fidelity"). Fidelity conducted an audit of the Closing Company of PA pursuant to the title insurance contract between Fidelity and the Closing Company. As part of that audit, Fidelity requested and obtained from Spetz bank statements that did not show the fraudulent withdrawals because the statements had been altered by Spetz at Garbinski's direction.
In terms of the money laundering, a homeowner sought to refinance a loan through Northwest Savings Bank. Because of concerns that Northwest had with Garbinski, Northwest refused to let the Closing Company close the transaction, and demanded that Fidelity close the transaction. Fidelity, however, was unaware of the transaction and did not close the loan. In order to make it appear that Fidelity was involved in closing the loan, the settlement statement was fabricated and provided to Northwest. The settlement statement falsely represented that Fidelity closed the transaction. In addition, Garbinski created a letter with wiring information for what was represented to be the trust account for Fidelity. In fact, the account number is for the Closing Company. The loan closed on Feb. 24, 2010, and was funded through a wire transfer from Northwest Savings Bank to the Citizens Bank account of the Closing Company. That money was supposed to have been used to pay off a liability associated with the collateral.
On Feb. 25, 2010, Garbinski withdrew $38,316 in cash from that account. Bank surveillance pictures showed Garbinski making the withdrawal. On that same day, Garbinski deposited $37,500 of that cash into the Clearview Federal Credit Union account of JAG Management LP, which was basically a shell company that Garbinski owned.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 24, 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 offenses 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 Garbinski. 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.
Braddock Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison on Heroin ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Braddock, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release following a guilty plea to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Antoine Cortez-Dutrieville, 34.
According to information presented to the court, on or about June 13, 2012, Cortez-Dutrieville attempted to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the United States Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cortez-Dutrieville.
Removed Alien Charged with Immigration ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Francisco Javier Abundes- Montiel, 32, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Abundes-Montiel, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 2, 2011. He was found on March 1, 2013, by the Center Township Police Department.
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 Margaret E. Picking is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 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 Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Drug Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh was sentenced on April 9, 2013, in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Andre Allen, 30, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison followed by eight years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From January 2010 to March 3, 2011, Allen conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 400 grams of heroin. On March 3, 2011, Mr. Allen was arrested in Pittsburgh. At that time, he possessed $3,698.00 in United States currency on his person and thirteen bricks of heroin inside his residence.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Ross Township Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the successful investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of filing false tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Zenford A. Mitchell as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Mitchell, filed false tax returns on April 14, 2008, for calendar year 2006 and for 2007 by deliberately under reporting his income.
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 leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Munhall Man Charged with Assaulting FBI Task Force OfficerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Munhall, Pa., 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, returned on April 9, 2013, named Kim Winwood, 61.
According to the indictment, on or about March 14, 2013, Winwood assaulted, resisted, and impeded certain officers or employees of the United States during the performance of their official duties, and he caused bodily injury to a Federal Bureau of Investigation Task Force Officer.
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 Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Gang Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Munhall Police Department, West Homestead Police Department and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer to 25 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh was sentenced on April 9, 2013, in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking and firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Harold Bacon, 30, was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison followed by eight years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From at least Jan. 18, 2010, when 18 bricks of heroin were seized from his rental car by Pittsburgh police detectives to March 3, 2011, when he was arrested after being indicted in federal court, Bacon supplied brick after brick of heroin to other heroin dealers. Bacon used young runners to store and distribute heroin for him and he used a female to pick up and transport hundreds of bricks of heroin from outside Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh.
In addition, on June 17, 2010, Bacon possessed a Desert Eagle .40 caliber pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Bacon obtained the Desert Eagle pistol on that date in return for heroin. Bacon then attempted to transfer the Desert Eagle pistol to someone else shortly after he acquired it.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Ross Township Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the successful investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Blairsville Man Facing Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Blairsville, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, and distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Charles Joseph Payson, 45.
According to the indictment presented to the court, in and around August 2010, Payson produced images of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. On or about Nov. 7-9, 2012, Payson distributed visual depictions of a minor. From August 2010 through Nov. 24, 2012, Payson possessed visual depictions, namely images and videos contained in computer, camera and cellular telephone 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 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Soo C. Song is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with 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.
Clarion County Man, 31, Facing Federal Charges in Teen's AbductionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Clarion County, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate transportation of a minor for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count indictment named Joshua D. Baker, 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about March 28, 2013, Baker knowingly transported across state lines a minor female known to the grand jury as A.S., who had not attained the age of 18, with the intent of engaging in sexual activity with the minor.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
Westmoreland County Man Pleads Guilty in Methamphetamine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Westmoreland County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Kevin Nicol, 57, of Harrison City, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nicol was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The parties stipulated that 279.2 grams of "ice," also known as pure methamphetamine, were attributable to Nicol for purposes of the Sentencing Guidelines.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for 2:00 p.m. on July 12, 2013. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. 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 Stephen R. Kaufman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nicol.
Avonmore Man Admits Producing Sexually Explicit Videos and Images of A MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westmoreland County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Timothy Eugene Shearer, 54, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around February of 2009 to on or about September of 2009, and in or around October of 2006, Shearer persuaded, induced, and coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that conduct, namely a digital video and other images. The indictment also charged that Shearer possessed visual depictions, namely, digital image files and a video file, depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aug. 7, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 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 Shearer.
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 Found by ICE Charged with Illegally Re-Entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An individual found by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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 one-count indictment named Antonio Florentino-Facundo, a/k/a Frankic Mendoza-Sagal, 29, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, Antonio Florentino-Facundo, a/k/a Frankic Mendoza-Sagal, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 16, 2008.
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.
Deported Honduran Charged with Illegal Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An individual found in Homestead, Pa., 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 Wilson Baca-Ortiz, 33, formerly from Honduras, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, Wilson Baca-Ortiz, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Nov. 21, 2005. Wilson Baca-Ortiz was found on March 21, 2013, pursuant to an on-going investigation into another immigration matter.
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.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of escape from custody, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Alfonso Evans, 23, of Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Evans escaped from federal custody on Sept. 29, 2012.
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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Pittsburgh Men Charged in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on March 27, 2013, named Mark Lawson, 39, and Dacosta Lomax, 50.
According to the indictment, from December 2000, and continuing to March 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the Lawson and Lomax conspired with one another and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. 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 Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Attorney General's Office, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Narcotics Enforcement Team 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.
Store Owner Indicted on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An owner of a local retail food store has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Samson Dweh, owner and operator of Mariama African Store on Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, Pa., was indicted on March 27,2013, on six counts of wire fraud and 35 counts of food stamp fraud.
According to the indictment presented to the court, the defendant's retail store participates in the United States Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as the Food Stamp Program. Food stamp recipients could purchase eligible food items using food stamp benefit cards at the defendant's retail stores. As a condition of participation in the Food Stamp Program, the defendant certified that he would comply with all rules and regulations of the program and was aware that program rules strictly prohibit the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash and/or ineligible items. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, the defendant exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving the customers only 50 cents on the dollar for their food stamp benefits. The defendant also permitted food stamp customers to purchase ineligible items with food stamp benefits and accepted food stamp benefits as payment on credit accounts and loans.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York Man Charged with Cocaine PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Yonkers, New York, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on March 27, 2013, named Darrell Rhett, 51, of Yonkers, New York.
According to the indictment, on or about Oct. 3, 2012, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Rhett possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Former Official Sentenced for Embezzling from Letter Carriers UnionRead the Press Release
PITTSBUGRH - A resident of New Stanton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, with five months home detention and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $4,914.91 on his conviction of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Frank Rysz, 47.
According to information presented to the court, Rysz, a Secretary-Treasurer of the Letter Carriers, National Association, AFL-CIO, Branch 1124, stole approximately $12,514.19 from the union by writing and cashing 70 unauthorized union checks, by making 26 unauthorized cash withdrawals and by making unauthorized payments over the four-year period from Jan. 1, 2007 to Dec. 31, 2010.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Labor, Office of Labor Management Standards for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rysz.