Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months incarceration, three years of supervised release, and $6,000 fine on his conviction of tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Terrance L. Szymanski, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Szymanski operated a number of businesses in the names of others in order to evade both the payment and assessment of federal income tax. Szymanski's evasion resulted in a total tax loss to the United States of $2,432,161 spanning from 1997 to the present.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael A. Comber prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 77 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Akeem Abdul Caldwell, 27. Caldwell was found guilty by a jury on December 5, 2012, of the crime of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on Jan. 24, 2012, Caldwell, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Norinco, Model 1911A1, .45 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.

According to information presented to the Court at sentencing, Caldwell's involvement in criminal activities began at age 14 and progressed to the robbery of a pizza delivery driver at age 17. In January 2005, at age 18, Caldwell was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of violating Pennsylvania's firearms law when he was found in possession of a sawed-off shotgun despite being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm. In early December 2005, at age 19, Caldwell was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of the crime of possession with the intent to deliver 73 stamp bags of heroin found in his pocket by the Pittsburgh Police. Also in early December 2005, Caldwell was convicted in federal court of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, when on Sept. 14, 2005, the police found him in possession of a 9mm caliber handgun that was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition and one round in the gun's firing chamber. Caldwell was then convicted in federal court in 2008 for the crime of escape when, after being released from federal prison to a halfway house, he walked out of the halfway house and never returned.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Caldwell. This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

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

Holly Thomas, 21, 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, Thomas, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 6, 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 Thomas. 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Fontana, Calif., has been sentenced in federal court to 292 months imprisonment and five years supervised release on his conviction of federal drug and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Dwayne Thompson, a/k/a D, a/k/a White Chocolate, 47.

According to information presented to the court, from 2001 and continuing until July 2007, Thompson was responsible for distributing more than 500 kilograms of cocaine in Detroit, Michigan; Indianapolis, Indiana; Atlanta, Georgia; and in the Pittsburgh region. The organization was referred to locally as the "Cali Connect" because a number of its member came from California. Thompson used his drug proceeds to purchase high-end luxury automobiles; a failed night club venture; and a speed boat with an estimated value of $225,000. Thompson's boat and cars have been forfeited to the government.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Pasadena Police Department and the Texas State Highway Patrol for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Two residents of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on March 12 and unsealed today, named Michael Anthony Stokes, 26, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania, and Ryan John Konarski, 22, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from November 2010 to March 12, 2011, Stokes and Konarski conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute the controlled substance analogue 3,4 methylenedioxymethcathinone, also commonly known as methylone,"bath salts" or "Molly". The indictment alleges that the pair maintained a drug involved premises for purposes of distributing and using the analogue, while Stokes imported "Molly" into the United States.

Since drug suppliers have tried in the past to avoid prosecution by making minor changes in the chemical structures of controlled substances, Congress created the Controlled Substance Analogue Enforcement Act of 1986. This Act makes these "designer" drugs illegal if they are intended for human consumption and resemble a controlled substance in molecular structure as well as actual or purported physiological effects.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison and a fine of $2,500,000 for Konarski, and 80 years in prison and a fine of $3,500,000 for Stokes. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation with six months home detention with electronic monitoring, and was ordered to pay $100,821.64 in restitution on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Bruce K. Gaito, 54.

According to information presented to the court, Bruce K. Gaito fraudulently obtained a Social Security number in the name of “David Gaito” and used the number to obtain Supplemental Security Income Benefits from the Social Security Administration.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gaito.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Clarence Thompson, 56, was sentenced to serve 80 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From January 2010 to March 3, 2011, Thompson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 400 grams of heroin. Thompson’s federal sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to any sentence imposed for his pending state drug charges that were filed while he was on bond in his federal case.

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 Bureau of Police, 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 - After a nearly year-long federal, state and local law enforcement investigation into drug trafficking and violence in Homestead, Pa., 34 residents of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. These charges were contained in six related indictments, returned on March 6 and unsealed today.

"These prosecutions are a continuation of our community impact prosecution strategy where we are going community to community to aggressively eliminate violent criminals," said U.S. Attorney Hickton. "But every day we are also working with committed public-spirited citizens to increase opportunities for our youth; to replace despair with hope; and to give kids at risk and reformed offenders a fair shot to be productive citizens because we know that to best protect the public welfare, we need to work equally hard to prosecute and prevent crime.

"This investigation was a response to the increased violence and incidence of drug trafficking in the Homestead, Pa. area, much of which was attributed to a gang, or criminal enterprise, known as the Uptown Crew," said Gary Douglas Perdue, Special Agent in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division of the FBI. "These indictments are a clear example of the determination and collaborative spirit among area law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal enterprises that pose the most significant threat."

THE INDICTMENTS

The first indictment, containing seven counts, named:

• Brandon Thompson, 30, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Antonio Hardin, 32, of Monroeville, Pa.;
• James Walker, 44, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Joseph Thompson, II, 25, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Richard Wood, 33, of Swissvale, Pa.;
• Gregory Harris, Jr., 24, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Luther Harper, 27, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Edward Cook, 25, of Homestead, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in and around April 2012 to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Brandon Thompson, Hardin, Walker, Joseph Thompson, II, Wood, Harris and Harper conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment also charges that on or about Aug. 12, 2012, Brandon Thompson and Edward Cook used, carried, possessed in furtherance of, brandished and discharged firearms during and in relation to that heroin trafficking conspiracy. The indictment further charges Antonio Hardin with, on or about Feb. 11, 2013, possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Last, on or about Jan. 26, 2013, the indictment charges Richard Wood with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and charges Walker and Hardin with distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

The second indictment, containing one count, named:

• Troy Anderson, 24, of Braddock, Pa.;
• Mark Felder, 25, of Duquesne, Pa.; and
• Dorianne Harris, 20, of Wilkinsburg, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Troy Anderson, Mark Felder and Dorianne Harris conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The third indictment, containing two counts, named:

• Andre Corbett, 20, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Sterling Marshall, 18, of Munhall, Pa.;
• Tireal Wheeler, 19, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Jordan Murphy, 21, of Homestead, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Andre Corbett, Sterling Marshall, Tireal Wheeler and Jordan Murphy, conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Additionally, the indictment charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin.

The fourth indictment, containing five counts, named:

• Jay Germany, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Brady Hall, 19, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Jaquan Washington, 23, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Hector Guadalupe, Jr., 36, of Brooklyn, NY;
• Santino Drew, 34, of New Brunswick, NJ;
• Thomas Martinez, 34, of Edison, NJ; and
• Louis Spinnenweber, Jr., 34, of Canonsburg, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Jay Germany, Brady Hall, Jaquan Washington, Hector Guadalupe, Jr., Santino Drew and Thomas Martinez conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, Germany, Hall and Washington did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. Additionally, on or about Jan. 30, 2013 and Jan. 31, 2013, Drew and Martinez possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Also, on or about Nov. 21, 2012, Louis Spinnenweber, Jr., possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a heroin. Last, on or about Oct. 30, 2013, Germany and Hall possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of heroin.

The fifth indictment, containing three counts, named:

• Bryce Harper, 26, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Diamantia Serrano, 19, of McKeesport, Pa.;
• Lacie Harper, 24, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ryan Harper, 36, of Munhall, Pa.;
• Jamar Harper, 32, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ronnell Robinson, 19, of Duquesne, Pa.; and
• Seth Lindsey, 18, of Duquesne, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around July 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Bryce Harper, Diamantia Serrano, Lacie Harper, Ryan Harper, Jamar Harper, Ronnell Robinson and Seth Lindsey conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. Last, the indictment charges that on or about Sept. 19, 2012, Bryce, Ryan, and Jamar Harper, together with Diamantia Serrano, did possess with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

The sixth indictment, containing four counts, named:

• Thomas Hopes, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Keith Harris, 22, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Anthony Smith, 21, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Hakeem Kirby, 19, of Homestead, Pa.;
• William McDonald, 68, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ronnell Robinson, 19, of Duquesne, Pa.;
• Gregory Harris, Jr., 24, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Sterling Marshall, 18, of Munhall, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Thomas Hopes, Keith Harris, Anthony Smith, Hakeem Kirby and William McDonald conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. The indictment also charges that on or about Dec. 18, 2012, Hopes and Kirby possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of heroin. Last, the indictment charges that on or about Jan. 3, 2013, Robinson, Keith and Gregory Harris, Marshall, and Hopes used, carried, possessed in furtherance of, brandished and discharged firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence.

THE PENALTIES

On the conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both, for a first-time drug trafficking conviction. For those with one prior felony drug trafficking conviction, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $20,000,000 or both, and for those with two prior felony drug trafficking convictions, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison.

On the firearms' counts charging possession, use, brandishing or discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years if the gun is possessed in furtherance of the crime, seven years if the gun is brandished in furtherance of the crime, and 10 years if the gun is discharged in furtherance of the crime. These sentences, by law, must run consecutively to any sentence imposed for the narcotics counts. In addition, the law imposes a fine of up to $250,000.

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.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Munhall Police Department, West Homestead Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of these individuals.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to time served of 19 months incarceration, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to use stolen credit cards, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence yesterday on Courtney McFeaters, 33.

According to the information presented to the court, McFeaters, along with co-conspirators Calvin Smith and Joseph Dees, conspired to use stolen American Express credit account information to purchase merchandise at retail stores in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio between December 2010 and June 2011.

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

Officers from the United States Postal Inspection Service and United States Secret Service, along with along with agents from the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McFeaters. The WPFCTF was established in February 1995 as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Pensacola, Fla., who came to be known as the "Bucket List Bandit", pleaded guilty in federal court in Erie, Pa., to charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Michael Eugene Brewster, 54, pleaded guilty to 11 counts before United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin. Brewster pled guilty to one count of bank robbery alleged in an indictment filed in the Western District of Pennsylvania for a bank robbery occurring on Sept. 10, 2012. Brewster also waived indictment and pled guilty to bank robbery charges filed in an Information in the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleging 10 other bank robberies occurring in: Arvada, Colo., on June 21, 2012; Flagstaff, Ariz., on June 27, 2012; Pocatello, Idaho, on July 6, 2012; Roy, Utah, on July 6, 2012; Winston-Salem, N.C., on July 20, 1012; Altamonte Springs, Fla., on July 27, 2012; Chattanooga, Tenn., on Aug. 3, 2012; Bloomington, Ill., on Aug. 17, 2012; Colombia, Mo., on Aug. 29, 2012; and O'Fallon, Mo., on Aug. 30, 2012.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between June 21, 2012, and Sept. 10, 2012, Brewster robbed 11 banks across the nation. In the course of the bank robbery spree Brewster used a similar method of operation and entered each bank, without being disguised, wore similar clothes, carried a dark leather notebook, presented demand notes containing similar threatening language to each of the victim tellers, and left the scene driving a 2009 black SUV, which Brewster had stolen in Pensacola, Fla. In his last bank robbery in Erie, Penn., on Sept. 10, 2012, Brewster entered the Huntington National Bank, located at 2185 West 12th Street and presented a demand note, claiming that he had a gun and that the teller had one minute to comply. Brewster then claimed to the teller that he had cancer and did not care what happened. Brewster obtained bank proceeds and fled the area in a black SUV. Bank surveillance images and images from area surveillance cameras clearly depicted Brewster and the vehicle he used. Comparing the Erie Huntington Bank surveillance photographs with those from the 10 other bank robberies that had occurred throughout the United States confirmed that each robbery had been committed by the same person. On Sept. 12, 2012, the FBI received a tip that the bank robber depicted in the surveillance photographs was Brewster. A review of Brewster's Florida driver's license confirmed Brewster's identity as the bank robber. In addition, evidence disclosed that an arrest warrant had been issued for Brewster alleging that he had stolen a black Chevy Captiva SUV in Pensacola, Fla., on June 11, 2012. Once Brewster's identity had been established in the Erie robbery, the FBI and law enforcement partners in the jurisdictions of the other 10 bank robberies confirmed his identity in those cases as well.

According to the information provided to the court about the 10 other bank robberies, Brewster entered the Chase Bank at 5250 Wadsworth Boulevard in Arvada, Colo., on June 21, 2012, the Chase Bank at 1484 South Milton Road in Flagstaff, Ariz., on June 27, 2012; and the Ireland Bank at 486 Yellowstone Avenue in Pocatello, Idaho, on July 6, 2012, and obtained federally insured funds after presented a threatening note demanding money. In Roy, Utah, on July 6, 2012, Brewster entered the Wells Fargo Bank located at 5603 South 1900 West, and obtained money after presenting a threatening demand note claiming that he had only four months to live. In Winston- Salem, N.C., on July 20, 1012, Brewster entered a Bank of America at 1209 Silas Creek Parkway and presented a threatening demand note indicating that he had nothing to lose and threatening to come back after the teller if any silent alarm was activated. Brewster obtained no money from the Wells Fargo Bank. Then, at the Regions Bank at 360 West State Road 436 in Altamonte Springs, Fla., on July 27, 2012, the BB&T bank at 2120 Gunbarrel Road in Chattanooga, Tenn., on Aug. 3, 2012; the PNC bank at 2217 West Market Street in Bloomington, Ill., on Aug. 17, 2012; the Landmark Bank at 202 North Stadium Boulevard in Colombia, Mo., on Aug. 29, 2012; and the Lindell Bank at 4521 Highway K in O'Fallon, Mo., on Aug. 30, 2012, Brewster obtained money after presenting threatening demand notes, including a claim that he was armed with a gun.

Finally, according to information presented to the court, on Sept. 13, 2012, a police officer with the Roland Police Department in Roland, Okla., conducted a traffic stop of a black, 2009, Chevy Captiva vehicle and identified Brewster as the driver and sole occupant. A fake Utah license plate had been affixed to the vehicle. A computer check of Brewster's name revealed Brewster's outstanding arrest warrant in Pensacola, Fla., for allegedly stealing the Chevy Captiva vehicle. Brewster was then taken into custody and was found to be in possession of money from the Erie, Penn., Huntington Bank robbery. Among other items located in the Captiva vehicle was a handgun, money from the Huntington Bank robbery, the clothing worn by Brewster in the bank robberies as depicted in the surveillance photographs, and the leather notebook carried by Brewster into the banks he robbed. Brewster was then arrested on the Erie, Penn., arrest warrant and he was returned to the Western District of Pennsylvania to face federal prosecution.

Judge McLaughlin scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 220 years in prison, a fine of $2,750,000, 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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in each of the jurisdictions, the Erie Bureau of Police, the Arvada Police Department, the Flagstaff Police Department, the Pocatello Police Department, the Roy City Police Department, the Winston-Salem Police Department, the Altamonte Springs Police Department, the Chattanooga Police Department, the Bloomington Police Department, the Columbia Police Department, the O'Fallon Police Department and the Roland Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brewster.

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 named Miguel Angel Cerna, 41, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 11, 2012, Cerna was found in Butler County, Pa., after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on or about Feb. 13, 1991.

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 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Binghamton, New York, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal counterfeiting laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Larry Patterson, 58, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Patterson passed counterfeit federal reserve notes to another individual who then distributed them to various individuals to pass.

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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of assaulting a federal officer, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Ryan Bell, 44, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on January 15, 2013, Bell assaulted a Special Deputy United States Marshal, a member of the U.S. Marshals Western Pennsylvania Task Force, who was engaged in official duties at the time of the assault.

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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshal's 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Gregory Washington, 36, also known as “Joe”, “Run”, “Rizzy”, and “Illa”, was sentenced to serve 262 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From January 2010 to March 3, 2011, Washington conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin. Washington obtained thousands of grams of raw heroin and then arranged for it to be bagged, bricked, transported and stored by associates. Washington then supplied the heroin to other significant traffickers and ultimately sold to the users who were hooked on it. Washington did so while he was on state parole after serving 10- to 20-year prison sentences for a drug trafficking-related double murder committed in the 1990's. Washington’s federal sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to any sentence imposed for the violation of his state parole conditions.

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 Bureau of Police, 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, Pa. - A Pittsburgh resident has been 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 Michael Eugene Gorny, 24, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about July 4, 2012, Gorny, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a .40 S&W caliber Glock pistol and a 9mm caliber Lorcin 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.

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 Katherine A. King 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 leading to the indictment in 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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 14 years in jail on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin imposed the sentence on Shantell Lamont Jones, 40.

According to information presented to the court, Jones distributed approximately 2 ounces of powder cocaine on February 17, 2012 and distributed approximately 1 ounce of powder cocaine on March 8, 2012.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McLaughlin determined that Jones was a career offender and commented on Jones' long criminal history which included crimes with firearms and drugs.

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 years in jail and lifetime supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin imposed the sentence on Eric Lee Stafford, 33.

According to information presented to the court, Stafford distributed and possessed computer images depicting minor males engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Prior to the child pornography offenses, Stafford had been convicted of two separate indecent assaults on minor males in Crawford County, Pennsylvania. Stafford also revealed during sex offender treatment, which occurred in between his two indecent assault convictions, that he had sexually assaulted seven other minors. During the investigation the authorities also discovered that Stafford was not in compliance with his Megan's Law registration requirements.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McLaughlin stated that Stafford's conduct was "particularly egregious" and was coupled with a "very troubling criminal history." Judge McLaughlin also stated his belief that Stafford is a "predatory pedophile who is not deterred by his previous incarcerations."

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

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

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, Pa. - Eight residents of western Pennsylvania and two residents of Detroit, Mich., have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 16-count superseding indictment names:

• Javon Harvey, 36, formerly West Bloomfield, Mich., and currently incarcerated;
• Terrell Williams, 33, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Carl Thompson, 34, formerly of Detroit, Mich., and currently incarcerated;
• Demetrious Levy, 42, formerly of Washington, Pa., and currently incarcerated;
• Keontae Spears, 29, formerly of North Versailles, Pa., and currently incarcerated;
• Tierone Barnes, 30, formerly of Washington, Pa., and currently incarcerated;
• Brandon Wise, 29, formerly of Washington, Pa, and currently incarcerated;
• Ronald Glass, 42, of Washington, Pa.;
• Jamie Argyle, 24, of Duquesne, Pa., and currently incarcerated; and
• Donte Newton, 28, formerly of Monessen, Pa., and currently incarcerated.

According to the superseding indictment, from in and around June 2011 and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2012, Harvey, Williams, Thompson, Levy, Spears, Barnes, Wise, Glass, Argyle, and Newton conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Additionally, Levy is charged with nine separate instances of distributing less than 100 grams of heroin in and around Washington, Pa.; Demetrious Levy, Keontae Spears, and Brandon Wise are charged with one count each of possession of a firearm and/or ammunition by a convicted felon; and Javon Harvey, Demetrious Levy, and Brandon Wise are charged with one count each of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The law provides for a sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of 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 Barbara K. Swartz 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 superseding indictment in this case.

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

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

Susan Rowan, 39, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rowan defrauded Sprint Communications by impersonating a rodeo star. After receiving shipments of hundreds of cellular telephones under the pretense that they were for her fictitious company, she would use them for herself and provide them to members of her family.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Rowan on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rowan.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to a nine month, time-served sentence on his conviction of making and uttering counterfeit and forged checks of an organization, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Darryl Kennedy, 46, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the information presented to the court, from Sept. 22, 2011 through Oct. 3, 2011, Kennedy negotiated counterfeit checks.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service and the Financial Crimes Task Force of Western Pennsylvania for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Darryl Kennedy.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Tyrenzo Morton has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for escaping from federal custody while serving a prison sentence, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on March 5, names Morton, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on Dec. 23, 2012, Morton escaped from federal custody at Renewal, Inc., where he was serving the remaining portion of a federal prison sentence.

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 United States Marshals Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police investigated this case leading to the capture and indictment of Morton.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A postal worker has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on March 5, named Christopher L. Demorest, Sr., 39, of Greensburg, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about March 29, 2012, Demorest, a Postal Service employee, embezzled a greeting card, which had been entrusted to him and which had come into his possession intended to be conveyed by mail. The indictment also charges that on or about April 25, 2012, Demorest embezzled two additional greeting cards.

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 is 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Shaun G. Westfall of Baden, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on March 5, named Shaun G. Westfall, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about June 13, 2012, Westfall, a Postal Service employee, embezzled two parcels of mail, which had been entrusted to him and which had come into his possession intended to be conveyed by mail.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 United States.

The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General and the Veterans 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to one year and a day of incarceration on his conviction of making and passing counterfeit money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Shawn V. Jones, 43, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the information presented to the court, Jones made $1,000 in photocopied counterfeit federal reserve notes in $20 and $10 denominations from Dec. 9 through Dec. 12, 2011. He pled guilty to passing counterfeit money at a local pub on Dec. 13, 2011.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa .- A resident of Centre County, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to one year and a day of incarceration and three years supervised release on his conviction of a charge of interfering with housing, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence yesterday on Ryan M. Held, a/k/a Ryan M. Foley, 21.

According to information presented to the court, on Aug. 20, 2010, Held, by force and threat of force, willfully intimidated and interfered with two minor victims - one of whom was an African- American male, because of his race and because he was occupying a dwelling, and one of whom was a female who was and had been lawfully allowing such African-American male, a friend, to occupy the dwelling in which she resided. During the afternoon of August 20th, Held drove past the female victim's home in Woodland, Pa., and saw her socializing with a few friends, one of whom was African-American. Just before midnight, Held returned to the property and placed a cross in the front yard of the female victim, approximately 60 feet from the entry to her home, and set it on fire for the purpose of intimidating and interfering with her and her African-American friend. Held spent a few minutes laying in the woods bordering the property watching the cross burn and waiting to see if anyone emerged from the residence.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government, together with Trial Attorney Roy Conn of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Held.

ERIE, PA. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 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, Jr. imposed the sentence on Ollie Dion Pullium, 32.

According to information presented to the court, on January 10, 2012, Pullium conspired with another individual to distribute two ounces of cocaine.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of making false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Kimberly G. Yarnavick, 47, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 15, 2009, in conjunction with the purchase of a Hi Point pistol; on Feb. 5, 2010, in conjunction with the purchase of a Phoenix pistol; and on March 3, 2010, in conjunction with the purchase of a American Arms pistol, Yarnavick knowingly made false statements in an effort to deceive Sporting Goods Discounters, a federally licensed firearms dealer. Yarnavick represented she was the actual buyer of the firearms when, in fact, she was purchasing the firearms on behalf of another person.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 1, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 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.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Yarnavick on bond.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Johnstown Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yarnavick.

According to Mr. Hickton, Yarnavick 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, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of deprivation of civil rights, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Arii Metz, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Metz, while acting as a correctional officer with the Allegheny County Jail, used excessive force in the assault of an inmate on Oct. 13, 2010, and thereby violated his civil rights.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for June 18, 2013, at 9:00 a.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 Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Arii Metz.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Buffalo, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation and ordered to perform 150 hours of community service on his conviction of importation of steroids, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Anthony Gianetti, 27.

According to information presented to the court, on May 5, 2008, Gianetti took delivery at a Monroeville Post Office of a parcel from the People's Republic of China, which contained vials and tablets consisting of six different types of anabolic steroids.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Lancaster stated that the sentence was a downward variance from the Guidelines range of 8-14 months imprisonment - due to defendant's youth at the time of commission and his subsequent academic achievements.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Postal Inspection Service and DHS Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gianetti.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Homestead, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 50 years in prison on his conviction of violating various federal laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Jay Mathis, 46.

According to information presented to the court, Mathis was convicted at two separate trials on one count of attempted bank robbery, one count of attempted armed bank robbery, two counts of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, two counts of using, carrying and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of Hobbs Act Robbery.

Mathis was suspected of carrying out a six-month crime spree that began with the robbery on Jan. 8, 2009, of the National City Bank on Walnut Street in the Shadyside area of Pittsburgh, and ended with the robbery of the Courtyard Marriot at the Waterfront in Homestead which occurred on June 19, 2009.

During the robbery of the National City Bank, Mathis walked towards an off-duty police officer working as a security guard within the bank and pulled out a black and silver gun. As the officer drew his weapon, Mathis retreated out of the bank and headed towards Myrtle Way. The officer chased Mathis, telling him to stop. Mathis fired three shots in the officer’s direction, and the officer returned fire twice. The officer then attempted to take cover as Mathis, still running, fired several more rounds. Mathis got into a small silver vehicle and drove off.

During the robbery of the Courtyard Marriot, Mathis pointed a small black revolver at the desk clerk and demanded money. The clerk placed the cash drawer on the counter and Mathis took approximately $221.00. After leaving the hotel, Mathis led police officers on a high speed chase and fired two rounds of ammunition at the police vehicle behind him, the first one hitting the police car’s windshield and causing the officer to duck down and swerve off the road onto an embankment.

Throughout the duration of the six-month crime spree, Mathis was suspected of committing seven other robberies at various banks, a Subway restaurant, and a McDonald's restaurant.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lawrence County has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of failure to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on James Andrew Williams, 45

According to information presented to the court, between Dec. 1, 2009, until March 2, 2010, Williams failed to register as a sex offender, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.

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

JOHNSTOWN, PA. - A resident of Bolivar, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

David McGinnis, 20, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on May 6, 2012, McGinnis, while an unlawful user of heroin, possessed a Hi-Point, Model JCP, 40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Federal law prohibits possessing a firearm while unlawfully using a controlled substance, or when addicted to a controlled substance.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. 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 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 Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McGinnis.

According to Mr. Hickton, McGinnis 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, Pa, - A North Hills resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Kathryn Joyce, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Joyce unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute 334 oxycodone 30 mg tablets on Jan. 11, 2012 when stopped by the Ross Township Police.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2013. 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 United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ross Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joyce.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westmoreland County has been sentenced in federal court to two years imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Thomas Lee Kemerer, 65, of Greensburg, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, during 2003, James Michael Conde and Kemerer made false statements in connection with their applications for a $1 million loan from Sky Bank and a $400,000 loan from K & K Company. The loans were supposed to be obtained for use in a business known as Precision Powdercoating & Graphics. However, Conde and Kemerer used some of the loan proceeds for their own living expenses and personal debts. Conde and Kemerer defaulted on those fraudulently acquired loans, resulting in losses of approximately $1.7 million to Sky Bank and K & K Company.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kemerer.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first three months to be served at a Community Corrections Center and the following six months to be served in home confinement, on his conviction of willfully failing to file an income tax return, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on William J. Dugan, Jr.

According to information presented to the court, on or before Sept. 15, 2006, Dugan, formerly the Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer of Dugan’s Residential Care, Inc., a business which operated six residential care facilities for mentally handicapped adults in Allegheny and Butler Counties, and based in Cheswick, Pennsylvania, failed to file a corporate income tax return for the calendar year 2005, as required by law, resulting in a tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service of $128,706. Dugan and his estranged wife, Maureen Dugan, the CEO and Executive Director of Dugan's Residential Care, Inc., failed to file both corporate and personal tax returns for the years 2003 to 2006, resulting in a total loss of approximately $320,000. Maureen Dugan previously entered a plea of guilty to a similar charge and was sentenced to serve a five-year term of probation.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dugan.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of false statements, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

William R. Cook, Sr., 34, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

According to information presented to the court, Clarence Williams, the father of the defendant, was a Postal Service employee who had Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). Mr. Clarence Williams designated his four children as his beneficiaries to each receive an equal share of the payout. Without the knowledge or consent of his siblings, William Cook filled out federal forms purporting to be his sister and two brothers. The forged forms directed that the payout monies all be sent to the defendant's address. Cook collected and spent the monies intended for his three siblings. When the fraud was discovered, the government paid each of the three siblings $39,102.59 thus incurring a loss in the total amount of $117,307.77.

Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for June 28, 2013. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Sacramento, Calif. pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dominick Spickle, 79, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Spickle was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for June 14, 2013. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. 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 sentencing, the court continued defendant's bond.

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 Spickle.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by 15 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.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Matthew Lawrence Gamret, 28.

According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 16, 2012, Gamret 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gamret.

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, Pa. - A former pharmacist at Walgreens 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 Feb. 13 and unsealed today, named Charles Brian Griffin, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the indictment, from March 2011 until February 2012, Griffin conspired together with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum 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 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 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of the Hill District section of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years incarceration and three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ernest Thomas Harris, a/k/a Pickle, a/k/a Michael Young, a/k/a Michael Ford, 42, was sentenced on Feb. 15, 2013, by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the Feb. 15 sentencing, the court was advised that Harris was on video brandishing a loaded 40 S&W caliber semiautomatic Glock pistol at the Aces and Deuces bar located at 1400 Fifth Avenue on June 1, 2011. Harris had been previously convicted in multiple cases in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County and one case in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The convictions were for charges including assault, stolen property, theft, drug dealing, threats and firearms. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year from possessing ammunition or a firearm.

Prior to imposing sentence, the defendant noted that his conviction on 34 previous charges "doesn't look good" and that he had been involved in multiple shootings in the past. He noted that he was a part of the "concrete Vietnam" of street life, resulting in him being shot several times and friends being shot or killed. He also noted that he had previously killed someone in "self-defense". Judge Fischer noted that the defendant had a significant criminal record and showed no convincing remorse for his past criminal behavior. The court determined that the maximum sentence of 10 years federal incarceration was warranted for the actions of Harris.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The gun in this matter was matched by the Allegheny County Crime lab to the one used during the April 6, 2011 murder of 19 year-old Stephon Green in the Hill District. Of the persons allegedly present at the scene of the murder, all have been indicted federally on firearms charges. In addition to Harris, Kedrin "Hoody" Turner faces a minimum of 15 years imprisonment as a result of his June 24, 2010 possession of a 9mm caliber firearm. Calvin "CK" Kane, III was sentenced to 37 months of federal imprisonment as a result of his Feb. 25, 2011, possession of a 45 Auto caliber firearm despite being subject to an active PFA (Protection From Abuse) court order as well as his Jan. 16, 2011 possession of a stolen 9mm caliber firearm. As a result of the federal, state and local investigation, Kane has been charged with the murder of Green and faces a March 11, 2013 trial before Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge Phillip Ignelizi at case # 15977-2012.

In related matters, Bafata "B" Sullivan, the owner of the gun allegedly used by Kane to murder Green, faced federal firearms charges until he died of natural causes on May 9, 2012. Another Hill District felon, Carl "Baby Kong" Stitt, pleaded guilty to violating federal firearms laws and faces sentencing on April 26, 2013.

Individuals with information on the murder of Stephon Green are asked to call the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Homicide Detectives at 412-323-7161.

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.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Department of Labs and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.

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

Dewann Jamal Macon, 37, 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, Macon, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2013, at 9:30 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 Macon. 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Washington, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years imprisonment, to be followed by two years supervised release, on violating federal firearms charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Timothy D. Johnson, 41, was sentenced on 11 counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Johnson was also ordered to forfeit firearms and silencers, including a Sten machine gun.

According to information presented to the court, in or around 2008 Johnson knowingly disposed of a firearm to a convicted felon. In addition, on various dates between Dec. 5, 2010, and Oct. 14, 2011, Johnson unlawfully possessed and transferred silencers and a machine gun. Most of the transactions and conversations preceding the transactions were captured on audio and video recordings supervised by the FBI.

Johnson frequently boasted of his ability to manufacture silencers and fully automatic weapons during the investigation. After his arrest, Johnson admitted that the firearm and silencer he possessed and transferred on May 18, 2011, were used by him in April 2011 in a drive-by shooting of a car parked outside a Washington County residence. One of the bullets from that shooting struck the house, though no one was injured. Johnson told the FBI that former East Washington Police Chief Donald Solomon instigated the shooting.

FBI Special Agent James Shearer testified that Johnson and Solomon were originally to be members of a "home invasion" team that would rob homeowners of cash and, in some instances, drugs. Solomon, as Police Chief, was to provide background information on the subjects and "cover" during the home invasions, according to recorded conversations captured by the FBI.

Prior to announcing sentence, Judge Bissoon described Johnson's challenges to the evidence as "unpersuasive" and "disingenuous".

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and other state and federal law enforcement agencies, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Gibsonia, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day incarceration, to be followed by three years supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Robert Keller, 25.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 1, 2010, Keller stole five firearms from Misczak Hunting Supplies located at 201 Crawford Run Road, Creighton, Pa. As part of the sentence in this case, Keller was ordered to pay $1,480 in restitution to Misczak Hunting Supplies, as well as a $500 fine.

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

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.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Robert Keller.

PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Westmoreland County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of threatening to murder, intimidate, interfere or retaliate against a Federal Official and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Todd Markley, 49, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 31, 2012, Markley threatened to assault and murder a United States Postal Inspector of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), with intent to impede, intimidate, interfere with and retaliate against the Postal Inspector while she was engaged in her official duties. In addition, on or about April 12, 2012, Markley possessed visual depictions, namely, images in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 18, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the 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 Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Markley.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An Australian National living in Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months incarceration, plus three years supervised release and deportation following service of his sentence on his conviction of wire and mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Kenneth H. Laing, 56.

According to the information presented to the court, Laing was hired as the CEO of Pittsburgh based Ortho-Tag Inc., in 2011, and soon thereafter embezzled over $240,000 from the company's operating account, which Laing used for personal expenses, and to financially support another business which Laing controlled.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the conviction of Laing.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Washington, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years incarceration on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Justin Michael King, 34.

According to information presented to the court, King had prior convictions at the time he possessed 14 stolen firearms that included rifles, shotguns and handguns.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Wallington, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court to 262 months imprisonment (22 years, 10 months), to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United Stated District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Wesley A. McDaniels, a/k/a "Young," 33

According to information presented to the court, from in or around February 2009, to on or about May 9, 2011, McDaniels conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute between 700 and 1,000 grams or more of heroin in the Pittsburgh area. McDaniels has four previous drug felony convictions, and served a period of imprisonment on each one of them. He qualified as a "career offender" under the federal sentencing guidelines based upon his extensive criminal history.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McDaniels.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Clarion County has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months imprisonment followed by 10 years supervised release on his conviction of possessing child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Daniel Sloan Beavers, 42, of Rimersburg, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Oct. 20, 2010, Beavers knowingly possessed visual depictions, namely, images and videos contained in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

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, Pa. - On Feb. 15, 2013, a resident of Braddock, Pa., was sentenced in federal court to one year and one day imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on his conviction of failing to register as a convicted sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Keith Birkett, Jr., 33.

According to information presented to the court, Birkett was required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act after having been convicted in 2000 in Queens, New York, of the felony sex offense of Attempted Sexual Abuse of the First Degree. In or around January 2011, Birkett traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update a registration, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Birkett, Jr.

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton issued the following statement today regarding recent deaths from Legionnaires' disease linked to a Pittsburgh Veterans Administration facility:

"This matter is of great public interest and we understand and appreciate the public's concern. We regard this as a very serious matter.

"An active investigation is underway by the Inspector General.

"We have been in communications with the Inspector General to share our interest and to offer resources.

"After the report of the Inspector General has been completed we will conduct our own independent review and take appropriate action as necessary."