Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
California Man Pleads Guilty in Methamphetamine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
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 Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
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.
Pharmacist Charged with Conspiring to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
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.
Hill District Man Gets Max for Gun CaseRead the Press Release
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.
Blairsville Man Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
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.
Washington County Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
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.North Hills Man Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Firearms from Hunting Supply CompanyRead the Press Release
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.
Export Man Admits Threatening A Federal Agent and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
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.
Australian National Sentenced to Prison, Deportation for Embezzling FundsRead the Press Release
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.
Washington County Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possessing 14 FirearmsRead the Press Release
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.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 20+ Years in Prison for Heroin Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
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.
Clarion County Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Sexually Explicit Images of MinorsRead the Press Release
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.
Braddock Man Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
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.
U.S. Attorney Hickton Statement on 5 Legionnaires' DeathsRead the Press Release
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."
Erie Man Used Another’s Social Security Number to Get Loans, Credit CardsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of using a social security number assigned to another and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The seventeen-count indictment named Edward Phillips, 58, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Phillips obtained and used a social security number that was not assigned to him to obtain various credit cards and loans.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 82 years in prison, a fine of $4,250,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Woman Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
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.
Kimberly Cassidy, 40, 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, Cassidy, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 27, 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 Cassidy. 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.
Turtle Creek Man Charged with Escape from Renewal, Inc.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - One resident of Turtle Creek, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of escape from federal custody, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on Feb. 12, named Christopher Rockwell, 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about Dec. 27, 2012, Rockwell knowingly escaped from federal custody by leaving the confines of Renewal, Inc., located at 339 Boulevard of the Allies, in Pittsburgh, and failing to return. Rockwell, who had previously been convicted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi of the crime of bank robbery, had been committed to the custody of the Attorney General of the United States, and thereafter transferred to and confined at Renewal, Inc., from where he escaped.
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 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 United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Postal Service Contract Driver Charged with Stealing MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Washington, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Theft of Mail, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on Feb. 12, named John Marianov, 57, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Marianov was employed as a highway route contract driver for the United States Postal Service. From May 2012 ,through December 2012, while Marianov was working as a contract driver, he stole greeting cards and letters containing cash, checks, money orders, gift cards and opera tickets from mail that was routed through the Washington, Pa., post office. The total value of the stolen items was over $4,000.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
ID Thief Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa.- A resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank fraud and identity theft, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Anthony Jose Marchionno, 29, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty on Wednesday to nine counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Marchionno used stolen identities of account holders at Citizens Bank, and other western Pennsylvania banks, to produce counterfeit checks or to make cash withdrawals at banks.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 12, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 225 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Inspectors from the United States Postal Inspection Service along with agents from the United States Secret Service who, as part of the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Anthony Jose Marchionno. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Dentist Sentenced in Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Sugar Land, Texas and former resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 4 months imprisonment, 8 months home detention with electronic monitoring, three years of supervised release and ordered to make restitution to United Healthcare Community Plan of Pennsylvania in the amount of $288,528.89 on her conviction of false statements relating to health care matters, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin imposed the sentence on Kristi Ayn Liebau, 40.
According to information presented to the court, during the period from January 2008 through March 2011, Dr. Liebau, a dentist, submitted false claims to health care benefit programs (insurance plans), billing for different procedures than she had performed, up-coding claims to more expensive services, billing for medically unnecessary procedures, billing for procedures on teeth that were not present, billing for procedures that were not performed, and billing for an exorbitant number of procedures that could not have been performed in the allotted surgery time.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McLaughlin commented that the sentence he imposed should have a deterrent effect on other dentists or doctors who would seek to use their professions to engage in fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Liebau.
Blairsville Woman Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
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.
Kimberly Cassidy, 40, 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, Cassidy, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 27, 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 Cassidy. 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.
Two Charged with Possession and Distribution of Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Two residents of Johnstown, Pa., have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of distributing and possessing cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment named James K. Parker, 40, and Ebony R. Thorne 30.
According to the indictment, on Oct. 18, 2012, Parker distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base; on Oct. 30, 2012, Parker and Thorne distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base; and on Oct. 31, 2012, they possessed less than 28 grams of cocaine base with the intent to distribute it.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Parker of 60 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both, and for Thorne of 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney 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.
New Jersey Man Charged with Using Fake Credit CardRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Oaklyn, New Jersey, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of access device fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two count indictment named Raymond Hasaan Matthews, 36, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Matthews used a counterfeit American Express credit card in November 2011 at Casa D'Oro Jewelers and other retailers to buy merchandise.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Facing Multiple ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment named Douglas E. Melter, 32, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Melter attempted to induce a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and possessed a firearm while he was a convicted felon.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie 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.
Launched in February 2006, Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Drug-Using Gun Thief Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Irvona, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
"We in the U.S. Department of Justice are working to ensure that every appropriate resource is focused on preventing gun violence and keeping firearms out of the hands of prohibited persons. One of the ways illegal guns get into the hands of criminals is when illegal drug users trade guns that have been bought or stolen for controlled substances," said U.S. Attorney Hickton. "In this case, the defendant was a prescription drug abuser who stole 72 firearms from his employer, a federally- licensed firearms dealer, and either sold them for cash to purchase drugs or traded them to acquire drugs. Fortunately, the vast majority of the firearms have been recovered."
"ATF's priority is protecting our neighborhoods from violent crime. Public safety is threatened when firearms are diverted from lawful commerce to the criminal element," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Donald Robinson of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. "Individuals who traffic in firearms or criminally possess firearms will be targeted and arrested by ATF in our continued efforts to prevent and reduce firearms related violence in our communities."
Justin D. McElheny, 35, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Dec. 2007 to Oct. 15, 2011, McElheny stole 72 firearms, including revolvers, pistols and rifles of various calibers, from East Coast Gun Sales. In addition, during the same time McElheny was in possession of the stolen firearms, he was an unlawful user of Percocet, Oxycontin, Roxicet and Vicodin.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 27, 2013 at 9:30 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.
Pending sentencing, the Judge released the defendant on $25,000 unsecured 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, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Allegheny Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McElheny.
According to Mr. Hickton, McElheny 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.
Deported Alien Charged with Violating Federal Immigration LawsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Guanajuato, Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Maria Del Rocio Veloz-Alonso, 28, as the sole defendant. According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about January 14, 2013, VelozAlonso was found to be unlawfully present within the United States. Veloz-Alonso had been previously ordered deported and removed from the United States on August 27, 2010 and was removed from the United States on April 1, 2011. The defendant subsequently reentered the United States, and was found to be present in this country without the permission of the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 2 years in prison, a fine of$250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines; the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christine A. Sanner is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Deported Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Oaxaca, Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Evaristo Bautista-Santiago, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about February 3, 2013, BautistaSantiago was found to be unlawfully present within the United States. Bautista-Santiago had been previously ordered deported and removed from the United States on April 13, 2001 and was removed from the United States on October 12, 2012. The defendant subsequently reentered the United States, and was found to be present in this country without the permission of the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
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 Christine A. Sanner is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Carnegie Man Charged with Possession of CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Carnegie, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown, Pa., on a charge of possession of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The one-count indictment named Brian J. Wimbley, 41.
According to the indictment, on Jan. 26, 2012, Wimbley possessed less than 500 grams of cocaine with the intent to distribute it.
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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Californians Charged in Marijuana Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. -Two residents of Los Angeles, Calif., 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 named Alexandra Ann Haag, 24, and Erica Rae Auer, 24.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from 2011 to April 20, 2012, Haag and Auer conspired to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, and United States Department of Homeland Security 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.
Western Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Maximizing Enforcement Efforts to Prevent Gun Violence and Prosecute Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Western Pennsylvania law enforcement will continue to vigorously enforce federal and state firearms laws that target prohibited possessors, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton, ATF Acting Asst. Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson and others announced at a news conference today.
"Western Pennsylvania law enforcement stands united in our determination to maximize enforcement efforts to prevent gun violence and prosecute gun crime," said U.S. Attorney Hickton. "It's time to shed light on those who lie to obtain firearms for criminals, and drug users who illegally possess guns, often to trade them for drugs."
"These indictments and subsequent arrests send a clear-cut message that ATF will investigate and arrest you if you purchase, transfer or possess a firearm in violation of the law," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Donald Robinson of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. "ATF remains dedicated to fighting violent crime, targeting the worst of the worst, and taking preventive measures to deny criminals access to firearms."Under federal law, persons are prohibited from acquiring firearms if they
- have been convicted or are under indictment for a felony;
- are fugitives from justice;
- are unlawful users of or are addicted to any controlled substances;
- have been adjudicated as mental defectives or have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution;
- are illegal aliens or are aliens admitted to the U.S. under a non-immigrant visa;
- have been dishonorably discharged from the military;
- have renounced their U.S. citizenship;
- are subject to certain domestic-violence restraining orders; or
- have been convicted if a domestic violence misdemeanor.
Federal charges against seven individuals were announced at today's news conference:
- Felix Cruz, 49, formerly of Houston, Pa., was charged via indictment. On Nov. 8, 2011, Cruz possessed firearms after being convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
- Linda Daugherty, 32, of Eighty Four, Pa., charged via indictment. According to the indictment, Daugherty, on Dec. 15, 2011, provided false information to a federal firearms licensee by indicating that she was the actual buyer of a particular firearm when she was actually acting on behalf of someone else. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
- Jeffrey Cochenour,41, of Charleroi, Pa., charged via indictment. According to the indictment, Cochenour, on Dec. 8, 2011, provided 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. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
- Ronald DeGrange, 46, of Monongahela, Pa., charge via indictment. According to the indictment, DeGrange, on Dec. 6, 2011, provided 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 and by indicating that he was not an unlawful user of, or addicted to, a controlled substance when he knew that he was an unlawful user of, or addicted to, a controlled substance. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
- Charles Warner, 26, of 230 Lombard Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., charged via indictment. According to the eight-count indictment, on or about July 19, 2009, and on or about October 9, 2009, Warner made false statements to a federal firearms licensee in connection with his purchase of two firearms. According to the indictment, on those dates, Warner also was a fugitive from justice, had pending felony drug and firearms charges, and was an unlawful user or addict of controlled substances when he possessed those firearms. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.
- Michael Howard, 28 of Venetia, Pa., charged via indictment. According to the three-count indictment, Howard, on March 6, 2010, and again on July 29, 2010, provided false information to a federal firearms licensee. In addition, according to the indictment, from March 6, 2010, to May 16, 2012, Howard possessed firearms while using or being addicted to a controlled substance. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both.
- Eric Beverly, 19, of 259 Fern Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., charged via indictment. According to the two-count indictment, 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 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. Additionally, on or about July 13, 2012, Beverly aided and abetted the individual in falsifying the firearms transaction records. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Beverly is a fugitive.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Craig W. Haller, Troy Rivetti, Charles Eberle and John Valkovci, Jr., are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the United States.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and others investigated these case. These cases are 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.
State charges against 10 individuals were announced today, as well:
- Bradley Kompa, 32, of Bethel Park, false written statement to a FFL, specifically concerning drug use;
- Rose Mary Washington, 38, of Uniontown, Pa., false written statement to a FFL, specifically concerning the owner of the firearm;
- John Irwin Moeller, 47, of Canonsburg, Pa.,a prohibited person in possession of a firearm;
- Eric Beverly, 19, of Pittsburgh, Pa., conspiracy to straw purchase, and straw purchase.
- Dennis Steaves, Indiana County, Pa.
- Shakyl Black, 20, of Wilkinsburg, Pa., conspiracy to straw purchase;
- Andre Embry, 24, of Duquesne, Pa., conspiracy to straw purchase;
- Nicholas Vesely, 31, of Export, Pa., conspiracy to straw purchase, and straw purchase.
- Cynthia Joann Wiley, 28, of California, false statement to a FFL, specifically concerning the owner of the firearms.
- Olga Rivera, 49, of Houston, Pa., false statement to a FFL, specifically concerning drug use; straw purchase; and unlawfully transferred to a prohibited person.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Donald Goodwine, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from May 2, 2012, to May 9, 2012, Goodwine conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2013, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Somerset County Man Sentenced for Evading Income TaxesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Fort Hill, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to six months in prison to be followed by six months home detention with electronic monitoring and three years supervised release on his conviction of income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Leonardus A. Otto.
According to information presented to the court, for the calendar years 2005, 2006 and 2007 Otto filed income tax returns showing a total taxable income of $70,844 with total tax due of $26,467, when in actuality his total taxable income was $488,165 with total tax due of $147,259.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Otto.
Latrobe Man Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Failing to File TaxesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Latrobe, Pa., pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to five years probation and six months home detention on his conviction of willful failure to file tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Irwin.
According to the information presented to the court, Irwin failed to file federal tax returns for tax years 2007, 2008 and 2009. The court was advised that Irwin, along with an individual named Thomas Uhrin, earned income from an entity called Health Education Associates, which was formed following the creation of a now defunct medical school on St. Kitt's Island.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Irwin.
Accountant Enters Guilty PleaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An accountant has entered a guilty plea in Pittsburgh to charges of conspiracy and violating federal tax laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Martin R. Bujaky, 63, of Gibsonia, Pa., entered a guilty plea to six counts before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
According to evidence presented to the Court by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking, between approximately 2000 and 2007, Bujaky, an accountant, conspired with others to harbor out-of-status aliens employed in the hotel housekeeping industry in the Pittsburgh area, as well as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, Ohio, by knowingly preparing false tax returns on behalf of their employers, which failed to report their wages as income. Bujaky assisted in the preparation and presentation of false quarterly tax returns for portions of 2005 and 2006 for B&M Best Consulting Co. by understating the size of the payroll and the employment taxes due to the Internal Revenue Service. These false returns accounted for approximately $3 million in unreported wages. U.S. Attorney Hickton stated that the entire scheme, over the course of seven years, resulted in a tax loss of approximately $3.7 million.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 23 years in prison, a fine of $1.5 million, 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.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Department of Homeland Security- Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Department of Labor conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bujaky.
Ligonier Man Sentenced for Role in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westmoreland County has been sentenced in federal court to six months imprisonment, $80,000 in restitution and three years supervised release on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Samuel Hayden, 70, of Ligonier, Pa.
According to the information presented to the court, in October, 2010, Hayden and another person solicited funds from an investor in which he promised a significant return on a foreign commodity investment, but, instead Hayden used part of the funds for his personal benefit.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hayden.
North Hills Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Pornography VideosRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Daniel L. King, 24, of Glenshaw, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 21, 2012, King possessed visual depictions, namely, videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 4, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of King.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Deported Alien Sentenced to Time-Served for Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An individual found by the New Castle Police has been sentenced in federal court to time-served on his conviction of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge R. Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Alex Omar Colindres-Ortiz, 33, formerly from Choluteca, Honduras.
According to indictment, Colindres-Ortiz, an alien, was removed from the United States on Sept. 3, 2010. Colindres-Ortiz was found in New Castle, Lawrence County, on Dec. 5, 2012, without having been given permission to re-enter the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Alex Omar Colindres-Ortiz.
North Versailles Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child Pornography CollectionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - On Jan. 29, a resident of Allegheny County was sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Harold J. Grant, III, 20.
According to information presented to the court, on Feb. 2, 2011, Grant possessed thousands of videos and still images in computer graphics files, depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, many of whom were infants and very young children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Grant's collection of child pornography depicted particularly violent sexual acts, which he had carefully categorized.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Coraopolis Man Sentenced to Probation for Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Coraopolis has been sentenced in federal court to one year probation on his conviction of possession of a machinegun, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Martin Joseph Saunders, 49.
According to information presented to the court, Saunders transferred parts designed to convert a weapon into a machinegun.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Saunders.
Californian Charged with Violating Drug, Money Laundering LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of California has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charges of violating federal drug and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment named Marlowe Dewayne Wheeler, a/k/a Marzuq Mohammed, a/k/a Marquz Muhamed, 40, as the sole defendant. His charges mirror those faced by over 20 defendants in the pending case of United States v. Ruben Mitchell, et al. at Criminal No. 09-105.
According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, from 2000 through 2010, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Wheeler conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and launder drug money.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Jury Finds Mortgage Broker Guilty in $100 Million Fraudulent Loans SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for three hours, a federal jury of five men and seven women found Lewis Whoolery guilty of wire fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Whoolery, 44, currently of Delray Beach, Fla., and formerly of Port Vue, Pa., was tried before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti in Pittsburgh.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Whoolery operated a mortgage broker business called First Capital Home Equity ("First Capital"). In 2003, Whoolery recruited an unlicensed appraiser named Kenneth Cowden to prepare fraudulent appraisals for First Capital. Between 2003 and 2005 Cowden prepared more than $67 million in fraudulent appraisals for Whoolery and First Capital. The appraisals were fraudulent not only because they falsely represented that a licensed appraiser prepared the appraisals, but also because the appraisals overstated the values of the properties serving as collateral for the loans. In addition, Cowden altered the pictures of the properties being appraised to make it look like the properties were in better condition than they really were, and in some cases he substituted pictures of completely different properties than the properties subject to the appraisals.
Also in 2003, Whoolery recruited Jeannette Gray, who was a licensed appraiser from the Philadelphia area, and Whoolery's sister, Kimberly Baldwin, to join the conspiracy. Gray, for $4,000 a month, agreed to allow Baldwin to prepare appraisals for First Capital and to sign Gray's name to the appraisals as if Gray prepared the appraisals. The appraisals, however, were not just fraudulent because they falsely represented that a licensed appraiser prepared the appraisals, but also because the appraisals overstated the values of the properties serving as collateral for the loans. Baldwin, like Cowden, also substituted pictures of properties.
In 2004, Gray stopped authorizing First Capital's use of her license. At that point, Whoolery recruited Jason Sheraw, a licensed appraiser from Irwin, Pa., to join the conspiracy. Similar to Gray, Sheraw, in exchange for $4,000 per month, agreed to allow Baldwin to prepare appraisals under his license as if he were actually preparing the appraisals. Baldwin then began to prepare her fraudulent appraisals for First Capital under Sheraw's name. Between 2003 and 2007, Baldwin prepared hundreds of fraudulent appraisals for First Capital resulting in the funding of tens of millions of dollars of fraudulent loans.
Whoolerly supervised loan officers who submitted loans using the fraudulent appraisals, including Lawrence Kraynak, Daniel O'Connor, Mark Hipsley, John Polosky, Daniel Gillen, Shawn Cupp, Elizabeth Drake, and others. The submissions to the lenders, however, were not just fraudulent because of the appraisals. Rather, the submissions to the lenders also often included representations that overstated the borrowers' financial condition, including their income and assets. Whoolery and the loan officers also often submitted fake documents in support of those false representations, including fake pay stubs and bank statements. Cowden, Kraynak, O'Connor, Hipsley, Polosky, Gillen, Cupp, Drake, Gray, Sheraw, and Baldwin have all been convicted of mortgage fraud related offenses.
In total, the government estimates that the fraudulent submissions related to this scheme led to the funding of more than $100 million in fraudulent loans, making this case the largest mortgage fraud case ever to go to trial in the Western District of Pennsylvania. 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 on the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Mortgage Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Whoolery and the other individuals referred to above. The Mortgage Fraud Task Force is comprised of investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and others involved in the mortgage industry. Federal law enforcement agencies participating in the Mortgage Task Force include the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation; the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the United States Secret Service. Other Mortgage Fraud Task Force members include the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection; the Pennsylvania Department of Banking; the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation; and the United States Trustee's Office.
Deported Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An individual found in Coraopolis, 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 Mauro Zerecero-Soto, 24, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, Mauro Zerecero-Soto, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 5, 2011. Mauro Zerecero-Soto was found in Coraopolis on Jan. 4, 2013.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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.
Delmont Man Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Defrauding Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Delmont, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation with six months home detention and restitution of $62,360.24 on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Gavin Fowkes, 40.
According to information presented to the court, over a period of six years, Fowkes stole $62,360.24 worth of Social Security Disability Income payments to which he knew he was not entitled. The payments had been directly deposited by the Social Security Administration into a bank account held by a relative of Fowkes.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Diamond took into consideration the defendant's lack of a criminal history, his early acceptance of responsibility and the defendant's ability to pay restitution through his full-time employment as a mechanic.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. The Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Fowkes.
Bedford County Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Osterburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment, 10 years supervised release, and required to register as a sex offender on his conviction of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Joseph Yingling, 40.
According to information presented to the court, on Aug. 4, 2009, Yingling knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Yingling.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in Feb. 2006, Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Attorney Pleads Guilty in Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An attorney pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud, filing false income tax returns , and failing to file income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
On Jan. 25, 2013, Lisa Gerideau-Williams, 46, of New Kensington, Pa., pleaded guilty to sixteen counts before Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gerideau-Williams was an attorney who operated a mortgage broker business called Genesis Home Solutions, and two companies specializing in closing real estate transactions called Millennium Settlement Services and Professional Settlement Solutions. Through these companies Gerideau-Williams operated a complex and multi-faceted fraud scheme.
One aspect of the scheme involved the submission of loan applications to lenders. The loan applications were fraudulent because Gerideau-Williams submitted them without the authority of the borrowers and they contained false information related to the borrowers' financial condition. For example, Gerideau-Williams submitted loan applications on behalf of her brother and her elderly aunt that were not authorized by either. In addition, Gerideau-Williams represented to lenders that her elderly aunt owned and operated a lucrative cleaning business when, in fact, her aunt was a retired state worker. Gerideau-Williams also furthered the fraud by submitted fake documents supporting the misrepresentations in the loan applications and by forging the signature of her brother and her aunt.
Gerideau-Williams' fraud also related to her operation of businesses that closed real estate transactions. Gerideau-Williams received money from lenders into her trust account that was required to be disbursed to pay liabilities associated with the collateral. In that way the lender would stand in the first lien position related to the collateral. Gerideau-Williams, rather than paying those liabilities, would simply take the money and use it to support her lavish lifestyle.
Gerideau-Williams also defrauded borrowers. Borrowers paid for title insurance and for other services such as recording deeds and mortgages. Rather than providing these services, however, Gerideau-Williams simply took the fees for those services, but failed to actually provide those services.
Title insurance companies were also victimized by Gerideau-Williams' fraud. At closings, Gerideau-Williams colleted fees from borrowers for title insurance. Gerideau-Williams, however, failed to remit those payments to the title insurance companies. In addition, some of the title insurance companies terminated Gerideau-Williams' authority to issue title insurance under their names. Despite the termination, however, Gerideau-Williams continued to issue title insurance on fraudulent transactions as if she was authorized to do so.
Gerideau-Williams' fraud was particularly egregious related to the property located in Pittsburgh, Pa. Prior to 2005, Gerideau-Williams rented that property and it was her residence. On Sept. 6, 2005, through her fraudulent businesses, she sold the property from the rightful owner of the property to her elderly aunt without the knowledge of either the owner or her aunt. A lender financed the purchase, and Gerideau-Williams simply took all of the proceeds from the transaction for her personal benefit. Gerideau-Williams, however, did not record the deed or the mortgage related to the property and therefore the property still appeared on the public record to be owned by the rightful owner of the property free of any mortgages.
On March 13, 2006, Gerideau-Williams arranged to purchase the property in her own name financed through a fraudulently obtained loan. While she recorded the deed transferring ownership of the property to her own name, she did not record the mortgage and therefore, according to the public record, it appeared that she owned the property free of any liens.
On Aug. 7, 2006, Gerideau-Williams sold the property to her brother, and her brother financed the purchase through a fraudulently obtained loan secured by Gerideau-Williams. Gerideau-Williams received the proceeds from the sale, but she did not record the deed or the mortgage and therefore the public record still showed that she owned the property free of any liens.
On Jan. 19, 2007, Gerideau-Williams sold the property to her brother again, and her brother again financed the purchase through a fraudulently obtained loan secured by Gerideau-Williams. Gerideau-Williams again received the proceeds from the sale, but she again did not record the deed or the mortgage and therefore the public record still showed that she owned the property free of any liens.
Finally, on Feb. 20, 2007, Gerideau-Williams sold the property to her brother again, and her brother again financed the purchase through a fraudulently obtained loan secured by Gerideau- Williams. Gerideau-Williams again received the proceeds from the sale, but she again did not record the deed or the mortgage and therefore the public record still showed that she owned the property free of any liens.
Equally egregious are the various loans Gerideau-Williams secured in the name of her elderly aunt. As mentioned above, Gerideau-Williams arranged for her aunt to purchase 120 Cypress Hills Drive from the rightful owner of the property. That purchase was financed through a loan fraudulently obtained by Gerideau-Williams.
Gerideau-Williams' aunt owned a home in Harrisburg, Pa. On Nov. 2, 2005, Gerideau- Williams arranged for a fraudulent refinance loan collateralized by her aunt's Harrisburg property.
On Jan. 30, 2007, Gerideau-Williams arranged for a second fraudulent refinance transaction collateralized by that same property.
On March 12, 2007 and March 21, 2007, Gerideau-Williams, without the authority of her elderly aunt, secured to other refinance transactions collateralized by that same property. For each transaction, Gerideau-Williams took the proceeds from the loans and used those proceeds to support her lavish lifestyle. In neither of those transactions, however, did she record the mortgages. In connection with those transactions she issued title insurance without the authority of the title insurance companies, forged her aunt's signature on various documents, and failed to pay the liabilities associated with the collateral as required by the lenders.
For the 2004 tax year, Gerideau-Williams, who took taxation classes at Georgetown University School of Law toward an advanced degree in tax law, filed tax returns that drastically understated her income because she failed to include the more than millions dollars earned in the course of her fraud schemes. For the 2005 and 2006 tax years, she did not file her income tax returns.
Judge Lancaster scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 235 years in prison, a fine of $3,700,000, 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 Gerideau-Williams. 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.
Sewickley Heights Man Pleads Guilty in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bankruptcy fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
David F. Baker III, 62, of Sewickley Heights, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, Baker conspired to defraud J.P. Morgan and Washington Mutual Bank in mortgage applications in 2005 and 2007 on a $2.5 million condominium in Sarasota, Fla.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for May 17, 2013. 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of David F. Baker, III.
Restaurateur Sentenced to Probation for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court three years probation on his conviction of committing tax fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Thomas N. Liadis, Sr., age 61.
According to information presented to the court, Liadis was the owner of the Grecian Isles local chain of Greek restaurants in the Pittsburgh area, with locations at the PPG building, USX Tower, and Station Square. In 2010, Liadis was targeted in a proactive IRS investigation into restaurant owners that were not reporting their gross receipts accurately to the IRS. At that time, Liadis had listed his restaurants for sale and in order to sell his restaurants, was disclosing each restaurant's total revenue. As part of the undercover investigation, these figures were compared with the numbers disclosed in Liadis's IRS 1040 tax returns, and discovered to be significantly higher. During the undercover operation, Liadis provided records to an IRS agent posing as a prospective buyer that supported the higher figures that were reported as part of the sale of the business, and not the numbers reported on Liadis' prepared tax returns. Liadis further admitted to the IRS undercover agent that he under-reported income to the IRS. A search warrant was executed at Liadis' businesses and residence and records were seized. The records indicating the actual gross receipts for Liadis' businesses were recovered. Comparison of Liadis' business records with his IRS filings for the tax years 2007, 2008, and 2009 indicate that Liadis under-reported a total of $1,011,369 of receipts resulting in a tax loss of $103,706. Specifically, on or about April 15, 2010, Thomas Liadis filed his United States Individual Income Tax Return Form 1040 for the 2009 tax year, which was verified by him in a written declaration that it was made under the penalties of perjury and filed with the Internal Revenue Service, that declared that the gross receipts of the Island Café at Station Square was $121,791 when in fact records obtained from Liadis indicated that his true gross receipts for Island Café in 2009 were $414,076.51.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Liadis.
Jury Finds Defendant Guilty of Tax Evasion, Failure to File ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for 1½ hours, a federal jury of six men and six women found Thomas D. Tuka guilty of four counts of income tax evasion and three counts of failure to file tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Tuka was tried before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry in Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Tuka failed to file taxes, and evaded income tax on more than $480,000 in taxable disability income he received during the period from 2003 to 2008.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for May 24, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. On each of the four tax evasion counts, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release and a $100 special assessment. The maximum penalty for each of the failure to file counts is one year imprisonment, a fine of $100,000, one year supervised release and a $25 special assessment. 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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant on bond.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tuka.
Steelworkers Rep Sentenced for Stealing from UnionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of St. Paul, Minn., has been sentenced in federal court to eight months imprisonment, to run concurrent to his Minnesota state charge, on his conviction of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Curtis Reed, 56.
According to information presented to the court, Reed, a Staff Representative of the International Union of United Steelworkers, stole approximately $3,700 from the union by charging personal expenses to the union credit and fuel cards over the five-year period from March of 2005 to May of 2010.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon 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 Reed.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Austin J. Correll, 32, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Jan. 24, 2011, Correll knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 12, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Correll on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Correll.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in Feb. 2006, Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.