Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former New Philadelphia, Ohio Resident Sentenced to 70 Months Imprisonment for Conspiring to Distribute and Distributing 50 Grams of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
A former resident of New Philadelphia, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months of imprisonment and 4 years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiring to distribute and distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
On June 9, 2023, United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Phillip Bonanno, 56, who is currently incarcerated at the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center.
According to information presented to the court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a long-term investigation, which included obtaining authorization for a federal wiretap, into drug-trafficking activity occurring in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Bonanno (aka “Guido”, “Ohio Guido”) was a “fully-patched” member of the PMC, reportedly from 2020 until 2022, and a close associate of co-defendants Bill Rana, who is pending sentencing, and Eric Armes, who was also sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment. Bonanno and his nephew, co-defendant Cody Bonanno, who was already sentenced, lived in Ohio and were identified as methamphetamine sources of supply for among others, Rana, Armes and co-defendant Dominic Quarture, pending sentencing.
Intercepted communications confirmed that Bonanno facilitated drug trafficking activity at a residence located in New Philadelphia, Ohio, where drug customers, including members of the conspiracy, traveled to conduct drug transactions with his nephew. Additionally, Bonanno and his nephew would travel to the Western District of Pennsylvania also for their drug-trafficking activity.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bonanno.
This sentencing was the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Multiple Defendants Indicted on Federal Racketeering, Narcotics and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – Fifty-eight defendants have been charged with violating federal racketeering, narcotics, and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The 30-count Indictment, returned on May 30, 2023, and unsealed today, charged the first 22 listed defendants with conspiring to participate in a criminal enterprise as members and associates of an Erie, Pennsylvania neighborhood street gang known as “4-Nation” under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). The Indictment named the following individuals as having conspired to participate in this criminal organization:
Davante Qualee Jones, 29
Dajean Dupree Williams, 28
Javar Beason, Jr., 26
Darian Allen Beasley, 31
John Ferrell Cooley, Jr., 27
Von Darnell McCallum, Jr., 26
Jaquon Lashawn Manning, 22
Marius Lavon Russell, 31
Jermaine Antwon Phillips, Jr., 27
Rayshawn Markel Woodard, 23
Michael Jarod Manning, 32
Dajour Raekwon Woodard, 24
Chikuyo Asania Bayete, 25
Raheem Tyre Farmer, 28
Kalen Allen Gambill, 36
Damon Deandre Grady, 25
Eric Martin Jells, Jr., 25
Levanta Davon Keim, 25
Tayvon Marquise Lindsey, 27
Dorrell Antwun McLaurin, 24
Tymeir Mekhi Sadique Oglesby, 24
Lamont Devail Warren, Jr., 25According to information presented in the Indictment, these individuals engaged in organized criminal activity as part of their membership and association with the 4-Nation gang which included drug distribution and acts of violence within the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. According to the Indictment, one of the principal activities of the gang involves the sale and distribution of marijuana, prescription hydrocodone, cocaine, cocaine base, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl powder, and fentanyl pills within the gang’s geographic territory. 4-Nation members would obtain drugs from sources of supply primarily in California, Arizona, and Mexico and disseminate these drugs for redistribution by other gang members and associates. 4-Nation gang members possessed firearms and guarded their territory to prevent encroachment by rival gang members or drug dealers through assaults and shootings. The Indictment details more than 150,000 fentanyl pills, over 100 pounds of methamphetamine, and multiple kilograms of fentanyl and fentanyl analogue powder trafficked by the gang into Erie, Pennsylvania.
The RICO conspiracy statute carries a maximum penalty of up to life imprisonment and a fine of not more than $250,000.
The Indictment named all 58 charged individuals at Count Two as part of an overlapping drug distribution conspiracy including:
Antwon Donnell Arrington, 48
Jamonte Capriese Hollingsworth, 34
Stewart Lee Phillips, 46
Tyler Quinn Magee, 30
Chikuyo Isani Bayete, 28
Dajuwon Brown Faulkner, 20
Demari Naquan Euell, 24
Cordell Jamal Gregory, 30
Jadarious Devon Samuel Lofton, 22
Shikeal Marquese Page, 29
Antoun Depree Moore, Jr., 25
Stephen William Carter, 31
Rhashan Dunston, 28
Dazerion Jaquial Hinton, 24
Devon Devontae Blue, 21
Javarie Barnett, 24
Damond Wilson Carr, 31
Saint Martin Ellman, 26
William Todd Stephens, 32
Wessam Ali Abood, 30
Alexis Marie Althof, 28
Samantha Lynn Ermekeil, 26
David Leroy Hall, 47
Travis Blake Longley, 29
Tasha Nicole Pacley, 34
Anthony James Stufflebeam, 36
Kevin John Berdis, 28
Mackenzie Alaska Fike-Bliscik, 24
Joseph Michael Lazar, 59
Bethany Nicole Mallette, 27
Immanuel Rashad Smith, 28
Jaelyn Rachelle Kuczynski, 33
Gary A. Warren, III, 32
Henry Daniel Barker, 34
Jamond Carnell McDonald, 20
Dazjona Marique Goodwine, 31According to the Indictment, these individuals conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, including large quantities of fentanyl, a fentanyl analogue, methamphetamine, cocaine, and cocaine base, from at least August 2023 through the date of the Indictment, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment.
Dajour Woodard is charged at Count Three with attempted possession with intent to distribute four hundred (400) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about August 9, 2021. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Damond Carr is charged at Count Four with possession with intent to distribute forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and at Count Five with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, both occurring on or about October 15, 2021. The statute at Count Four calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years incarceration. The statute at Count Five calls for a maximum sentence of twenty years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning and Michael Manning are charged at Count Six with possession with intent to distribute one hundred (100) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl analogue, five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about February 11, 2022. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Dajean Williams is charged at Count Seven with possession with intent to distribute four hundred (400) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, one hundred (100) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl analogue, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, and at Count Eight with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, both occurring on or about April 20, 2022. The statute at Count Seven calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. The statute at Count Eight calls for a maximum sentence of twenty years of incarceration.
Javar Beason, Jr. is charged at Count Nine with interstate and foreign travel in aid of business enterprise involving narcotics or controlled substances from on or about June 26, 2022 and continuing to on or about June 28, 2022. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Jamonte Hollingsworth is charged at Count Ten with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about September 6, 2022. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Kalen Gambill is charged at Count Eleven with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on or about September 7, 2022. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Javar Beason, Jr. is charged at Count Twelve with conducting a monetary transaction, affecting interstate commerce, in criminally derived property with a value greater than $10,000, which property was derived from specified unlawful activity on or about October 12, 2022. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Tasha Pacley is charged at Count Thirteen with possession of firearms by a convicted felon on or about October 13, 2022. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Javar Beason, Jr, Antwon Arrington, Jadarius Lofton, and Mackenzie Fike-Bliscik are charged at Count Fifteen with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about November 29, 2022. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Antwon Arrington is charged at Count Sixteen with maintaining a drug-involved premise from no later than in and around December 2022 through on or about January 14, 2022. The statute at Count Sixteen calls for a maximum sentence of twenty years of incarceration.
Antwon Arrington is also charged at Count Seventeen with possession with intent to distribute four hundred (400) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture containing a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, and at Count Eighteen with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, both occurring on or about January 14, 2023. The statute at Count Seventeen calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. The statute at Count Eighteen calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Javar Beason, Jr. is charged at Count Nineteen with possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, at Count Twenty with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and at Count Twenty-One with using and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, all occurring on or about January 14, 2023. The statute at Count Nineteen calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. The statute at Count Twenty calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration. The statute at Count Twenty-One calls for a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years of incarceration.
Darian Beasley is charged at Count Twenty-Two with possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base in the form commonly known as crack, and at Count Twenty-Three with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, both occurring on or about January 14, 2023. The statute at Count Twenty-Two calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. The statute at Count Twenty-Three calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning is charged at Count Twenty-Four with possession with intent to distribute four hundred (400) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about January 31, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning and Joseph Lazar are charged at Count Twenty-Five with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on or about February 2, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning, Dajuwan Faulkner, and Samantha Ermekeil are charged at Count Twenty-Six with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on or about February 22, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning, Jaelyn Kuczynski, and Gary Warren are charged at Count Twenty-Seven with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on or about March 2, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
Jaquon Manning and Henry Barker are charged at Count Twenty-Eight with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on or about March 10, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
John Cooley, Jr. and Dazjona Goodwine are charged at Count Twenty-Nine with attempted possession with intent to distribute four hundred (400) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about March 13, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration.
Stewart Phillips is charged at Count Thirty with possession with intent to distribute forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl on or about March 15, 2023. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration.
“We are committed to disrupting the violence and destruction that gangs such as these inflict upon our communities,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Troy S. Rivetti. “The unified efforts of each of the agencies involved in this investigation is to be commended. This work and the continued efforts of the EAGLE Safe Streets Task Force is dedicated to restoring Erie residents’ rights to feel safe in their own neighborhoods.
“This gang brought violence and despair to our neighborhoods and pedaled drugs onto the streets, exploiting the young and vulnerable,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “This investigation was a collaborative effort led by the FBI’s EAGLE Safe Streets Task Force and the community will see the impact immediately. I commend the work done by the investigative team and restate the commitment of the FBI and our partners to aggressively pursue those that bring harm to our communities.”
“Today’s announcement deals a major blow to a drug trafficking gang whose activities have inflicted irreparable harm and pain throughout our communities,” said William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “Results like these are only achieved through partnerships and information sharing. There is no doubt that the Erie and its surrounding areas are safer today due to the outstanding teamwork of the dedicated law enforcement professionals who investigated and prosecuted this case. HSI will continue to prioritize investigations that prevent illicit and highly addictive opioids from being distributed in our neighborhoods.”
“The Pennsylvania State Police is proud of the hard work by our investigators that has resulted in getting dangerous narcotics and drug dealers off our streets. We’re thankful for the cooperation with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, and our communities are much safer for it.”
“Today, the Erie Police and its many local, state and federal partners continue working together on removing violent criminals and drug dealers,” said Daniel P. Spizarny, Sr., Chief of Police, City of Erie Police Department. “We are committed to making Erie a safer community with welcoming and vibrant
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Erie Resident Agency Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE) Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the FBI, United States Customs and Border Patrol, Erie Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Millcreek Police Department, Oil City Police Department, Franklin Police Department, and Erie School District Police Department, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations; Internal Revenue Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives; Pennsylvania State Police Vice and Drug Law Units; Erie County Detectives; and Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation was also conducted in association with the Northwest Pennsylvania Drug Initiative which was formed following Erie County’s designation as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) in 2021. The HIDTA program was created by Congress in 1988 to coordinate and assist Federal, State, and Local law enforcement agencies in addressing regional drug threats with the purpose of reducing drug trafficking and drug production in the United States. The Northwest Pennsylvania Drug Initiative coordinates personnel and resources between multiple agencies including the Pennsylvania State Police, Federal Burau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Erie Police Department, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County Detectives, United States Postal Inspection Service, the EAGLE Task Force, and other participating agencies.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Firearms Licensee Sentenced on Violation of Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 45 days imprisonment followed by one-year of supervised release and a $400,000 fine on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Grant Williams, age 61, of Butler, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, between the dates of March 10, 2021 and March 3, 2022; June 28, 2022 and January 13, 2022; March 6, 2020 and April 26, 2022; July 14, 2021 and October 21, 2021; and June 23, 2020 and January 31, 2022, Williams failed to make entry in a record as a federal firearms dealer.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.
Mercer Man Pleads Guilty to Threats against FBIRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Mercer, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of interstate threats and influencing or retaliating against a federal officer by threat, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Adam Bies, age 47, pleaded guilty to fourteen counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bies made threats to murder, injure, and assault agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the days following the FBI’s search of former President Donald Trump’s home in Florida on August 8, 2022, pursuant to a federal search warrant.
Sentencing in this matter has been scheduled for October 4, 2023. 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant be detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Adam Bies.
Johnstown Woman Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison and 4 Years of Supervised Release for Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Heroin, and FentanylRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Amber Lingafelt, age 40, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about April 2019 to on or about July 2021, Lingafelt did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a quantity of heroin, and a quantity of fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Lingafelt. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Philadelphia Resident Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA— A resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a drug trafficking offense, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Fiordaliza Rodriguez Reyes, age 35, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 11, 2020, Rodriguez Reyes was arrested by troopers of the Pennsylvania State Police after she was stopped on Interstate 76 and a search of her vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 800 grams of heroin in the trunk. Rodriguez Reyes was transporting the heroin from New York City to Pittsburgh for further distribution.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 10, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court permitted Rodriguez Reyes to remain on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rodriguez Reyes.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced on Felony Charge for Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol BreachRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced for a felony charge for his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 Presidential election.
Jorden Robert Mink, 29, of Oakdale, Pennsylvania, was sentenced, on Jun 2, 2023, in the District of Columbia to 51 months in prison for assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon, a felony, theft of government property, and aiding and abetting. In addition to the prison term U.S. District Court Judge Randolph D. Moss ordered 36 months of supervised release and restitution of $2,000.
According to court documents, on January 6, 2021, Mink used a baseball bat to shatter a window in the Capitol Building, entered the building through that broken window, and started removing property including chairs. He handed the property to individuals in the crowd on the exterior of the building. Other individuals can be seen handing out property such as a lamp and drawers through the same window after it was shattered by Mink. Mink was also seen striking an adjacent window repeatedly with a baseball bat, in an apparent attempt to shatter it.
In video surveillance, Mink is seen engaging in assaultive conduct, spitting at officers guarding one of the doors and then throwing several objects at them – including a traffic cone, a large rectangular-shaped object (possibly a step or drawer), and a stick. Mink then appears armed with a long pole, which he uses to violently and repeatedly strike at the officers at the entrance, hitting their shields at least five times. After a few minutes, in an apparent reaction to smoke or pepper spray, the crowd temporarily retreats backward 15 to 25 feet, allowing the officers to exit the lower west terrace area and respond to the protestors.
Mink was arrested on January 19, 2021, in McKees Rocks, PA.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office and the Washington Field Office, which identified Mink as #89 in its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the 28 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
New Kensington Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of New Kensington, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Conspiracy to Commit Fraud and Fraud in Connection with Emergency Benefits, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Nathan Woods, 24, currently incarcerated in Allegheny County Jail pleaded guilty to 2 counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around June 2020, and continuing thereafter until in and around July 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Woods knowingly and willfully did conspire to commit fraud in connection with emergency benefits, more specifically, fraud related to pandemic unemployment benefits.
Following the guilty plea today, Judge Schwab sentenced Woods to time-served. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $11,910 to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor, jointly and severally with conspirator Erick Woods.
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 Woods.
Johnsonburg woman sentenced to 27 months in jail for embezzlementRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months in jail followed by 2 years of supervised release and order to pay restitution in the amount of $765,172.95 on her conviction of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Melissa Bittler, 43, 112 Cushing Avenue, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, over a five-year period Bittler embezzled over $765,000 from the construction company in Johnsonburg where she was employed as the office manager and bookkeeper. Among numerous and consistent personal expenditures with stolen money, Bittler bought and renovated her house and purchased a Honda Pilot with the embezzled company money.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone noted the enormity of the amount stolen by Bittler and the significant negative impact on the small business that was victimized.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnsonburg Borough Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bittler.
Jeannette Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Kenyetta Jones, 27, of Jeannette, PA pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 22, 2019, the defendant knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for October 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court revoked the defendant’s bond and remanded him to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, along with the Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kenyetta Jones.
Former Erie man pleads guilty to sexual exploitation of children chargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Charles Freemont Black, IV, 39, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Black received and possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
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 (CEOS), 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.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Black.
Waynesburg Resident Indicted for Violating Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Waynesburg, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Johnathan Fannon, age 32, Waynesburg, PA, as the sole defendant. Fannon was arrested on these federal charges last Thursday.
According to information presented to the Court, on or about November 4, 2021, Fannon attempted to possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The Indictment also charged Fannon with possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, both Schedule II controlled substances.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and up to a maximum sentence of forty years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least four years. If, however, the defendant has a prior conviction for a serious drug felony or a serious violent felony that is final, then the potential penalties include a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years to a maximum of life, a fine not to exceed $8,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least eight years. 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 Nicole A. Stockey 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.
Former Baden Resident Sentenced to 124 Months’ Imprisonment for Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Baden, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to a total term of 124 months’ imprisonment followed by lifetime supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and for violating the terms of federal supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Andrew Kincaid, age 35, formerly of Baden, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
According to information presented to the court, on March 16, 2021, Kincaid knowingly possessed an electronic device containing child sexual abuse material, in violation of federal law and the conditions of Kincaid’s supervised release related to his 2010 federal conviction, also for possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kincaid.
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.
Monessen Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison for Receipt and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monessen, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment followed by 5 years’ supervised release on his conviction of receipt and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
U.S. District Judge Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Robert Haggerty, age 63.
According to information presented to the court during the change of plea hearing, Robert Haggerty knowingly possessed more than 92 images and 8 videos containing child sex abuse material, some of which depicted sadistic and masochistic conduct and the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers. Haggerty also knowingly received three images containing child sexual abuse material from an individual identified in communications as a 16-year old minor female.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan stated that “there is no question that the conduct in this case was serious” and that the “images at issue were, as described, disturbing.” Judge Ranjan further noted that “there are real victims in these cases,” explaining that “the reality is these crimes, whether it is a receipt or possession, have a real impact on people.” In addition to the terms of incarceration and supervised release, Judge Ranjan ordered Haggerty to pay restitution to one victim in the amount of $3,500.
Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations and other members of the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Haggerty.
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.
Former New York Resident Indicted on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Erie, Pa. - A former resident of Jamestown, New York has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Andre Richards, 23, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, in or around March 2023, Richards possessed with the intent to distribute approximately 9.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Molly W. Anglin is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Warren County Drug Task Force, the Warren County District Attorney’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Erie Resident Indicted on Drug 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 narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Delvon Sanders, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, Sanders sold a quantity of fentanyl that caused the death of J.B. on April 17, 2023. The Indictment also charges Sanders with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on or about April 18, 2023 and possession of fifty grams or more of methamphetamine on that same date.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $7,000,000 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 Molly W. Anglin is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Millcreek Police Department, the Erie County Drug Task Force, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clearfield Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison and 5 Years of Supervised Release for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Andrew Knepp, age 45, of Clearfield, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from July 2019 to June 2020, Knepp did conspire to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Knepp. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Bradford Man Indicted for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
Erie, Pa. - A resident of Bradford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of theft of mail, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Patrick James Ryan, 45, 80 Boylston Street, Apt. 10, Bradford, Pennsylvania 16701, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from in and around October 2022 to in and around January 2023, Ryan stole five $20.00 Walmart gift cards and a $75.00 Old Navy gift card from the mail.
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 Molly W. Anglin 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.
Michigan Man Pleads Guilty in Pandemic Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Michigan pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Milton Barth Reed, age 32, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon on May 26, 2023.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, in September 2020, Reed was located in Pittsburgh, PA, in possession of a notebook containing the personally identifying information of twenty-four individuals. Each of these identities had been used to file a fraudulent application for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. While in Pittsburgh, Reed had attempted to pick up two fraudulently issued PUA debit cards that were supposed to be delivered by commercial carrier to an address near Ben Avon.
Sentencing in this matter has been scheduled for October 3, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of 22 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant be detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and United States Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Milton Barth Reed.
Former Erie Resident Pleads Guilty to Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Dustin Robert Patterson, 30, pleaded guilty to both counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in and around February 2022, Patterson possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm. In addition, the firearm was possessed while Patterson was subject to a Protection From Abuse order.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for September 19, 2023 at 10:30 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal’s Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Patterson.
Former Nurse Indicted on Computer Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of computer fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Kevin N. Ukaegbu, age 30, of Pittsburgh, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on December 5, 2022, Ukaegbu, formerly a graduate nurse at Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), criminally used the hospital credentials of a Highmark resident physician and attempted to modify prescription medications for two patients, putting one of the patients at risk of serious bodily harm. In neither case was the medicine administered to the patients.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Department of Homeland Security, with the assistance of Highmark Health 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.
Bethel Park Man Indicted for Transporting an Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Bethel Park, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of transporting an illegal alien within the United States, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Blake Thomas Babin, 59, of Bethel Park, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the Court, Babin, from on or about October 20, 2022, through on or about December 30, 2022, transported and attempted to transport within the United States an alien who had illegally entered the country, knowing that the alien was illegally in the country and to assist the alien in remaining in the United States illegally.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Pittsburgh 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.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Assaulting Officers During Jan. 6 Capitol BreachRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today in the District of Columbia for assaulting law enforcement officers and other charges for his actions on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Robert Morss, (29), of Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 66 months in prison for assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers with a dangerous weapon, obstruction of an official proceeding, and robbery. Morss was convicted on August 23, 2022, following a stipulated trial before U.S. District Court Judge Trevor N. McFadden, who also ordered 24 months of supervised release and restitution of $2000.
Morss was charged along with 8 other co-defendants. Six of the codefendants, including Morss, have now been sentenced for their roles in the riot, while three codefendants are scheduled for trial later in 2023.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, all of the codefendants illegally entered the Capitol grounds. They joined in the violence that occurred in the tunnel area of the Capitol’s Lower West Terrace. From approximately 2:40 p.m., law enforcement officers maintained a line at the second set of glass doors inside the tunnel leading from the inaugural platform to the entrance to the Capitol. These officers fought a group of rioters – including the defendants - inside the tunnel, protecting the doors, until approximately 3:19 p.m. when they cleared them from the tunnel. Clashes continued throughout the afternoon.
Morss joined the crowd gathering on the West Front of the Capitol grounds at approximately 2 p.m. He was wearing a vest with body armor plates and had a black knife sheath and scissors. Morss moved to the front of the line of rioters squaring off with law enforcement officers. He then attempted to steal a police-issued baton from an officer with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). He also removed a bike rack fence from the immediate control of an MPD sergeant, leaving no barrier between the police officers and rioters. He yelled out to several officers, “Take a look around. We are going to take our Capitol back.”
Morss then joined a line of rioters that pushed officers back and followed them up to the Lower West Terrace. At approximately 3:03 p.m., he participated in a heave-ho motion in which the rioters rocked against the police line. He wrested a riot shield from an MPD detective and passed it back in the tunnel, towards other rioters. He and others then created a wall of shields that they used to continue with the heave-ho efforts. Morss later joined several other rioters in climbing through a broken window. Morss entered an office within the Capitol, took a chair, and passed it out of the broken window to the rioters outside.
Morss was arrested on June 11, 2021.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the Eastern District of Texas, and the Eastern District of Virginia.
The cases were investigated by the FBI’s Washington, Pittsburgh, and Dallas Field Offices. Morss was identified as #147 on the FBI Washington Field Office’s seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the 28 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Jury Finds Former Pittsburgh Man Guilty of Possession of Contraband in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating thirty-five minutes, a federal jury of six men and six women found James Taric Byrd guilty of one count of possession of contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Byrd, age 46, was tried before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Byrd, while an inmate at the Allegheny County Jail, possessed a cellular telephone, which is a prohibited object inside the Allegheny County Jail.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 30, 2023 The law provides for a total sentence of one years in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Allegheny County Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshal Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Byrd.
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison and 4 Years of Supervised Release for Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Heroin, and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Darren Alston, age 31, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from on or about April 2019, to on or about July 2021, Alston did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Alston. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pittsburgh Resident Indicted on Violating Embezzlement and Fraud LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh PA, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating embezzlement and fraud laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The five-count Indictment named Corey Mizell, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, on multiple occasions from in and around June 2020, October 2020, December 2020, January 2021 and February 2021, Mizell embezzled money from veterans as an employee of the United States. On or about June 5, 2020, Mizell also committed mail fraud.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten (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 Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General and Department of Veterans Affairs – 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.
Nanty Glo Man Sentenced to 106 Months in Prison and 5 Years of Supervised Release for Possessing Firearms and NarcoticsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Nanty Glo, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 106 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release on his convictions of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking fine, and possession with intent to distribute LSD, cocaine, MDMA, methamphetamine, morphine, ketamine, cocaine, and PSP Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines, imposed the sentence on Seth Long age 38, of Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about June 3, 2020, Long was found in possession of numerous firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Further, on or about June 3, 2020, Long possessed with intent to distribute quantities of a mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of methylenedioxymethampehtamine (MDMA), heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), methamphetamine, morphine, phencyclidine (PCP), cocaine and ketamine.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Long.
Justice Department Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Pennsylvania Rental Property Owners and OperatorsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a lawsuit against Timothy Britton, the owner and operator of rental properties in the Falls Creek, Pennsylvania, area and Britton Enterprises LLC, doing business as “Tim’s Apartments,” which operates the rental properties, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleges that Timothy Britton has sexually harassed female tenants since at least 2016. According to the complaint, Britton made repeated and unwelcome sexual comments to female tenants, touched female tenants’ bodies without their permission, requested sexual contact, offered reduced or free rent in exchange for sexual contact and took retaliatory actions against female tenants who refused his sexual advances.
“In this day and age, no one should have to endure sexual harassment to keep a roof over their head,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This lawsuit makes clear that the Justice Department stands ready to hold accountable those landlords and housing providers who unlawfully harass and retaliate against tenants. We encourage survivors to speak out when their rights are violated so that we can vindicate their fair housing rights and secure the relief they deserve.”
“The complaint alleges that Mr. Britton has violated federal fair housing laws through acts of sexual harassment and retaliation,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “The harm caused by this type of unlawful behavior is compounded when committed by someone who has control over the place where individuals have the right to feel the most safe – in their homes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting vulnerable members of our community and holding individuals accountable who prey upon them.”
“It is unacceptable and illegal to subject tenants to sexual harassment and retaliation; it must stop. Tenants deserve a safe place to call home,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Demetria L. McCain of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD will continue to work with the Justice Department to hold housing providers accountable and work toward justice for those whose civil rights have been violated.”
The lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate persons harmed by the alleged harassment, civil penalties to vindicate the public interest and a court order barring future discrimination.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination at rental dwellings owned or managed by Timothy Britton or Britton Enterprises, or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, can contact the housing discrimination tip line at 1-833-591-0291, select 1 for English, and select option number 2, then option number 2 to leave a message. Individuals may also e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected] or submit a report online. Reports also may be made by contacting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.
The Justice Department launched its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative in October 2017. The department’s initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ offices across the country. The initiative seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the Department of Justice has filed 32 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $10.8 million for victims of such harassment.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison and 4 Years of Supervised Release for Possessing with Intent to Distribute NarcoticsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 108 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release on his convictions of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, LSD, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, and THC, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines, imposed the sentence on Andrew Colvin age 30, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in connection with the guilty plea, on or about October 7, 2019, Colvin possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of marijuana. Further, on or about October 9, 2019, Colvin possessed with the intent to distribute one gram or more of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and quantities of marijuana, cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), ketamine, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). .
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Cambria County Drug Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Safe Streets Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Colvin.
Duquesne Man Sentenced to 60 Months Imprisonment for Conspiring to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months imprisonment on his conviction of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Delbert Pate, 30, formerly of Duquesne, PA.
According to information presented to the court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock borough of Pittsburgh and identified several members and associates of a neighborhood-based street gang, self-titled “SCO” that were responsible for distributing controlled substances in Western Pennsylvania, which was led by Pate’s half-brother, who has previously been sentenced to over 20 years’ imprisonment, Howard McFadden.
Pate was identified as a member of SCO and involved in McFadden’s drug-trafficking business. Intercepted communications revealed that in addition to acting as a drug runner/courier for McFadden, Pate was one of McFadden’s trusted associates, and received distributor quantities of heroin from McFadden. Pate admitted that he was responsible for distributing over 100 grams of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Adult Probation, Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Shaler Township Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Delbert Pate.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Castle Shannon Man Indicted for Violating Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A resident of Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania was arrested in Florida after being indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Michael Hunsinger, 57, Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant. Though indicted in February 2023, Hunsinger was ultimately arrested in Florida on these federal charges.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 3, 2022, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and a quantity of cocaine, both Schedule II controlled substances. Hunsinger was allegedly obtaining large quantities of these controlled substances from an Ohio source and transporting them back to this district.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten (10) years in prison, and fine of $10,000,000. 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 Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Castle Shannon 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.
Ambridge Man Sentenced to 150 Months Imprisonment for Violating Federal Narcotics and Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 150 months imprisonment followed by 4 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Michael Gamble, age 38, formerly of Ambridge, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Gamble possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
On December 10, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Ambridge, Pennsylvania residence where Gamble had been distributing controlled substances. A search of Gamble’s person revealed that he had approximately six (6) net grams fentanyl and $2,693.00. Between a cushion on a couch, where the defendant was seated, law enforcement received a loaded handgun with an attached extended magazine. The loaded handgun was found in the same basement as several digital scales, three boxes of empty glassine bags, a stamper, an ink pad and approximately 90 net grams of fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gamble.
Five Individuals Indicted for Defrauding Non-Profit Medical OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - Five individuals, residents of Pennsylvania and Ohio, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh in an indictment that variously charges them with Conspiracy to Commit Mail/Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud, Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, and Mail Fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The 17-count Indictment named Drew Pierce, age 55, of West Middlesex, PA, Mark Marriott, age 56, of Sharpsville, PA, John Laeng, age 70, of West Middlesex, PA, John O’Brien, age 60, of Masury, OH, and Christopher O’Brien, age 58, of Masury OH, as the defendants.
According to the Indictment, from 2011 through 2019, the defendants combined to defraud Primary Health Network, a non-profit medical organization, of more than $2,000,000 through a series of schemes. Not every defendant is charged with participating in each of the schemes to defraud.
“Defrauding a non-profit medical organization not only harms that organization, but it also does great indirect harm to the patients these organizations are created to help,” said Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “Through the great investigative work of and partnership with our law enforcement partners, the U. S. Attorney’s Office is able to prosecute these matters to hold perpetrators of such crimes accountable.”
“The FBI takes our responsibility to investigate and pursue those who commit fraud for personal gain very seriously,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “Today’s indictment describes elaborate and egregious schemes to steal money from a non-profit organization. These arrests send the message that the FBI is committed to working with our partners to hold those accountable who think they can get rich through fraudulent means.”
“Engaging in a scheme to defraud a non-profit medical organization is a crime that needs to be punished,” said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. “Today’s indictment shows that IRS-CI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who commit offenses such as these.”
On each of the mail fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit mail/wire fraud counts, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, and a fine of not more than $250,000 or no more than twice the gross gain to any person or loss to any person other than the defendant, whichever is greater. On each of the charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, and a fine of not more than $250,000 or no more than twice the gross gain to any person or loss to any person other than the defendant, or no more than twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the charged transactions, whichever is greatest. 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 Attorneys William B. Guappone and Jeffrey R. Bengel are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – Torlando Hopson pled guilty to conspiring to distribute crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Hopson, age 34 of Sharon, Pennsylvania, pled guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing to occur on August 31, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.
The law provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is to be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department led the investigation resulting in the conviction in this case.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted on Contempt of Court and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal contempt of court laws and assault, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The three-count Indictment named James Taric Byrd, 46, of Pittsburgh, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about July 18, 2022, Byrd is alleged to willfully and knowingly engaged in contempt of court by both engaging in misbehavior in the presence and so near there to the Court in order to obstruct the administration of justice, and by disobeying and resisting the lawful order and command of the Court by striking his own attorney in the court room. He is also charged with assault by striking, beating, or wounding.
The law provides no maximum sentence or fine for the contempt charges. 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.
The United States Marshals conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr W. Moulton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 18 Months of Imprisonment for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was sentenced in federal court to 18 months of imprisonment and three years of federal supervised release on his conviction of theft of mail matter, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Tyrone Mobley, age 55. According to information presented to the court, from approximately December 2020 until approximately September 2021, Mobley stole US mail and other packages shipped via the United States Postal Service from authorized depositories for mail matter located at various addresses in the Oakland and Shadyside areas of Pittsburgh. Losses to Mobley’s victims totaled over $5,000 in value.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Services conducted the investigation which resulted in the conviction in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Perryopolis Man Pleads Guilty to Charges Involving the Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Perryopolis, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges involving the sexual exploitation of minors, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Sean Ryan McKenzie, age 38, pleaded guilty to seven counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 5, 2020, December 13, 2020, and June 8, 2021, McKenzie attempted to and did use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor known to him to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing any visual depiction of such conduct. McKenzie further admitted to sending some of the videos that he had surreptitiously created of this minor, as well as one other video depicting another minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to a Dropbox account. McKenzie also acknowledged that, while in the employ of the Pennsylvania State Police as a Corporal, he knowingly possessed videos and images of prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 31, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of up to $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, McKenzie remains detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations – Pittsburgh and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McKenzie.
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.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Two Western District of Pennsylvania Assistant U. S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Two employees of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania were among those recognized by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco and Director Monty Wilkinson of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA), at the 38th Director’s Awards Ceremony on May 3, 2023, in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Shaun E. Sweeney and AUSA Heidi M. Grogan each received the Superior Performance as an Assistant United States Attorney Award for their successful prosecution of Price Montgomery, who was convicted of murdering a federal witness as she was preparing to leave her residence to travel to the United States Attorney’s Office for an interview. Montgomery was also convicted of firearms offenses and being the leader of a significant heroin trafficking organization. Montgomery received a sentence of life imprisonment.
EOUSA Director Wilkinson said: “The recipients we honor today have shown remarkable resilience and commitment to justice through challenging times, rising to the occasion with unwavering dedication to their mission. They have worked tirelessly to protect the rights of Americans and exemplify the very best in federal service.”
“It is of paramount importance to protect the safety of government witnesses. Through their tireless efforts, AUSAs Sweeney and Grogan brought the perpetrator of this egregious murder to justice. In addition to murdering a federal witness, Montgomery also shot and grievously wounded the witness’s mother during the attack,” said Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “We also want to recognize the tremendous investigative work of our partner law enforcement agencies—the Western Pennsylvania Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Violating Federal Firearms and Narcotic LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Dajunatae Alston, 25, formerly of the East Liberty section of Pittsburgh.
According to information presented to the court, on April 22, 2020, Alston possessed with intent to distribute approximately 50 grams of marijuana while also possessing a firearm in a school zone.
Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Alston.
Former Pittsburgh Resident Indicted in Project Safe Childhood CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of transporting, distributing and possessing child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The four-count Indictment named Justin Hughes, 42, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about November 28, 2022, and November 29, 2022, Hughes did knowingly transport and attempt to transport visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct using the internet. On or about December 25, 2022, Hughes also knowingly distributed visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct to another individual outside of this district, using the internet. Further, in February 2023, Hughes knowingly possessed and accessed with intent to view additional visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five and not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least five years. However, if the defendant has a prior sex offense conviction under applicable state or federal law, such defendant shall be imprisoned not less than fifteen years nor more than forty years. 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 Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. 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 (CEOS), 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Carnegie Resident Sentenced to 11 Years of Imprisonment for Violating Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Carnegie, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 11 years of imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws related to a nine-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in and around the counties of Jefferson, Clearfield, and Allegheny, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Terrence Dougherty, age 30.
According to information presented to the court, Dougherty ordered at least sixty pounds of methamphetamine from George Charlan, a methamphetamine supplier residing on the West Coast, and approximately 4.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine was interdicted while en route to the defendant. A search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence, and investigators seized approximately half of a pound of methamphetamine, 17 kilograms of marijuana, $18,840 in United States currency, and a loaded firearm.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Services, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police, and Pennsylvania State Police. Also assisting were the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, and the Clarion Borough Police Department.
Brownsville Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Material Depicting Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Karl Lutes, age 52, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
According to information presented to the court during the guilty plea hearing, on or about February 11, 2020, agents of Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at Lutes’s residence and found him in possession of videos and still images in computer graphics files depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom had not yet attained the age of 12 years.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2023. 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.
Lutes will remain on bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 130 Months for Committing Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Michael Ginyard was sentenced to 130 months in prison for committing heroin and fentanyl trafficking and firearm crimes, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Ginyard, age 36 of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti ordered Ginyard to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Penn Hills Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Butler Man Sentenced to 8 Years of Incarceration for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Butler City, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to eight years of incarceration and three years of supervised release on his convictions for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Joshua McKenzie, age 38.
According to information presented to the court, in and around March 2020 and continuing until May 2020, McKenzie conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl. In addition, McKenzie, a previously convicted felon, did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Mitchell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Butler County District Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for conducting the investigation that led to the prosecution of McKenzie.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Greensburg Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison and three years' supervised release on his conviction of being a felon in possession of multiple firearms, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Dale Kuhn, age 75, of Greensburg, PA 15601. Kuhn was also ordered to forfeit multiple firearms and ammunition to the United States.
According to information presented to the court, on or about Feb. 19, 2021, Kuhn, previously convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess 32 firearms. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Vasquez-Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kuhn.
Erie Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child Sex Assault MaterialsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail and 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Robert Mark Dyer IV, 32, of Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from November 2020 to April 2022, Dyer possessed and accessed with intent to view visual images and videos in individual computer files depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
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 (CEOS), 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Lower Makefield Police Department located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dyer.
Tax Preparation Company Operator Sentenced to Prison for FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A tax preparer has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment and one year of supervised release on his conviction of tax fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Brian A. VanDusen, age 52, of Youngstown, Ohio.
According to information presented to the court, VanDusen operated a tax preparation company called “Easy Tax Refund” located in the Warner Center, in downtown Pittsburgh. Between 2014 and 2018, VanDusen and tax preparers employed at his company prepared and transmitted hundreds of false federal income tax returns which falsified Schedule C profit and loss income from a business, resulting in illegal tax refunds. Losses to the IRS totaled $994,824.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of VanDusen.
Parker, PA Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Parker, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Thomas Robert Hawk, 41, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from August 2021 to May 2022, Hawk possessed and accessed with intent to view visual images and videos in individual digital files depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. As part of his plea agreement, Hawk agreed that he had violated the conditions of his federal supervised release which he was serving for a prior federal conviction for receiving child sexual abuse material. Hawk also agreed as part of his guilty plea to a sentence of 11 years' imprisonment to be followed by ten years of supervised release.
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 (CEOS), 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.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for Aug. 8, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal
Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Hawk remained detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Probation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hawk.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Rogelin M. Lopez, age 35, of Johnstown, PA pleaded guilty to Count One of the Information before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 30, 2021, Lopez, knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, namely, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 29, 2023. 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 Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lopez.
Clairton Drug User Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Tyrieke Hammonds, age 26, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in May of 2021, the Allegheny County Police were assisting the Clairton Police in an attempt to stop some of the shootings in that area that attributable to gang violence. On May 13, 2021, Allegheny County Police detective were patrolling in Clairton after a shooting earlier that day when they approached the defendant’s vehicle, which was also occupied by three other individuals, including Jamiel Green, who had two outstanding active warrants for his arrest.
As the detectives approached Hammonds’ vehicle to arrest Green, Green got of the vehicle and began to run. A detective tased him and found a gun on his person. At that time Green had two prior felony convictions, including an illegal gun possession conviction. When the detectives went back to Hammonds’ vehicle, the detectives smelled marijuana and observed that each of the three remaining occupants had a loaded firearm. A later search revealed three loaded firearms, more than $10,000 in cash, marijuana, and approximately 13 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl and cocaine.
Hammonds later admitted to possession of a firearm and that he was an unlawful user of marijuana. Federal law prohibits unlawful users of marijuana from possessing firearms.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 23, 2023. The law provides for a maximum 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 and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police, with assistance from the Clairton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hammonds.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.