Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Duquesne Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Escape from Renewal Reentry CenterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment followed by two years’ supervised release on his conviction of escape from custody, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Keenan Williams, age 25.
According to information presented to the court, on Sept. 26, 2022, the defendant escaped from the Renewal, Inc. Residential Reentry Center, where he had been confined pursuant to a judgment and commitment order of the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Williams was arrested by the Monroeville Police Department on Oct. 4, 2022.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.
Norristown Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing with the Intent to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Norristown, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Keith Pope, age 34, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment, before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on or about October 7, 2020, Pope was found to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and heroin, and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 23, 2023. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cambria County Drug Task Force, and FBI Safe Streets Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Pope.
New Castle Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Drugs and a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH– Ricardo Reeves pled guilty to violating federal narcotics trafficking and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Reeves, age 44 of New Castle, Pennsylvania, pled guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing to occur on Aug. 16, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. Reeves will be sentenced for (1) possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin, as well as quantities of cocaine and cocaine base, and for (2) possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, all on Dec. 14, 2020.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions 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.
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison and 3 Years of Supervised Release for Distributing Crack-CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 15 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release on his conviction of distributing crack-cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Damian Jeffers, age 52, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about October 4, 2021, October 20, 2021, and October 28, 2021, Jeffers was found to distribute less than 28 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cambria County Drug Task Force, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Jeffers.
Controller Pleads Guilty to Embezzling $1.67 Million Dollars from Company and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Renfrew, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and making false statements on her tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Constance Stobert, 57, pleaded guilty to eleven counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Stobert worked as a controller for a company called Mechanical Operations Company (MOC) from 1994 until July 2021. Between January 2014 and July 2018, Stobert embezzled at least $1,678,893 in MOC’s assets to fund her gambling habit and to pay for her personal expenses. Among other things, Stobert wrote checks from MOC’s business banking accounts to make personal credit card payments and used MOC’s credit cards to withdraw cash at ATMs in casinos located in Pittsburgh and Las Vegas. Stobert also admitted that, during the tax years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, she willfully and knowingly filed false tax returns, in which she failed to report the money she embezzled from MOC, resulting in a tax loss to the government of $545,990.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Sept. 12, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, for each of the seven wire fraud counts, and a sentence of three years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, for each of the four counts of filing false tax returns. 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 Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stobert.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Narcotics and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Philadelphia, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release on his convictions of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine base, fentanyl, and heroin, as well as conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on James Edwards, age 53, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about July 5, 2018, to on or about May 5, 2020, Edwards did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and a quantity of heroin, as well as, conspired to commit money laundering, in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Further, Edwards distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. prosecuted 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 OCDETF led the prosecution of Edwards. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Indiana Borough Police Department.
North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Possess with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Goldsboro, NC pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Charles Triplin, age 45, of Goldsboro, NC, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment, before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.
In connection with the guilty plea, on or about June 21, 2021, Triplin attempted to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for August 29, 2023. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Triplin.
Judge Sends Convicted Mercer County Drug Dealer to Prison for 15 YearsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Joshua Peters was sentenced to 180 months in prison for committing firearm and drug trafficking crimes in Mercer County, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Peters, age 37, of Greenville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab ordered Peters to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Peters was convicted at the conclusion of a jury trial in December 2022 of committing the following crimes on March 15, 2022: (1) possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, (2) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and (3) possession of a firearm and ammunition after a prior felony conviction.
The trial evidence demonstrated, among other things, that Peters was distributing cocaine and fentanyl from a house in Greenville, Pennsylvania, in 2022. The house was searched by the Mercer County Drug Task Force on March 15, 2022. Thirty-four grams of cocaine, six guns, and over $2,500 in cash were found inside the house on that date.
The investigation established that Peters was responsible for the distribution of over 500 grams of cocaine and over 80 grams of fentanyl as part of a continuing course of conduct in 2021 and 2022. The investigation also revealed that he, at times, distributed cocaine and fentanyl in return for guns and sexual acts.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence 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.
Erie Drug Dealer Gets Federal Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Peter Daniel Gambill, Jr., 25.
According to information presented to the court, Gambill and others engaged in a conspiracy to distribute multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, approximately 1.7 kilograms of blue fentanyl pills (an estimated 15,000 pills), and methamphetamine within the Western District of Pennsylvania from in and around February 2022 and continuing thereafter to in or around May 2022.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers prosecuted 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.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE), Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the FBI, the Erie Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Oil City Police Department, the Titusville Police Department, the Franklin Police Department, and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, in coordination with the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service, the Erie County Detectives, and the Millcreek Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gambill.
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, 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.
Philipsburg Woman Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philipsburg, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release on her 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 Kierston Bell, age 34, of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from July 2019 to June 2020, Bell 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Bell. 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.
Farrell, PA Man Pleads Guilty in Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, – Khiry Whiteside pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Whiteside, age 32, of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pled guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing to occur on Aug. 21, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.
The law provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. 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.
Clairton Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual Activity, Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Distribution and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on April 11, named Jeffrey A. McLaughlin, Jr., 41, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the Court, McLaughlin, on Sept. 9, 2020, distributed a video in a computer graphics and digital file, depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor to another individual located in the Philippines. The Indictment also alleges that McLaughlin coerced and attempted to coerce at least two minors to engage in sexual activity for which a person can be charged with a criminal offense during the periods of Aug. 5, 2021 to 17, 2021, Oct. 30, 2021 to Nov. 22, 2021, and May 6, 2022, to June 1, 2022. The Indictment further alleges that McLaughlin produced and attempted to produce from Oct. 30, 2021 to Nov. 22, 2021, videos and still images depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Lastly, McLaughlin is charged with possessing, on July 28, 2022, videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom had not attained the age of 12 years.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Pittsburgh and Buffalo, New York, 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh-Area Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Selling Stolen Health and Beauty ProductsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, currently a resident of Parkland, Florida, has been sentenced in connection with his plea of guilty to charges of wire fraud and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
According to the information presented to the Court, Thach Duc Le, had pled guilty in November of 2022 to counts of wire fraud and money laundering for his role in selling stolen goods, mostly health and beauty aids and over the counter medications, through his Bellevue business, called Last Call Entertainment, which was supposedly in the business of selling used electronics.
Chief Judge Mark Hornak imposed a sentence of 19 months in federal prison, a fine of $8000 and three years of supervised release in addition to a $200 special assessment. In imposing sentence Judge Hornak noted the seriousness of the offense, what he characterized as a “consequential crime,” a long term fencing operation for goods stolen from local merchants in the Bellevue area. Judge Hornak noted that Le was aware that the persons who brought the goods into his store to sell to him were known to him to be drug addicts and that his activity was instrumental in perpetuating a cycle of criminal activity that damaged the community and made Le a “mountain of money.”
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment and the guilty plea in this case. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township and Shaler Township also assisted in the overall investigation.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to more than 5 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of the Beechview neighborhood of Pittsburgh was sentenced to 67 months and a term of three years of supervised release by United States District Judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Nora Barry Fischer, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Prior to imposing this sentence, Stephen Morgan, age 28, pleaded guilty to a two-count Information related to trafficking narcotics and felony possession of a firearm in December 2022. Morgan’s conviction and sentence stemmed from an incident on or about Jan. 12, 2019, where Morgan possessed with intent to distribute heroin and acetyl fentanyl, Schedule I controlled substances, and cocaine base and fentanyl, Schedule II controlled substances.
When imposing this sentence, Judge Fischer expressed her concern regarding the seriousness of trafficking offenses and the fatalities that controlled substances, including fentanyl, cause in this district.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
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.
Pittsburgh Man Gets 12-Year Prison Sentence for Drug Distribution and Illegal Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years of imprisonment on his convictions Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin and Crack Cocaine, Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and Possession of Contraband in Prison, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Kris Johnson, age 32, of the City’s Knoxville neighborhood.
According to information presented to the court, Johnson used the third-floor bedroom of a relative’s house located on Antrim Street, which is in the Northside neighborhood of Pittsburgh, as a place to store his controlled substances and firearms. On Nov. 9, 2017, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office executed a Family Division arrest warrant at that home unrelated to Johnson. During the protective sweep of the residence and a later search warrant, officers from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office found, in a third-floor bedroom used by Johnson, distribution quantities of heroin and crack cocaine, two guns, numerous boxes of ammunition, two digital scales, rubber bands consistent with the packaging of drugs, two cellular telephones and evidence linking the defendant to the bedroom. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office recovered Johnson’s fingerprints from a digital scale and a box of ammunition found in the bedroom. Johnson is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law because of he has prior felony convictions, which include prior drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession charges.
While awaiting trial for those offenses, Johnson was incarcerated at the Allegheny County Jail. Officials from the Allegheny County Jail received some information that Johnson’s cell contained drugs, and they conducted a search of the cell on Aug. 12, 2018. During the search, Johnson was found in possession of a ripped off glove finger that contained more than 150 small pieces of paper consistent with a “hit” of K-2. Subsequent laboratory analysis by the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the substance was 5-F ADB, which is a synthetic cannabinoid and a Schedule I controlled substance.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.
Arnold, PA Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Possessing FentanylRead the Press Release
Editor's Note: An updated outcome to this matter as a result of post-trial litigation can be viewed here.
PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years of imprisonment on his conviction of Possession with the Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Kevin Watson, age 33, of Arnold, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Watson was pulled over by the Pennsylvania State Police for traffic violations. Watson had been smoking marijuana and had a young child in the back seat of his vehicle. When the Pennsylvania State Police asked him to get out of his vehicle, Watson sped away from the traffic stop and led the Pennsylvania State Police on a high-speed chase that reached speeds of 115 miles per hour on Route 28. Eventually, Watson crashed and fled on foot. The child was not seriously injured. Later, the Pennsylvania State Police obtained a search warrant for the vehicle, which revealed more than $100,000 of fentanyl in the trunk of the vehicle. Watson has an extensive criminal history that includes, among other convictions, three previous drug trafficking convictions, and he was on parole at the time of this offense.
Also, as part of the sentencing proceeding, the government informed Judge Hardy that Watson, one of his brothers, and a third individual were implicated in a scheme to murder a witness who had testified against another brother. On May 14, 2009, Luzay Watson shot and killed Davon Young, and on June 4, 2009, Luzay Watson was arrested for that offense. On July 24, 2009, there was a preliminary hearing involving the homicide charge against Luzay Watson in which Monique Gray testified.
In the aftermath of the preliminary hearing, Luzay Watson engaged in a series of telephone calls from jail with Kevin Watson. The jail recorded those telephone calls. During those calls, Luzay Watson encouraged Kevin Watson to kill Gray. In recorded conversations in July and August of 2009, Luzay Watson angrily and bitterly complained to the Kevin Watson and Luzay Watson’s then girlfriend, Chrissy Stubbs, that nothing was being done about eliminating the witnesses in his case. However, he was repeatedly assured by Kevin Watson and Stubbs that the matter would be taken care of. In one conversation, Stubbs informed Luzay Watson that Charles Cabiness was “posted up” on the Cresswell Street home of Monique Gray's sister, Donneika Gray, to await an opportunity to kill Monique Gray when Monique Gray visited Donneika Gray's home. In the late morning of August 22, 2009, Charles Cabiness shot and killed Monique Gray while she was outside of Donneika Gray's house, in the company of multiple neighbors and young children.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hardy granted a ten-year reduction from the advisory Sentencing Guideline range, which called for a sentence of 30 years to life imprisonment.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway and former Assistant United States Attorney Brian Czarnecki prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Watson.
Beaver County Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Selling Drugs that Led to an Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 96 months of imprisonment on his conviction of Possession with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of a Substance Containing Detectable Amounts of Heroin, Acetyl Fentanyl, and Fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Zachary Martin Cymbalak, age 36, of Freedom, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 6, 2019, law enforcement officer found a deceased individual under circumstances suggesting that the death was caused by an overdose, which was later confirmed by the Beaver County Coroner’s Office. At the location of the death, law enforcement officers found drug paraphernalia and distinctive empty stamp bags. Based on telephone records and other investigative techniques, law enforcement identified Cymbalak as the likely source of supply of the drugs that caused the death.
Later on Jan. 6, 2019, law enforcement arranged for a confidential informant to purchase controlled substances from the defendant. The stamp bags were the same distinctive stamp bags found at the scene of the death. After the purchase, law enforcement stopped the vehicle in which Cymbalak was a passenger and recovered more of the distinctive stamps bags and the money used in the purchase. Laboratory tests confirmed that the stamp bags purchased from Cymbalak and recovered from Cymbalak’s person contained a combination of heroin, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl. As part of the plea agreement Cymbalak took responsibility for causing the death of the decedent.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with the Baden and Harmony Township police departments, the Beaver County Coroner’s Office, and the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office Anti-Drug Task Force, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cymbalak.
Atlanta Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl from McKeesport ResidenceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Georgia resident has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months of imprisonment on his conviction of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Christopher Jordan, age 42, of Atlanta, Georgia.
According to information presented to the court, an investigation by the Allegheny County Police revealed that Jordan was selling fentanyl from an address on Soles Street in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Allegheny County Police detectives executed a search warrant at that residence on March 11, 2021, and the detectives found distribution quantities of fentanyl attributable to Jordan, along with other evidence of drug trafficking.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jordan.
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.
Warren, PA Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Warren, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 4 years in jail and 7 years of 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 Vincent Dexter Swanson, 30, 304 Cold Spring Lane, Warren, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2020 to March 2021, Swanson 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.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Baxter noted the seriousness of the offense and its impact on the most vulnerable segment of society.
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 Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Swanson.
North Braddock Felon Indicted on Drug and Gun Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of North Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Roman Griffey, 28, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment presented to the court, on July 24, 2022, Griffey allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of fentanyl analog, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of cocaine base. Additionally, the defendant allegedly possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Griffey also allegedly possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years in prison, a fine of not more than $8,000,000.00 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 Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to 33 Months for Illegally Possessing a Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release on his conviction for violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Cameo Witherspoon, age 33, formerly of the City’s Larimer neighborhood.
In connection with the earlier guilty plea, the Court was advised that on July 6, 2021, an officer with the Monroeville Police Department initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle due to an expired registration in Monroeville, PA. The driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, failed to immediately stop, and when he did, he quickly exited the vehicle to dispute the stop. While interacting with law enforcement, the driver lied about his identity, misrepresented where the vehicle’s registration was located, locked and unlocked the vehicle three times, and dumped the contents of the glovebox onto a fanny pack within the vehicle. The officer then requested a K-9 unit, and the drug dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. Subsequently, law enforcement had the vehicle towed and applied for a search warrant. During the resulting search, law enforcement recovered a
loaded handgun from the fanny pack in the vehicle.Following the driver’s arrest, law enforcement determined that the driver was the defendant, Cameo Witherspoon, and that Witherspoon had an active warrant for a parole violation. As described in the Indictment, Witherspoon has multiple prior felony convictions in the Court of Common Pleas, County of Allegheny, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For example, on May 31, 2013, Witherspoon pled guilty to robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 90-180 months. Under federal law, convicted felons are prohibited from the possession of firearms and ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Monroeville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Witherspoon.
- Detroit Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Role in Drug Conspiracy
North Braddock Man Indicted on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of North Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Roman Griffey, 28, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment presented to the court, on July 24, 2022, Griffey allegedly possessed with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of fentanyl analog, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of cocaine base. Additionally, the defendant allegedly possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Griffey also allegedly possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years in prison, a fine of not more than $8,000,000.00 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 Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County 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.
Dormont Felon Indicted for Illegally Possessing a Firearm with a Glock SwitchRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Dormont, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The two-count Indictment, returned on March 28 and unsealed today, named Donald Smith, 35, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 5, 2023, Smith is alleged to have unlawfully possessed a machine gun and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. According to the Indictment, Smith is alleged to have possessed a Glock semiautomatic pistol that was equipped with a machinegun conversion device. A machinegun conversion device is a device that converts a semiautomatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm. Under federal law, both the machine conversion device itself as well as the firearm equipped with it are considered machine guns and are illegal.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 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 Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Carnegie Man Sentenced to 6½ Years for $3.8 Million Paycheck Protection Program FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, plus restitution of $3,885,082 on his conviction for bank fraud and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Randy Frasinelli, 66, of Carnegie, PA 15106.
According to information presented to the court, Frasinelli filed six fraudulent applications for loans from the Paycheck Protection Program, falsely asserting that he had businesses with dozens of employees and hundreds of thousands of dollars in monthly payroll. After receiving more than $3.8 million as a result of those loans, Frasinelli spent the money on luxury items including vehicles, a villa in Mexico, an African safari, firearms, works of art, precious metals, watches, and personal investments. Then, prior to sentencing, Frasinelli submitted at least 13 forged character letters, purportedly from prominent individuals in politics, finance, business, technology, and charitable organizations, in an attempt to receive a more lenient sentence.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hardy stated that Frasinelli had committed a very serious crime involving funds that were intended to help small businesses maintain payroll during the pandemic. Judge Hardy also emphasized that Frasinelli’s submission of the forged character letters had eroded the Court’s trust in him at sentencing. Frasinelli was taken into the custody of the United States Marshals at the conclusion of the hearing.
“The scope and magnitude of this defendant’s ongoing fraud and deception is enormous. He lied in an effort to obtain pandemic relief funds while already facing charges of illegally taking federal money meant for businesses on the verge of collapse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “Mr. Frasinelli viewed the Payroll Protection Program as an opportunity to enrich himself at the expense of taxpayers. His continuing deceit—right up to the time of sentencing when he targeted the Court by submitting fraudulent character letters in support of his request for leniency—demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the law. A sentence of six and a half years appropriately holds him accountable and is just punishment for his $3.8 million scheme.”
“Mr. Frasinelli spent millions of dollars he stole from the Paycheck Protection Program to take lavish trips and buy expensive gifts he felt he was entitled to,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “He then tried to undermine the justice system by submitting false character letters attesting to his generosity. The sentence handed down today demonstrates that those who defraud government programs will be held accountable for their actions.”
“Randy Frasinelli’s greed caused him to repeatedly abuse the Payroll Protection Program, and today he is paying the price for doing so,” said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. “While Mr. Frasinelli’s actions were a crime against the government, they also negatively impacted people and businesses who legitimately needed the money but couldn’t get it because the program had been drained. IRS-CI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to bringing fraudsters like Mr. Frasinelli to justice.”
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Frasinelli.
Pittsburgh Felon Indicted on Firearms Charges in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned yesterday, named Tyrenzo Morton, 36, currently incarcerated at the Butler County Prison, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 29 and Sept. 2, 2021, Morton, after a prior felony conviction, possessed firearms and ammunition. Under federal law, a convicted felon is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Additionally, on or about Sept. 2, 2021, Morton possessed a firearm, namely a .223 Remington caliber, AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle having a barrel less than 16 inches in length and bearing no serial number, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Baldwin Borough Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner, Butler County Detectives, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. 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.An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison after Admitting He Destroyed a Police Vehicle and Smashed Bank Windows during Protests in DowntownRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and bank burglary in connection with the downtown Pittsburgh protest on May 30, 2020, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Devin Montgomery, 27, formerly of Birmingham Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15210 pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 30, 2020, a protest march was held in the downtown Pittsburgh area. The march was related primarily to the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis Police. The march in Pittsburgh began at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Liberty Avenue in the downtown area, and eventually finished at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Centre Avenue near the intersection with Washington Place above the PPG Paints Arena. At that time, many of the participants were agitated, and members of the crowd began to vandalize a marked Pittsburgh Police vehicle (Unit 3212) on Centre Avenue. The crowd eventually set that vehicle on fire and it was totally destroyed.
Shortly after the Unit 3212 was set afire, the crowd turned around and began to walk back down Washington Place toward a line of police officers in riot gear. After a brief standoff, the police decided to avoid physical confrontation with the crowd and left the area. However, one of the police vehicles (the unmarked vehicle which is the subject of the charge in the Information) was left unattended, parked at the curb near the Fifth Avenue entrance of the PPG Paints Arena. After the police vacated the area, the crowd immediately descended upon that vehicle and began to vandalize it.
Videos obtained during the investigation show a male wearing a number 84 Antonio Brown Steelers jersey near the open rear passenger door of the unmarked vehicle. The person in the Antonio Brown shirt had the same body build, skin tone and facial hair as Devin Montgomery. He also had the same unique tattoo of a black bomb on his left elbow as Devin Montgomery. At one point during one of the videos, the man’s COVID type mask slips below his nose, displaying a facial profile that appears to be identical to Montgomery’s profile. In a jail call from Montgomery to one of his friends on the outside, after Montgomery was detained in May of 2021, Montgomery discusses his frustration about being detained, and says “it’s just property damage, it’s not like I hurt someone.”
Video footage of the scene showed that, as Montgomery stands near the unmarked vehicle, there was an unknown male wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and facemask standing right next to him. They were each holding and igniting items in their own hands. The unknown male had a small container of lighter fluid in one hand.
The unknown male was first to toss his lit item into the backseat area of the unmarked vehicle, and then Montgomery tossed his own lit item into the backseat area immediately thereafter. The fire quickly spread in the interior of the vehicle, and eventually completely destroyed the vehicle. After the second police vehicle was burned, many people from the crowd headed back into downtown, where numerous businesses were vandalized, burglarized, and looted. The Dollar Bank on Smithfield Street was one of those victim businesses. The government has video depicting Montgomery and another individual using rocks to smash the windows and glass entrance doors to Dollar Bank, and then enter the vestibule area between the two sets of doors.
Following the guilty plea, Judge Hornak sentenced Montgomery to four years' incarceration, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution to cover the cost of the police vehicle that was destroyed.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives as well as the Bureau of Pittsburgh Police for conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Montgomery.
Six Erie Residents Indicted on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – Six residents of Erie, Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The two-count Indictment returned on March 14th and unsealed today, named: Larry Tremel Alexander, 46; Dennis Levar Jones, 45; Pernell Tequin Orr, 33; Nicole Grace Fox, 33; Shalin Nicole Pepperman, 41; and Malissa Mae Perry, 41, all of Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from in and around March 2019, and continuing thereafter to in and around October 2022, Larry Alexander, Dennis Jones, Pernell Orr, Nicole Fox, Shalin Pepperman, and Malissa Perry engaged in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and hydrocodone in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. During that same time, Larry Alexander and Malissa Parry conspired to engaged in interstate money laundering transactions intended to promote the drug conspiracy and conceal the proceeds of the drug conspiracy.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 120 years in prison, a fine of $8,500,000, or both for Alexander; a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $5,500,000, or both for Jones and Orr; a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both for Fox and Pepperman; and a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both for Perry. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Unit, Drug Enforcement Administration, Erie Police Department, and Erie County Detectives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment 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.
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, Erie Police Department, Erie County District Attorney’s office, Erie County Detectives, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, and other participating agencies.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indiana, PA Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Meth in Indiana CountyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
James Emmanuel Emerson, age 51, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Feb. 15, 2022, and on or about March 3, 2022, in Indiana County, Mr. Emerson knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute and distributed 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of no less than five years to no more than 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or bothat each count. 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 Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana County Drug Task Force, and Federal Bureau of Investigation – Laurel Highlands Resident Agency conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Emerson.
Clarion County Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Lucinda, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Kevin Wayne Huet, 35,of Lucinda, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around June 2018, to on or about February 28, 2020, Huet conspired with co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distributed five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine as they participated in a methamphetamine distribution network that trafficked methamphetamine from Akron, Ohio and Erie, Pennsylvania into Crawford, Venango and Warren Counties. Huet also possessed a firearm in furtherance of the drug distribution conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop E, Vice Unit, the Titusville Police Department, the Warren County Drug Task Force, the Warren County Sherriff’s Office and the Crawford County Sherriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Huet.
New Castle Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Jgenus Steele was sentenced to 63 months in prison for committing fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Steele, age 23 of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville ordered Steele to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Steele’s sentence is a result of a Lawrence County Drug Task Force investigation in 2019 and 2020. Steele was on parole at that time as a result of a prior conviction for aggravated assault. The Task Force made a controlled purchase of 12.44 grams of crack directly from Steele in December 2019 in New Castle. The Task Force thereafter served a search warrant at Steele’s apartment in New Castle in February 2020. A mixture containing 2.68 grams of fentanyl and heroin was located inside the apartment along with, among other things, five loaded pistols and $1,255.00 in drug trafficking proceeds.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Stealing FBI Agent’s Unmarked Vehicle near the Schenley Park OvalRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Lashawn Norwood, 57, of the City’s Middle Hill neighborhood, pleaded guilty to theft of government property before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Sept. 28, 2021, an unmarked 2021 Ford Explorer owned by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and containing firearms assigned to a special agent, was stolen as it was parked near the Schenley Park Oval. The vehicle was recovered a short time later in the Hill District section of the City of Pittsburgh, where it was discovered that one of the special agent’s service weapons had been stolen from the vehicle. The recovered Ford Explorer was forensically processed by the FBI. Analysis of processed DNA evidence recovered from the Ford Explorer revealed that Norwood’s DNA was detected on both the driver’s side exterior door handle and the steering wheel. During an interview with the FBI, Norwood denied stealing the vehicle and denied ever being inside of the vehicle.
The stolen FBI service weapon was ultimately recovered by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police on Nov. 12, 2021, after it was discovered in a post office box by a mail carrier in the Allegheny West section of the City of Pittsburgh.
Chief Judge Hornak has not yet scheduled a sentencing date. The law provides for a maximum total sentence 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history,
if any, of the defendant. Norwood remains detained pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Possessing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Philadelphia, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 60 months on his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Zion Elam-Sturgis, 24.
According to information presented to the Court, Elam-Sturgis conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectible amount of cocaine base and possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectible amount of cocaine base, in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorneys Craig W. Haller and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Elam-Sturgis.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty in Check Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McDonough, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of check fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Adarius Scott, 26, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around May 2019 to July 2, 2019, Scott participated in a check fraud conspiracy where he traveled with other codefendants to various cities, including Pittsburgh, and stole mail from businesses. They searched the stolen mail for checks and created replicas of the checks with the “payee” section left blank. Then, the conspirators recruited individuals with valid identification to cash the checks in exchange for a small amount of money.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for July 21, 2023 The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Scott’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Scott.
Edinboro Man Admits receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Edinboro, 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.
James Paredes Andrada, 25, 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 November 2019 to February 2020, Andrada received computer and cell phone images 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 Baster scheduled sentencing for July 25, 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 continued Andrada on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Edinboro Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Andrada.
McKeesport Felon Gets 9 Years in Prison after Pleading Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Friday to a one-count Indictment and was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The defendant, Urian Jones, 47, pled guilty to felony possession of a firearm and ammunition and violating his conditions of federal supervised release. United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV, sentenced Jones to a total of nine years for Jones’ violation of federal law and his supervised release conditions. Judge Stickman also sentenced Jones’ to term of three years of supervised release following his term of incarceration and to pay a special assessment of $100.
Jones’ sentence stems from an incident on Nov. 7, 2019, whereby he was found in possession of firearms and ammunition after having already been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year. At this time, Jones was still serving his term of supervised release for a prior federal case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Ann Stockey and Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennsylvania State Parole, DANET, and the McKeesport Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
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.
Georgia Man Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Defraud Human Capital Management AgenciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Lawrenceville, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Walter Gaillard, age 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gaillard belonged to a conspiracy that targeted human capital management agencies located throughout the United States. In connection with the scheme, a member of the conspiracy registered businesses in Georgia and Minnesota. Afterwards, an online presence for the companies was created to include email addresses and websites. In reality, the companies were shells lacking employees, clients, or physical assets. The organizer of the conspiracy then entered into management agreements in which the management agencies agreed to handle the companies’ payroll and employee withholding in exchange for reimbursement of the advanced payroll and a service fee. Between 2017 and 2019, Gaillard and other members of the conspiracy submitted fake time sheets to the management agencies which wired money into bank accounts controlled by Gaillard and other conspirators. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Gaillard agreed that he was responsible for causing a loss of $150,000-$250,000 to the management agencies. The management agencies terminated the agreements after receiving no response for repeated claims for payment.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 12, 2023, at 11:00 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, or a combination thereof. 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 released Gaillard on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gaillard.
Virginia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison in Project Safe Childhood CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Alexandria, Virginia, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years’ imprisonment followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction for federal crimes related to the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Specifically, Vutipawat was convicted after a plea of guilty on three counts: (1) Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, (2) Transportation With Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity, and (3) Obstruction of Justice – Hindering Communication Through Corrupt Persuasion,
Apipat Vutipawat, also known as “Viktor Vutipawat,” “Viktor Koi,” “Arty Freedom,” and “Victor Kim,” age 29, of Alexandria Virginia, pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
According to information presented to the court, Vutipawat, then 26 years old, was arrested in mid-May 2020 in Washington County, Pennsylvania on charges related to the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old minor. At that time, Vutipawat was released on bond and returned to his home state of Virginia. On May 29, 2020, Vutipawat traveled from Virginia to the Western District of Pennsylvania and assisted the minor in absconding from placement. Vutipawat then took the minor to an apartment in Virginia. Vutipawat’s travel from Virginia to Pennsylvania was tracked by his cellular telephone. Other evidence on Vutipawat’s cell phone, including his internet search history, indicated Vutipawat’s intent to engage in sexual contact with the minor when he traveled to Pennsylvania and then transported the minor back to Virginia. Vutipawat originally met the minor on a website called “Secret Benefits” and presented himself to the minor as a wealthy businessman.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh, Homeland Security Investigations-York, Homeland Security Investigations-DC, Pennsylvania State Police, North Strabane Township Police Department, and the Fairfax County Police (Virginia) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vutipawat.
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.
U.S. Postal Service Employee Charged with Mail TheftRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Rochester, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal Postal laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Adam Gallagher, age 38, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Oct. 19, 2022, Gallagher engaged in theft of mail matter while employed by the United States Postal Service.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, or a combination thereof. 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.
The United States Postal Inspection Services 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.
Residents of Pennsylvania and Ohio Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Residents of Pennsylvania and Ohio were 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 Indictment named Raheem Hurst, 25, of Garfield Heights, OH; Samantha Jones, 40, of Arnold, PA; and Leah Jackson, 37, of New Kensington, PA, as the defendants.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from September 2022, and continuing thereafter to March 2, 2023, Hurst, Jones, and Jackson conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. 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, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Realty Company Owner Pleads Guilty in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank fraud and conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Lee Ann Benninghoff, age 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Benninghoff owned and operated Complete Escrow and Bella Casa Realty. From February 2014 through March 2017, Benninghoff used her position and connections in real estate financing, and conspired with others in the industry, to submit fraudulent gift letters in support of mortgage loan applications The gift letters misrepresented the source of the funds and their purported purpose.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 12, 2023, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, 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 Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Benninghoff.
Postal Service Employee Charged with Stealing MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail theft, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Christina Ankney, age 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on May 19, 2022, Ankney stole from the mail while employed by the United States Postal Service.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, or a combination thereof. 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 William B. Guappone is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Services conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Gift CardRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail theft, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment named India Schatzman, age 47, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on Dec. 30, 2022, Schatzman was a postal employee who stole a gift card from the mail.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, or a combination thereof. 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 William B. Guappone 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.
Uniontown Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Prison and Lifetime Supervision for Making Live Videos of Himself Molesting a ChildRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 210 months’ imprisonment and lifetime supervised release on his conviction of production of visual depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Zachary Bosh, 39, following his July 12, 2022, guilty plea.
According to information presented to the court, on Friday, April 12, 2019, a law enforcement officer acting in an undercover capacity (UC) entered a public chat group titled #parentstoys, using an internet-based, free mobile application. The user “ascott5505,” later identified as Bosh, initiated a private chat with the UC. During the conversation, Bosh sent the UC approximately seven video clips and/or images of a minor victim, one of which depicted the sexual exploitation of the minor victim, and verified with the UC that the video clips and/or images were “live.” The Court was further informed of the full content and context of the communications between Bosh and the UC. Investigators were able to obtain emergency disclosures from the mobile application as well as internet service provider, enabling them to identify – on the same day – the residence where the video of the minor victim’s sexual exploitation had been produced. During a search of the residence, which also occurred that day, law enforcement seized bedsheets that matched the sheets visible in the video.
In imposing the sentence, of 210 month’s imprisonment and lifetime supervision, which is a guideline range sentence, Judge Hornak stated that he would not “reduce [the defendant’s] conduct to a descriptive term” – such as egregious or terrible – because it would not be “sufficient” and risked “minimizing” Bosh’s conduct. The Court explained that its sentence was “sufficient to fulfill the goals of sentencing” and “no greater than needed.” Based upon the evidence before it, the Court also found that the record “strongly suggests” that Bosh engaged in illicit conduct in the “past” and his statements to the UC expressed “desires” to engage in “more physical sexual” conduct in the future. To that end, in imposing lifetime supervision, the Court expressed its intent that this would deter Bosh and others from committing similar crimes.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
“This defendant will spend the next 17.5 years in prison for preying upon, exploiting and abusing a young girl who was under the defendant’s care for his own sexual gratification,” said Acting United States Attorney Rivetti. “This sentence sends a clear message that predatory crimes, such as child exploitation offenses, will continue to be vigorously prosecuted by this office.”
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti further praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in conjunction with the FBI Washington Field Office’s (WFO) Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force that conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bosh.
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 More Than 5 Years in Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 63 months’ imprisonment followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
U.S. District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Desair McCray, age 22.
According to information presented at the change of plea hearing and in the indictment, on or about March 11, 2020, McCray knowingly possessed images and videos containing child sex abuse material. Specifically, the Court was informed that a search warrant was executed at McCray’s residence after a law enforcement officer acting in an undercover capacity received links created by an individual associated with that residence. A forensic examination of McCray’s iPad and cellular telephone recovered during that search showed that he possessed almost 200 video files and 23 images containing child sexual abuse material. McCray also admitted to law enforcement that he sent links containing child sexual abuse material to other individuals online.
Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigations and other members of the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McCray.
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.
Convicted Drug Dealer Sentenced to 27.5 Years for Trafficking More Drugs and Laundering the ProceedsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Noah Landfried was sentenced to 330 months in prison for committing drug trafficking and money laundering crimes while on federal supervised release from a prior prison sentence for drug trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Landfried, age 38 of Moon Township (Allegheny County), was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Landfried was also ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Landfried’s prison sentence is a combination of 300 months for the drug trafficking and money laundering convictions and 30 months for the supervised release violation.
Landfried was convicted at the conclusion of a jury trial in December 2021. He was convicted at Count 1/conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I or II controlled substance, including at least 5 kilograms of cocaine, between 40 and 400 grams of fentanyl, and between 100 and 1,000 grams of heroin; at Count 2/conspiracy to launder drug trafficking proceeds; and at Count 8/possession with intent to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl. The conduct occurred in 2017 and 2018.
Landfried was early released in 2017 from his prior federal prison sentence for international marijuana trafficking. Landfried’s prior sentence was retroactively reduced by nearly 200 months as a result of an across-the-board reduction of the sentencing guidelines for convicted federal drug dealers. Following his release in 2017, he re-established a direct connection to a Mexican source of supply and received tractor-trailer shipments of kilograms of cocaine that were transported across the U.S./Mexico border. Landfried supplemented his cocaine trafficking by distributing thousands of oxycodone pills and large quantities of fentanyl and heroin, in addition to the K2/synthetic cannabinoids he was surreptitiously trafficking into prisons.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
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.
City Felon Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Possessing Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release on charges of violating federal firearms laws, and a consecutive 1 year of imprisonment for committing the offense while on federal pretrial release, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Joshua Lowry, 32, formerly of the City’s Brookline neighborhood.
According to information presented to the Court, on January 15, 2021, members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant on at an apartment in the Brookline section of the City of Pittsburgh. During the search of the residence, investigators recovered drug evidence along with multiple stolen firearms attributable to the target of the investigation, Joshua Lowry. During an interview with investigators, Lowry admitted to possession of at least one of the recovered stolen firearms. Lowry is precluded from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon several prior felony convictions.
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Joshua Lowry.
Texas Man Indicted in Western Pennsylvania on Money Laundering ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Houston, Texas, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 28, 2023, and unsealed today, named Oluseyi Jeremiah Olagoke Adebayo, 48, as the sole defendant. The defendant was arrested today in Houston. The government will be seeking his detention pending trial.
According to the Indictment, from June 2022 through October 2022, Adebayo conspired to launder over $400,000 of fraudulent proceeds of a business email compromise scam that victimized a Pittsburgh-based company. Adebayo utilized aliases to register shell companies and open bank accounts for those shell companies. He then transferred portions of the fraudulent proceeds into those bank accounts to conceal their true nature, location, source, ownership, and control.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $500,000.00 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 Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.McKeesport Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Raymar McKenzie pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Specifically, McKenzie pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack, in addition to possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that between August and September 2020, the Allegheny County Police Department (ACPD) conducted three controlled buy operations from defendant Raymar McKenzie. During each controlled buy, a third party called McKenzie from his known cellular phone number and purchased cocaine base. Following each controlled buy, McKenzie returned to a McKeesport residence in his black pickup truck. As a result, law enforcement applied for and obtained search warrants for the residence, McKenzie, and his vehicle.
On Sept. 18, 2020, law enforcement executed the search warrants. Law enforcement detained McKenzie during the search, and he was found in possession of $1,680.00. From an upstairs bedroom, officers located a cellular phone on a bed. Upon calling the number used to contact McKenzie during the controlled buy operations, the phone rang. A sweatshirt on the floor of that bedroom contained packaged cocaine base and a pair of keys that opened the black pickup truck operated by the defendant during the controlled buy operations. Next to the sweatshirt, officers observed a safe. While opening the safe, McKenzie notified officers that the safe contained fentanyl.
Following a waiver of his rights, McKenzie admitted that everything in the house was his and described the contents of the safe as including crack, fentanyl, and a black Ruger. In addition to the packaged drugs and firearm, the safe held a loaded .40 caliber extended magazine and $3,000.00.
Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 26, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $2,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded McKenzie to the custody of the US Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police Department and the McKeesport Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McKenzie.
Monroeville Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to more than 4 Years Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Monroeville Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months imprisonment and five years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Damon Johnson, age 33.
According to information presented to the court, Johnson conspired to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl between September 2020 and December 2021. Johnson sold some of the fentanyl to another distributer, who then sold it to an individual who suffered a fatal overdose after ingesting the fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.