Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Deported Alien Charged with Violating Immigration LawsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A citizen of the Dominican Republic has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Rudys Osvaldo Torres, age 48, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 15, 2021, Torres, an alien who had previously been deported and removed from the United States, and who had knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully reentered the United States, was found in the United States in Somerset County, Pennsylvania without having applied for and received permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter the United States.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indiana PA Man Pleads to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Indiana, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Ahmed Doumbia, 28, pleaded guilty to a lesser-included offense at Count One and to the offense at Count Two of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 5, 2018, to on or about May 5, 2020, Doumbia did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack,” as well as, conspired to commit money laundering.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 9, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum 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 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.
OCDETF conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. 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 Versailles Man Charged with Federal Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of North Versailles, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The three-count Indictment returned on February 1, 2022, named Jerome Sidney Whitley, age 23, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about July 10, 2021, Whitley possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and possessed an Anderson Manufacturing .223 caliber rifle in furtherance of drug trafficking and as a convicted felon.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life 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 Doug Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the North Versailles Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Murrysville Doctor Sentenced for Illegal Drug Distribution and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Murrysville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court following his convictions for unlawful dispensing and distributing Schedule II controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer sentenced Yee Chung Ho, age 72, a physician, to three years of probation, including 180 days of home detention. Ho also was ordered to pay restitution totaling $6,500 to Medicare, and to forfeit his Drug Enforcement Administration number, Pennsylvania state license to practice medicine, and $89,280.00 to the United States. Ho was further ordered to serve 250 hours of community service.
During the defendant’s plea hearing on November 9, 2021, Ho admitted that, while practicing as a licensed medical doctor at his family medicine practice located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he knowingly dispensed and distributed Schedule II drugs, specifically, Oxycodone, to a patient outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Ho also admitted that, from April 2018 through June 2019, he committed health care fraud by causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare for payments to cover the costs of unlawfully prescribed drugs.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Cessar and Karen Gal-Or and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU). The Western Pennsylvania OFADU, led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, combines the expertise and resources of federal and state law enforcement to address the role played by unethical medical professionals in the opioid epidemic.
The agencies which comprise the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.
Inmate Sentenced to 15 Months for Conspiring to Launder Drug Trafficking ProceedsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Mario Allen was sentenced to 15 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to launder drug-trafficking proceeds between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Allen, age 40, of Petersburg, Virginia, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the federal prison sentence Allen was serving at the time as a result of prior racketeering and drug-trafficking convictions.
Allen was incarcerated at USP-Lee in Virginia when he conspired to launder the proceeds of the distribution of Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances. Such substances have caused severe illness and deaths throughout the United States in recent years.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, 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 Bureau of Police, 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.
Ohio Man Pleads to Selling Drugs in Butler, PARead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former resident of Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotic and firearm laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Marshall Grimes, age 42, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between May 2018 and December 2018, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and Butler County Drug Task Force conducted an investigation into Marshall Grimes, a known drug dealer from Columbus, OH who was operating in Butler, PA. On December 11, 2018, law enforcement received a 911 call regarding the apartment building where Grimes and his co-conspirators distributed narcotics. Thereafter, officers responded and detained Grimes. During a consensual search of the apartments used by Grimes and his associates, law enforcement recovered approximately 280 grams of cocaine, 80 grams of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, $11,989.00, and a loaded firearm.Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2022, at 11:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, 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 to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. The defendant remains detained pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and Butler County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grimes.
Monroeville Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing and Intending to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Boris Goldshtein, 55, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 26, 2020, Postal Inspectors intercepted a parcel mailed to Goldshtein’s residence that was found to contain approximately 439 grams of methamphetamine. The next day, a federal search warrant was executed on Goldshtein’s residence. Inside the residence, investigators recovered approximately 335 grams of methamphetamine, along with firearms and bulk currency.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 26, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Member of Butler-Based Drug Trafficking Crew SentencedRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Dwayne Smallwood was sentenced to 28 months in prison for conspiring to distribute, and distributing, fentanyl and heroin in Butler, Pennsylvania, between 2017 and 2020, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Smallwood, age 43, formerly of Butler and Philadelphia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville ordered that Smallwood serve six years of supervised release following his prison term.
Smallwood was previously convicted in Philadelphia on two occasions of committing crack cocaine trafficking crimes. He thereafter relocated to Butler in Butler County and trafficked fentanyl and heroin as part of a Butler-based drug trafficking crew between 2017 and 2020. He was on probation during part of that time as a result of separate convictions in Butler County for insurance fraud and crack possession.
Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
U.S. Attorney Chung commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force for leading the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Erie Man Gets 10 Years for Possessing FentanylRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 120 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Jamie Darnell Pullium, 40.
According to information presented to the court, on or about February 20, 2020, Pullium possessed fentanyl with the intent to distribute. As part of the plea, Pullium also acknowledged his responsibility for distributing cocaine as charged elsewhere in the Indictment.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Operation S.O.S. (Synthetic Opioid Surge), a Department of Justice enforcement initiative designed to dismantle deadly fentanyl distribution networks through cooperation with local, state and federal law enforcement, as well as local and state prosecutors. The Western District of Pennsylvania is one of 10 districts from across the country to implement the S.O.S. program.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Erie County Drug Taskforce, Erie County Detective Bureau, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pullium.
New Castle Drug Dealer Sentenced to More than Eight Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 105 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Nathaniel McKnight, 28, of New Castle, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating a cocaine and fentanyl trafficking organization that operated throughout the United States, including Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico. Beginning in December of 2019 and continuing through August of 2020, the DEA received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. McKnight was intercepted communicating with his codefendants and coconspirators to orchestrate the movement of cocaine from Columbus, Ohio to the Western District of Pennsylvania for distribution. McKnight was also intercepted communicating about acquiring fentanyl, distributing fentanyl, and cutting fentanyl to increase his profits. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, ecstasy, marijuana, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) in Pittsburgh, PA; the DEA, Columbus, OH; DEA, Harrisburg, PA; Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Pittsburgh, PA; HSI, Orlando, FL; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; United States Postal Service, Columbus, Ohio; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Lawrence County Drug Task Force – Special Investigations Unit; and New Castle Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McKnight.
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.
Local Woman Sentenced for Role in Access Device Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to two months in prison and two years of supervised release on her conviction of access device fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge J. Nicolas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Samiat Akinyemi, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Akinyemi was part of a conspiracy that involved using stolen identity information to induce financial institutions to issue credit and debit cards on victim customers’ accounts. She used one of these fraudulently obtained cards to purchase approximately $9,000 worth of store gift cards and other items from Macy’s and Nordstrom Rack.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Akinyemi.
Irwin Man Indicted in Project Safe Childhood CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Irwin, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal law against the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Thomas Crosby, age 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about October 16, 2020, Crosby knowingly possessed material that contained images of child pornography, was aware of the sexually explicit nature of the material and further knew that the visual depictions were of actual minors engaged in that sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, a term of supervised release of at least five years, or any combination thereof. 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 Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
Glassport Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Glassport, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 87 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Rory Shelton, 59, formerly of Glassport, PA.
According to information presented to the court, in May 2019, a 16 year-old female went missing from her home in Paducah, Kentucky. An investigation traced the girl to Shelton’s one-room apartment in Glassport, PA, where the female was found to be staying with Shelton. Subsequent search warrants for the apartment and Shelton’s cell phones revealed an extensive collection of child sexual abuse material, including prepubescent minors and sadistic and masochistic conduct. Sexually exploitive images of the 16 year-old were also discovered. Shelton was convicted in Allegheny Court of Common Pleas for his conduct related to the 16 year-old girl and is serving a state sentence of 36 to 72 months of imprisonment. Judge Colville ordered the federal sentence to run concurrently with the state sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shelton.
Apollo Man Charged with Meth PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of Apollo, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The one-count Indictment named James D. Higgins, age 42, formerly of Apollo, PA 15613, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on June 17, 2021, Mr. Higgins was found to be in possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a total sentence of not less than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years, or a combination thereof. 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 Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Lying on a Firearms Purchase FormRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Donald Anthony Ware, Jr., age 22, of the City’s Hill District neighborhood, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about November 3, 2021, in connection with the acquisition of a firearm from a licensed dealer, Ware falsely claimed on firearms purchase paperwork that he was purchasing the firearm for himself when he was actually purchasing it for another person.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms 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 Charged with Illegally Possessing Drugs, a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Kenneth Gaines, 31, formerly of Pittsburgh’s East Hills neighborhood, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about December 22, 2021, Gaines possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and tramadol. The Indictment further alleges that Gaines possessed firearms and ammunition. His prior felony convictions make it unlawful for him to possess firearms and ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years, a fine of $3,000,000 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 Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms 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), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison and 5 Years’ Supervised Release for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 63 months in prison followed by five years’ supervised release on his conviction for possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on William Jay Clark, 34.
According to information presented to the court, on February 23, 2017, Clark knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Chung commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Clark.
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 better 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.
Somerset County Man Pleads to Child Sexual Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Somerset County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession and distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Kristian E. Heller, 46, of Windber, PA 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 April 20, 2021, Heller knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, possessed one or more visual depictions, namely, videos and images in individual computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and which depict prepubescent minors and minors who have not attained 12 years of age, engaging in sexually explicit conduct, all of which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, by means of a computer, and all of which had been produced using materials which had been mailed and shipped in interstate and foreign commerce.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Heller.
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 better 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.
North Charles Crips Member Sentenced to 12½ Years for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12½ years (150 months) of imprisonment and six years of supervised release on his conviction of violating the conditions of his supervised release and violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Davee Ward, age 31, formerly of Pittsburgh’s North Side. Ward is a member of a violent gang who call themselves the North Charles Crips.
According to information presented to the court, in 2013, Ward was convicted in the Western District of Pennsylvania of distribution of heroin. In that case, the Court imposed a sentence of 37 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. The conditions of release included, among other conditions, that the defendant not violate any federal, state or local law.
On July 25, 2016, a search of a vehicle Ward occupied revealed distribution quantities of heroin, $4,100 in cash, and multiple cellular telephones. He was arrested by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. As that conduct constituted a violation of the conditions of his supervised release, the Court issued a warrant for arrest, but, before that arrest warrant was received by the Allegheny County Jail, the defendant had already been released on bond and absconded. It was almost two years before the defendant was arrested again.
Regarding his supervised release violation, which was not contested, the Court imposed a sentence of six months’ imprisonment. For the events of July 25, 2016, the Court imposed a sentence of 144 months to run consecutive with the six-month sentence imposed for the supervised release violation for a total of 150 months’ imprisonment. The Court also imposed six years of supervised release to follow the 144-month sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ward.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced for Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months’ incarceration followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Galen Gray, age 35.
According to information presented to the Court, in and around March 2014, Gray possessed images and videos depicting prepubescent minors and minors who had not attained 12 years of age engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The government further informed the Court that Gray’s personal cell phone contained evidence of Skype and Kik conversations showing that Gray had engaged in online chats in order to seek and receive child sexual abuse material (child pornography). The government also presented the Court with evidence that Gray had accessed the Internet and child sexual abuse material in August and November 2020 while he was on pretrial release and prohibited from doing so. In imposing sentence, Judge Fischer recognized that Gray’s criminal conduct was egregious and stated that consumers, like Gray, create a market for producers of such material. Judge Fischer read and listened to Impact Statements provided by the victims of Gray’s crime and recognized the never-ending cycle of abuse that victims of child pornography crimes are subjected to as their images are used over and over again on the Internet.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the North Fayette Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gray.
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.
Erie Woman Admits Taking Her Deceased Father's Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Loraleigh Helen Barber, 51, Erie, Pennsylvania 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 January 1, 2007 through August 2, 2019, Barber received $127,636 in Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits from the United States Social Security Administration, to which she knew she was not entitled. Ms. Barber had served as a representative payee for her father and after he died in December of 2006, yet she never advised the Social Security Administration and kept on receiving and spending the benefits intended for her father.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Barber on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barber.
Alabama Man Admits Trafficking Woman for SexRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Alabama pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to charges of sex trafficking crimes, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Anthony Juskowich, age 23, who was residing in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood at the time of the crime, pleaded guilty on January 28, 2022, to two counts before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.
“The defendant’s plea comes following 19 months of diligent work by our Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now) team and marks the first conviction in western Pennsylvania of an individual for the sex trafficking of an adult,” said U.S. Attorney Chung. “I note that this is also National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about human trafficking and to educate the public about how to identify and prevent this horrific crime.”
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from January 2020 through May 2020, Juskowich knowingly conspired to commit sex trafficking, using force, threats of force, fraud or coercion, on an adult female, A.H., to cause her to engage in commercial sex acts. Additionally, Juskowich pled guilty to knowingly attempting to commit sex trafficking, of the same female, between May 13, 2020, and May 14, 2020.
The Court was further informed that on May 13, 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted an undercover operation, posing as a commercial sex buyer, during which time Juskowich arranged the “date”, or commercial sexual activity, to occur at a hotel in Moon Township with A.H. The next day, May 14, law enforcement entered the hotel room and identified themselves as law enforcement, rescuing A.H. from her trafficker, Juskowich.
Juskowich was arrested on the same day, by the Pittsburgh Police, for an outstanding warrant. He told the FBI and Pittsburgh Police that A.H. engages in sex work for money. Juskowich further described his role as driving A.H. from hotel to hotel and keeps the money A.H. made in a safe at their apartment. Juskowich further touted that A.H. makes $10,000 a month working for him and pointed out that he was wearing a $700 Louis Vuitton belt that he purchased with money A.H. made.
Text messages between A.H. and Juskowich raised numerous red flags to investigators working the case, revealing ongoing sex trafficking. For instance, Juskowich required A.H. to make $500 a day and set weekly quotas, telling A.H. that she could not come home without meeting the quota. Hotel records confirmed that from March 5, 2020, through May 15, 2020, Juskowich rented rooms, in A.H.’s name, on approximately 25 separate occasions, in the Moon Township area.
Investigators determined that Juskowich had been grooming A.H. since December of 2019, when the two met in Alabama. After a few failed attempts at expanding his sex trafficking business in Alabama and Georgia, Juskowich convinced A.H, who had never traveled outside of the south, to travel with him to Pittsburgh, where he claimed to know the commercial sex scene. Juskowich coerced and forced A.H. to engage in commercial sex acts based upon the false promise of working towards a legitimate future income source, purportedly by using A.H.’s earnings to purchase and run a fast-food franchise. Juskowich further acknowledged, at the change of plea hearing, that he used physical force and threats of force against A.H. and controlled everything that she did, compelling her to engage in commercial sex acts.
Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the Court ordered the defendant remained detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics Division, and the Moon Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Juskowich.
This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), the United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania’s coalition to end human trafficking. Operation
T.E.N. serves as an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.Pittsburgh Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 6 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to six years’ (72 months’) imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Monty Grinage, 43, of the Swissvale area.
According to information presented to the court, Grinage sold powder cocaine in the Pittsburgh area between June and November of 2017.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, and the Perryopolis Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grinage.
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 Drug User Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 14 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Deonte Reddick, age 21.
According to information presented to the court, Reddick was sentenced to count one of the Indictment, which charged him with being illegal drug user in possession of a firearm. On May 13, 2021, the Allegheny County Police were conducting a violence suppression effort following shootings in the Clairton area when they approached a vehicle. As they approached, one of the occupants, who was wanted, exited the vehicle and began to run. Ultimately, detectives were able to capture that individual and found a firearm on his person.
When the detectives returned to the vehicle, they observed multiple firearms in plain view, including one in the possession of Reddick. Reddick was, at that time, an illegal drug user and therefore precluded from possessing a firearm under federal law.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Allegheny County Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Reddick. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted in the investigation.Somerset County Man Pleads Guilty to Meth ChargeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former Somerset County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Terrell Robison Ickes, 31, of Listie, Pennsylvania, 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 June 23, 2020, to on or about July 3, 2020, Ickes did possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for May 26, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Somerset County Detectives and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ickes.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Threatening a Former Girlfriend who had a PFA Order Against HimRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An inmate of Allegheny County Jail has pled guilty to a charge of transmitting a threat in interstate commerce, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
William Jackson, age 49, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty in front of Senior District Judge Nora Barry Fischer on January 24, 2022.
According to the information presented to the court, on August 2, 2019, Jackson made a telephone call to a former girlfriend who had a Protection from Abuse Order against him protecting herself and her children and stated on the call that he intended to kill one of her children. Jackson also accepted responsibility for two other threats—made to the victim and her parents—that same night.
Jacksons faces up to five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years. Sentencing is scheduled for May 5, 2022.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bridgeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Former Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Pornography and Making Interstate Threats to ExtortRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and for making threatening interstate communications with the intent to extort, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Markell Smith, age 25, formerly of the city’s Hill District neighborhood, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that law enforcement identified Markell Smith as the Instagram username “7deadlysins19” who threatened a minor female under the age of 12, then residing in New Jersey, to create and send to him, over the internet, sexually explicit images of herself on May 31, 2018. Smith’s threats to the minor included threats to her person, her property, and her reputation. The minor first received a message from Smith as “7deadlysins19” asking her to send to him a picture of her feet and legs. Smith told the minor that if she did not send the pictures that he was going to hack into her account and get her address and that he would kill her mother, father, and her family. The minor told law enforcement that she was scared, so she sent the pictures that Smith demanded. The minor further told police that “7deadlysins” (Smith) directed her how to take the pictures to send to him. After she was told to take a picture of her feet and legs, Smith told the minor to remove her undergarments and to take pictures of her exposed private parts, as well as her stomach and chest, and then face. The minor kept telling Smith that she wanted to go to sleep, but he demanded that she continue taking pictures for him. Smith admitted to law enforcement that he contacted young girls on the internet and asked for sexually exploitive images.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for June 15, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 and not more than 50 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Smith remained detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Police Department, as well as the Red Bank Police Department (New Jersey); the FBI—Spokane (Washington) Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force; the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (Florida), and the Winchester
Police Department (Kentucky), 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.
Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Sig Sauer HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 32 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Amini Nerson, age 21, formerly of the city’s Northview Heights neighborhood.
According to information presented to the court, on or about January 23, 2020, Nerson was stopped by Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for a traffic violation. After providing false identification information to the police, a search of his vehicle was conducted by the police. At that time Nerson was found to be in possession of a Sig Sauer handgun, Model P320, despite having been previously convicted of a felony in the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, PA.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nerson.
DeepDotWeb Administrator Sentenced for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
An Israeli national was sentenced yesterday to 97 months in prison for operating DeepDotWeb (DDW), a website that connected internet users with Darknet marketplaces, where they purchased illegal firearms, malware and hacking tools, stolen financial data, heroin, fentanyl and other illicit materials.
According to court documents, Tal Prihar, 37, an Israeli citizen residing in Brazil, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering in March 2021. Beginning in October 2013, Prihar owned and operated DDW, along with co-defendant Michael Phan, 34, of Israel. In addition to providing general information about the Darknet, DDW provided users with direct links to illegal Darknet marketplaces, which are not accessible through traditional search engines.
For providing these links, Prihar and Phan received kickback payments from the marketplaces in the form of virtual currency, including approximately 8,155 bitcoins (worth approximately $8.4 million at the time of the transactions). To conceal the nature and source of these illegal kickback payments, Prihar transferred the payments from his DDW bitcoin wallet to other bitcoin accounts and to bank accounts he controlled in the names of shell companies. DDW was seized by federal authorities in April 2019, and Prihar has agreed to forfeit $8,414,173. Phan remains abroad and is currently undergoing extradition proceedings in Israel.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Cindy K. Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
The FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys C. Alden Pelker of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Alexander Gottfried of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section prosecuted the case.
The department thanks French authorities as well as its law enforcement colleagues at the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Brazilian Federal Police Cyber Division, Israeli National Police, Dutch National Police, Europol Darkweb Team, Federal Criminal Police Office of Germany, and National Crime Agency in the United Kingdom. Significant assistance was provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.
This case was brought in conjunction with the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) Team. Established within the FBI’s Hi-Tech Organized Crime Unit, J-CODE is a U.S. Government initiative aimed at targeting drug trafficking, especially fentanyl and other opioids, on the Darknet. The J-CODE team brings together agents, analysts, and professional staff with expertise in drugs, gangs, health care fraud and more.
This prosecution is also a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Distributing Child Sex Assault ImagesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years (120 months) in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on George Goodwin, 50, of the city’s North Point Breeze neighborhood.
According to information presented to the court, Goodwin distributed videos of prepubescent children engaged in sexual activity with adults over the social networking service MeWe. After law enforcement agents learned of the distribution, they executed search warrants on Goodwin’s residence and phone, where they found a large and disturbing collection of child pornography, as well as online chats in which Goodwin distributed the videos. The collection included prepubescent children, sadistic and masochistic abuse and in excess of 600 images.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Goodwin.
Penn Hills Woman Pleads Guilty to Participating in Gang’s Drug Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of suburban Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Shania Wilson, age 40 of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of participating in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Wilson is a part of an indictment that charged approximately 20 other individuals who operated a drug trafficking organization using the moniker Hustlas Don’t Sleep. Intercepted communications revealed that Wilson was a regular customer of the Hustlas Don’t Sleep drug trafficking organization who distributed portions of the fentanyl she received from the organization, provided provide feedback on the quality of the products being sold by the organization, and referred drug user customers to the organization.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for June 28, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway 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.
Local Man Sentenced for Role in California to Pittsburgh Drug OperationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to time served and two years of supervised release, with the first eighteen months on home detention on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Garfield Campbell Jr., age 25, formerly of Pittsburgh’s Mount Washington neighborhood.
According to information presented to the court, Campbell Jr. is associated with an investigation that charged more than 20 individuals including his father, Garfield Campbell Sr. Based on intercepted communications, investigators determined that Campbell Sr., was using the United States Postal Service to send drugs from California to the Pittsburgh area for re-distribution. Campbell Jr. assisted the conspiracy by collecting money from the sale of drugs, sending money to pay for the drugs, and storing the drugs prior to their distribution.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway 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.
Former Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty in Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An inmate of SCI Pine Grove, Indiana, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Delrico Shields age 26, formerly of Glenwood Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on January 21, 2022, before U.S. District Judge W. Scott Hardy.
Shields was originally charged along with 23 others following a four-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking, violence, and firearms violations in and around the Hazelwood neighborhood in Pittsburgh. According to information provided to the court, during various points in the time frame listed in the indictment—from in and around August of 2019 and continuing thereafter to in and around August of 2021—Shields conspired to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 26, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least three years. 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 Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Munhall Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and Whitehall Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment of Shields.
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.
Ambridge Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison in Project Safe Childhood Case: Kevin Lude Also Ordered to Pay More than $72,000 to 22 VictimsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 8 years’ imprisonment and 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of Receipt and Attempted Receipt of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Kevin Lude, age 31, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania on January 20, 2022.
According to information presented to the court, from August 21, 2019 through September 30, 2019, Lude knowingly received and attempt to receive visual depictions of minors, namely videos, engaging in sexually explicit conduct via peer-to-peer networks. Because a peer-to-peer network allows a user to download files directly from the computers of other users in the network, Lude was able to accrue an extensive collection of child sexual abuse material while permitting other individuals to do the same.
In imposing Lude’s sentence, Judge Ranjan stated: “[I]t is undisputed and supported by the victim-impact statements that there remains an ongoing harm to the victims as their images are re-distributed.” As part of his sentence, the Court ordered Lude to pay restitution to 22 of his victims, resulting a total order of restitution of $72,788.98.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended Homeland Security Investigations and the New Brighton Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lude.
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.
Pagans Motorcycle Club Member Sentenced to 10 Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on charges of violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Zachary Miller, 28, was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment and four years of supervised release by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In conjunction with the sentencing hearing, the Court was informed that The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a long-term investigation into drug-trafficking activity occurring in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Law enforcement identified several individuals, suspected at the time, of illegally distributing controlled substances, including methamphetamine in Allegheny, Westmoreland, Erie, Fayette, and Washington Counties.
During the investigation, investigators learned of individuals involved/associated with the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club (PMC) responsible for distributing methamphetamine, including defendant Zachary Miller, who was a member of the Jeannette Chapter of the PMC, in Westmoreland County.
Miller used Facebook Messenger, primarily, to communicate with his drug customers/associates to further their illegal drug-trafficking activity. In addition to the evidence obtained via Facebook Messenger – revealing large-scale transactions – investigators conducted controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Miller, and conducted physical and electronic surveillance of members of the conspiracy, including Miller.
On February 15, 2020, Miller and co-defendant Jessica Palmer, who has already been sentenced, were pulled over by Pennsylvania State Troopers in a vehicle with a suspended registration. Troopers obtained consent to search the vehicle and located six ounces of methamphetamine in the trunk of the vehicle. Both Miller and Palmer were arrested. A search incident to arrest revealed that Miller, who had a valid concealed carry permit, had a Ruger LC9S handgun on his person. Investigators determined that Miller and Palmer had been at a co-defendant’s house where Miller was resupplied with methamphetamine.
In all, Miller conspired to and did possess with intent to distribute and distributed at least 500 grams but less than 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, including the approximately six ounces of methamphetamine seized on February 15, 2020.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Allegheny County Sheriff’s
Office, Pennsylvania State Police, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Miller.This sentencing was the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers,
money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.Lawrence County Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Conspiracy and FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served to be followed by a 6-year term of supervised release on his conviction for distributing fentanyl, conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl, and conspiring to commit an offense (mail fraud) against the United States, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Jerell Huddleston, 31.
According to information presented to the court, Huddleston conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, distributed fentanyl, and conspired to commit fraud against the United States.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Huddleston.
Former New Castle Man Sentenced to Prison for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced on two indictments in federal court today on his conviction of violating federal drug trafficking laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Donte Calhoun, age 32. As to the first indictment, the defendant was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment and as to the second indictment, the defendant was also sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, with those sentences to run concurrently. Upon release from imprisonment, the defendant shall be placed on supervised release for a term of six years.
According to information presented to the court, on August 14, 2018, a confidential informant provided $2,250 to purchase cocaine and heroin from a target, who was not Calhoun. During the transaction, as established through surveillance, photographs, and recordings, Calhoun delivered approximately 27 grams of cocaine that the target provided to the confidential informant.
Later in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted an investigation of a drug trafficking organization centered in New Castle. That investigation included court-authorized interception of communications in which Calhoun was intercepted discussing cocaine trafficking with a member of the drug trafficking organization.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway and Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney, Cindy K. Chung, commended the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their work leading to the prosecution of Donte Calhoun.
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.
Former Federal Credit Union President Sentenced to More than Four Years in Prison for Embezzlement and Failing to File TaxesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, which includes 12 months of home detention, on her conviction of embezzlement from a federal credit union and willful failure to file tax returns, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Stacey Shaw, 48, of Salem, Ohio, 44460.
According to information presented to the court, Shaw was the President and CEO of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 712, Federal Credit Union when she opened six unauthorized credit cards in her name. After opening the credit cards, Shaw, without authorization, repeatedly raised the credit limits on the cards over the course of approximately three years. When Shaw’s conduct was ultimately discovered, she had accumulated a total outstanding balance of approximately $2.1 million on the credit cards. The loss to the credit union, which had been in existence since 1964, was so profound that it had to be permanently closed and liquidated.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shaw.
Washington County Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A Washington County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 41 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction of federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Eugene Reddick, 39, formerly Dunlevy, PA 15321.
According to information presented to the court, Reddick conspired with other persons to distribute powder cocaine in Clairton, Pennsylvania, between 2015 and 2017. Reddick acquired the cocaine from Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. and other members of Lightfoot’s drug trafficking organization.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, and the Perryopolis Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Reddick.
This sentencing was the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraud Related to Pandemic Unemployment BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to one count in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy to commit mail fraud related to pandemic unemployment benefits, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Cassandra Rangel age 28, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
According to the plea agreement, Rangel will pay restitution in the amount of $13,205.00 under the Victim-Witness Protection Act.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 2, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Rangel.
New Kensington Man Sentenced to Time-Served for Conspiring to Commit FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit offense against the United States, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Erick Woods, age 23, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of time served (six months’ incarceration) to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release by Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
From in and around June 2020, and continuing thereafter until in and around July 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Woods knowingly and willfully did conspire to commit an offense against the United States, more specifically, mail fraud related to pandemic unemployment benefits.
Woods was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $11,910.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Woods.
Butler City Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Butler City, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Kristin Tate, 39, currently housed in the Butler County Prison, was sentenced by Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand to time served (17 months’ incarceration) at each count, with a supervised release imposed for a term of 36 months at each count.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Butler County District Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Tate.
U.S. Attorney Chung Statement on Martin Luther King, Jr. DayRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – United States Attorney Cindy Chung released the following statement today for Martin Luther King. Jr. Day.
“Each year, America honors the life and vision of a great American: the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King’s lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and service for the greater good inspires us today and every day.
“The examples set by Dr. King and other civil rights leaders instilled in me a desire to serve the community and do my part to protect the civil rights of all citizens. This led me to work as an official corruption prosecutor in New York City, then as an attorney prosecuting criminal violations of civil rights at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., and then doing the same work here in Pittsburgh as an Assistant United States Attorney.
“It is now my great privilege to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. This office is committed to the vigorous, fair, and impartial enforcement of the civil rights of all persons, particularly the most vulnerable members of our society.
“Civil Rights Crimes: We are enhancing collaboration with our local and state law enforcement partners, and with our community groups who work and see victims on a daily basis -- victims who are often hesitant or fearful to report these crimes. Prosecuting these civil rights cases -- hate crimes, criminal excessive force and other official misconduct, and human trafficking -- are among our highest priorities.
“Non-Criminal Measures: Criminal laws are just one tool -- we cannot solely rely on prosecutions to achieve these goals. Thus, we are also increasing our use of non-criminal measures, like training and legal action, to fight unfair treatment, discrimination, and sexual harassment in the areas of employment, housing, education, public accommodation, and in ensuring that every eligible voter can cast a vote. If you are interested in hosting a civil rights training, please contact our office.
“Finally, our office is also prioritizing reentry, turning our attention to the success of people returning to our neighborhoods after confinement. Our re-entrants face many barriers and we are committed to supporting them through efforts such as our specialized re-entry court and Veterans Court.
“Today, we honor Dr. King’s legacy and those who continue to do Dr. King’s work to guarantee equal rights and freedom for all.”
Erie Man to Sentenced 8 Years in Prison for Receiving Child Sex Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 8 years in prison and ordered to pay $6,000 in restitution on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Cody A. Neely, 34.
According to information presented to the court, from May 2019 to October 2019, Neely received computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. A forensic examination of Neely’s digital devices revealed thousands of items of child sexual abuse material.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Neely.
Local Man Sentenced for Obstructing Police During May 30, 2020, Pittsburgh ProtestRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to one day in custody of United States Marshal Service, three years of supervised release, and 365 days of home detention on his conviction of Obstruction of Law Enforcement During Civil Disorder, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Joseph Harrison Craft, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA 15201.
According to information presented to the court, Craft interfered with and obstructed the Pittsburgh Police during the course of the civil disorder that occurred in connection with the protests which took place in downtown Pittsburgh on May 30, 2020. At the conclusion of the protest march, Craft was part of a group of protesters who then attempted to prevent the movement of police vehicles attempting to leave the scene. Craft then approached an unoccupied police vehicle and smashed out the window of the vehicle. Shortly after Craft left this area, other members of the crowd set the police vehicle on fire. Craft then went into the downtown area near Fifth Avenue and Smithfield Street, where he and others moved large decorative planters into the street to block the passage of police vehicles. When the police attempted to disburse the crowd with smoke cannisters, Craft tossed two of those cannisters back in the direction of the officers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun Sweeney prosecuted this case for the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Craft.
Clearfield County Woman Pleads Guilty in Meth Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Amber Gallaher, 30, of Woodland, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to a lesser included offense at Count Two of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from July 2019 to June 2020, Gallaher did conspire to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for May 11, 2022. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gallaher. 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.Hustlas Don’t Sleep Drug Gang Defendant Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – An incarcerated individual pleaded guilty in federal court a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Curtis Saxton-Smith, age 32, no known address, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl at count one of the Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Saxton-Smith was a participant along with approximately 20 other individuals in the Hustlas Don’t Sleep (HDS) Drug Trafficking Organization. The HDS Organization operated out of the Penn Hills, Wilkinsburg and Monroeville areas selling drugs including fentanyl, heroin and cocaine. Saxton-Smith was one of the regular sellers on behalf of the organization. Saxton-Smith was otherwise referred to as “Big J”.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for March 22, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five (5) years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded the defendant back into the custody of the U.S. Marshals.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway 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.
Former Erie Teacher and Coach Pleads Guilty to child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Gregory Samuel Mancini, 32, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on November 2, 2018, Mancini travelled to Georgia from Erie, Pennsylvania for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. Upon arriving in Georgia, Mancini traveled to meet with the minor and was subsequently taken into custody by the Hall County, Georgia Sheriff’s Office. When interviewed Mancini admitted that he had engaged in sexual talk with the minor victim and that he had crossed the line. Mancini also admitted that he was a criminal.
The investigation uncovered that Mancini had groomed the victim for months, discussing his intention to engage in sex acts with the minor. He told the victim to keep quiet about their contact and that he loved the victim who was thirteen years of age at the time. After Mancini told the victim that he was coming to visit him on November 2, 2018, the victim became upset and ultimately the Hall County Sheriff’s Office was contacted. They then assumed the victim’s identity online and Mancini began communicating with an undercover detective whom he thought was the victim. During his communication with the undercover detective, Mancini, thinking he was communicating with the minor victim, stated “i want u, I love u.” Shortly before his arrest, Mancini again thinking he was communicating with the minor victim, texted “I want to hug u … kiss u … love u.”
After Mancini’s arrest, federal authorities in Georgia transferred the case to Erie for further investigation. That inquiry ultimately uncovered that Mancini was using the dark web to obtain child sexual abuse material. The execution of a federal search warrant at Mancini’s residence in Erie County on January 9, 2020, resulted in the seizure of two computers and a thumb drive belonging to Mancini. A forensic examination of those items revealed hundreds of items of child sexual abuse material depicting children as young as two being raped and abused by adults. Also uncovered was a journal Mancini had written wherein he admitted that he was attracted to younger boys.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for May 6, 2022. The law provides for a total sentence of 70 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations and the Hall County, Georgia Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mancini.
Erie Man Pleads to Federal Drug Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Isaac Aaron Cunningham, 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 6, 2021, Cunningham distributed 44.7 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Cunningham also acknowledged his responsibility for attempting to possess with intent to distribute 10.19 grams of metonitazene, a benzimidazole-opioid fentanyl analogue on or about September 14, 2021.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for May 9, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE) task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Erie Bureau of Police, the Oil City Police Department, the Franklin Police Department, and the Titusville Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cunningham.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in Cocaine and Heroin Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Orlando Arroyo-Figueroa, 49, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Arroyo-Figueroa was involved in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of cocaine and heroin in Erie, Pennsylvania from November 2017 through February 2020. On February 10, 2020, investigators seized approximately $250,000.00 in cocaine destined for Erie from Puerto Rico as part of this conspiracy.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for April 28, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Arroyo-Figueroa on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police, Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Arroyo-Figueroa.