Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Downtown Pittsburgh Tax Preparer Charged with Preparing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Aiding or Assisting in the Preparation or Filing of False Federal Income Tax Returns, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The 10-count Indictment named Jessica D. Washington, age 34, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, during 2018, Washington worked as a tax preparer at a tax preparation business in Pittsburgh called EasyTax Refund. It is alleged that Washington prepared tax returns that falsified Schedules C income, and claimed earned income tax credit and an unlawful tax refund.
The law provides for a sentence total sentence of not more than three 30 years imprisonment and a fine of $2,500,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation 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.
Brownsville, PA Man Gets Lengthy Sentence for Producing and Possessing Sexually Exploitive Visuals of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 28 years’ incarceration, consecutive to any state court sentence, and lifetime supervised release on his conviction of Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Sean Houston, age 48, of Brownsville, Pennsylvania. As part of his sentence, the Court ordered Houston to pay $13,709.60 in restitution and a $15,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 (JVTA).
According to information presented to the court, on May 20, 2016 and from July 22, 2017 through October 2018, Houston produced and attempted to produce visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of a minor. Additionally, on October 29, 2018, Houston knowingly possessed visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of minors.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Homeland Security Investigations, the Centerville Police Department, the North Strabane Police Department, and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Houston.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Possessing a Stolen Firearm and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing a mixture of fentanyl and a stolen firearm, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The criminal complaint named Darion Ethridge, 21, as the sole defendant. Mr. Ethridge was arrested Thursday evening and made an initial appearance today in federal court in Pittsburgh.
According to the complaint, investigators had information a male matching Mr. Ethridge’s description and car would be bringing 10 bricks of heroin to the area of 2727 Mosside Blvd., in Monroeville, PA. When Mr. Ethridge arrived, he was stopped by police for a traffic violation, refused to exit the vehicle and then drove in reverse striking an officer’s vehicle. Mr. Ethridge then drove to the dead-end section of the parking lot, exited his vehicle, and engaged in a brief physical altercation with a detective. Mr. Ethridge then ran through two parking lots and onto Northern Pike where he stopped traffic and resisted multiple police officers. Mr. Ethridge was caught and taken into custody. In the car that Mr. Ethridge had been driving, investigators found a fully loaded, stolen firearm and 20 bricks, which is 1,000 stamp bags, of a substance that field-tested positive for fentanyl.
For the drug charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1 million or both, For the firearm charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ira M. Karoll is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Monroeville Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General are leading the investigation and have been assisted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh-area Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Distributing Pornographic Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release on his conviction of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Scott Kaercher, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA (Whitehall).
According to information presented to the court, Kaercher was a member of a group called “Anything Goes” on the LIVEME application, and the members shared an interest in child pornography. The FBI had an undercover employee monitoring the application, and the undercover employee engaged in an online chat with Kaercher, who indicated he had a sexual interest in children. On December 10, 2019, Kaercher uploaded a child pornography video to the members of Anything Goes. A subsequent search warrant resulted in the recovery of Kaercher’s mobile phone, which contained thousands of images of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children and sadistic and masochistic conduct. After imposing sentence, Judge Hardy revoked Kaercher’s bond and ordered that he be taken into custody to begin his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kaercher.
Heroin/Fentanyl Supplier to DS44 Drug Gang Gets 10-Year Federal Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years’ imprisonment and 8 years’ supervised release on his conviction of a drug-trafficking charge related to a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed the sentence on Jarrell Dawson, age 32, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dawson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Dawson is one of 40 defendants charged in the Indictment and Superseding Indictment returned in the case and was proven to be a fentanyl and heroin supplier to Christopher Highsmith and other coconspirators.
In connection with his guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. In addition to communications about drug trafficking between Dawson and several of his coconspirators, agents made numerous seizures of fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs from members of the organization, as well as maintained critical physical surveillance of Dawson’s drug-trafficking activities.
Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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.
Lawrence County Residents Indicted on Child Sexual Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Two Lawrence County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of attempted production, production, receipt, and distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a child, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The three-count Indictment named David Bates, 61, of Ellwood City, PA 16117, and Tamara Kreitzer, 33, of New Castle, PA 16101, as defendants.
According to the Indictment, in or between July 2020 and October 2020, Bates and Kreitzer attempted to and did use, persuade, induce entice and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of the minor. After the production of images, Kreitzer distributed the images of the minor to Bates.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 70 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants. The government has requested detention for both defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Mid-Level Distributor for DS44 Drug Gang Sentenced to 10 YearsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years’ imprisonment and eight years’ supervised release on his conviction of drug trafficking charges related to a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV, imposed the sentence on Martel Yates, age 30, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to intercept the wire communications of several of the suspected members of the organization, which continued through June of 2019. In addition to identifying communications about drug trafficking between Yates, a mid-level distributor within the organization, and many of his coconspirators, agents made numerous seizures of fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs from members of the organization, as well as maintained critical physical surveillance of drug-trafficking activities.
Yates pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and other Schedule I and II controlled substances. He had at least one prior serious drug felony conviction.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman stated that Yates was responsible for the distribution of significant quantities of opiates and the harm to the community that stems from such distribution. He offered that a 10-year term of imprisonment was appropriate given Yates’s criminal history and his conduct in this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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.
Erie Convenience Store Owner Pleads Guilty to Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and food stamp fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Abdul Alquraishi, 54, pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Abdul Alquraishi and three co-defendants were engaged in exchanging food stamps for cash on a regular basis at The Lotto World, also known as Samir’s and Lotto World Convenience, a convenience store located at 832 State Street in Erie that Alquraishi owned and operated. Alquraishi and his three co-defendants also allowed customers to pay off store credit with food stamps. Alquraishi was also using customers’ food stamp cards to buy items at various stores in the area.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 22, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Alquraishi on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Alquraishi.
Leader of Pittsburgh Heroin Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty, Faces 10 Years to Life at SentencingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Trevon Kendrick, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin from September of 2018 through October of 2019, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV. In addition, Kendrick accepted responsibility for possessing firearms in conjunction with his heroin trafficking. Kendrick is one of 19 defendants charged in the Indictment returned in this case.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2018, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a heroin trafficking organization lead by Kendrick that operated throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. Beginning in February of 2019 and continuing through September of 2019, the FBI received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Kendrick, as the leader of this multi-member drug trafficking organization, was intercepted orchestrating and directing the movement of heroin from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh for distribution throughout Pittsburgh by various members of the organization. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized heroin, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization, including Kendrick.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Nov. 1, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $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. Kendrick remains in custody pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Kendrick.
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.
Erie, PA Man Indicted for Attempting to Possess MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Marvin Deron Sanders, 43, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about December 11, 2020, Sanders attempted to possess with intent to distribute more than five hundred grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
The law provides for a maximum total of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced on Bank Robbery ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, followed by three (3) years supervised release, on her conviction related to a charge of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Gloria Anderson, 37, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the Court, on June 26, 2020, Anderson robbed the Dollar Bank, located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Anderson entered the bank and handed bank personnel a note that read “Gimme $10,000 or I will shoot.” Anderson took $10,000 from the bank but was arrested by City of Pittsburgh Police shortly after she exited the bank and walked across the street.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police made the initial arrest of Anderson and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the federal investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Anderson.
Pittsburgh Woman Facing at Least a Decade in Prison after Pleading Guilty in Heroin/Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Raelynn Stevenson, age 31, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of fentanyl and heroin before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. Stevenson is one of 40 defendants charged in the Indictment and Superseding Indictment returned in this case.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Intercepted communications revealed that the defendant both collaborated with lead defendant Christopher Highsmith and supplied her own drug customers. On several occasions during the conspiracy, the defendant and Highsmith discussed the weight, packaging, and distribution of narcotics.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for October 22, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000, 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 to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn Bloch Brendan J. McKenna are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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.
25 Indicted for Drug Trafficking in Western PA and BeyondRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Twenty-five individuals have been named in two separate, but related, Indictments for trafficking multiple drugs, including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine and cocaine base, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today. The defendants were arrested today following a year-long investigation into drug trafficking in Mercer and Lawrence Counties and beyond.
“We undertook this investigation with a single goal in mind—to significantly improve public safety,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Kaufman. “People deserve to feel safe in their homes and in their neighborhoods. Removing these drug traffickers from our streets will help to restore quality of life to the law-abiding citizens of Mercer and Lawrence counties.”
“Today’s arrests reflect the continuing effort to rid our communities of dangerous drugs and drug-related violent crime activity,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “We remain dedicated to aggressively investigating those who don’t think twice about committing a crime in the community they live and putting others lives at risk. Our communities need to know this is a joint effort and couldn't be done without the help of state, local and federal partners.”
“These defendants stand accused of trafficking multiple potentially deadly street drugs such as fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine. Their alleged drug-trafficking activities included the distribution of crack cocaine in the vicinity of protected areas such as playgrounds, schools, and public housing facilities” said Jonathan A. Wilson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. “These indictments reflect the collective efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement working together to disrupt drug-traffickers that seek to poison and destroy our communities.”
"While 12 Pennsylvanians are dying from opioid overdoses every day, these defendants peddled dozens of kilos of devastating poisons, including heroin and cocaine, into our communities to make a buck," said Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. "Thanks to this yearlong investigation with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, we have been able to take down more than two dozen violent drug traffickers."
The first indictment names the following individuals as defendants:
- London Pinkins, age 26, of Sharon, Pennsylvania;
- Jimmy Gadson, age 34, of Sharon, Pennsylvania;
- Harold Hooten, age 44, of Hermitage, Pennsylvania;
- Torlando Hopson, age 32, of Farrell, Pennsylvania;
- Alphonse Johnson, age 39, currently incarcerated;
- Amanda Karwowski, age 29, of Grove City, Pennsylvania, currently incarcerated;
- Michael Love, age 43, of Jackson Center, Pennsylvania;
- Katlyn McGirr, age 29, of Hermitage, Pennsylvania;
- Kenneth Miller, age 59, of Farrell, Pennsylvania;
- Nicholas Ostheimer, age 23, of Sharon, Pennsylvania;
- Eugene Phillips, age 29, of Farrell, Pennsylvania, currently incarcerated;
- Quinton Pinkins, age 36, of Farrell, Pennsylvania;
- Joseph Pumphrey, age 62, of Hermitage, Pennsylvania;
- Courtney Purdy, age 30, of Mercer, Pennsylvania;
- Jeronte Robinson, age 26, of Hermitage, Pennsylvania;
- Jammar Shelton, age 42, of Masury, Ohio;
- James West, age 45, of Brackenridge, Pennsylvania;
- Khiry Whiteside, age 30, of Farrell, Pennsylvania;
- Denzel Williams, age 27, of Farrell, Pennsylvania;
- Jermall Johnson, age 24, of Erie, Pennsylvania;
- Jackie Bell, age 29, of Columbus, Ohio; and
- Albert Cummings, age 41, of Cleveland, Ohio.
All of the 22 defendants are charged in Count 1 with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, 28 grams or more of cocaine base, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of methamphetamine from June 2020 to June 2021. Count 2 charges London Pinkins and Phillips with conspiring to launder drug trafficking proceeds from February 2021 to June 2021. Counts 3 (Williams), 17 (Alphonse Johnson), 23 (Karwowski), and 24 (London Pinkins) charge several defendants with possession with intent to distribute and/or distribution of 28 grams or more of cocaine base, a quantity of cocaine, and/or a quantity of methamphetamine.
Counts 4 (Ostheimer), 6-8 (Ostheimer and Gadson), 14 (Cummings), 15 (Gadson), 19-22 (West, Gadson, Shelton, and London Pinkins), and 25-28 (Purdy and Quinton Pinkins) charge several defendants with possession with intent to distribute and/or distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and/or cocaine within 1,000 feet of a playground, school, and public housing. Counts 5 (Ostheimer), 9-13 (London Pinkins, Gadson, Bell, McGirr), 16 (Gadson), and 18 (Williams) charge several defendants with possession with intent to distribute and/or distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, cocaine, and/or methamphetamine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for each of the crimes charged in Counts 1, 3, 17, 23, and 24. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Count 2 of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000 (or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater).
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each of Counts 4, 6-8, 14, 15, 19-22, and 25- 28 of at least one year and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. The maximum sentence for Counts 5, 9-13, 16, and 18 is up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories of the defendants.
The second indictment names the following individuals as defendants:
- Forrest Gilmore, age 25, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;
- Melvin Dorsey-Pace, age 28, of New Castle, Pennsylvania; and
- Rayjzon Sams, 28, age of Farrell, Pennsylvania.
The seven-count Indictment charges the defendants in Count 1 with conspiring to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine from June 2020 to June 2021. Counts 2 (Gilmore), 4 (Dorsey-Pace), 5 (Sams), and 7 (Sams) charge possession with intent to distribute and distribution of a quantity of cocaine base within 1,000 feet of a playground, school, and public housing. Count 3 charges Gilmore with possessing with intent to distribute and distribution of 28 grams or more of cocaine base on September 17, 2020. Count 6 charges Sams with possessing with intent to distribute and distribution of a quantity of cocaine on April 18, 2021.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for each of the crimes charged in Counts 1 and 3 of the Indictment. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each of Counts 2, 4, 5, and 7 of at least one year and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the crime charged in Count 6 of the Indictment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations led the investigation. The Pennsylvania State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department also assisted in the investigation resulting in the return of the Indictments in this case.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Felon Indicted on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal firearms and drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Javon Omar Franklin, 39, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about January 27, 2021, Franklin possessed firearms while being a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possession a firearm or ammunition. In addition, Franklin possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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 Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
Erie Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Firearm, Meth and FentanylRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal firearms and drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Thomas Keith Jones, 35, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about January 27, 2021, Jones possessed firearms while being a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possession a firearm or ammunition. In addition, Jones possessed with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total of 70 years in prison, a fine of $6,250,000, 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 Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Violation of Federal Firearm LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a to a violation of federal firearms laws brought in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Jaimone Robinson, 21, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV. Mr. Robinson is one of 40 defendants charged in the Indictment and Superseding Indictment returned in the case.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on January 12, 2019, Robinson was arrested by City of Pittsburgh police officers following the seizure of approximately 3 grams of a fentanyl and heroin mixture and a Ruger pistol with an obliterated serial number from the vehicle he had been driving. Text messages retrieved from his seized cell phone established that Robinson had obtained the fentanyl/heroin mixture shortly before his arrest from his co-defendant, Christopher Highsmith, and that he intended to sell the drugs to other individuals.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for October 21, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five (5) years and not more than life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United State Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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 PWSA Supervisor Charged with Violating the Clean Water ActRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former supervisor for the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority has been charged in federal court with conspiring to violate the Clean Water Act, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count criminal Information, filed on Friday, June 11, 2021, named James Paprocki, age 51, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Information, Paprocki was a supervisor at the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority’s (PWSA) drinking water plant located in Aspinwall, Pennsylvania. At various points between 2010 and 2017, Paprocki and another supervisor at the plant directed PWSA employees to discharge clarifier sludge into the Allegheny in violation of PWSA’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination (NPDES) permit. Clarifier sludge is generated when raw water is converted into potable drinking water. Under the terms of the NPDES permit, the sludge had to be sent to ALCOSAN’s treatment facility. In 2015, PWSA obtained an Industrial User permit. Under the terms of the Industrial User permit, PWSA was authorized to send up to one million gallons of clarifier sludge per day to ALCOSAN’s waste treatment facility. PWSA was also required to report the daily volume of sludge and install flow meters at various locations in the Aspinwall Plant to monitor the amount of sludge. These amounts had to be included in reports that PWSA was required to file with ALCOSAN. A number of the flow meters became inoperable and Paprocki and others employed at the plant began to estimate the amount sludge sent to ALCOSAN.
“Directing the discharge of pollutants into western Pennsylvania’s rivers is unacceptable and violates federal environmental law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “Our office will continue to work with EPA and other state and local environmental regulators to hold offenders accountable and protect the environment.”
“The filing of these new charges in this investigation shows that EPA will hold responsible those who violate environmental regulations designed to ensure that our communities have safe drinking water,” said Jennifer Lynn, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Enforcement Program in Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory and Martin Harrell, Associate Regional Counsel for Criminal Enforcement, EPA Region 3, are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Environmental Protection Agency conducted the investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case.
A criminal Information is an accusation.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The filing of an Information generally indicates that the defendant intends to enter a guilty plea.
Butler County Couple Sentenced to Prison on Fraud and Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A married couple from Butler County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on fraud and tax charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R, Kaufman announced today.
Stephanie J. Roskovski, 51, of Butler, PA, pleaded guilty in May 2020 to one count of mail fraud and one count of filing a false income tax return and was sentenced to 51 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Scott A. Roskovski, 52, also of Butler, PA, pleaded guilty previously to one count of filing a false income tax return and one count of submitting a false loan application to a bank. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Both defendants were sentenced by United States District Court Judge William S. Stickman IV. The court will issue an order of restitution within 90 days.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman said, “Stephanie Roskovski took advantage of her trusted position as the second in command at Butler Health System (d/b/a Butler Memorial Hospital) to steal over $1.3 million from the Hospital, a non-profit organization. She and her husband then used the embezzled money to fund an extravagant lifestyle. They also committed fraud upon a financial institution and filed false tax returns. Today is the day that justice came to the Roskovskis for their criminal actions.”
“The Postal Inspection Service will continue to ensure that criminals are held accountable for their greed. These sentences are an example of the commitment of law enforcement working together to bring Scott and Stephanie Roskovski to justice for committing mail fraud and other crimes.” stated Inspector-in-Charge Lesley Allison.
“These cases were all about greed,” said Joleen Simpson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. “That greed caused the Roskovskis to commit tax fraud and other crimes, which ultimately resulted in the penalties they received today. These sentencings should be a deterrent to other would-be criminals, knowing that Special Agents from IRS-CI and our law enforcement partners are fully committed to bringing offenders like this to justice.”
“The Roskovskis knew what they were doing was wrong,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “They embezzled money to line their own pockets and live a lavish lifestyle. They are now convicted felons and will serve time for their crimes. Hopefully today's sentencing will bring some closure to the community and send the message that the FBI takes our responsibility to stop those who set out to commit fraud and use it for their own personal gain very seriously. It simply won’t be tolerated.”
According to information provided to the court, from April 2011 through December 2017, Stephanie Roskovski, while serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Butler Health System (BHS), embezzled in excess of $1.3 million from her employer. She used her corporate credit card to make personal purchases that she disguised as business expenses, submitted falsified reimbursement requests claiming purchases she made on a personal credit card were for business, and obtained hundreds of merchant gift cards worth more than $350,000, falsely claiming they were for distribution to “focus groups” or physicians, and which she and her husband used for purely personal purposes. During that time, Stephanie’s husband, Scott Roskovski, was employed as a detective with the Butler County District Attorney’s Office. Ironically, he investigated financial crimes including theft and fraud. The defendants spent most of the stolen funds on lavish vacations, renovations to their home, and the purchase and operation of a motocross track, “Switchback MX LLC”, located
in Butler County. The defendants failed to report the fraud proceeds as income on their annual income tax returns jointly filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Additionally, after the couple lost their respective jobs, the defendants submitted a materially false loan application to S&T Bank to refinance the Switchback business and to purchase a bulldozer. S&T Bank extended two loans, the first for $1,128,227, and the second for $55,384, based upon the false information.The court was advised that the total loss resulting from the mail fraud scheme perpetrated against BHS is approximately $1,331,884, and the total tax loss to the IRS is approximately $397,342.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Scott and Stephanie Roskovski.
New Castle Man Charged with Possessing Cocaine in Early 2020Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Donte Calhoun, age 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on January 21, 2020, and February 11, 2020, Calhoun possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Four Local Men Indicted on Drug and Gun Law Violations following Allegheny County Police InvestigationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Two residents of Clairton and two residents of Pittsburgh have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotic and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The five-count Indictment named Jamiel Green, a/k/a Jamiel Clifford, age 24, formerly of Mitchell Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, Deonte Reddick age 20, formerly of Large Avenue, Clairton PA, Hazeon Kidd, age 20, of Hays Street, Pittsburgh PA and Tyrieke Hammonds age 24, of Large Avenue, Clairton PA, as the defendants.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 13, 2021, Green was in possession of a firearm. It is in violation of federal law for a felon to possess a firearm. As to Count Two, Hammonds was charged with illegal drug user in possession of a firearm. Counts Three and Four charged Kidd with possession with intent to distribute a substance containing fentanyl and cocaine as well as illegal drug user in possession of a firearm. Reddick was charged with being an illegal drug user in possession of a firearm in Count Five.
As to Counts One, Two, Four and Five, the law provides for a maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both. As to Count Three, the law provides for a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
ACJ Correctional Officer Indicted for Possessing an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Lewis Bagnato, 32, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 20, 2021, Bagnato was found to be in possession of an unregistered firearm. The weapon was discovered by the Allegheny County Police Department while executing a search warrant on Bagnato, a correctional officer, for alleged distribution of controlled substances.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years in prison, and a fine not to exceed $250,000. 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the Allegheny County Police Department, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Oil City Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation Charge; Judge Detains Him Pending SentencingRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Oil City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Brent Lockwood, 63, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Lockwood received computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The Court was also advised that Lockwood repeatedly expressed, during Facebook chats, his desire to travel to the Philippines for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual activity with minor females.
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.
Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for October 13, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the Court ordered that Lockwood be detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lockwood.
McKees Rocks Woman Sentenced for Role in Crack Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A local woman has been sentenced in federal court to time served and five years’ supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Mardeja Chapple, 26, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Mardeja Chapple conspired to distribute over 280 grams of crack cocaine.
Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Chapple.
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.
Erie Man Indicted on Fentanyl ChargeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Dondiago Dan Collins, 24, Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about April 6, 2021, Collins attempted to possess with intent to distribute more than forty grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total 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 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the City of Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Pagans Motorcycle Club Vice-President Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – The vice-president of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, Pittsburgh Chapter pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Patrick Rizzo, 46, formerly of McKees Rocks, PA 15136, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation into drug-trafficking and illegal firearms activity occurring in the Western District of Pennsylvania, involving, among others, members and associates of the Pagans Motorcycle Club (MC), Pittsburgh Chapter. One of the targets of the investigation was Pagans MC Vice President, Patrick Rizzo.
Beginning in August of 2020 and continuing through November 2020, the FBI conducted a federal Title III investigation, which resulted in the interception of thousands of wire and electronic communications over a total of ten telephones, one of which was Rizzo’s.
In connection with his guilty plea, Rizzo admitted that on October 17 and 18, 2020, over intercepted communications, Rizzo and other members of the conspiracy discussed Rizzo possessing a “Judge” – that is, a Taurus Judge revolver. Then, on October 21, 2020, Rizzo acknowledged that he was the subject of a lawful traffic stop by City of Pittsburgh Police (PBP) after he nearly caused an accident in downtown Pittsburgh. After smelling marijuana coming from the inside of the vehicle, Rizzo was patted down, and a marijuana roach was found on his person. Law enforcement searched his vehicle and located a Black Taurus Judge revolver with five live rounds, as well as a black holster for the firearm in the center console. Rizzo further admitted that he has a prior felony conviction and could not lawfully possess that firearm.
Further, in connection with his guilty plea, Rizzo also admitted that on December 8, 2020, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at his apartment and located two additional handguns, one of which was stolen as well as related magazines and 165 rounds of ammunition. Further, law enforcement seized marijuana, packaged for resale, as well as user quantities of heroin and cocaine and paraphernalia related to using controlled substances. Rizzo admitted that in addition to his prior felony conviction, which prohibited him from possessing these firearms and ammunition as well, it was also illegal for him to possess them because he was an unlawful user of and addicted to controlled substances.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for October 26, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Rizzo remains in custody pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department Homicide, Baldwin Police Department, Brentwood Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department and West Deer Township Police Department.
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 Accountant for Hillandale Farms Co. Indicted in $6.8M Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – The owner of several Pittsburgh-area businesses and former accountant for a nationwide supplier of eggs and related farm products to retail stores has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy and tax fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The six-count Indictment charges Jonathan A. Weston, 57, of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, with one count of fraud conspiracy, one count of money laundering conspiracy, two counts of willful failure to file tax returns, and two counts of filing false income tax returns. The indictment was returned under seal on May 25 and unsealed today following Weston’s arrest.
According to the Indictment, from October 2005 to January 2019, Weston, a former employee of Hillandale Farms Co. located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, engaged in a scheme with a person known as VP, to embezzle approximately $6.8 million dollars from Hillandale Farms, and then launder the stolen money through businesses they both controlled, purchase collectible cars and real estate, and engage in lavish personal expenditures. In addition, the indictment alleges that in calendar years 2015 and 2018 Weston failed to file tax returns, and in tax years 2016 and 2017 Weston filed false returns.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 58 years in prison and a fine of $2,550,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Admits Distributing and Possessing Sexually Exploitive Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Jeffrey Adam Jepson, 39, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Jepson distributed sexually explicit photos depicting a minor victim under the age of six to an undercover officer. Jepson also possessed other images of child sexual abuse depicting minors under the age of twelve, some as young as infants and toddlers.
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.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for October 14, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. The defendant has agreed to a 12-year sentence to be followed by 20 years of supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department and the Erie County Detectives Bureau conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jepson.
Nevada Man Admits Traveling to Pittsburgh for Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of North Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Renad Bautista, age 31, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Dec. 5, 2019, until Dec. 9, 2019, Bautista travelled from Las Vegas to Pittsburgh with a motivating purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor whom he had been messaging on social media.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for September 21, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 30 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bautista.
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.
Carnegie Man Pleads Guilty to Throwing Concrete Pieces and a Pipe at Pittsburgh Police during May 30, 2020 Pittsburgh ProtestRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to a charge of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Andrew Augustyniak-Duncan, 25, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 30, 2020, Augustyniak-Duncan knowingly and willfully threw projectiles, including pieces of concrete and a pipe, at several Pittsburgh police officers, causing the obstruction, impediment and interference of law enforcement officers engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Oct. 13, 2021. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Judge Schwab continued the defendant’s detention pending sentencing,
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Wilkinsburg Man Sentenced to 2 Years for Conspiring to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to two years (24 months) in prison and four years of supervised release for violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentenced on Pressley Calhoun III., age 58.
Calhoun III, was sentenced based on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, the Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Maryland Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of 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.
Three Charged in $2M Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – One Ohio resident and two Pennsylvania men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on May 25 and unsealed today, named Kevin Carney, 59, of Euclid, OH 44123, Jonathan Freeze, 62, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA, and Robert Irey, 59, of Clarksville, PA 15322, as defendants.
According to the Indictment, the defendants offered victims an opportunity to loan funds to their company, Alternative Energy Holdings, LLC, on a short-term basis and at a high rate of return. The defendants falsely represented that the funds would be used for expenses associated with building a plant that would be capable of turning certain types of waste into energy. The defendants, however, used the majority of the funds for their own personal use and enjoyment. Approximately 22 victims lent approximately $2,017,228.44 to the defendants, but only $63,000 was repaid. The repayments, however, were made using other victims’ loan proceeds.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison for each count, a fine of $250,000 for each count 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. A Magistrate Judge granted the government's request for $50,000 unsecured bond for each defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
McKees Rocks Man Pleads Guilty to Setting Fire to Pittsburgh Police Vehicle and Interfering with Law Enforcement during Civil UnrestRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiring to set fire to property of an organization that receives federal funding and unlawful interference with a law enforcement officer during a civil disorder, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Da’Jon Lengyel, 23, of McKees Rocks, PA 15136 pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that West attended a protest march held on May 30, 2020, in the downtown Pittsburgh area. The march was related primarily to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The march in Pittsburgh began at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Liberty Avenue in the downtown area, and eventually finished at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Centre Avenue near the intersection with Washington Place above the PPG Paints Arena. At that time, many of the participants were agitated, and one of them began vandalizing a marked Pittsburgh Bureau of Police vehicle (Unit 3212) on Centre Avenue. The crowd was thereby incited to join in vandalizing and destroying that vehicle, and eventually set fire to that vehicle. Lengyel and West climbed onto Unit 3212, and then jumped up and down on the roof of the vehicle. West also sat on the roof and attempted to kick out a window of Unit 3212. Shortly thereafter, Lengyel and West, along with two white males who have not yet been identified (WM1 and WM2) began efforts to set fire to Unit 3212. WM1 attempted to open the hood to the engine compartment but had difficulty with it. He was then joined by WM2 and West. As they were doing this, another vocal member of the crowd, who used a megaphone throughout the destruction of Unit 3212, announced to the crowd that "they are going to light the vehicle." Finally, West was able to disengage the hood’s locking mechanism. The hood of Unit 3212 was lifted, thereby exposing the engine compartment. At that point, WM1 lit a small flame with a lighter and then tossed that lighter inside the engine compartment. However, WM1’s attempt failed, and the engine compartment did not catch fire. A few minutes later, West, Lengyel, WM1 and WM2 placed pieces of cardboard and crumpled paper into Unit 3212’s passenger compartment. WM2 then leaned into the backseat area and ignited the combustible materials that had been placed there. After the fire got going, both Lengyel and WM2 continued to add more paper products to the fire, which eventually spread throughout Unit 3212 and destroyed it.
Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for October 12, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total
sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the defendant is being detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Da'Jon Lengyel.
Upper Allegheny Health System, on Behalf of Bradford (Pennsylvania) Regional Medical Centers and Other New York Dental Clinics, to Pay $2.7 Million to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today that several New York Dental Clinics along with Bradford Dental Center (BDC) have agreed with its parent company, Upper Allegheny Health System (UAHS), to pay $2.7 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations. Under the settlement, the United States will receive approximately $1.3 million, paid jointly by UAHS and Bradford Regional Medical Center, the latter a part of the UAHS, a health-care system which operates dental clinics in the Southern Tier of New York and in McKean County, Pennsylvania.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman stated that UAHS matter was jointly investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of New York and his office. As part of the investigation in Pennsylvania, a Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) audit discovered false claims submitted to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program between January 1, 2012 and May 31, 2015. Investigators from DHS and the Buffalo (New York) United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, along with the State Attorney General’s Office of New York, determined that dental personnel at the clinics treated patients with handpieces that had not been appropriately sterilized between usages. Dental handpieces are considered "semi-critical" devices by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and are therefore required to be heat-sterilized between each patient use. The investigators also obtained statements from employees at both the New York and Pennsylvania dental clinics that senior UAHS management directed clinic personnel to wipe the handpieces with CaviWipes – germicidal disinfectant wipes used primarily to clean surfaces – between patient usages due to the insufficient number of dental handpieces. The United States alleged that billing Medicaid for services provided using unsterilized dental handpieces violates the Federal and New York False Claims Acts as well as Pennsylvania statutes. Assistant U.S. Attorneys MaryEllen Kresse and Paul E. Skirtich handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in Buffalo and Pittsburgh, respectively.
"This settlement under the False Claims Act is significant", said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman, "since it corrects improper practices exercised on a vulnerable population of patients. Those patients relied on the clinics for dental services without knowing the health risks posed by thee defective practices. The parent company, Upper Allegheny Health System, must answer for their potentially harmful conduct."
This settlement was reached by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania; the New York State Attorney General’s Office, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); and the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services attached to the Governor’s Office.
The case against UAHS was brought in federal court by a whistleblower who alleged the health system violated the federal False Claims Act and the New York False Claims Act by improperly billing health-care programs. Under the federal False Claims Act, private citizens are permitted to bring lawsuits known as qui tams on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the proceeds of any settlement or judgment awarded against a defendant.
Medicaid is a nationwide program jointly funded by the federal government and states that provides medical insurance to low-income persons and individuals with disabilities. Medicaid eligibility, benefits, and administration are managed by states within federal guidelines.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there have been no determinations of liability.
Monroeville Felon Indicted for Illegally Possessing 3 Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment returned on May 19 and unsealed today, named Douglas Wright, age 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from on or about November 16, 2020 and continuing thereafter until on or about December 28, 2020, Wright possessed three firearms and various calibers of ammunition. According to the Indictment, Wright has multiple felony convictions. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony, from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives 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.
Scott Township Man Charged with Possessing MethRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH– A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman, announced today.
The one-count Indictment named James France, 58, formerly of Scott Township, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 29, 2016, the defendant possessed with intent to distribute and distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Scott Township Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
North Versailles Felon Indicted for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of suburban Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Raheem Kirk, 27, of North Versailles, PA 15137, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 4, 2021, Kirk was found in possession of a ammunition. His prior felony convictions make it unlawful for him to possess ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant. The defendant is currently on house arrest.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Illinois Man Named in 2-Count Indictment Charging Drug Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Illinois man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Randall Langston, 27, of Bellwood, IL 60104, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about February 5, 2021, Langston was found to be in possession of 100 grams or more of heroin and 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and heroin; and a quantity of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5 million or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office 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.
Drug Courier for the Pagans Motorcycle Club Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Mark Stockhausen, 40, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a long-term investigation into drug-trafficking and illegal firearms activity occurring in the Western District of Pennsylvania, involving, among others, members and associates of the Pagans Motorcycle Club (MC). One of the targets of the investigation was co-defendant Bill Rana, who is a "fully patched" member of the PMC and Sergeant of Arms for the Pittsburgh Chapter of the MC. Rana is charged in Counts One (methamphetamine) and Two (cocaine) of the Indictment.
Beginning in August of 2020 and continuing through November 2020, the Court was further informed, that the FBI conducted a federal Title III investigation, which resulted in the interception of thousands of wire and electronic communications over a total of ten telephones. Stockhausen was intercepted over the telephone operated by Rana and also communicated with Rana over Facebook Messenger.
Through the investigation, Mr. Stockhausen was identified as an associate of Mr. Rana’s and a courier for Mr. Rana’s drug trafficking operation, obtaining cocaine from co-defendant Hasani James in Michigan and returning to the WD of PA with the cocaine, which was then distributed by members of the conspiracy.
Mr. Stockhausen, at the hearing, accepted responsibility for the sale of and/or could otherwise foresee the possession/distribution of at least, approximately, 252 grams of cocaine.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for Sept. 29, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department Homicide, Baldwin Police Department, Brentwood Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department and West Deer Township Police Department.
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.
Washington, PA Man Charged with Stealing from the US GovernmentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of committing theft from the government, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Michael Pierce, age 49, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Pierce stole approximately $12,800 in United States currency from the United States Government between the dates of October 2018 and September 2019.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
SKS, Inc. Doctor Sentenced for Unlawfully Dispensing Controlled Substances, Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A prescribing physician with SKS, Inc. has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ probation and fined $5,500 on her conviction of unlawfully prescribing buprenorphine and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ruth Jones, 58, of Bedford, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Jones was employed at SKS, Inc., a buprenorphine clinic located in Johnstown, Pa. During the course her employment, Jones prescribed buprenorphine outside the course of accepted medical practice and not for a legitimate medical reason. The healthcare fraud occurred when a patient’s insurance provided paid for the prescription. Under federal law, medical insurance cannot be used to pay for an unlawfully issued prescription.
Under the terms of her plea agreement, Jones agreed to forfeit $10,000.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Cessar and Michael Ivory prosecuted 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.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Multiple DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Nathaniel Thomas, 40, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA pleaded guilty to a two-count Indictment charging him with possessing over 100 grams of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl (an analogue of fentanyl), and heroin, along with a quantity of cocaine, before United States District Judge Marilyn Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that in April 2019, the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division began an investigation into heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine distribution by Thomas. As part of that investigation, agents obtained a federal search warrant for Thomas’s residence on Coleridge Street in Pittsburgh, which was executed on May 29, 2019. Inside of Thomas’s bedroom, agents seized approximately 158 "bricks" – the equivalent of roughly 7,900 individual dosage units – containing mixtures of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl (an analogue of fentanyl) and heroin. Agents also found roughly 40 grams of cocaine and a digital scale containing a white powder residue in the same area. By pleading guilty, Thomas admitted that he possessed those scheduled narcotics intending to distribute them. In a related filing, the government advised the Court that Thomas has a prior conviction for a serious drug felony offense arising out of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County (PA), and that the enhanced penalties set forth in the federal narcotics laws would, therefore, apply to Thomas.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for Sept. 14, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of incarceration of not less than fifteen years and up to life, a fine of not more than $20,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the Court remanded Thomas to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thomas.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Possessing a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Dane Brooks, 52, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA 15208, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about April 28, 2021, Brooks was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. His prior felony convictions make it unlawful for him to possess a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant. The defendant is currently being detained at Allegheny County Jail
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Business Owner Indicted on Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- One resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on tax charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The 16-count Indictment named Shelley L. Fant, 52, of Pittsburgh, PA 15238, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, from in and around 2016 through in and around 2018, Fant, president and owner of FCG Solutions, Inc., both failed to collect and to pay over FICA taxes to the Internal Revenue Service, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202, and also failed to file personal income tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7203.
The law provides for a total sentence, for each count, of not more than 64 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $3,050,000, and a special assessment of $100.00 for the 7202 counts and $25.00 for each count of 7203. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing $550,000 from Victim He Met OnlineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Henry James Corder, Jr., 67, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Corder engaged in a scheme wherein he used numerous falsehoods to steal from a victim that he met online. Corder falsely stated that he was a U.S. Marshal who could find the perpetrator who had previously scammed the victim. He also falsely claimed he needed money for cancer treatments, funeral services for relatives, business partnerships in which he promised to include the victim and items for a non-existent security business. As a result of his lies to the victim, Corder obtained more than $550,000 from her. He then used that money to pay off his mortgage and buy cars and a motorcycle.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Corder on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Corder.
Elk County Bookkeeper Embezzled $765,000 from her EmployerRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Melissa Bittler, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bittler embezzled over $765,000 from the construction company in Johnsonburg where she was employed as the office manager and bookkeeper. Bittler bought and renovated her house and purchased a Honda Pilot with the embezzled company money.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Bittler on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnsonburg Borough Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bittler.
California Man Indicted on Federal Drug Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of California has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Jose Juan Flores, age 55, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, in and around April 2021, Flores conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl, fluoro fentanyl, and heroin. Also on or about April 28, 2021, Flores possessed with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl, fluoro fentanyl, and heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
ACJ Inmate Charged with Possessing Prohibited ObjectsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An inmate of the Allegheny County Jail has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possessing contraband while in prison, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The two-count Indictment named James Byrd, age 45, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Byrd was charged with possessing a cell phone, cigarettes, a JUUL vape pen, and a red cigarette lighter, while in custody, prohibited object for inmates, on July 22, 2020.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 1 year in prison, a fine not to exceed $100,000.00, a term of supervised release of not more than 1 year, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Overbrook Woman Pleads Guilty to Obstructing a Court OrderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of obstruction of a court order, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman today.
Janine Lanese, 47, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lanese obstructed a court order by lying to law enforcement officers present at her home to effect the lawful arrest of her husband.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Sept. 22, 2021 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than one year in prison, a fine of not more than $100,000.00, 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 the defendant’s existing bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration - Pittsburgh Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Pittsburgh Division, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency - Santa Rosa, California Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lanese.
Local Man Admits Setting Fire to Pittsburgh Police Vehicle and Interfering with Law Enforcement during May 30, 2020 ProtestRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiring to set fire to property of an organization that receives federal funding and unlawful interference with a law enforcement officer during a civil disorder, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Christopher West, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA 15210 pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that West attended a protest march held on May 30, 2020, in the downtown Pittsburgh area. The march was related primarily to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The march in Pittsburgh began at approximately 2:30 pm on Liberty Avenue in the downtown area, and eventually finished at approximately 4:30 pm on Centre Avenue near the intersection with Washington Place above the PPG Paints Arena. At that time, many of the participants were agitated, and one of them began vandalizing a marked Pittsburgh Bureau of Police vehicle ("Unit 3212") on Centre Avenue. The crowd was thereby incited to join in vandalizing and destroying that vehicle, and eventually set fire to that vehicle. West and co-defendant Da’Jon Lengyel climbed onto Unit 3212, and then jumped up and down on the roof of the vehicle. West also sat on the roof and attempted to kick out a window of Unit 3212. Shortly thereafter, Lengyel and West, along with two white males who have not yet been identified ("WM1 and WM2") began efforts to set fire to Unit 3212. WM1 attempted to open the hood to the engine compartment but had difficulty with it. He was then joined by WM2 and West. As they were doing this, another vocal member of the crowd, who used a megaphone throughout the destruction of Unit 3212, announced to the crowd that "they are going to light the vehicle." Finally, West was able to disengage the hood’s locking mechanism. The hood of Unit 3212 was lifted, thereby exposing the engine compartment. At that point, WM1 lit a small flame with a lighter and then tossed that lighter inside the engine compartment. However, WM1’s attempt failed, and the engine compartment did not catch fire. A few minutes later, West, Lengyel, WM1 and WM2 placed pieces of cardboard and crumpled paper into Unit 3212’s passenger compartment. WM2 then leaned into the backseat area and ignited the combustible materials that had been placed there. After the fire got going, both Lengyel and WM2 continued to add more paper products to the fire, which eventually spread throughout Unit 3212 and destroyed it.
Da’Jon Lengyel is scheduled to change his plea to guilty on Tuesday, June 1, 2021.
Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for October 5, 2021 at 10:00 am The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the defendant is being detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christopher West.
Former Erie City Council President Sentenced for Defrauding the Non-Profit She Founded to Cover Her Gambling and Personal ExpensesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - The former president of Erie City Council and founder of an Erie non-profit organization has been sentenced in federal court to one year and a day in prison on her conviction of wire fraud and false writing or document to the government, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Sonya Arrington, 54, of Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Arrington diverted funds donated to Mothers Against Teen Violence (MATV), a non-profit organization she created to help prevent violence among teenagers, to pay for her gambling and personal expenses. Specifically, from December 2011 to March 2018, Arrington engaged in a scheme to defraud MATV of at least $70,000. She solicited donations from individuals and entities in person and by email; received donations to MATV in cash and checks payable to MATV and deposited a portion of the donations into MATV bank accounts and kept a portion in cash for herself; and did not deposit cash but kept cash donations for herself. She also used the debit card for the MATV bank accounts to make purchases unrelated to the organization’s purposes, for things like personal items of clothing, groceries, car washes and food at restaurants; used the debit card for MATV to pay personal bills for T-Mobile, State Farm, First Energy and others; and deposited checks to MATV into personal bank accounts and kept a portion for personal use.
Further, on at least 113 occasions from April 2012 to January 2018, Arrington used the MATV debit card to withdraw MATV funds at Presque Isle Downs & Casino. She would also on occasion leave the casino to travel to a nearby Sheetz for the purpose of using the MATV debit card to withdraw MATV funds and then immediately return to the casino to gamble with those funds. Arrington also fraudulently received approximately $29,558 in Social Security disability benefits and submitted a document to the Social Security Administration that contained a false statement which falsely claimed that she had submitted wage documentation to the Social Security Administration.
"Sonya Arrington solicited donations for a non-profit organization she founded, Mothers Against Teen Violence, only to steal over $70,000 of the funds to take vacations, pay her bills, and support her gambling habit," said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. "We will continue to pursue and prosecute individuals, including those in positions of public trust, who steal money that doesn’t belong to them and divert it to personal use."
"Ms. Arrington treated her non-profit organization like it was her personal bank account," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. "Her greed and selfishness
shortchanged the community’s efforts to help prevent teen violence. Ms. Arrington knew the importance of this charity’s efforts in the community since she was a public servant and a mom who lost a child to violence. The FBI will always hold people accountable who are foolish enough to believe they are above the law and won’t get caught."
"My office will continue to aggressively pursue those who defraud or attempt to defraud the Social Security Administration’s benefit programs," Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General of the Social Security Administration. "I want to thank the FBI for their collaboration and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its support of this investigation and its efforts."
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone noted the impact on other charitable giving because of her actions.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Arrington.