Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH – The former administrator of a Mount Lebanon skilled nursing home has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States, health care fraud and obstruction of a federal audit, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady and Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on February 24, 2021, named Susan Gilbert, age 60, of Lawrence, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

"These criminal charges represent the first step in holding accountable those who put profit over the health and safety of seniors," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "From 2018-2020, Gilbert and co-conspirators deprived seniors of patient care using inflated nursing hours, falsified timecards and other schemes that they concealed with two sets of records. We will continue to pursue every lead until justice has been achieved for seniors and their families in western Pennsylvania."

"These crimes put facility residents at risk by only providing a dangerously low amount of nursing staff just before COVID began to surge across the country," said AG Shapiro. "By filing these false reports, the facility met minimum staffing levels only on paper — while Pennsylvanians who depended on them to care for their well-being didn’t have enough people to turn to. Our ongoing investigation will hold nursing and long-term care facilities criminally accountable wherever we find evidence someone neglected a resident."

According to the Indictment, from October 10, 2018 through February 20, 2020, Gilbert conspired with others to defraud the United States of money and property by impeding, impairing, obstructing, defeating, and interfering with the lawful governmental functions of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services in the administration of Medicare and Pennsylvania Medicaid; and committed health care fraud and the obstruction of a federal auditor. The Indictment alleges that Gilbert was the Administrator of a skilled nursing home, Mount Lebanon Rehabilitation and Wellness Center (MLRWC), located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The Indictment further alleges that Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators directed employees of MLRWC to falsify records to give the appearance that the facility met federal and state staffing requirements. MLRWC is part of an ownership structure that owns multiple long-term care facilities in Pennsylvania, including Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center.

In addition, the Indictment alleges several schemes utilized in the conspiracy:

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators directed administrative and management-level nursing staff and other employees to "clock in" for shifts but not actually work. In doing so, MLRWC created falsified timecard documentation that made it appear as though these individuals were providing direct resident care, when in fact they were not in the building and therefore not providing direct resident care.

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators caused management-level nursing staff to be paid monetary bonuses to "clock in" for shifts they did not actually work.

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators directed MLRWC staff not to clock in and out when they left the facility for their 30-minute lunch breaks. In doing so, MLRWC created falsified timecard documentation that made it appear as though these individuals were providing direct resident care during their lunch breaks, even when they were not in the building and not providing direct resident care.

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators directed MLRWC staff to include the hours worked by management-level nursing staff and other administrative staff on three-week staffing sheets provided to Department of Health (DOH), when in fact those employees did not provide direct resident care during the dates and hours listed.

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators caused administrative staff to keep two sets of books reflecting staffing levels. One book contained accurate information regarding the actual hours nursing staff provided direct resident care while the other contained falsified information that made it appear as though MLRWC had higher staffing levels.

• Gilbert and/or co-conspirators directed administrative staff to provide the falsified staffing documents to DOH investigators during the course of federally mandated inspections to make it appear as though MLRWC met federal and state mandated staffing requirements.

• Gilbert and/or other co-conspirators engaged in the above-described acts in order to make it appear as though the facility was in compliance with the conditions of participation for Medicare and PA Medicaid, including the condition that the facility had "sufficient" nursing staff to meet residents’ needs and that the facility was operating and providing services in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and codes.

"The FBI and our law enforcement partners will expose and hold accountable those who commit healthcare fraud," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "Health care fraud deprives patients of critical health care services and results in billions of dollars in losses that impacts everyone."

"This indictment shows that health care fraud is not a victimless crime. Falsifying records to avoid quality of care requirements can result in substandard, dangerous conditions for nursing home residents and a waste of taxpayer dollars," said Special Agent in Charge Maureen R. Dixon of the Health and Human Services Department Office of Inspector General. "Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to investigate such scams and hold accountable bad actors who ignore their responsibilities to patients and the vital programs designed to serve them."

"Today’s indictment is the byproduct of the cooperative efforts of IRS-Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners" said Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "Regulations governing the administration of nursing homes are put in place for a reason. Any attempt to skirt these regulations can have major consequences."

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Karen Gal-Or are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – Office of Inspector General, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and 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.

On December 18, 2023, a federal jury acquitted the defendant, Susan Gilbert, of the charged offenses.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Three residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The ten-count Indictment named:

James Patrick Lewis, Jr., age 29;

Antoine Key, age 29; and

Lance Rucker, age 24.

According to the Indictment, from September 21, 2020 to February 4, 2021, Lewis, Key and Rucker conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine. Also on February 4, 2021, Lewis, Key and Rucker, all convicted felons, were in possession of firearms, and that Rucker possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm. The indictment further alleges that Lewis, on March 10, June 10 and September 17, 2020, possessed with intent to distribute and distributed 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Also, on September 3, 2020, Lewis possessed with intent to distribute and distributed 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than life 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 Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on February 3, 2021, named Robert Burkes-Kelley, 23, of the City's Hazelwood neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on December 18, 2020, Burkes-Kelley possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and quantities of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine. Additionally, Burkes-Kelley possessed a Springfield Arms XD Elite 9mm semiautomatic handgun; a Walther, Model PPS, 9 mm semiautomatic handgun; and a Diamond Arms, Model DB 15, semiautomatic rifle, in furtherance of the aforementioned drug trafficking crime.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years to a maximum of 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $4,000,000 or both for the drug trafficking charge, as well as another sentence of not less than 5 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000 or both for the firearms charge. 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 Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 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 – Three Mercer County men have been charged in separate indictments with violating federal firearms and/or drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The first indictment charges Diquan Crowder, 27, of Farrell, PA, with one count of violating federal firearms laws. According to the indictment, on Nov. 20, 2020, Crowder possessed a Zastava pistol after having been convicted of two drug-trafficking and gun felony crimes.

The second indictment charges Raymond Briskey, 35, of Sharon, PA, with violating federal drug and firearms laws. According to the indictment, on Oct. 21, 2020, Briskey possessed with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, and possessed a firearm after a prior felony conviction and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.

The third indictment, returned on Sept. 22, 2020 and unsealed yesterday, charges Dimetrius Morris, 36, of Farrell, PA, with violating federal drug and gun laws. According to the indictment, on Feb. 20, 2020, Morris possessed with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as possessed a firearm after several felony convictions and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.

Dimetrius Morris is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts should contact the FBI at 412-432-4000.

"Prosecuting drug dealers and those who illegally possess firearms has been a successful strategy for reducing crime in every western Pennsylvania county," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "District Attorney Peter Acker has been a valued partner in these efforts to remove violent offenders from our neighborhoods and make Mercer County a safer place."

"The Mercer County District Attorney’s Office and state and local law enforcement officials are extremely grateful for the assistance of U.S. Attorney Scott Brady and the Department of Justice in adopting these three cases and indicting these three individuals who were deeply involved in drug trafficking and related drug crimes. Raymond Briskey had been a fugitive from justice for over three years after failing to appear for sentencing for his earlier drug

dealing conviction," said Mercer County District Attorney Peter C. Acker. "We work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI along with our Mercer County Drug Task Force and the PA Attorney General’s Narcotics Agents. That working relationship has been very beneficial to Mercer County and the federal penalties for convictions in these types of cases are far greater than the corresponding state penalties."

For Crowder, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. For Briskey, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $1,500,000. For Morris, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant(s).

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the United States.

The Mercer County Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictments naming Crowder and Briskey.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sharon Police Department, the Farrell Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment naming Morris.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised released on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Jonathan Laur, age 37. 

According to information presented to the court, Laur was a part of an investigation 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, from approximately February of 2019 through June of 2019, the United States received authorization to intercept communications on 9 telephones as part of the investigation.

Intercepted communications revealed that Jonathan Laur was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as a runner for co-conspirator Willie Miller.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan J. McKenna and Carolyn J. Bloch 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA One resident of North Versailles, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Deonte Hollis, 18, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about February 6, 2021, Deonte Hollis, a convicted felon, possessed rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

At each count, 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 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 Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and the Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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 - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV, imposed the sentence on Lamont Benton, age 24,.  

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 conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

Benton was identified through wire interceptions as a member of DS44 and a mid-level distributor, and in connection with his guilty plea, he accepted responsibility for distributing 39 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin. Mr. Benton is one of 40 defendants charged in the case.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman noted that Benton was serving three other sentences imposed in state court when he participated in the drug trafficking activity to which he had pleaded guilty. The court further highlighted that Benton had amassed a significant criminal history at age 24, and that, along with his otherwise positive qualities, were factors in the sentence he imposed.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 network.

PITTSBURGH – Todd Hill was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The Indictment charges Hill, age 35, of Pittsburgh, with possessing a Glock pistol on October 19, 2020, after two prior federal felony drug-trafficking convictions – one in the Western District of Pennsylvania and one in the Northern District of West Virginia.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty

PITTSBURGH – A citizen of Mexico residing in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on an illegal re-entry charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Alberto Jimenez-Sanchez, 43, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about February 4, 2021, Jimenez-Sanchez knowingly re-entered the United States unlawfully and without the consent or permission of the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of Homeland Security.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 24 months 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 Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Allen Green, age 41. 

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, Allen Green conspired to distribute over 500 grams of 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.

United States Attorney Brady 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 Green.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH – Randale Chapman was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for fentanyl, methamphetamine, and methylenedioxyamphetamine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The Indictment charges Chapman, age 33 of Pittsburgh, with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and methylenedioxyamphetamine on April 30, 2020, and with possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 25 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – Jgenus Steele was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine base trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The Indictment charges Steele, age 21 of New Castle, Pennsylvania, with possessing with intent to distribute and/or distributing cocaine base, fentanyl and heroin on December 19, 2019, and February 21, 2020, and with possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on February 21, 2020.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Adam Gregory Ryzinski, 42, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ryzinski received and possessed tens of thousands of computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors, as young as infants and toddlers, being sexually abused.

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 June 24, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ryzinski.

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, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

David Benson, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV. Mr. Benson 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 June 20, 2019, agents of the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force executed a search warrant at the residence that Benson shared with his girlfriend and codefendant, Raelynn Stevenson, as well as a warrant for Stevenson’s arrest. Agents seized a Glock firearm and a loaded magazine under the defendants’ bed. Benson, who has two prior felony convictions, admitted that he brought the gun into the apartment and placed it under the mattress, as well as acknowledged that he was not lawfully permitted to possess a firearm.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing July 8, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years 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. Benson was permitted to remain on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and 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, moneylaunderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court following his earlier guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, two counts of money laundering, and one count of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 18, 2021, United States District Judge David S. Cercone sentenced Anthony Bentley, a/k/a Poundcake, 45, to four years of imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release. Bentley has been detained since his arrest on August 28, 2018.

In connection with his guilty plea on December 2, 2019, Bentley admitted that between at least May 2015 and continuing until January 2016, he engaged in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving 500 grams or more of powder cocaine, and that on October 20, 2015, he distributed approximately 489 grams of cocaine to a cooperating informant. Bentley further admitted that he laundered the proceeds of his cocaine trafficking through certain financial transactions related to his purchase of real estate in the Pittsburgh area, including a $156,649.01 cashier’s check used to purchase a commercial property on Laketon Road on May 23, 2014, and a $20,000 payment toward the purchase of a residence on Curtis Street on July 8, 2015. Bentley, a previously convicted felon, also admitted to unlawfully possessing weapons and ammunition recovered during the searches of properties he owned or controlled. Recovered firearms included an AK-47 semi-automatic rifle and an M16 fully automatic machinegun.

Pursuant to a written plea agreement, Bentley also accepted responsibility for engaging in money laundering in connection with three additional real estate transactions dating back to 2013, as well as his possession of the machinegun. As part of his sentence, Bentley agreed to forfeit, among other things, various items of jewelry and approximately $218,000 in cash seized during a search of his home. He also agreed to an additional forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $75,000.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The task force comprises members drawn from federal law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in partnership with state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A federal grand jury, in Pittsburgh, has issued two separate, but related, Superseding Indictments, charging a total of 24 residents of Western Pennsylvania with narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The first Superseding Indictment, unsealed today, contains two conspiracy counts and names the following 11 individuals as defendants, adding James C. Lori and James D. Lori to the nine defendants charged in the original December Indictment:

• Anthony Peluso, 39, of Hampton Township, PA

• Marissa Botta, 28, of Hampton Township, PA

• James C. Lori, 31, of Pittsburgh, PA

• James D. Lori, 58, of Pittsburgh, PA

• David Pietropaolo, 23, of Glenshaw, PA

• Thomas Snelsire, 46, of Baldwin, PA

• Wayne Webber, 42, of Duquesne, PA

• Ronald Simak, 38, of Verona, PA

• Anthony Scatena, 23, of Pittsburgh, PA

• James Stewart, 41, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Dorin Duncan, 42, of Glenshaw, PA

According to this Superseding Indictment, the above-named defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance between January to November 2020. The Superseding Indictment further alleges that Peluso, Botta and Snelsire also conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, also between January and November 2020.

The second Superseding Indictment, also unsealed today, contains two conspiracy counts and names the following 13 individuals as defendants, adding Malik Johnson to the 12 defendants charged in the original December Indictment:

• Jeffrey Kushik, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Gary Hairston, 41, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Darian Wofford, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Malik Johnson, 30 of Pittsburgh, PA

• Stephanie Zilka, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Misty Walker, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Richard White, 18, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Randy Camacho, 34, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Damian Cherepko, 26, of McKeesport, PA

• Brandon Hulboy, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA

• James Crivella, 27, of Glenshaw, PA

• Seaira Collins, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Jessica Taranto, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA

According to this Superseding Indictment, Kushik, Hairston, Wofford, Johnson, Zilka, Walker, Camacho, Collins, and Taranto conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance between August and November 2020. The Superseding Indictment further charges Kushik, Hairston, Wofford, Johnson, Zilka, Walker, White, Cherepko, Hulboy and Crivella with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, also between August and November 2020.

As to the conspiracy counts involving 100 grams or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years’ and a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. As to the conspiracy count involving 1 kilogram or more of heroin, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years’ and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant.

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.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of suburban Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of sending threatening communications in interstate commerce, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Harry E. Miller, 62, of Ross Township, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

"Threatening to injure members of Congress is a crime, not protected-speech," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "As the events of the past year show, there are individuals intent on harming our public servants and law enforcement. We will vigorously and proactively investigate, disrupt and prosecute those individuals when they violate federal law."

"The threats alleged in this indictment were aimed at sitting lawmakers and crossed a line," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "The First Amendment does not give people the right to threaten anyone. Rest assured the FBI takes all threats seriously and will stop at nothing to let those who threaten violence know what the inside of a jail cell looks like."

"The mission of the United States Capitol Police is to protect the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, and all who work and visit here. We take all threats against Members of Congress very seriously and investigate them fully. I want to thank our highly-skilled investigators for their excellent work as well as our FBI partners and Mr. Brady and his staff for their prosecution of this case," said Yogananda D. Pittman, Acting Chief of the United States Capitol Police.

According to the Indictment, Miller is alleged to have transmitted, in interstate commerce, threats to injure other individuals. The indictment contains the following three charges:

• On or about August 19, 2019, Miller made a telephone call from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to U.S. Representative Katherine Clark’s Malden, Massachusetts district office and stated that he was willing to abolish government by spilling blood by taking out four to five democrats, including U.S. Representative Katherine Clark, that he would start shooting black people to keep them in line if he had to, and that the congressional staffer was an [expletive] who will also die in Miller’s forthcoming civil war;

• On or about January 7, 2020, Miller made a telephone call from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to U.S. Senator Richard Burr’s Washington, D.C. office and stated that he was going to put a bullet in Senator Burr’s head; and

• On or about January 7, 2020, Miller made a telephone call from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to U.S. Senator Richard Burr’s Washington, D.C. office, which was transferred to an individual, known to the grand jury, in the State of Tennessee, and stated that, if he traveled to D.C., he would be willing to shoot four or five senators in the head and that this statement was not a threat but a promise.

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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The FBI and United States Capitol Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

Miller made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court today before Chief Magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy, who released Miller on a $25,000 unsecured bond.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – Sterling Marshall pled guilty and was sentenced to 20 months in prison for conspiring to launder drug-trafficking proceeds between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marshall, age 26 of Allegheny County, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the federal prison sentence Marshall was serving for prior heroin-trafficking and firearm crimes.

Marshall was incarcerated at USP-Lee in Virginia in 2017 and 2018 when he conspired to launder the proceeds of the distribution of Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances. Such substances have caused severe illness and deaths throughout the United States in recent years.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge related to drug trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jarrell Dawson, 31, 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.

In connection with the 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. 

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for June 24, 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 up to $8,000,000, 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 each defendant.

Dawson remains in custody pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan J. McKenna and Carolyn J. Bloch 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. -- A resident of Listie, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Terrell Robison Ickes, 31, as the sole defendant. 

According to Indictment presented to the court, from on or about June 23, 2020 to on or about July 3, 2020, Ickes knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Somerset County Detectives and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Terrence Pasley, age 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on January 16, 2021, Pasley, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Ann Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and City of Pittsburgh Bureau of 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Shaquawn David Cole, age 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on December 11, 2020, Cole possessed a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense after having been convicted of a felony. The Indictment further alleges that on the same date, Cole possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, and of heroin and fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $1,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Ira M. Karoll 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.

Johnstown, PA - One resident of Johnstown, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a substance containing cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Troy Jamal Jones, age 33, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment presented to the court, Jones was found to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Thomas Romspert, age 29, of Butler, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about the dates of July 19th, August 16th, and September 28th, 2020, Romspert attempted to produce and produced material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor victim.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than fifteen (15) years to not more than thirty (30) years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Group and special agents with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General Child Predator Section, with the assistance of the Butler Area School District Police/Cyber Security, and the Butler County Sheriff conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of sex trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on February 11, 2021, named Anthony Juskowich, 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from in and around January 2020 to May 2020, Juskowich knowingly engaged in sex trafficking, using force, threats of force, fraud or coercion, on an adult female, known to the Grand Jury, to cause her to engage in commercial sex acts.

"Human trafficking is a crime that impacts every community in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "My office will use every available resource to bring human traffickers to justice and to assist trafficking survivors."

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics Division, and the Moon Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now). Operation T.E.N. serves as an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Elias Dominique Raggs, 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or January 12, 2021, Raggs possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon. 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 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The 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.

PITTSBURGH – Richard Bracey was sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiring to launder drug-trafficking proceeds between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Bracey, age 44, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the federal prison sentence Bracey was serving for first-degree murder at the time of the crime. Judge Ranjan also directed that Bracey serve one year of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Bracey was incarcerated at USP-Lee in Virginia when he conspired to launder the proceeds of the distribution of Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances. Such substances have caused severe illness and deaths throughout the United States in recent years.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 32 months in jail, ordered to pay over $1.6 million in restitution and a $1,000 fine on his conviction of bank and wire fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Chad Bednarksi, 49.

According to information presented to the court, Chad Bednarski, as the finance manager of Lakeside Chevrolet, engaged in the following illegal activity between January 2015 and January 2019 that caused a financial loss of more than $1.5 million:

- Bednarski falsely reported vehicle sales to General Motors for vehicles that had not been sold in order to obtain expiring incentive rebates, and;

- Bednarski deliberately did not inform S&T Bank when Lakeside Chevrolet sold a vehicle that the dealership had purchased utilizing S&T Bank’s floor plan financing in order to delay and attempt to avoid the dealerships’ required payment to S&T Bank for the sold vehicles which had been purchased using S&T Bank’s floor plan financing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bednarski.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Arnold, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today to a charge of fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Tracy Ann Stankiewicz, age 49, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior U.S. District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from June 6, 2020 and continuing thereafter until July 12, 2020, Stankiewicz committed fraud in connection with emergency benefits.

On March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to be an emergency under Section 501(b) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act. Subsequently, on March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program, which provided unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended unemployment benefits. The CARES Act also provided an emergency increase in unemployment compensation benefits of $600.00 per week.

According to information provided to the Court, on June 6, 2020, an application for PUA was electronically filed in the name of an inmate at State Correctional Institution-Greene. In the application, the filer (who was later determined to be Tracy Stankiewicz) represented that she was the inmate, and that the inmate was unemployed as a direct result of the pandemic, and that the inmate could accept a job if one were offered. Ms. Stankiewicz admitted to law enforcement authorities that she received approximately $11,000.00 as a result of her crime.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service and the Office of Inspector General – U.S. Department of Labor conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Columbus, Ohio, has plead guilty to one count in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Evan Jones, age 27, pleaded guilty to one count before U.S. District Judge Donnetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 26, 2018, Jones possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

Jones was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 37 months, followed by a term of supervised release of six years.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Andrew Painter, age 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on June 20, 2020, Painter possessed visual depictions, namely, images and videos in computer graphic and digital file, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of a maximum 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.

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 - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and health care laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 96-count Indictment named Joseph DiCrose, 64, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, from on or about May 29, 2018 and continuing to on or about December 5, 2018, Joseph DiCroce is charged with using or maintaining a drug-involved premises and health care fraud. During the same dates above, DiCroce is also charged with distribution of a controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of not more than $500,000.00 or both for the drug premise count; not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000.00 or both, for the distribution counts; and not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both, for the health care fraud charge. 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 Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The 19-count Indictment named Joshua Snowden, age 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 1, 2020; October 3, 2020; and November 10, 2020, Snowden made a false statement to purchase a firearm from a licensed firearms dealer, at the direction of another person and with the intention to deliver it to that person. The grand jury further alleges that at various times between May 2020 and November 2020, Snowden possessed firearms, knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months of incarceration, two years supervised release, a $5,000 fine and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $1,696,210.63 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Andrew Thomas Gabler, 52, of North East, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Andrew Gabler, as the owner of Lakeside Auto Sales and Lakeside Chevrolet engaged in the following illegal activity between January 2015 and January 2019 that caused a financial loss of more than $1.6 million:

- Gabler falsely indicated that customers made down payments and falsified and inflated the income of customers when submitting auto loan applications to financial institutions on behalf of customers;

- Gabler caused extended warranties to be sold to customers buying vehicles at Lakeside Auto Sales and Lakeside Chevrolet and deliberately failed to remit the paperwork and payments to the extended warranty company;

- Gabler falsely reported vehicle sales to General Motors for vehicles that had not been sold in order to obtain expiring incentive rebates, and;

- Gabler deliberately did not inform S&T Bank when Lakeside Auto Sales and Lakeside Chevrolet sold a vehicle that the dealerships had purchased utilizing S&T Bank’s floor plan financing in order to delay and attempt to avoid the dealerships’ required payment to S&T Bank for the sold vehicles which had been purchased using S&T Bank’s floor plan financing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gabler.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, turned on February 2, 2021 and unsealed today, named Ossie Foster, age 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about June 13, 2020, Foster possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 28 grams or more of crack, and a quantity of fentanyl and heroin.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Beaver County Drug Task Force 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Sharpsburg, PA pleaded guilty to a charge of violating a federal firearms law, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christopher Flewellen, 28, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

According to the Indictment, on May 28, 2020, Flewellen was found to be in possession of a firearm. Flewellen is prohibited from carrying firearms due to a prior conviction.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 28, 2020, Flewellen possessed a firearm knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2021. 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 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 Jonathan D. Lusty is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christopher Flewellen.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Kevin Clay Jr., age 27, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about November 16, 2020, Clay possessed with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl on November 16, 2020. On that same date, Clay possessed five firearms knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. One of those firearms was a short-barreled rifle that Clay failed to register with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Clay also possessed at least one of those firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2021. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison to a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of not more than $5,750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kevin Clay Jr.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on February 2, 2021 and unsealed today, named Jacque Butler, 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on September 8, 2020, Butler, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and City of Duquesne 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 – Sandra Wilson was sentenced to eight months in prison for conspiring to distribute K2 controlled substances (Schedule I synthetic cannabinoids) in 2018, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Wilson, age 29, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan also directed that Wilson serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence.

Wilson distributed K2 controlled substances into prisons. She did so for at least several months in 2018. She acquired the K2 controlled substances from other dealers and at one point manufactured some of the K2 controlled substances.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH – Dorianne Harris pled guilty to conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Harris, age 27, formerly of Homestead, PA, pled guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing to occur on June 8, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. Harris was on federal supervised release for a prior heroin-trafficking conviction when he committed the cocaine-trafficking crime to which he pled guilty.

The law provides for a sentence of at least 5 years and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is to be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

JOHNSTOWN, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day on her conviction for conspiring to distribute suboxone, which is a Schedule III controlled substance, to federal prisoners in Aliceville, Alabama, while she was under federal supervision for a prior drug offense, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Tai Ward, 31. 

According to information presented to the Court at the time Ward entered her plea of guilty, Ward, along with at least two other coconspirators, concealed suboxone in packages that were being sent through the United States Postal Service to female in inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution in Aliceville, Alabama in early 2020.

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigations Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ward.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to defraud the government and false claims against the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chamere Henderson, 39, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between February 2012 and March 2013, Chamere Henderson conspired with her sister, Chamelle Henderson, to file false federal tax returns for three individuals in order to obtain federal tax refunds to which she and her sister were not entitled. The refunds from the tax returns were wired into a bank account to which her sister had access. Chamere Henderson also filed false federal tax returns for two other individuals in an effort to obtain inflated federal tax refunds.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 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 Henderson on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Henderson.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Cambria County, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty today in federal court to a charge of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Steven L. Brock, 32, of Cresson, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior U.S. District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

"The men and women of federal, state and local law enforcement work tirelessly to protect our children from predators and pedophiles," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "Today, one such predator who produced child pornography was brought to justice, and will spend decades in federal prison for his crimes. I want to thank Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer for his significant assistance in this successful prosecution."

"Thanks to a cooperative effort between local, state, and federal authorities, a dangerous predator has been brought to justice, and our community is safer," said Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer. "The facts of this case are deeply disturbing, and the outcome demonstrates that there is zero tolerance when children are exploited. Thank you to the United States Attorney’s office for their work in this matter, and I look forward to continuing a partnership which ensures the highest possible levels of justice for victims and their families."

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 1, 2016, to on or about July 31, 2018, Brock produced images of a minor female (Minor A) engaged in sexually explicit conduct using materials that were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. The case began in December 2018 when the victim’s mother contacted Pennsylvania State Police and reported her daughter, Minor A, disclosed that she had been sexually assaulted. Following a forensic interview with Minor A, PSP troopers obtained a search warrant and seized several electronic devices from Brock’s residence. PSP troopers and, subsequently, agents from the Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted a forensic examination of the devices and identified 16 images that depict Minor A engaged in "sexually explicit conduct." Several images of Minor A found on Brock’s devices matched those described by Minor A during her forensic interview.

Judge Gibson set sentencing for May 26, 2021 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and a statutory maximum of 30 years’ imprisonment, 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.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered the defendant remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Immigration, Customs & Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Andrea Gray, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on July 21, 2020, Gray possessed a firearm after having been convicted of a felony. 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 not more than 10 years in prison, a fine not more  than  $250,000,  or  both.  Under  the  Federal  Sentencing  Guidelines,  the  actual  sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant  United  States  Attorney  Ira  M.  Karoll  is  prosecuting  this  case  on  behalf of the government.

The  Allegheny  County  Police  Department  conducted  the  investigation  leading  to  the Indictment in this case.

This case was brought 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.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - One resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Evan Andrews, 27, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, Andrews is accused of possessing with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, and possessing a firearm while a convicted felon on September 23, 2020.

The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $5,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Allegheny County Sheriff’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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Charleston, West Virginia, has been sentenced in federal court to four years imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release on his convictions related to two bank robberies, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on William Gregory, 41.

According to information presented to the court, on May 4, 2018, Gregory assisted co-defendant Daimeyon Smith in committing two bank robberies. Gregory served as the getaway driver for both robberies while Smith is alleged to have robbed each bank at gunpoint. In all, Gregory and Smith robbed the Key Bank in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania of $8,000, and the Key Bank in McMurray, Pennsylvania of $12,158.

Judge Fischer also ordered that Gregory is required to pay restitution to the banks in the joint and several amount of $20,158.00.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Coraopolis Police Department, and Peters Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gregory.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Everett, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 40 months in prison followed by three years supervised release after pleading guilty last year to various counts related to firearms stolen from the National Firearms and Ammunition Destruction Branch (NFAD), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Richard Adam Schreiber, 38, of Everett, Pa.

"No one can measure the harm Richard Schreiber caused by putting massive numbers of guns in criminals’ hands." said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Through this sentence, he will have time to reflect on his shameful disregard for the safety of our community in exchange for personal financial gain."

"The illegal distribution of firearms presents a great danger to the general public, which ATF takes very seriously," said Matthew Varisco, Special Agent in charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. "For a multitude of reasons, when an individual is engaged in the business of selling firearms without being properly licensed, these firearms often times end up in the hands of criminals. ATF has a zero tolerance policy for this type of behavior, and today’s sentencing affirms our stance."

According to information provided to the court, between August 30, 2016 and March 4, 2019, Schreiber purchased multiple stolen firearms, firearm components and ammunition from Christopher Lee Yates. Yates was an employee of Allied Security and worked at NFAD, which was a facility used by ATF and other law enforcement agencies to have firearms and ammunition destroyed. The firearms at NFAD had been seized during criminal investigations or were retired by the agencies. The investigation by ATF began in February of 2019 when a firearm was seized in Philadelphia with different serial numbers, one of which was for a "slide" or firearm component that had purportedly been destroyed at NFAD. ATF learned that Yates stole in excess of five machineguns, 115 pistols and/or revolvers, 3,000 slides and ammunition. Schreiber then sold the firearms and components over the internet from his residence in Everett, Pa. During the investigation, ATF Agents seized nine firearms from Yates, including a machinegun stolen from NFAD and an additional 11 firearms and rifles from individuals to whom Yates had sold the stolen weapons. ATF Agents also seized 99 firearms, 1,352 slides and 123,229 rounds of ammunition from Schreiber and an additional 28 firearms, including three machineguns, from individuals to whom Schreiber had sold the stolen weapons. Yates was charged with similar offenses in the Northern District of West Virginia and was sentenced in August 2019 to 14 years (168 months) in prison.

Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Schreiber.

Anyone with information regarding the location of these firearms, firearms parts, ammunition and/or persons who unknowingly purchased one or more of these items should contact ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, email [email protected]; through its website at www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips; or through the ReportIt ® app, www.reportit.com, available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named John Byrnes, 43, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about June 6, 2020, Byrnes possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison to a term of life, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the prior record, if any, of the defendant and the seriousness of the offenses.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The DEA and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Narcotics Task Force (DANET) assisted by the Swissvale and Ross Township 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Ford City, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Tanner Virostek, age 23, of Ford City, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about July 17, 2020, Virostek possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. The Indictment also alleges that on or about July 17, 2020, the defendant possessed a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime. Virostek, a convicted felon, is prohibited by Federal law from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christopher M. Cook is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This case was brought 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.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Clarksburg, WV, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christina Weigner, age 48, of pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Weigner conspired to commit fraud in connection with emergency benefits and did commit fraud by filing for pandemic unemployment assistance in her co-defendant’s name.

On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program, which provided unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended unemployment benefits. Individuals are eligible for these unemployment benefits if they are unemployed due to the pandemic and are otherwise able work.

On June 11, 2020, an application for pandemic unemployment assistance was electronically filed in the name of Levi Stroud, an inmate at State Correctional Institution-Greene. In the application, the filer (who was later determined to be Christina Weigner) represented that she was Stroud, that Stroud was unemployed as a direct result of the pandemic, and that Stroud could accept a job if one were offered. Additionally, Weigner made 19 separate certifications that Stroud was unemployed for particular weeks due to the pandemic, even though he was serving a state sentence.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for June 8, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Weigner on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Office of Inspector General - U.S. Department of Labor conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christina Weigner.