Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA – Ricardo Glenn was convicted of conspiring to distribute fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Glenn, age 28, formerly of Butler and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing to occur on December 17, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Craig W. Haller are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force led the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Five western Pennsylvania residents have been indicted separately by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and charged with various schemes to defraud the Social Security Administration (SSA), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

"When criminals defraud the Social Security Administration, they are in effect stealing from the most vulnerable of our fellow citizens, who have worked hard and played by the rules their entire lives," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Scammers beware: my office will continue to pursue and prosecute anyone who steals from our seniors in order to line their own pockets."

"I thank the U.S. Attorney for bringing these charges, and for his office’s support of our efforts to maintain the integrity of the Social Security system," said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General of Social Security. "Today’s announcement should serve as reminder that the SSA Office of Inspector General will vigorously pursue those individuals who intend to defraud SSA in any way. I also want to recognize the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office for working jointly with my office on investigations leading to some of the indictments being announced today."

A two-count indictment charges Leona Biser, 51, of Vestaburg, Pennsylvania, with representative payee fraud and Social Security fraud. According to the indictment presented to the Court, from October 2018 through September 2019, Biser was the representative payee for her sister. Biser failed to spend the payments for the benefit of her sister, and instead spent the funds on personal expenses. On January 15, 2020, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office charged Leona Biser with neglect of a care dependent person, abuse of a care dependent person, recklessly endangering another person, unlawful restraint, and false imprisonment for keeping her care dependent sister in a wooden cage with only a dirty mattress and little-to-no medical care. Biser is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest USMS District Office, the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.

A four-count Indictment charges Brenda Castro, 61, of Indiana, Pennsylvania, with theft of government property, Social Security fraud, and false statements to retain Social Security income. According to the indictment presented to the Court, from October 2009 through October 2017, Castro repeatedly falsely informed the SSA that she did not reside with her husband in order to continue to receive approximately $41,292.00 in SSA benefits to which she knew she was not entitled.

A three-count Indictment charges Julius Wilkerson, 47, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with theft of government property and false statements to retain Social Security income. According to the indictment presented to the Court, from October 2011 through November 2016, Wilkerson received approximately $30,699.00 in SSA benefits to which he knew he was not entitled.

A one-count Indictment charges William Moriarty, 68, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with theft of government property. According to the indictment presented to the Court, from August 2010 to May 2018, Moriarty received approximately $189,389.00 in SSA benefits to which he knew he was not entitled due to his employment.

A one-count Indictment charges Dawn Ann Treusch, 41, of Monaca, Pennsylvania, with theft of public money. According to the Indictment presented to the court, from January 2016 to July 2019, the defendant knowingly converted to her own use approximately $43,920.00 in Social Security Survivor’s Insurance Benefits of her grandmother, who had died in December 2015, and to which she knew she was not entitled.

For Castro, Wilkerson, Biser, Moriarty and Treusch, 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 Attorneys Robert S. Cessar, Rachael L. Mamula and Benjamin J. Risacher are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government

The United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General conducted the investigations leading to the indictments in these cases.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Three former residents of the Pittsburgh area have been sentenced in federal court this week on their convictions of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Michael Rose, 28, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA, Kreg Williams, formerly of Duquesne, PA, and Marvin Porter, 49, formerly of Allison Park, PA.

Rose was sentenced to 102 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release. Williams was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release. Porter was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release.

According to information presented to the Court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Rose, Williams and other individuals were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Rose, Williams, and Porter, along with 30 others were indicted in June of 2019 by a federal grand jury in three separate, but related, Indictments.

As to Rose, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Rose was conspiring with others to distribute controlled substances in Western Pennsylvania. On April 15, 2019, Rose was apprehended by law enforcement while conducting a drug transaction in the parking lot of the Monroeville Mall. After arresting Rose and seizing a firearm, which Rose was not permitted to possess, as well as heroin, cocaine and cocaine base, all packaged for resale from the vehicle, Rose broke free from law enforcement and ran into the Monroeville Mall while in handcuffs. Rose was sentenced for distributing 198.4 grams of heroin, 28 grams of cocaine, and 154 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as crack.

As to Williams, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Williams, a member of the street gang, "SCO", was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances, namely, 28 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019. Additionally, on June 12, 2019, Williams possessed three firearms, including an assault rifle and two pistols, all of which were forfeited to the government.

As to Porter, the Court was informed that in April of 2019, while intercepting communications over telephones used by Howard McFadden, SCO’s leader, law enforcement identified Chadlin Leavy as a source of supply for heroin and cocaine. I n April of 2019, investigators obtained authorization for the interception of wire and electronic communications over a telephone operated by Chadlin Leavy. Intercepted communications confirmed that Mr. Porter, who is not associated with SCO, was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute heroin. On June 12, 2019, law enforcement seized a suitcase containing 612 bricks and one bundle of heroin, six firearms as well as related magazines and ammunition, jewelry, and a digital scale from Mr. Porter’s residence.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the multi-agency team, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Porter, Rose and Williams. Partners in this investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies included the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.

This case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Four residents of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and one resident of Cypress, California, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment names the following five individuals:

• Zachary Miller, 27, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania;

• Alan Masecar, 33, of Latrobe, Pennsylvania;

• Joshua Birrell, 37, of Cypress, California;

• Samuel Miller, 25, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania; and

• Jessica Palmer, 39, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

According to the Indictment, from September 2017 to August 2020, the five defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. The Indictment further charges Masecar with attempting to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, on or about December 23, 2019. The Indictment further charges Zachary Miller and Palmer with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, on or about February 15, 2020.

Zachary Miller is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 412-432-4000. (SEE NOTE BELOW)

The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000 or both, as to Count One, and a total sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000 or both, as to Counts Two and Three. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations.

This case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

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

NOTE: Zachary Miller self-surrendered to FBI on August 16, 2020.

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

The one-count Indictment named Breanna M. Bane, age 28, of Fredericktown, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on July 3, 2020, Bane was found to have distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl analogue, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, 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 Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and 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, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 33 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed sentence on April Price, 32.

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 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.

Intercepted communications revealed that Ms. Price was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, and communicated directly with Anthony Jetter and Christopher Highsmith, who are among her most culpable co-defendants, and discussed distributor level quantities of narcotics. The court was further informed that Ms. Price was seen on pole camera footage conducting a drug transaction with several co-conspirators at a stash house on April 25, 2019. As a condition of her guilty plea on February 12, 2020, Ms. Price accepted responsibility for the distribution of 60 grams of heroin and fentanyl.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan 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 case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKeesport, 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 separate but related indictments, returned on August 4, named Rahde Williamson aka "Raw" age 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the first Indictment, the defendant conspired to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl from November of 2018 through August of 2019. The Indictment further alleges that in June of 2019 Williamson distributed fentanyl that caused an overdose death. The second Indictment alleges that on July 15, 2020, the defendant, a convicted felon, possessed ammunition after having been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those convictions include a federal drug conviction for conspiracy to distribute more than one kilo of heroin and possession with intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The court was further informed that the defendant was on federal supervised release when he purchased the ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $11,250,000, 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. The defendant will remain incarcerated pending the resolution of the case

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Monessen Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This 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.

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

The three-count Indictment named Brian L. Gustafson as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, when the IRS sought to bring Gustafson into compliance with his filing and payment requirements, Gustafson engaged in several acts of evasion: 1) he closed a bank account known to the IRS and replaced it with an undisclosed account; 2) he failed to disclose personal and corporate bank accounts to the IRS on Form 433-A; 3) upon discovery of the undisclosed account, he lied to an IRS revenue agent about his use of the account, and; 4) he withdrew significant cash from the undisclosed account.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 11 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division 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. – Reginald Milligan was sentenced to 37 months in prison for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Milligan, age 28 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon also sentenced Milligan to three years of supervised release upon the completion of his prison sentence.

Milligan unlawfully possessed a stolen and loaded 9mm pistol, and 10 heroin/fentanyl stamp bags, inside his car in Pittsburgh during the early morning of January 19, 2019. B y that date, he had already been convicted of committing three felony crimes in prior state prosecutions between 2013 and 2015. The felony crimes were possession with intent to deliver heroin, carrying a firearm without a license, and person not to possess a firearm.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation and a $5,000 fine on his conviction of conspiracy charges related to marriage fraud and visa fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Makhan Singh, 53.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2011 through in and around October of 2018, Makhan Singh conspired with his brother, Rajinder Singh, and United States citizen Dawn Haroulakis, to knowingly facilitate or enter into a marriage for the purpose of evading the immigration laws. The court was further advised that Makhan Singh offered to pay Ms. Haroulakis if she would marry his brother so that Rajinder, a native and citizen of India, could obtain legal permanent residency in the United States. Ms. Haroulakis agreed to the sham marriage, and Makhan Singh then made payments of more than $15,000 to Ms. Haroulakis in exchange for her marriage to Rajinder Singh.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Haroulakis, in connection with the Pittsburgh Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF). The DBFTF is a multi-agency partnership established to focus on high-impact criminal investigations involving the use of fraudulent documents in furtherance of immigrations benefit applications and petitions, financial fraud, criminal work-site enforcement, and public benefits fraud. The Pittsburgh DBFTF consists of the following agencies: Homeland Security Investigations, US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, US Department of State-Diplomatic Security Service, US Department of Agriculture- Office of the Inspector General, US Department of Labor- Office of the Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 41 months in prison and three years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed sentence on Laffayette Fuller, 21.

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 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.

Intercepted communications revealed that Mr. Fuller was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, serving as a runner for co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith, facilitating drug transactions for Highsmith, and carrying a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activities. The Court was further informed that as a condition of his guilty plea on March 2, 2020, the defendant accepted responsibility for distribution of 39 grams of fentanyl and heroin in the Pittsburgh area.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan 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.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Chino Valley, Arizona, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to smuggle misbranded drugs into the United States and introduce them into interstate commerce, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jeremy Brooks, 31, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

During his plea hearing, Brooks admitted that between January 2016 and May 8, 2018, he engaged in a conspiracy to obtain unapproved drugs in bulk quantities from overseas suppliers, including suppliers in China, for the purpose of pressing the drugs into pills and distributing them to customers throughout the United States via an internet-based business—Domestic RCS—that he and a co-conspirator, Justin Ash, controlled. The business’s website, www.domesticrcs.com, advertised multiple unapproved or "misbranded" drugs—clonazolam, diclazepam, flubromazolam, and etizolam—each of which was a non-prescription benzodiazepine or substance with a similar chemical composition. As Brooks further acknowledged, these substances carried risks of dependency, toxicity, and even fatal overdose, particularly when combined with other central nervous system depressants. Although the co-conspirators’ website and the packaging contained in their shipments indicated that the substances were for "research purposes only," Brooks admitted that he was aware that the vast majority of customers purchased the drugs for individual consumption. Indeed, Brooks, Ash, or others acting at their direction communicated directly with individual customers about, among other things, the effects of the drugs when used for personal consumption. In an effort to evade detection by United States federal authorities, including the United States Food and Drug Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and United States Customs and Border Protection, Brooks also admitted that he and Ash caused their overseas suppliers to ship drugs to multiple addresses under their control and in smaller quantities that would draw less government scrutiny.

As part of a written plea agreement, Brooks agreed to forfeit approximately $106,000 in currency seized as part of the investigation.

Brooks faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of not more than the greater of (i) $250,000 or (ii) an alternative fine in an amount not more than the greater of twice the gross pecuniary gain to any person or twice, 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.

In a related case before Judge Schwab, Ash pleaded guilty for his role in the conspiracy on January 16, 2020, and is awaiting sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the charge in this case.

PITTSBURGH – An Armstrong County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and fined $3,000.00 on his conviction of conspiring to distribute marijuana, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed the sentence on Stephen Lerch, 28, of Apollo, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Lerch had been receiving packages of marijuana and THC vaping cartridges at various locations situated in and around the Apollo area from a source based in Colorado. The conspiracy ended on October 2, 2018, when task force officers and agents from the DEA executed a search warrant at Lerch’s residence. During the search, the DEA recovered marijuana, two firearms, a money counter, and $25,161.00 in cash. Investigators also learned that Lerch maintained accounts at S & T Bank and TD Ameritrade. The funds contained in those accounts were subsequently seized pursuant to search warrants.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman denied Lerch’s request for a sentence of home confinement, noting the serious nature of the offense. The Court also ordered that Lerch forfeit a total of $102,290.70 and a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek to the United States.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the West Metro Drug Task Force-Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County, Colorado, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lerch.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 37 months in prison and three years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed sentence on Deandre Gordon, 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 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.

Intercepted communications revealed that Deandre Gordon purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Jarrell Dawson, and re-sold the drugs to other customers. The court was further informed that the defendant accepted responsibility for the distribution of 33 grams of heroin and fentanyl and that he would forfeit $3,286 in United States currency, two firearms and ammunition seized in conjunction with his arrest on June 20, 2019 under the terms of his plea agreement.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan 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 case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years' imprisonment and five years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws and money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Garfield Campbell, also known as "Sean Grant", age 45. 

According to information presented to the court, Campbell participated in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Campbell also pled guilty to conspiring to commit money laundering, from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019. Specifically, Campbell was part of a conspiracy in which individuals, many of whom were born in Jamaica, mailed kilograms of cocaine from California to individuals in the Western District of Pennsylvania, including Campbell, who then arranged for its further distribution. The conspiracy also involved Campbell and others mailing packages containing currency back to the California cocaine suppliers, also through the mail. Federal agents obtained Court authorization and intercepted the communications of members of the conspiracy, including Campbell, and they also executed numerous search warrants. As part of his guilty plea, Campbell acknowledged that he was responsible for between 15 and 50 kilograms of cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balcon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Campbell. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. In this case, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the New Castle Police Department also participated in the investigation.

OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

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

Danasia McNeal, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. McNeal was one of 37 defendants charged in the original Indictment and is one of 22 defendants charged in the Superseding Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Intercepted communications as well as recorded jail calls and visits revealed that the defendant agreed to run the drug trafficking business of her boyfriend and co-defendant, James Givner, while he was incarcerated at the Allegheny County jail, with help from another co-defendant, Christopher Highsmith, who is among the leaders of the conspiracy. Ms. McNeal ultimately accepted responsibility for the distribution of 65 grams of heroin and fentanyl in the Pittsburgh area as a condition of the plea.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Dec 15, 2020 at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Ms. McNeal remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan 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.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Robert Korbe was sentenced to 48 months in prison for conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Korbe, age 51, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the prison sentence Korbe was serving at the time of the crime. Judge Ranjan also directed that Korbe serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence and forfeit $2,819.85 from his prison account that contained some of the proceeds of the crime.

Korbe was incarcerated at the federal prison at Loretto, Pennsylvania, when he was conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances which have caused severe illness and deaths throughout the United States in recent years. Korbe was incarcerated as a result of several prior convictions in theWestern District of Pennsylvania for cocaine trafficking, possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, and wire fraud. Korbe has six prior drug trafficking convictions in six prior federal and state prosecutions as well as a prior conviction for aggravated assault in another prior state prosecution.

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 case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH – Sunday, July 26, 2020, marked the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (the ADA), a critical civil rights law that aims to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities.

"The ADA has improved the lives of millions of Americans by ensuring that individuals with disabilities are afforded equal access and opportunity," said U.S. Attorney Scott Brady. "Our office remains committed to investigating complaints, removing barriers and safeguarding the civil rights of all of our citizens, including those protected by the ADA."

The promise of the ADA is its wide-ranging efforts to eliminate disability discrimination across the range of services, programs, and activities that most Americans take for granted, but were largely inaccessible to individuals with disabilities prior to the law’s enactment. Whether in employment, areas of civic life, or in the day-to-day activities and access to goods and services that we all enjoy – the ADA ensures that individuals with disabilities enjoy the same opportunities as all Americans to participate in everything this nation has to offer.

Over the past 30 years, the United States has undertaken the challenge of changing perceptions about disability, tearing down barriers to equality, and altering the systems that have historically excluded people with disabilities. Today, the Justice Department commemorates the many ways that the ADA has transformed society—by replacing exclusion with access, segregation with integration, and limitations with self-determination.

For more information about the ADA, call the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY). To file a complaint with the Department, please visit the Civil Rights Division’s portal at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/.

In January 2020, U.S. Attorney Brady named Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Haley Warden-Rodgers as co-coordinators of the office’s Civil Rights efforts. Either can be reached through the office’s main number: (412) 644-3500 or by emailing [email protected].

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

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

Theresa Somerville, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. Somerville was one of 37 defendants charged in the original Indictment and is one of 22 defendants charged in the Superseding Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Intercepted communications revealed that Ms. Somerville was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Specifically, Theresa Somerville assisted her son and co-defendant, Ronald Williams, with heroin/fentanyl transactions by preparing drugs for pickup by him or serving customers outside her house.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Dec. 14, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Ms. Somerville remains on bond pending an August 3, 2020 bond violation hearing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan 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.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – Eight Pittsburgh-area residents have been charged in six separate indictments for criminal activity perpetuated during a civil disorder in the City of Pittsburgh, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The alleged criminal acts occurred while Pittsburgh Police officers were engaged in responding to the violent demonstration in downtown Pittsburgh on May 30, 2020 at the same time that many other citizens were lawfully protesting over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The indictments were returned under seal on July 22, 2020, and the final two indictments were unsealed today.

"Throwing IEDs and bricks at police officers, throwing projectiles at and striking police horses, and setting police cruisers on fire are not the protected First Amendment activities of a peaceful protest; they are criminal acts that violate federal law," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We will continue to identify and prosecute these agitators, whose acts of violence hijacked a lawful protest and undermined a message of equality with one of destruction."

"The actions of the accused were uncalled for and prevented law enforcement officers from carrying out their duties to protect and serve our community," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "The FBI respects the rights of people to peacefully exercise their First Amendment freedoms but will not stand by and let those with a violent agenda take over peaceful protests. We, alongside the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, worked around the clock to uncover the faces behind the destruction and obstruction of law enforcement. We are not done. We continue to use all of our investigative resources to find each person who chose to start a violent confrontation."

"The defendants in this case posed as protesters to hijack otherwise peaceful demonstrations," said John Schmidt, acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives’ Philadelphia Field Division. "ATF supports every citizens’ constitutional right to peaceably protest, and we are committed to rooting out those who use the current situation for their own nefarious intentions. Rest assured we will continue to work with our local and state partners to investigate violent acts committed during these unprecedented times until the criminal offenders are brought to justice."

"I would like to thank our law enforcement partners with FBI Pittsburgh, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, plus the Damage Assessment and Accountability Taskforce for continuing to seek justice in these matters. The lawlessness we saw on May 30 cannot be tolerated. We appreciate the support to hold accountable those who committed violent acts in the City of Pittsburgh," Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said.

"The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police is committed to serving every resident, every visitor, and every person who works in the city of Pittsburgh. We have a track record of assuring the public’s First Amendment rights, and we will continue to protect those rights. But when protests turn violent, we have an obligation to protect everyone—including business owners, peaceful protesters, and law enforcement officers who are attacked for simply doing their jobs," Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert said.

The first indictment charges George Allen, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with one count of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder. According to the Indictment, on or about May 30, 2020, Allen knowingly and willfully caused damage to a police officer’s police vehicle by throwing a projectile through the front passenger window of the vehicle, causing the obstruction, impediment and interference of law enforcement officers engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.

A second indictment charges Nicholas Lucia, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with one count of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder. According to the Indictment, on or about May 30, 2020, Lucia knowingly and willfully threw an object at uniformed police officers that appeared to be an explosive device, which landed on an officer’s vest, was quickly pulled off by another officer, and thereafter exploded when it hit the ground, causing the obstruction, impediment and interference of law enforcement officers engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.

A third indictment charges Andrew Augustyniak-Duncan, 25, of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, with one count of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder. According to the Indictment, on or about May 30, 2020, Augustyniak-Duncan knowingly and willfully threw projectiles at several police officers, causing the obstruction, impediment and interference of law enforcement officers engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.

A fourth indictment charges Raekwon Dac Blankenship, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder. According to the Indictment, on or about May 30, 2020, Blankenship knowingly and willfully caused damage to a police officer’s unmarked police vehicle by hitting, kicking and stomping on various parts of that vehicle, knowingly and willfully caused damage to a police officer’s marked vehicle by throwing a projectile into the windshield, and poked and struck multiple police horses, causing the obstruction, impediment and interference of law enforcement officers engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties

The grand jury also returned a two-count indictment charging Devin Montgomery, 24, and Brandon Benson, 29, each of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with malicious destruction or damage by fire of a vehicle of an organization receiving federal financial assistance and bank burglary. According to the Indictment, on May 30, 2020, Devin Montgomery maliciously damaged and destroyed by fire a police vehicle leased and possessed by the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The indictment further alleges that on May 30, 2020, Devin Montgomery and Brandon Benson entered and attempted to enter the Dollar Bank, located at 537 Smithfield Street in Pittsburgh, with the intent to take property, money or thing of value. The bank’s deposits were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Finally, the grand jury returned a four-count indictment that named Da’Jon Lengyel, 22, of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, and Christopher West, 35, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants. Counts one and two of the indictment allege that on or about May 30, 2020, Da'Jon Lengyel and Chrisopher West knowingly conspired to and did maliciously damage and destroy by fire a police vehicle leased and possessed by the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, an organization receiving federal financial assistance. In addition, Counts three and four of the indictment allege that on May 30, 2020, Lengyel and West, respectively, knowingly and willfully caused damage to a police officer’s vehicle by hitting, kicking and stomping on various parts of the vehicle and by joining others to destroy the vehicle by fire. The indictment alleges this conduct resulted in the obstruction, impediment and interference of a law enforcement officer engaged in the lawful performance of his official duties.

For Allen, Lucia, Duncan and Blankenship, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. For Montgomery, the law provides for a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. For Benson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. For Lengyel and West the law provides for a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant(s).

U.S. Attorney Brady credited the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to these indictments.

Assistant United States Attorneys Shaun E. Sweeney and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting these cases for the government.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served of approximately 33.5 months, and three years of supervised release on his conviction of federal firearms violations, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Kellan Hanner, age 29.

According to information presented to the court, on November 1, 2017, two Pittsburgh Police Officers were on patrol in the Hill District assisting in a call for a foot pursuit for a male with a firearm. The officers observed a group of three males, and noticed that one of them, later identified as Hanner, appeared to have a large weighted object in the front pocket of his hooded sweatshirt. The court was further informed that Hanner fled when the police officers attempted to question him, and that officers witnessed the defendant throwing a firearm into a sewer.  The firearm was later recovered. When apprehended by law enforcement, Hanner resisted arrest and also reached towards and pull at the officer’s firearm. Hanner has a prior felony conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver heroin and prior misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and as such, is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hanner. This case was brought under 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of the Dominican Republic pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday, July 27, 2020, to violations of the federal narcotics and immigration laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eduard Guzman Rijo, age 49, formerly of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer to Count One of an Indictment charging him with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl; and to a one-count Information charging him with illegally re-entering the United States after removal.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on January 30, 2019, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division executed a search warrant at an apartment located in Pittsburgh, which was utilized by Rijo and his coconspirators, Brandon Winters and Erick Martinez. Upon entry into the apartment, case agents located Rijo, Winters, and Martinez, approximately 1,500 "bricks" (the equivalent of roughly 75,000 individual dosage units) containing mixtures of heroin and fentanyl. Additionally, case agents seized over $250,000 in U.S. Currency, which was found in and around Mr. Rijo and his coconspirators. The Court was further advised that Rijo, an alien from the Dominican Republic, was previously deported from the United States in 1993, 2003, and 2018, and that he subsequently re-entered the United States prior to his apprehension on January 30, 2019, in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, without authorization from the appropriate government officials.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Nov. 24, 2020, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome A. Moschetta and Tonya Sulia Goodman are 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 Rijo.

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced the creation of a new anti-human trafficking coalition, Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies as well as non-governmental organizations.

Operation T.E.N. serves as an umbrella coalition for the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and is a coordinated effort aimed at ending human trafficking through education, improving cooperation among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, and will enhance our ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

"Human trafficking is an affront to human dignity," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "It is a form of modern-day slavery that knows no race, gender, age or border. Operation T.E.N.’s collaborative approach will tighten the net around human traffickers by providing a truly intergovernmental, coordinated approach to investigating and prosecuting these predators and their networks. Equally important, it will also ensure that survivors can more easily and directly access the services they need for a healthy, safe recovery."

"The FBI depends on our partnerships to help us protect communities," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "We will work with our partners at every level to take those responsible for this heinous crime off our streets. It’s our priority to identify and recover child victims of human trafficking. They are some of the most vulnerable members of our community who have been physically and emotionally abused and don’t see a way out. We want them to know there is a way to start rebuilding their lives and human trafficking will not be tolerated."

"Human trafficking is a corrosive and degrading practice that goes against both the rule of law and the most basic standards of human dignity. Homeland Security Investigations is excited about the formation of the newly formed Operation T.E.N. Coalition, dedicated to ending human trafficking, and we look forward to expanding our role in the community by promoting partnerships with private and public entities," said David Abbate, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for HSI Pittsburgh. "We are confident that we can affect change with our victim-centric approach to investigations, where equal value is placed on the identification and stabilization of victims, as well as the investigation and prosecution of suspects."

Combatting human trafficking is currently one of the Department of Justice’s highest priorities nationally and in our community. As part of the strategy, Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski, who is an experienced prosecutor and serves as the Human Trafficking Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s office, will oversee Operation T.E.N. and community outreach, serving as a resource that members of our community can utilize to directly access the United States Attorney’s Office regarding human trafficking.

ERIE, Pa. – Two residents of Erie, Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Rodney Domanick Evans, 30, and Lindsey Michelle Thompson, 36, as defendants.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about December 19, 2019, Evans and Thompson conspired to distribute and distributed 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Erie County Detective Bureau, Erie Police Department and the Millcreek 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, PA – Two residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The six-count Indictment named Anthony Costanzo, age 31, of Carnegie, Pennsylvania and Durrell Waters, age 37, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, Costanzo and Waters were charged in eleven counts for conspiring with others to sell stolen goods through their business, called Trader Electronics, which sold used electronics and a wide variety of drug store type health and beauty aids and over the counter medications over the internet. Costanzo and Waters were charged with a criminal conspiracy, a wire fraud scheme for delivering stolen goods through the mail and receiving the proceeds through electronic funds transfers and money laundering with regard to their handling of the proceeds of the stolen goods.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to five years for the conspiracy count, up to 20 years on each wire fraud count and up to 10 years on each money laundering count. The statutes each also carry a fine provision of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township and Shaler Township also assisted in the overall investigation.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Gloria Anderson, age 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on June 26, 2020, Anderson robbed the Dollar Bank in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, and was arrested by City of Pittsburgh Police upon exiting the bank.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 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 sentenced in federal court to 36 months’ imprisonment and two years’ supervised release on his conviction of aggravated identity theft and use of counterfeit access devices, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Cheron Tucker, 23, formerly of Pittsburgh.

According to information presented to the court, on December 31, 2018, Tucker rented six rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn at 250 Forbes Avenue in Pittsburgh using a counterfeit debit card and a counterfeit New Jersey driver’s license, with a photograph of the defendant and the name and date of birth of another individual. The charge for the hotel rental was $2,435.40. Additionally, on March 17, 2019, the defendant rented a Lincoln Continental with a counterfeit credit card and New Jersey driver’s license in the same name. The rental agreement charge was $785.56. The court was further informed that Tucker also accepted responsibility for five counts of charges related to identity theft, and that the defendant is accountable for a loss of at least $15,000. Tucker has a lengthy criminal history that includes violent conduct, narcotics and firearms offenses, theft, resisting arrest, fleeing from police, and possessing firearms while on probation.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tucker.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A citizen of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of illegally entering the United States, and was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Margarito Macias-Perez a/k/a Misael Deleon, 53.

According to information presented to the court, on July 9, 2019, the defendant was arrested for a DUI by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. He later failed to appear for a hearing related to the DUI, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. As the defendant had entered the country illegally, and had previously been removed from the United States on four separate occasions, the matter was brought to the attention the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement, who arrested him on January 9, 2020.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Macias-Perez.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Gregory Samuel Mancini, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from January 2015 to January 2020, Mancini received and possessed computer images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, Mancini travelled to Georgia from Erie, Pennsylvania for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with another person.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 70 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Mitchell Johnson, age 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Johnson was found to be in possession of a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 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.

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

The one-count Indictment named Aaron Pirl, age 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Pirl was found to be in possession of a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 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.

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

Ronika Somerville, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. The defendant acknowledged her responsibility for the distribution of six grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Ms. Somerville was one of 37 defendants charged in the original Indictment and is one of 22 defendants charged in the Superseding Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Intercepted communications revealed that Ronika Somerville was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Specifically, Ms. Somerville conducted narcotics transactions on behalf of her brother and codefendant, Ronald Williams, by obtaining the drugs from stash locations and physically distributing heroin and fentanyl to customers.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Ms. Somerville remains on bond pending sentencing.

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.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - A Blair County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate transmission of an extortion communication, production and attempted production and receipt and attempted receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and transfer of obscene material to a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 16-count Indictment, returned on July 8 and unsealed today, named Jacob Kolonis, age 27, of Duncansville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, in August of 2019, and on November 22, 2019, November 28, 2019, and February 5 through 7, 2020, Kolonis knowingly transmitted threatening communications to seven minor females with the intent to extort them. On November 22, 2019, November 28, 2019, and February 5 through 7, 2020, in addition to communicating threats with the intent to extort, Kolonis attempted to produce and produced live video depictions of the sexual exploitation of three of the minor females located in Ohio and in the Western District of Pennsylvania, attempted to receive and received material depicting their sexual exploitation, and transferred and attempted to transfer obscene material to them.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and not more than life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the South Fayette Township 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 – A resident of Blair County, 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, returned on July 8, named Jesse Daniel Ginter, 39, of Williamsburg, PA 16693, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 12, 2018, Ginter unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute furanyl fentanyl, methoxyacetyl fentanyl, cyclopropyl fentanyl, U-47700, AMB-Fubinaca, carfentanil, fentanyl, marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of multiple firearms,

For Ginter’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, 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 David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations; Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

• Indictment

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Fayette County, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Wire Fraud and False Income Tax Returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cynthia L. Demniak, 60, of Leckrone, PA, pleaded guilty to 11 counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Demniak, in her position as office manager for Grandview Medical Management located in Uniontown, PA, between 2013 and 2018 embezzled approximately $926,940 from her employer, which she used for personal expenses and to satisfy a gambling addiction. The court was also advised that for tax years 2013 through 2018, Demniak materially underreported the embezzled income from Grandview Medical Center on her federal income tax returns, totaling nearly $270,426 in restitution owed to the IRS.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 19, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 118 years in prison, a fine of $2,750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service are conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cynthia L. Demniak.

PITTSBURGH - A Clearfield County woman waived indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of aiding and assisting in the preparation or filing of a false income tax return, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Kathy Billotte, age 59, of Frenchville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Billotte was a tax return preparer and operated a tax return preparation business known as "K B Tax Services" in Clearfield County. She falsified annual income tax returns prepared for at least 15 individuals during the period 2013 through 2017, ensuring the individuals received tax refunds to which they were not entitled. Specifically related to the offense to which she pleaded guilty, Billotte prepared and filed on February 26, 2016, a 2015 federal income tax return for a taxpayer identified as "T.G." on which she falsely and fraudulently reported that he/she operated a private business and incurred business expenses, as well as inflated unreimbursed business expenses and charitable donations. The total tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service or all 15 clients was $196,105.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for November 18, 2020, at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Billotte was released on bond pending sentencing in the case.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Billotte.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production and attempted production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The five-count Indictment, returned on June 3, 2020, named Joey Leroy Barton, age 49, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from February 18, 2019 until on or about November 10, 2019, Barton coerced and induced a child victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct and, on March 28, 2019 and on April 10, 2019, Barton received digital images depicting the sexual exploitation of the minor.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than life in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, the Roseville (Minnesota) Police Department, and the North Strabane Police Department 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 – A suburban Pittsburgh man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating federal firearms and explosives laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The five-count Indictment, returned on July 14, named Kurt Cofano, 32, of Whitehall, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on July 9 and July 10, 2020, Cofano was found to be in possession of unregistered destructive devices. Also, the Indictment alleges that on those same dates, Cofano, an unlawful user of a controlled substance, was in possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance. The Indictment further alleges that from May 2020 through July 2020, Cofano knowingly and unlawfully and without registering and obtaining approval made destructive devices.

"Kurt Cofano stands accused of illegally possessing multiple completed destructive devices, the components for making additional destructive devices, and a dozen firearms all in violation of federal law," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "I commend the excellent work of the investigators and the prowess of our prosecutors to take this case from incident to indictment in just five days. In serious cases like this, justice will be certain and swift."

"We are committed to keeping our communities safe," said acting Special Agent in Charge John Schmidt, ATF Philadelphia Field Division. "This investigation is a perfect demonstration of how ATF combats violent crime by partnering with our local, state and federal counterparts in this case the Whitehall and Mt. Lebanon Police Departments, the Allegheny County and Pittsburgh Police Bomb Squads and the Federal Bureau of Investigation."

"This investigation successfully disrupted a very real threat," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Christman. "A mix of unstable, homemade manufactured explosives, large amounts of ammo and a person who has already made threats to inflict harm is an extremely dangerous combination. The FBI will always rally together with the ATF and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to take anyone who presents a threat to our community off our streets."

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 50 years in prison, a fine of not more than $750,000, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The Mt. Lebanon Police Department, the Whitehall Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police provided substantial assistance with the investigation.

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 - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months’ imprisonment, followed by four years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Brandon Morris a/k/a Bopp, age 35, of Butler, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, in June 2016, Pennsylvania State Police arranged for a confidential informant (CI) to buy crack and heroin from Mark Carter. Carter arranged for Brandon Morris to meet the CI. In exchange for $2,000 in pre-recorded funds, Morris gave the CI 3 bricks of heroin and ½ of an ounce of crack.

On June 28, 2016, troopers executed a search warrant on Morris’ residence located on E. Brady Street in Butler, PA. Carter was also staying at the residence. Troopers recovered a plastic bag containing 39.57g of raw heroin, a plastic bag containing 119.36g of crack cocaine, individual packets of heroin, $7,612.00, including pre-recorded funds, a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition (3 shells), and various items of drug paraphernalia. Due to a prior felony conviction, Morris is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti 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 Morris.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Quintine Scales was sentenced to 30 months in prison for fentanyl and heroin trafficking in September 2019 while on state parole and probation for prior heroin trafficking and gun crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Scales, 35, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab ordered Scales’s federal prison sentence to be served consecutively to any state parole or probation revocation sentence. Judge Schwab also ordered Scales to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the United States Marshals Service, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The six-count Indictment named Milton I. Barr, age 33, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, Barr was charged in six counts for conspiring with others to sell stolen goods through his business, called Ninja Electronics, which sold used electronics and a wide variety of drug store type health and beauty aids and over the counter medications over the internet. Barr was charged with a criminal conspiracy, a mail fraud scheme for delivering stolen goods through the mail, and money laundering with regard to his handling of the proceeds of the stolen goods.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to five years for the conspiracy count, up to 20 years on each wire fraud count and up to 10 years on each money laundering count. The statutes in question each also carry a fine provision of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township and Shaler Township also assisted in the overall investigation.

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

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the Pamunkey Regional Jail in Hanover, Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of failure to register under SORNA, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Jeremy Christopher Ester, 40, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, Ester knowingly failed to update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named William Anthony Eldridge, 56, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about May 18, 2020, Eldridge possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon.

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 Erie Police Department and the Erie Law Enforcement Crime Task Force-Gun Working Group conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The Erie Law Enforcement Crime Task Force-Gun Working Group is a multi-agency taskforce consisting of federal, state, county and local law enforcement partners and agencies that formed in 2015 to combat gun violence in the Erie area.

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.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the Fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Sewickley, PA, has been sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, following his guilty plea on charges of tax evasion, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

According to the information presented to the court, Mark Stanford evaded payment of both his personal income taxes and the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes that he should have paid by virtue of owning and operating a cleaning business during the period 2009 through 2013. At the same time he was evading the payment of his tax obligations he made large personal expenditures (such as Bentley and Mercedes Benz automobiles).

United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Stanford to two years (24 months) in prison, a $4000 fine, three years of supervised release (upon his release from prison) and Stanford was ordered to pay more than $330,000 in back taxes.

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment, plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH - Nico Nixon was sentenced to 7 years (84 months) in prison for committing fentanyl and heroin trafficking and firearm crimes while on supervised release following a prior conviction for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Nixon, 29, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Earlier this year, Nixon pled guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, on August 3, 2019.

Nixon was previously convicted in federal court in 2012 for conspiring to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin. He was sentenced to 87 months in prison at that time. In 2015, his prison sentence was reduced by 16 months as a result of across-the-board retroactive reductions to the sentencing guideline ranges for drug trafficking crimes.

Nixon was on federal supervised release in 2019 when he committed the additional fentanyl and heroin trafficking and firearm crimes for which he was sentenced. Judge Schwab imposed a 12-month consecutive prison sentence for the violations of release conditions.

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

The Pittsburgh Police Bureau of Police, the United States Marshals Service, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentences in this case. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA -A former resident of Wilmerding, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on July 8, 2020 on his conviction of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence of 70 months imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release on Richard Coto-Wheat, 27.

According to information presented to the Court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Wells and other individuals were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh Region.

In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Wells, along with 32 others were indicted in June of 2019 by a federal grand jury in three separate, but related, Indictments.

As to Coto-Wheat, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that he was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 to 400 grams of heroin between August 2018 and May 2019. Coto-Wheat admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a member of “SCO.” On June 12, 2019, law enforcement executed both a search and arrest warrant at the defendant’s residence in Braddock and seized numerous items indicative of drug trafficking, including: scales, stamps, stamp pads, masks, strainers, suspected controlled substances as well as $456.00 in U.S. Currency.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the multi-agency team, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wolford. Partners in this investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies included the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Coalport, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Kenneth J. Selvage, 59, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from on or about January 24, 2020 to on or about January 25, 2020, Selvage was found in possession of a Mossberg .20 gauge shotgun and ten shells of ammunition. On June 16, 1999, Selvage was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Cambria County, Pennsylvania, of Escape, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.

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 is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led 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 Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Keevan Jackson, 21.

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. Intercepted communications as well as physical and electronic surveillance revealed that Mr. Jackson was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as a runner for co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith. Mr. Jackson accepted responsibility for distributing or possessing with intent to distribute 45 grams of fentanyl and heroin.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand 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 case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A citizen of India was sentenced in federal court for one count of conspiracy to import Schedule II and Schedule IV controlled substances, one count of conspiracy to smuggle misbranded drugs, and one count of international money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On July 7, 2020, Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak sentenced Jeetendra Harish Belani, a/k/a Jeetu, 37, of Nagpur, India, to time served followed by three years of supervised release. Belani has been detained for approximately 13 months following his arrest in the Czech Republic on June 3, 2019. Belani, who will be removed to India following his release from federal custody, was also ordered to forfeit $100,000.

During his plea hearing on December 9, 2019, Belani admitted that he operated a drug-distribution entity based in India called LeeHPL Ventures, as well as an associated website—www.leehpl.com. Between 2015 and 2019, Belani admitted that he and his co-conspirators, through LeeHPL Ventures, imported into the United States various drugs available only by prescription, including tapentadol, a Schedule II controlled substance, as well as tramadol, carisoprodol, and modafinil, all Schedule IV controlled substances. In addition, Belani admitted that between 2015 and mid-2017, he worked with two co-conspirators in the United States—William Kulakevich and Julia Fees—to unlawfully smuggle a drug known as etizolam into the United States so that Kulakevich and Fees could resell it via a website they operated—www.etizy.com. Etizolam is part of a class of drugs similar to benzodiazepines, which are often used to treat insomnia and anxiety and carry a potential for abuse and overdose. To evade detection by United States Customs and Border Protection officials, Belani admitted that he and his co-conspirators used false customs declarations that mischaracterized and undervalued the contents of packages sent to the United States by LeeHPL Ventures. In addition, Belani caused drug shipments to be broken into smaller quantities and shipped to multiple addresses to help ensure delivery and avoid interception by United States customs authorities. Likewise, Belani admitted that he caused co-conspirators to initiate payments totaling tens of thousands of dollars from accounts in the United States to accounts he controlled in India or in other locations outside the United States, all as a means to promote his continued efforts to smuggle drugs into the United States.

Belani was extradited to the United States following his arrest in the Czech Republic.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. The United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance during the investigation of this matter.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 87 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ernest Gill, 57, of Elizabeth, PA.

According to information presented to the court, on July 20, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Gill’s residence and recovered a Samsung cell phone, which contained a collection of child pornography. A subsequent search of Gill’s Dropbox and Yahoo accounts also revealed child pornography. In addition to possessing child pornography, the Court was informed that Gill distributed child pornography via Skype, Chatsetp, Dropbox and email.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney Investigations Unit, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gill.