Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Charleroi Man Indicted on Charges Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
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.
Suburban Pittsburgh Man Charged with Violating Federal Firearms and Explosives LawsRead the Press Release
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.
Butler Felon Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
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 Parolee Sentenced for Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
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.
Ninja Electronics Owner Charged with Conspiring to Sell Stolen Goods, Mail Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
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.
Jail Inmate Charged with Failing to Update His Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
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 Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal 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.
Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
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.
Drug Felon Sentenced to 7 Years for Committing Drug and Gun Crimes while on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
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.
“SCO” Gang Member Sentenced to 70 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
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.
Clearfield County Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Shotgun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
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 Man, 21, Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Running Drugs for DS44 Neighborhood GangRead the Press Release
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.
Indian Businessman Sentenced for Drug Importation, Smuggling, and International Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
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.
Elizabeth Man Sentenced for Possession of Material Depicting Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
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.
Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine from Philadelphia to PittsburghRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two men – one from New Jersey and the other from Florida - have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions for violating federal drug laws related to their trafficking of kilograms of cocaine from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed a sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment on Danny Jackson, 33, of Pine Hill, NJ, and a sentence of five years’ imprisonment on Moussa Jabateh, 32, a citizen of Liberia who was residing in Miami, FL. Senior Judge Ambrose also ordered Jabateh’s removal from the United States to Liberia following the completion of his sentence.
According to information presented to the court, from October 2017 through July 2018, Jackson, Jabateh, and their co-conspirators conspired to distribute between 50 to 150 kilograms of cocaine in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Jabateh obtained the supply of cocaine, and Jackson physically transported kilograms of cocaine via bus from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh roughly twice a month for the nine-month period. In connection with this investigation, the United States seized nearly $8,000,000 in cash and other assets; 42 kilograms of cocaine; 12 kilograms of fentanyl; three kilograms of heroin; and 121 grams of oxycodone.
Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Ambrose stated that the sentences for each defendant were sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Mark V. Gurzo prosecuted these cases on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, which includes the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Wilkinsburg Police Department, and the Allegheny County Adult Probation Office, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutions of Jackson and Jabateh.
Floridian Guilty of Counterfeit Check Scheme Sentenced to Prison, Ordered to Pay $962KRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Florida, has been sentenced in federal court to 41 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release, and ordered to pay $962,840.47 on his conviction of conspiracy to pass counterfeit checks and possession of stolen mail, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Marylyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Brian Omar Campbell a/k/a Vincent Hugo a/k/a Troy Crimson on July 7, 2020.
According to information presented to the court, Campbell and two conspirators flew to Pittsburgh in October 2017 and rented a motel room in North Fayette Township. Afterwards, the group stole outgoing mail from residential mailboxes and opened the mail. If the mail contained a check, they prepared counterfeit checks using the account information from the purloined check. They then used the counterfeit checks to purchase merchandise from stores located in and around the Mall at Robinson. The conspirators targeted national chains with the intention of obtaining a cash refund for ill-gotten merchandise at counterpart stores located in another state. Campbell’s sentence under federal guidelines called for a term of imprisonment of between 41 and 51 months. Based on Campbell’s criminal history and the serious nature of the offense, the government requested a sentence within the advisory range. Campbell requested a lesser sentence based on his health. At the sentencing hearing, the government opposed this request on the basis of the risk of recidivism Campbell posed.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Horan denied Campbell’s request and imposed a sentence within the advisory range.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and North Fayette Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Campbell.
California Man Charged with Mailing Fentanyl Pills to PARead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of California has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Victor Daniel Gutierrez, 47, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, between May 28, 2020 and June 8, 2020, Gutierrez conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. The charge is based on an intercepted United States Mail parcel that Gutierrez shipped to Pennsylvania from California containing approximately 340 grams of fentanyl pills.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Charged with Knowingly Selling Stolen MerchandiseRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Two residents of Windber and Johnstown, Pa., were indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of conspiracy and interstate transportation of stolen property, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The Indictment named Bradley J. Charlton, 37, of Windber, Pa., and John P. Stuart, 38, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from Aug. 1, 2016, to Oct. 3, 2018, the named defendants conspired with one another, and with others, to commit certain offenses against the United States, that is, to unlawfully transport, transmit and transfer in interstate commerce goods, wares and merchandise knowing the same to have been stolen, converted, and taken by fraud.
It was part of the conspiracy that the defendants operated a retail plea market "Value-It" in Richland Township between 2016 and 2018. It was further part of the conspiracy that customers would bring stolen new merchandise to Value-It for purchase by the defendants. It was further part of the conspiracy that the defendants would purchase the stolen new merchandise, knowing it had been stolen. It was further part of the conspiracy that the stolen merchandise that had been purchased from the customers by Value-It was thereafter sold by Value-It at the store or over the Internet on websites such as Ebay. It was further part of the conspiracy that Value-It would receive monetary payments for the stolen merchandise that had been sold over the Internet.
Assistant U.S. Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, the Cambria County Detective Bureau, and the Richland 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.
Three Plead Guilty in Heroin Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Three Pittsburgh residents pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Corey Barlow, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Leigh Fiumara, 43, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Jennifer Blumling, 32, of Pitcairn, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute heroin from September of 2018 through October of 2019. In 2018 the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a heroin trafficking organization operating throughout the greater Pittsburgh area of which Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling were members. Beginning in February of 2019 and continuing through September of 2019, the FBI initiated a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling were intercepted communicating with their codefendants about acquiring quantities of heroin, prices of heroin, and the purity of the heroin. Through extensive physical and electronic surveillance, Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling were observed meeting with their co-conspirators to conduct heroin transactions.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling on November 17, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.; November 18, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.; and November 19, 2020 at 10:30 a.m., respectively. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Barlow, Fiumara, and Blumling.
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.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to More Time for Role in Prison Drug RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Quoc Boa Trinh was sentenced to eight 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.
Trinh, age 40, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the prison sentence Trinh was serving at the time of the crime. Judge Ranjan also directed that Trinh serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Trinh was incarcerated at the federal prison at Otisville, New York, 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. Trinh was incarcerated as a result of several prior convictions in the District of Massachusetts for conspiring to distribute large quantities of MDMA and marijuana and for possessing firearms after a prior felony conviction.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
This 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.
Federal Inmate Indicted on Contraband ChargeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The Indictment named Gary McCrae, 50, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on November 13, 2019, McCrae possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment of McCrae.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Altoona Man Indicted for Receiving and Possessing Images and Videos Showing the Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – On July 7, a resident of Altoona, Pa. was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of receipt and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Matthew Michael Walter, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about August 21, 2019 and August 22, 2019, Walter received images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The Indictment further alleges that on another occasion,Walter knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. All computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
New Kensington Woman Pleads to Copyright Infringement ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of copyright, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Sherry Collingwood, age 60, of New Kensington, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from January 2014, and continuing until March 2017, Collingwood willfully infringed the copyright of one or more copyrighted works, to include "Blue Bloods," "Vikings," "Dexter," "True Blood," "Breaking Bad," and "Californication," and other television shows and motion pictures that have been released for sale to the public. She did this by reproducing and distributing for private financial gain, ten or more copies of one or more copyrighted works during a 180-day period. The copies have a total retail value of more than $2,500. .
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 29, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Collingwood.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting a Postal CarrierRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty today and was sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release on conviction of assaulting a federal employee, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Raheem Jackson, 28.
According to the information presented to the court, on December 31, 2018, Jackson struck the victim, R.F., in the head with a hand railing as R.F delivered mail for the United States Postal Service. R.F. lost consciousness and suffered bleeding to the brain. Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Ambrose emphasized the severity of the offense.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo are prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service conducted the investigation of Jackson.
Next Step Recovery Owner Pleads to Distributing Heroin to His Rehab Clients and Preparing False Returns for Customers of His Tax FirmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – David Francis of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. He also waived prosecution by indictment and entered a plea of guilty to a five-count Information charging him with assisting in the filing of fraudulent federal income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Francis, 69, pleaded guilty to one drug count and five tax counts before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Francis was the owner and operator of Next Step Recovery Housing, LLC, a purported drug rehabilitation center, located in McKees Rocks, PA. While operating Next Step Recovery Housing, the defendant also conspired to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin with suppliers from New York City from November 2016 through February 2017. Francis redistributed the heroin that he obtained from the New York suppliers to his own customers, many of whom were current or former clients of Next Step Recovery Housing. During the same timeframe, Francis was also the owner and operator of All Personal Matters, an income tax return preparation business. Through All Personal Matters, Francis aided in the preparation and filing of fraudulent federal income tax returns on behalf of clients of All Personal Matters, resulting in a loss to the Internal Revenue Service of $1,681,607.54.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for November 4, 2020. For the drug charge, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. For the tax charges, the law provides for a total sentence at each count of not more than three years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Ingram Borough Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and Monaca Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Francis.
Judge Sentences New Jersey Drug Dealer to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Camden, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison and four years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Jamel T. Brown, 38.
According to information presented to the court, on October 25, 2018, Brown and a co-conspirator distributed more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack," and possessed with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Brown.
Arizona Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Facilitating Mexico to Pittsburgh Cocaine PipelineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Krystian Zarate was sentenced to 10 years (120 months) in prison for conspiring to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Zarate, 28, of Rio Rico, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan ordered Zarate to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Zarate was a member of an international drug trafficking conspiracy that extended from Mexico to Pittsburgh as well as to locations in the New York City area and New Jersey. He was a conduit between a Mexican supplier and American drug traffickers. Between August and October 2018 alone, he coordinated the supply of nearly 50 kilograms of cocaine to Western Pennsylvania and forwarded hundreds of thousands of dollars of drug trafficking proceeds to Mexico.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
This 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 Man Charged with Arson for Setting Fire to Unmarked Police Vehicle during May 30 Pittsburgh ProtestsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A federal criminal complaint was filed today charging Devin Montgomery, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with malicious destruction of property using fire or explosives. During a May 30, 2020 gathering of protesters, Montgomery allegedly set fire to an unmarked Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (PBP) vehicle near the Fifth Avenue entrance to PPG Paints Arena.
"Setting a police car on fire is a federal crime, and one that we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law," said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. "This is part of our commitment to protect First Amendment rights. Peaceful protesters embody those rights and have the full protections of federal law. The people who choose to disrupt those protests with violence and destruction will face prosecution."
"The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continues to work diligently toward securing public safety," said acting Special Agent in Charge John Schmidt, ATF Philadelphia Field Division. "Setting fire to a law enforcement vehicle is never acceptable, even in these unprecedented times. The arrest of Devin Montgomery will undoubtedly send a message that violent acts will be investigated and prosecuted. ATF, with the assistance of our local and state partners in this case the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, is dedicated to protecting the public from violent crime."
"The vast majority of protests and protesters in Pittsburgh over the past month have been peaceful, and we are committed to respecting peaceful protesters' First Amendment rights," Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said. "To the small group of people who choose to hijack the overall peaceful message of these protests: You will be held accountable. We will review all evidence and vigorously investigate any and all violence committed at protests through the Damage Assessment and Accountability Taskforce (DAAT). Simply put: Violence will not be tolerated, by us or any of our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal levels."
The criminal complaint alleges that on the afternoon of May 30, 2020, a public protest was occurring in downtown Pittsburgh in the area of PPG Paints Arena following the death of George
Floyd of Minneapolis Minnesota. At around 5:15 p.m., a crowd was marching down Washington Place toward Fifth Avenue. Upon reaching PBP Unit 3F04, numerous individuals began to inflict damage and access the interior of the vehicle. One of the first individuals to approach Unit 3F04 was a black male wearing a #84 Antonio Brown Steelers jersey, blue jeans and dark colored shoes. The man also wore a dark colored bandana type of face mask covering the lower portion of his face as well as a black beanie on his head. Shortly thereafter, the man can be seen on video next to the rear passenger door, standing next to a person dressed in all black whose face is covered with a mask, and who is wearing a lighter colored backpack. The man and the masked individual interact briefly with each other, as they each appear to be igniting items in their hands. Within seconds, the man in the Antonio Brown jersey and the masked individual each toss an ignited item into the rear passenger compartment of Unit 3F04, which results in an interior fire that eventually spreads and destroys the vehicle. The man can be seen quickly moving away from the unmarked Unit after setting it on fire. Other video footage from later that afternoon and evening captures the man in the Antonio Brown jersey walking in the downtown area.
On June 17, 2020, the PBP posted several photos of the man in the Antonio Brown jersey on the PBP Facebook page with a request for members of the public to come forward with information to assist in identifying him. On June 18, 2020, the PBP received tips from two separate individuals. Both callers identified the man in the Antonio Brown jersey as Devin Montgomery.
Investigators then obtained a Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles driver’s license photograph of Devin Montgomery. In late June, ATF Special Agents identified a possible girlfriend of Devin Montgomery and conducted surveillance on her residence. ATF Special Agents observed an individual dressed in green pants and a black short sleeve t-shirt exit this residence with his face clearly exposed. This individual was positively identified as Devin Montgomery.
The PBP receive federal grant funds in excess of $10,000 as required under the federal arson statute.
Montgomery was taken into federal custody this afternoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He made an initial appearance by video teleconference today before Chief Magistrate Judge Maureen P. Kelly in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
If convicted, Montgomery faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Criminal Complaint and Affidavit Criminal Complaint and AffidavitWestmoreland County Man Charged with Possessing FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH,- A resident of Adamsburg, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on June 23, named Chad Caye, age 22, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on February 12, 2020, Caye was found to be in possession of 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, a period of supervised release of at least 4 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Shawn Frank was sentenced to 120 months in prison for fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine trafficking crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
On June 25, 2020, Frank, 42, of McKees Rocks, was sentenced by United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone also sentenced Frank to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Frank pled guilty earlier this year to distributing quantities of fentanyl and heroin in 2016 and conspiring to distribute cocaine in 2018. He was on state parole between 2016 and 2018 following a five to ten year prison sentence that was imposed in 2011 for possession with intent to deliver heroin. Prior to Frank’s federal convictions this year, he had been convicted of drug trafficking, most often involving cocaine or heroin, seven times in seven prior state prosecutions during the preceding 20 years.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case.
Two Defendants Sentenced in Multi-Million Dollar Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
On June 24, 2020, United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Larita Walls, 57, to five years of probation, including twelve months of home detention, and Tionne Street, 48, to three years of probation, including six months of home detention, for their roles in a years-long conspiracy. Walls and Street were also ordered to pay restitution to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in the amounts of $56,738.28 and $31,181.61, respectively.
In connection with their guilty pleas, the defendants admitted that between 2011 and 2017 they were employees of Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), one of four related entities operating in the home health care industry. The other three entities were Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS). MCI, ADL, and CCI were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients ("consumers"), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. Between in and around January 2011 and in and around April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for these services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount.
During that time, Walls and Street admitted that they participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims. As part of the conspiracy, Walls and Street admitted that they fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, they never provided to the consumers identified on the timesheets. Some of the fabricated care occurred while Street was, in fact, working for a different employer. Walls further admitted that she caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of "ghost" employees—close relatives—for PAS care that did not occur. Likewise, Walls admitted that she paid kickbacks to a consumer in exchange for the consumer’s participation in the fraudulent billing scheme. In total, Walls and Street admitted causing losses to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in excess of $180,000 and $70,000, respectively.
To date, twelve defendants have pleaded guilty for their roles in the conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation of the defendants.
Nine Indicted for Dealing Multiple Drugs in Butler County, including near Schools and PlaygroundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Nine Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine trafficking in the Butler County area, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
"Today, we dismantled a significant Philadelphia-to-Butler drug organization whose pipeline brought fentanyl, heroin and cocaine into Butler communities, including near neighborhood playgrounds and schools," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Our successful partnerships with the Pennsylvania State Police and Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger and his Drug Task Force have allowed us to take the fight against illegal drugs to all of our communities, including our small towns and rural communities. We want drug dealers to know there is nowhere for them to set up shop in western Pennsylvania."
Major Stephen K. Eberle of the Pennsylvania State Police said, "This was a lengthy investigation involving a partnership between the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Butler County Drug Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office. The involved troopers, agents, officers and attorneys worked tirelessly to disrupt and ultimately dismantle a large drug trafficking network responsible for distributing a significant quantity of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine throughout the Butler County region. The Pennsylvania State Police, along with our federal and local partners, remain committed to combating this type of illegal drug activity plaguing our neighborhoods and communities."
"These arrests send a clear message to all of those involved in illegal drug activity," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Christman. "The FBI will never stop investigating and arresting those responsible for harming our communities. The drugs seized today can and do lead to dangerous consequences. I commend the work of our Opiate Overdose Task Force, along with our federal, state and local partners, who are committed to eradicating drugs and the violence they bring with them. It doesn't matter whether it's a major metropolitan area or a rural neighborhood, drug dealers don't have a place in our community."
"Thanks to a joint investigation between the FBI, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Butler County Drug Task Force, high level suppliers of heroin and cocaine were indicted and arrested today in Butler County and other areas in Western Pennsylvania," added Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger. "This collaborative effort will put a serious dent in drug trafficking in Butler County, making our community a safer place to live and work. I want to thank all of the law enforcement officers who were part of this investigation. These officers selflessly placed themselves in harm’s way for the overall betterment of Butler County."
The 27-count Indictment, returned on June 9 and unsealed today, charges Qureem Overton, Bobby Askew, Jasmine Cook, Damion Fray, Ricardo Glenn, Jamir Hughes, Nasir Sharpe, Dwayne Smallwood, and Braden Yartz in Count 1 with conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, 10 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl, a quantity of cocaine, and a quantity of cocaine base from January 2017 to June 2020. Counts 2, 7-12, 19, and 21-27 charge the defendants with distributing those controlled substances. Counts 3-6, 13-18, and 20 of the Indictment charge several of the defendants with distributing the controlled substances within 1,000 feet of schools and playgrounds.
Overton, age 39, Askew, age 38, Fray, age 22, Glenn, age 28, Hughes, age 19, Sharpe, age 22, and Smallwood, age 41, have had Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Butler, Pennsylvania, residences. Cook, age 30, has resided in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. Yartz, age 28, has resided in Lyndora, Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison for the conspiracy crime charged in Count 1 of the Indictment and a fine of up to $5,000,000. The law also provides for a maximum total sentence for each of Counts 2, 7-12, 19, and 21-27 of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. In addition, the law provides for a maximum total sentence for each of Counts 3-6, 13-18, and 20 of at least one year and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories of the defendants.
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’s Opiate Overdose Task Force and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force led the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York City Businessman Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Edgeworth, Pennsylvania resident pleaded guilty today to tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
"The Department of Justice and my office are strongly committed to promoting compliance with federal tax laws," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "The IRS undertook significant efforts to bring Britton into compliance with the tax laws and to collect his unpaid tax liabilities. Britton’s conviction and potential penalties should serve as a stern warning to would-be offenders that violations can and will lead to consequences, including fines and potentially jail time."
According to court documents and statements made in court, Dean Britton worked in the New York City real estate industry negotiating high-dollar-value commercial ground leases. After Britton was contacted by the IRS regarding unfiled tax returns, from 2013 to 2017, Britton delinquently filed several years’ worth of returns reporting that he owed more than $1.1 million in outstanding taxes. Britton did not pay the taxes he acknowledged he owed. Instead, he evaded his taxes by placing the title to his personal residence in his wife’s name, using business bank accounts to pay his personal expenses, and directing income into new personal bank accounts he established after the IRS levied his prior account. During these years, Britton spent more than $1.46 million on personal expenses, including approximately $770,000 on real estate purchases, $240,000 in home rentals, $165,000 on financing an art gallery operated by his wife, $ 96,000 in home renovations, $74,000 in travel, $65,000 in country club expenses, and $50,000 in private school tuition.
U.S. District Judge Nora Fischer scheduled sentencing for Nov. 5, 2020. At sentencing, Britton faces a maximum sentence of five years. Britton also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Brady commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kimberly Ang of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn Bloch, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website
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.
New York City Businessman Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
An Edgeworth, Pennsylvania resident pleaded guilty today to tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Dean Britton worked in the New York City real estate industry negotiating high-dollar-value commercial ground leases. After Britton was contacted by the IRS regarding unfiled tax returns, from 2013 to 2017, Britton delinquently filed several years’ worth of returns reporting that he owed more than $1.1 million in outstanding taxes. Britton did not pay the taxes he acknowledged he owed. Instead, he evaded his taxes by placing the title to his personal residence in a nominee name, using business bank accounts to pay his personal expenses, and directing income into new personal bank accounts he established after the IRS levied his prior account. During these years, Britton spent more than $1.46 million on personal expenses, including approximately $770,000 on real estate purchases, $240,000 in home rentals, $96,000 in home renovations, $74,000 in travel, $65,000 in country club expenses, and $50,000 in private school tuition.
U.S. District Judge Nora Fischer scheduled sentencing for Nov. 5, 2020. At sentencing, Britton faces a maximum sentence of five years. Britton also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Brady commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kimberly Ang of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn Bloch, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted for Possessing Destructive DevicesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Matthew Michanowicz, 52, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about May 31, 2020, Michanowicz knowingly and unlawfully possessed firearms, that is, three destructive devices, which were not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. A Criminal Complaint filed previously alleges Michanowicz was responsible for planting a backpack with homemade explosives at 2 PNC Plaza in downtown Pittsburgh on May 31, 2020.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Superseding Indictment named Raymont Wright, 50, as the sole defendant.
According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about July 24, 2014, Raymont Wright, who has previously been convicted two times of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and once of Aggravated Assault, was found to be in possession of a 9 millimeter pistol. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life 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 Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crimes. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
North Versailles Men Indicted in Fraud Scheme that Used Credit and Debit Card Numbers of OthersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of North Versailles, PA, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank and access device fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count Indictment, returned on June 17, and unsealed today, named Matthew Holmes, 27, and Justin Livingston, 27, both of North Versailles, PA, as defendants.
According to the Indictment, from in and around July 2018, and continuing thereafter until in and around September 2018, Holmes and Livingston conspired to commit bank fraud and access device fraud. Additionally, during the same time frame, Holmes and Livingston are alleged to have used and attempted to use credit and debit card numbers belonging to other people and as a result, obtained goods valued at more than $1,000.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indictment- Indictment
Natrona Heights Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possessing Sexually Exploitive MaterialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jack Ulrich, Jr., age 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 12, 2018, Ulrich, Jr., unlawfully possessed more than 100 photographs and videos in computer graphics files, which depicted minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years, engaged in sexually explicit conduct. At the time of the offense, Ulrich was a registered sex offender, having been convicted in 2006 of a sex offense involving minors in the Court of Common Pleas of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Ulrich admitted to possessing and sharing the sexually exploitive material with other individuals using, among other applications, Chatous, Facebook, and Dropbox.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for August 13, 2020 at 10:45 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years or more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ulrich.
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.
Mercer County Man Facing Federal Drug and Gun Charges in Project Guardian CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Laron McKinnon, age 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, McKinnon was charged with possession with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and cocaine base. The Indictment further alleges that McKinnon possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking despite being prohibited from owning a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than Five years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,500,000.00, a term of supervised release of at least three years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case is 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 enhances coordination of federal, state, and local 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 Pennsylvania Instant Criminal Background Check System (PICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partner: the Drug Enforcement Administration. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indiana County Felon Indicted on Gun Charge in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Blairsville, Pennsylvania, 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 Justin McConnell, age 34, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, on October 2, 2019, while on probation for a prior felony conviction, McConnell’s parole officer found McConnell in possession of a 22 LR Caliber GSG pistol, with a loaded magazine containing ammunition. Due to his prior felony conviction, McConnell is not permitted to possess firearms or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (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. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Homestead Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Rahim Thomas, age 25, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on May 3, 2020, Thomas, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 Christopher M. Cook is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
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.
Department of Justice Announces $42 Million to Combat Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Methamphetamine and OpioidsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The Department of Justice‘s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) today announced nearly $42 million in funding to support state-level law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and prescription opioids.
United States Attorney Scott Brady announced the Pennsylvania State Police will receive $1,504,576.00 in funding to support investigations into trafficking in heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
"The trafficking of illegal opioids and methamphetamine remains a threat to the safety of all western Pennsylvanians," said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. "These critical funds will help our Pennsylvania State Police across the Commonwealth continue their work to stop the flow of opioids into our communities."
"The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities," said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. "By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis."
Drug overdose deaths and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase in the United States. Deaths from drug overdose are up among both men and women, all races, and adults of nearly all ages, with more than three out of five drug overdose deaths involving an opioid. More than 130 people die every day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, while methamphetamine continues to be one of the most commonly misused stimulant drugs in the world and is the drug that most contributes to violent crime.
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF).
AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multijurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
Through the COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP), the COPS Office is also awarding $12 million to 12 state law enforcement agencies. These state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished methamphetamine, laboratories, and laboratory dump seizures. State agencies are being awarded three years of funding through CAMP to support the location or investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, including precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine trafficking.
The AHTF and CAMP funding has a tremendous impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms. Similarly, for CAMP, grantees reported seizures of more than $7 million in cash and 1,577 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ahtf-award.
The complete list of COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/camp-award.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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.
Radiograph Technician on Natural Gas Pipeline Admits Falsifying Testing ResultsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Scottdale, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of providing a false writing or document to the government, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Joshua D. Springer, 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Springer was employed as a Level II Radiograph Technician and was responsible for performing nondestructive testing of pipeline welds for the Mariner East natural gas pipeline. The testing included taking, reviewing and certifying x-rays of the welds to insure their integrity. Springer, however, falsified the x-ray results on approximately 77 occasions because the original x-rays were flawed. Springer then certified in writing that the welds had been properly x-rayed and the exposures were acceptable when, in truth and fact, such certifications were false.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for August 24, 2020 at 1:30 pm. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court permitted Springer to remain free on an unsecured bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Transportation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Springer.
Greensburg Medical Lab Owner Pleads Guilty in $1.6M Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
William J. Hughes, 73, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Hughes owned and operated Universal Oral Fluid Labs (UOFL), a clinical drug testing laboratory located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. From October 2011 to August 2013, Hughes, through his lab UOFL, entered into kickbacks-for-referrals arrangement with the co-defendant. Pursuant to this arrangement, Hughes agreed to pay the co-defendant to refer patients, including patients who were covered under the Medicare Program and Kentucky Medicaid Program, to UOFL for drug testing services in exchange for cash payments. Between September 2012 and August 2013, UOFL obtained $1,672,422.84 from the Kentucky Medicaid Program based on these referrals.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 9, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Mamula is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Section conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hughes.
3 Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – Three men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Dominique Marquise Levye, 31, of Los Angeles, California, Elvin Martinez-Montero, 25, of Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Abenego Rodriguez-Suriel, 29, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as defendants.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from July 2019 to August 9, 2019, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. The charges relate to the seizure of over 30 pounds of methamphetamine concealed within a car that had been transported on a car hauler from California and was seized in the parking lot of the Presque Isle Downs and Casino in Erie, Pennsylvania on August 9, 2019.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $10,000,000, or both for each defendant. 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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations 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.
22 Western PA Residents Indicted on Drug and Firearms Charges Associated with Violent South Pittsburgh Gang, Darccide-Smash44Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twenty-two current and former residents of Western Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of narcotics trafficking and firearms violations following an investigation into drug trafficking and violence in and around the South Side neighborhood of Pittsburgh, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
"The drug and gun crime activity associated with local gangs threatens the safety of our law-abiding neighbors," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "My office will continue to make the identification and prosecution of these neighborhood thugs a priority until our communities are gang-free."
The Superseding Indictment, returned on June 15 and unsealed yesterday, names the following 22 individuals as defendants:
• Christopher Highsmith, 27, of Irwin, PA
• David Benson, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Lamont Benton, 24, of McKees Rocks, PA
• Jarrell Dawson, 21, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Perry Freeman, 19, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Lequay Fuller, 23, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Dontae Gilbert, 19, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Brandon Green, 35, Pittsburgh, PA
• Anthony Jetter, 31, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Henry Johnson, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Jonathan Laur, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Trevon McCrary, 25, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Danasia McNeal, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Willie Miller, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Michael Norman, 27, of Venetia, PA
• Devonte Parker, 25, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Jaimone Robinson, 20, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Ronika Somerville, 23, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Theresa Somerville, 50, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Raelynn Stevenson, 30, of West Mifflin, PA
• Ronald Williams, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Martel Yates, 31, of Pittsburgh, PA
The named conspirators include leaders, members, drug suppliers, and associates of a violent neighborhood gang known as Darccide-Smash44 ("DS44"), based out of the Knoxville, Arlington, and Mt. Oliver neighborhoods in the South Side. According to the Superseding Indictment, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute over one kilogram of heroin, at least 400 grams of fentanyl, as well as quantities of several fentanyl analogs, cocaine, and cocaine base, commonly known as crack, from January 2018 through June 2019. The Superseding Indictment further alleges individual firearms charges and/or drug trafficking violations against defendants Benson, Gilbert, McCrary, Miller, Parker, Robinson, and Stevenson.
For all defendants, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant.
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.
Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Brendan McKenna are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Twelve Indicted following Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force Investigation into Drug Trafficking in Pittsburgh and BeyondRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twelve defendants from Allegheny, Lawrence and Westmoreland Counties have been charged with drug trafficking following a months-long wiretap investigation into narcotics trafficking in the City of Pittsburgh and greater Allegheny County region, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. This Indictment is related to a larger investigation into the narcotics trafficking activities of the "11 Hunnit" neighborhood street gang operating in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh and beyond. A total of 22 defendants have been charged in four separate, but related, indictments stemming from this investigation.
"Every citizen in western Pennsylvania deserves to live in a community free from the violence and devastation created by drug trafficking," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "For too long, the "11 Hunnit" gang has terrorized the law-abiding residents of the City of Pittsburgh and the Hill District. Through the four indictments of 22 members and associates of "11 Hunnit," we have effectively dismantled this gang and its grip on our city."
The Indictment, returned on June 15 and unsealed today, charges the following individuals with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms grams or more of cocaine, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, from in and around November 2019, and continuing thereafter until in and around June 2020:
• Donald Epps, age 65, of New Kensington, PA;
• Michael Glenn, age 57, Pittsburgh, PA;
• Michael Turner, age 47, of Wampum, PA;
• Gary Wilkinson, age 56, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Dion Williams, age 44, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Ivan Upsher, age 58, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Gerald Bogan Jr., age 39, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Charles King, age 57, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Jeffrey Brown, age 50, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
• Michael Jones, age 69, of Monessen, PA.
The Indictment additionally charges Defendant Glenn and the following individuals with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (in the form commonly known as "crack") in the Western District of Pennsylvania, from in and around November 2019, and continuing thereafter until February 2020:
• Timothy Harris, age 57, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
• Giles Davis, age 60, of Pittsburgh, PA.
With respect to Defendants Epps, Glenn, Turner, Wilkinson, Williams, Upsher, Bogan, King Brown, and Jones, each of whom is charged with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both. With respect to Defendants Glenn, Harris and Davis, each of whom is charged with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (Bureau of Narcotics Investigations) led the multi-agency investigation that also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. This Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
Pittsburgh Man Named in PFA Indicted for Threats Made via Text and Phone CallsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of transmitting threats in interstate commerce, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on June 9, named William Jackson, age 48, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on August 2, 2019, Jackson sent a text message to an individual threatening to harm that individual; made a telephone call to the individual stating that he intended to kill one of the individual’s children; and made a telephone call to the individual stating that he intended to injure the individual’s parents. According to state court records, the target of Jackson’s threats had an active Protection from Abuse order against the defendant.
"One of my highest priorities is the investigation and prosecution of federal crimes related to domestic violence, including firearms violence and cyberstalking," said U.S. Attorney Brady, who has been a member of Attorney General William Barr’s Domestic Violence Working Group since June of 2019. "Abusers beware: I will use the tools of federal prosecution to stop and prevent domestic violence and to keep victims safe from abuse. I also want to thank the Bridgeville Police Department for actively pursuing this defendant’s conduct and bringing this case to our attention."
The law provides for a total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a $750,000 fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bridgeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Michigan Man Arrested for 2014 Hack of UPMC HR Databases and Theft of Employees’ Personal InformationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – The man who allegedly hacked the human resource databases of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and stole PII of over 65,000 UPMC employees was arrested Tuesday morning in Detroit, Michigan, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Justin Sean Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft associated with the 2014 hack of UPMC. Johnson is alleged to have then sold employees’ Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and W-2 information on the dark web, resulting in the filing of thousands of false IRS tax returns.
The 43-count indictment, returned on May 20 and unsealed today, named Justin Sean Johnson, a/k/a "TDS", a/k/a "DS", 29, originally from Michigan. Johnson made an initial appearance yesterday in Federal Court in the Eastern District of Michigan. The government intends to seek the detention of the defendant pending trial.
"Justin Johnson stands accused of stealing the names, Social Security numbers, addresses and salary information of every employee of Pennsylvania’s largest health care system," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "After his hack, Johnson then sold UPMC employees’ PII to buyers around the world on dark web marketplaces, who in turn engaged in massive campaign of further scams and theft. His theft left over 65,000 victims vulnerable to years of potential financial fraud. Hackers like Johnson should know that our office will pursue you relentlessly until you are in custody and held accountable for your crimes."
"Investigating identity theft and refund fraud cases is a priority for our office," said Tom Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "Unfortunately, through no fault of their own, the people whose identities are stolen in cases like this are often victimized repeatedly. Initially, they have to deal with the stress of knowing their personal information was stolen. Criminals then use the stolen information to file false tax returns, or they sell it to other criminals who use it to file false returns. This causes a hardship for the innocent victims when they try to file their own tax returns. Victims are then left to deal with credit issues caused by the unscrupulous actions of the criminals."
"This case is another example of the commitment of the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and our other law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice individuals who commit complex cyber fraud", said Timothy Burke, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office. "The healthcare sector has become an attractive target of cyber criminals looking to update personal information for use in fraud; the Secret Service is committed to detecting and arresting those that engage in crimes against our Nation’s critical systems for their own profit."
"This investigation was an excellent example of a partnership between law enforcement agencies, working together to bring down a nationwide fraud conspiracy. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing this individual and the other co-defendants in this case to justice," stated James Giehl, Acting Inspector in Charge.
According to the Indictment, Johnson, using a dark web moniker identified by an acronym in the Indictment as "TDS" or "DS" in 2014 infiltrated and "hacked" into the human resource server databases at UPMC in January 2014, and stole sensitive PII and W-2 information belonging to tens of thousands of UPMC employees. The information was sold by Johnson on dark web forums for use by conspirators, who promptly filed hundreds of false form 1040 tax returns in 2014 using UPMC employee PII. These false 1040 filings claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars of false tax refunds, which they converted into Amazon.com gift cards, which were then used to purchase Amazon merchandise which was shipped to Venezuela.
Additionally, the indictment alleges that Johnson, since 2014 through 2017, as TDS or DS, regularly sold other PII to buyers on dark web forums, which could be used to commit identity theft and bank fraud.
The scheme resulted in approximately $1.7 million in false tax return refunds.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for the conspiracy to defraud the United States; 20 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of wire fraud, and a mandatory 24 months in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of aggravated identity theft. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Agents from the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Facing Charges Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count Indictment named David Lyons, 26, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from January 2019 to March 2020, Lyons received and possessed computer and cell phone images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation 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.