Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH –A former resident of Greene County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violations of the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Julius Maurice Hurt, 34, of Waynesburg, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in the early morning hours of May 3, 2017, Waynesburg Borough Police Officers were dispatched to the area in and around the Greene County Courthouse based on 911 calls that an individual, later determined to be Julius Hurt, was observed carrying firearms. The responding officers located Hurt in that area and found him in possession of two loaded firearms (a .45 caliber Colt pistol and a 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol). On his person, police found quantities of cocaine and heroin, both of which are scheduled controlled substances. In a residence associated with the Defendant, which was searched by the Pennsylvania State Police, troopers found drug paraphernalia commonly used to package heroin and cocaine for further distribution. In connection with his plea, Hurt admitted to possessing the quantities of heroin and cocaine intending to distribute them, and that he possessed the firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 29, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. The Court continued Hurt’s detention pending sentencing. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed of $1,250,000, 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 Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Waynesburg Borough Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hurt.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of State College, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to time-served on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The defendant had been detained pretrial on this charge since June of 2018.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Charles Jones, 27, who has been incarcerated since June 20, 2018.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Charles Jones and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.

Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jones.

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

PITTSBURGH – United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today that a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has returned five separate, but related, indictments charging five Western Pennsylvania residents with drug and/or gun charges relating to an investigation into a group of drug traffickers identifying themselves as "Hustlas Don’t Sleep" (HDS), who sold a variety of controlled substances, including fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, crack cocaine and heroin, primarily out of the McKeesport, Turtle Creek, Wilkinsburg and Monroeville areas of Allegheny County.

The first indictment charges Kristoffer Carlino, 25, of Export, PA with violating federal narcotics laws. According to the one-count Indictment, from on or about July 31, 2019 to on or about November 19, 2019, Carlino conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000 or both.

The second indictment charges Charles Curry, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA with violating federal narcotics laws. According to the one-count Indictment, in July 2019 to November 19, 2019, Curry conspired with persons known and unknown to possess with the intent to distribute and did distribute 10 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl and quantities of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, Schedule I controlled substances, and quantities of fentanyl and cocaine base, Schedule II controlled substances. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000 or both.

The third indictment charges David Loveings, 66, of Pittsburgh, PA with violating federal narcotics laws. According to the Indictment, from July 2019 through October 2019, Loveings conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both.

The fourth indictment charges Jason Malos, 36, of North Versailles, PA with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws. According to the two-count Indictment, from on or about July 31, 2019 to on or about November 19, 2019, Malos conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The Indictment also alleges that on or about November 19, 2019, Malos, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition. For the narcotics charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000 or both. For the firearm charges, a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both.

The final indictment charges Andrew Welty, 28, of Everson, PA with violating federal narcotics laws. According to the one-count Indictment, from July 24, 2019 to November 19, 2019, Welty conspired with persons both known and unknown to possess with intent to distribute and did distribute quantities of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance and heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $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(s).

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Brian M. Czarnecki are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, the Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Maryland Officer, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute a mixture of fentanyl and tramadol, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Amber Doller-Smith, age 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nicholas Ranjan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on September 13, 2018, officers from Lower Burrell and New Kensington Police Departments stopped Doller-Smith’s SUV for reckless and erratic driving. During the stop, the officers smelled the odor of burnt marijuana emanating from Doller-Smith’s car. A canine unit was summoned to the scene. The canine examined on the exterior and interior of the vehicle and alerted on a purse situated on the front seat. The officers searched the purse and discovered a number of pills and a bankcard bearing Doller-Smith’s name. Based on this discovery, the officers decided that a frisk of Doller-Smith’s person was warranted. Since all of the officers at the scene were males, a female officer from a neighboring jurisdiction was dispatched to conduct the frisk. While the officers and Ms. Doller-Smith were waiting for the female officer to arrive, Ms. Doller-Smith informed the canine’s handler that she had heroin concealed in her bra. After the female officer arrived, Doller-Smith surrendered the drugs to her. Laboratory analysis revealed that the substance consisted of a mixture of fentanyl and tramadol and had a net weight of 46.53 grams.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 9, 2020 at 10:00 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court took the government’s request that Doller-Smith’s be revoked under advisement.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lower Burrell Police Department, and the New Kensington Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Doller-Smith.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months’ imprisonment on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Marvin Younger, age 38.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Marvin Younger conspired to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine and on May 21, 2018, possessed with intent to distribute a quantity cocaine.

Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.

Senior Judge Schwab also revoked Younger’s terms of supervised release in two prior federal cases and sentenced him to 24 months’ imprisonment in each case (these will run concurrently), with the 24 months’ imprisonment for the supervised release violations to run consecutive to the 70-month sentence imposed.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Younger.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Stephen Barnes was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison for heroin and crack cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Barnes, age 51, previously resided in the Pittsburgh area and in Philadelphia. United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence. Judge Fischer also ordered Barnes to serve four years of supervised release upon his release from prison.

From March 2018 to May 2018, while Barnes was on state parole following a prior murder conviction, he distributed large quantities of fentanyl, crack cocaine, and heroin in Western Pennsylvania. Barnes’s drug distribution came to an end in May 2018 when he got caught while driving 296 bricks of heroin to Western Pennsylvania. He intended to distribute the heroin in Western Pennsylvania.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced on charges of violating federal robbery and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United Stated District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab sentenced Rayshawn Patterson, 21, to 87 months in prison on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery, Hobbs Act Robbery, Conspiracy to Steal Firearms from a Licensed Firearm Dealer, Theft from a Licensed Firearms Dealer, Possession of Stolen Firearms, and Interstate Transport of Stolen Firearms. Additionally, Rayshawn Patterson accepted responsibility for a separate robbery that occurred in Cleveland, Ohio. Patterson has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court.

According to information presented to the court, in December of 2017, Rayshawn and other conspirators from the Cleveland, Ohio area conspired to travel to rural areas of Western Pennsylvania to burglarize Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) and transport the stolen firearms back to Cleveland, Ohio. On December 22, 2017, Rayshawn traveled to Clarion County, Pennsylvania to attempt to locate and burglarize a gun store. However, he and his co-conspirators were unsuccessful in doing so. Prior to returning to Cleveland, Rayshawn and his co-conspirators observed a gas station with only one employee working late at night. The individuals then devised a plan to rob that gas station. Rayshawn participated in a robbery of the gas station in which the employee was threatened with violence, physically restrained and brought to another area of the store. The conspirators netted only approximately $300 dollars from the robbery before returning to Cleveland.

The next day on December 23, 2017, Rayshawn and co-conspirators returned to Western Pennsylvania and burglarized DSD Sports in Brookville, PA by smashing the front door and windows with a sledgehammer and other tools. Once inside the store, Rayshawn and co-conspirators stole approximately sixteen firearms including fourteen handguns and two assault rifles. The co-conspirators then transported the firearms back to Cleveland, Ohio. On December 29, 2017, Cleveland Police recovered two of the stolen handguns from DSD outside the home of Rayshawn and his co-conspirators. Later on January 10, 2018, agents from the Pittsburgh and Cleveland division of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed search warrants in Cleveland, Ohio at residences connected to Rayshawn and his co-conspirators. Agents recovered the suspected sledgehammer and other tools believed to be used in the burglary.

Co-defendant Reginald Patterson was convicted after a jury trial in October of 2019 and is pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been set by the Court.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni, Douglas Maloney and Brendan Conway are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Brookville Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Cleveland Police Department and the Cuyahoga Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Clearfield County, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to two years’ probation and restitution in the amount of $149,520.41 to the Social Security Administration on her conviction of conversion of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Maryann Bowes-Dailey, 56, of Osceola Mills, Pa.,

According to information presented to the court, from June 1, 2001 to Feb. 28, 2013, Bowes-Dailey did receive and convert falsely to her own use a total of $149,520.41, which represents 416 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to her to which she was not entitled.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Bowes-Dailey.

PITTSBURGH – Darren Martin was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Martin, age 31 of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan also sentenced Martin to serve three years of supervised release upon his release from prison.

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.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A New Jersey resident has plead guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Entering a guilty plea before United States District Court Judge Marilyn J. Horan was Ajia Strauss, age 28, of Newark, NJ.

According to information presented to the court, from June 2016, to March 2019, Monsuru Ogunbiyi and Ajia Strauss conspired with one another to defraud the United States. Ogunbiyi, a native and citizen of Nigeria who was living in Pittsburgh, and Strauss, a native and citizen of the United States, agreed to enter into a sham marriage so that Ogunbiyi could obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States. As part of the conspiracy, Ogunbiyi agreed to pay money to Strauss. Also as a part of the conspiracy, Ogunbiyi and Strauss submitted false and fraudulent statements and documents to the United States.

The Court set sentencing for June 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, or both, for the charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States. 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. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania resident has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Joseph Alexander, 38, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that September 11, 2018, members of the FBI Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force executed a federal search warrant at a residence on Saint John Street, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania. Mr. Alexander was located throwing objects from the rear window of the residence. Agents responded to the backyard of the residence and recovered quantities of heroin, fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, tramadol, and N–Ethylpentylone. Agents then searched the residence and recovered five firearms, an assortment of ammunition, and a bulletproof vest.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 17, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. 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 $1250,000 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 – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of DuBois, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 3 years’ probation with 180 days of home detention on his conviction of conversion of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Daniel P. McIntosh, 41. 

According to information presented to the court, from Aug. 1, 2014, to July 31, 2016, McIntosh did receive and convert falsely to his own use a total of $41,529.70, which represents approximately 115 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to him and also to him as representative payee for his wife and minor children, to which he or they were not entitled.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of McIntosh.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Adam Hosie, age 25, of Freedom, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on July 12, 2018, Hosie possessed images and videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, and the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hosie.

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

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

April Price, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. Price is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Ms. Price was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, along with co-defendants Christopher Highsmith and Anthony Jetter.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 14, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 each defendant. Price remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office,

Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and theWilkinsburg Police Department. Other assistingagencies include the Green Tree PoliceDepartment, New YorkCityPolice Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, PennsylvaniaState Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and theUnited States PostalInspection Service.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement TaskForce Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal fundingandcoordination thatallows federaland state agencies to work together to successfullyidentify,investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH − A resident of the City of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Romello Edward Jones, age 20, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan to a two-count Indictment charging him with possessing quantities of heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them, and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition while knowing that he was a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on May 6, 2019, Allegheny County Probation and Parole Officers, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Officers, went to the Defendant’s residence to conduct a compliance check on Mr. Jones, who was on probation at that time for felony convictions relating to narcotics and firearms. While there, the officers observed the Defendant possessing a bag containing several "bricks" (approximately 400 individual dosage units) containing heroin. The officers searched the Defendant’s residence and found additional quantities of heroin and fentanyl, drug paraphernalia such as digital scales, and U.S. currency. In connection with the plea, the Defendant admitted that he possessed the quantities of heroin and fentanyl intending to distribute them. The officers also seized a loaded 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol from the Defendant’s residence, which he admitted to possessing knowing that he had previously been convicted of a felony.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2020, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the Court ordered the continued detention of Mr. Jones.

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, the Allegheny County Adult Probation and Parole Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Jones.

PITTSBURGH − A resident of the City of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Romello Edward Jones, age 20, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan to a two-count Indictment charging him with possessing quantities of heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them, and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition while knowing that he was a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on May 6, 2019, Allegheny County Probation and Parole Officers, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Officers, went to the Defendant’s residence to conduct a compliance check on Mr. Jones, who was on probation at that time for felony convictions relating to narcotics and firearms. While there, the officers observed the Defendant possessing a bag containing several "bricks" (approximately 400 individual dosage units) containing heroin. The officers searched the Defendant’s residence and found additional quantities of heroin and fentanyl, drug paraphernalia such as digital scales, and U.S. currency. In connection with the plea, the Defendant admitted that he possessed the quantities of heroin and fentanyl intending to distribute them. The officers also seized a loaded 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol from the Defendant’s residence, which he admitted to possessing knowing that he had previously been convicted of a felony.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2020, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the Court ordered the continued detention of Mr. Jones.

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, the Allegheny County Adult Probation and Parole Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Jones.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Delaughn Searcy, age 24, formerly of New Castle, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on or about April 10, 2019, Delaughn Searcy distributed more than 28 grams of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Horan scheduled the sentencing for June 3, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than 5 years nor more than 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Delaughn Searcy.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to three counts and has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison, 20 years of supervised release, a $5,100 special assessment and was ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution to four victims on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on David Anthony Thompson, 37.

According to information presented to the court, Thompson distributed, received and possessed computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eliezer Rodriguez, age 41, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rodriguez was in possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, all on or about October 3, 2018.

Judge Cercone scheduled the sentencing for June 17, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Beaver Falls Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to federal narcotics and firearms charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dushawn Griffey, age 21, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised in March of 2017, Griffey, then 18, was a fentanyl dealer living and operating out of a house in McKees Rocks, PA. On March 28, 2017, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Detectives stopped Griffey after he left his house in McKees Rocks and recovered a bag of fentanyl and a loaded firearm from him. Subsequent to this stop, members of the FBI Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted a search of Griffey’s home. The search of the home recovered a large quantity of suspected fentanyl, drug packaging materials and drug paraphernalia, and multiple firearms.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum total sentence of 10 years in prison up to life, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. DuShawn Griffey has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court and will remain detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Douglas Maloney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Stowe-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have 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 two-count Indictment named Tyrone Terry, age 28, and Terrelle Smith, age 28, both residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, on October 8, 2019, Terry and Smith each knowingly possessed a firearm, knowing they had been previously convicted of crimes with terms exceeding one year punishment. Federal law prohibits anyone from owning a firearm who has been convicted of a crime for a term of one year or longer. Terry was in possession of a FN Herstal Five-Seven 5.7x28 semiautomatic pistol, knowing he had been previously convicted of carrying a firearm without a license. Smith was in possession of a Glock 19 9mm semiautomatic pistol, knowing he had been previously convicted of flight to avoid apprehension, trial or punishment, possession of a firearm with an altered manufacturer’s name, and carrying a firearm without a license.

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 Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

The two-count Indictment named David Anthony Madden, 33, David Lee Cramer, 51, and Jamie Eileen Cramer, 42, as defendants.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, 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 law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $20,000,000, or both for each defendant. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

Keevan Jackson, 21, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Jackson is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Jackson was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as a runner for co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 each defendant. Jackson remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the

Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assistingagencies include the Green Tree PoliceDepartment, New YorkCityPolice Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, PennsylvaniaState Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and theUnited States PostalInspection Service.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement TaskForce Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal fundingandcoordination thatallows federaland state agencies to work together to successfully identify,investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH –William Davis was sentenced to 46 months in prison for distributing cocaine and possessing a firearm after prior felony convictions, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Davis, age 39, of McKees Rocks, was sentenced by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan. Judge Horan also sentenced Davis to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison.

Davis was sentenced for distributing over 100 grams of cocaine in June and July 2017. He had previously been convicted in 2011 in federal court in Pittsburgh for conspiring to distribute cocaine. Davis was also sentenced for possessing a stolen firearm on January 3, 2019, after having been convicted of several felony crimes, including cocaine trafficking in 2011 and unlawful firearm possession in 2004 and 2005.

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

The Stowe Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Internal Revenue Service, and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 120 months in prison and eight 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 Leon E. Szewczyk, 36.

According to information presented to the court, on April 6, 2018, Szewczyk possessed with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack."

Judge Gibson also sentenced Szewczyk to 18 months imprisonment on a supervised release violation with regard to a 2011 case in which Szewczyk was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment and five years’ supervised release for violating federal narcotics laws.

Assistant United States AttorneyMaureen 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 Szewczyk.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at Moshannon Valley Correctional Center in Philipsburg, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, and immediately following, was sentenced to two months in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Zhivrago McBride, 38, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on August 17, 2018, McBride possessed a seven-inch sharpened piece of metal attached to an ink pen.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Moshannon Valley Correctional Center, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McBride.

PITTSBURGH, PA –  A former resident of Westmoreland County pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal wire fraud and mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft, charged in two separate indictments, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jennifer Lynne Clark aka Jennifer Gill, age 42, formerly of Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania and now residing in Pinellas Park, FL, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty pleas in criminal case 18-250, between August, 2015 and October, 2016, Clark defrauded her then employer Elite Oil by stealing company employee credit cards and processing unauthorized payments through Square, Inc.  Clark then set up mobile payment accounts with Square, Inc., in the false names of other businesses, and used the credit card information to authorize fraudulent payments into her own personal bank account.    In making the unauthorized transactions, Clark used credit card numbers that were assigned to specific individual employees.

In connection with the guilty plea in criminal case 19-35, in 2017, Clark defrauded her then employer Wright Traffic Controls by using the identity of a former employee to process payroll checks in a former employee’s name. Clark forged the ex-employee’s signature to the checks, and deposited them into her own bank account.

Judge Conti scheduled the sentencing for June 9, 2020.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 32 years in prison for the case at docket 18-250, and a fine up to one million dollars. In the indictment at docket 19-35, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 22 years in prison, and a fine 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.

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

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jennifer Lynne Clark.

ERIE, Pa. - A former 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 nine-count Superseding Indictment named Jeffrey Adam Jepson, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, Jepson took sexually explicit photos of a victim who was under the age of six. He also distributed the images depicting the minor victim to an undercover officer. Jepson also possessed other images of child pornography depicting minors under the age of twelve.

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.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 250 years in prison, a fine of $2,250,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department and the Erie County Detectives Bureau conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

A Superseding Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of false statement to the government, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Jamie Gilmore, 23, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about January 25, 2020, Gilmore made false statements to a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation when he was questioned about matters that were material to the investigation of the January 25, 2020, robbery at Wendy’s in Edinboro, Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The twenty-count Indictment named Erika A. Grandberry, 45, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, Grandberry, while working as a free-lance tax preparer, knowingly and repeatedly reported false and fraudulent income and expenses for non-existent businesses on Individual Tax Returns from 2015 to 2017.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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 Superseding Indictment named Randy Dwayne Tate, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, in October 2015, Tate attempted to produce child pornography by recording a video of a minor female in a bathroom without her permission. Tate was then found in possession of that video on his cell phone.

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.

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 United States Postal Inspection Service and the Erie 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Ohio plead guilty in federal court to a charge of identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Robert Lee Weaver, III, 35, of Canfield, OH, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, between February, 2017 and March, 2017, Weaver used false state photo identification cards from other states to negotiate counterfeit checks at several casinos, including the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh in February, 2017. Losses associated with counterfeit checks total approximately $32,000.

Judge Fischer scheduled the sentencing for July 9, 2020. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both, for each count. 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 Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robert Lee Weaver, III.

PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County man has pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jarrel Williams, age 32, of Arnold, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

During the guilty plea hearing, Williams admitted to distributing fentanyl on January 17, 2017. As part of his plea agreement, Williams accepted responsibility for causing the death of M.S., a 33-year-old male who lived in Westmoreland County, and agreed to serve 162 months in prison.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing to occur on June 3, 2020, at 9:30 a.m.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, the West Leechburg Police Department, the Allegheny Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Melvin Russaw, 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about June 6, 2017, Russaw was apprehended by law enforcement on state charges, after attempting to flee in his 2008 Gray Chevy Impala. Upon execution of a search warrant for the vehicle, which was registered to Russaw, investigators discovered a small panel wherein a Glock, model 21, .45 caliber pistol, bearing serial number HVH758, was hidden. Russaw, who has multiple prior felony state convictions, as well as a federal conviction, is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2020 at 10:00 AM. Due to Russaw’s prior convictions, the law provides for an enhanced sentence of not less than fifteen (15) years and not more than life 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. The defendant remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Russaw. This case was brought under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

Michael Broglie, 51, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Broglie is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Broglie purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Ronald Williams, and re-distributed the drugs to other people.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 13, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Rogers remains on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which

also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives,

Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

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

PITTSBURGH – A former Allegheny County man was sentenced to 15 years and one month (181 months) in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after his convictions at trial on multiple federal narcotic and firearms offenses. United States District Court Judge Marilyn S. Horan imposed the sentence on Cameron Basking, age 28, previously of Wilkinsburg and Pittsburgh.

Basking was previously tried before United States Judge Marilyn S. Horan. He was convicted after a week-long jury trial of one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.

According to information presented during the course of the trial, Cameron Basking was the leader of a large scale fentanyl trafficking conspiracy operating in Allegheny County from January to March 14 of 2018. Basking would receive large amount of fentanyl from two co-conspirator suppliers and then mix that fentanyl for future resale. To further this conspiracy, Basking used multiple locations in Allegheny County to cut and mix the fentanyl, store the fentanyl, and sell the fentanyl.

As part of the investigation, on March 14, 2018, members of the FBI’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force executed search warrants at multiple locations and vehicles tied to Basking. At a location on Princeton Boulevard in Wilkinsburg, investigators recovered tens of thousands of stamp bags used to package fentanyl in the basement of this location as well as ammunition. At an address on West Carter in North Versailles, investigators recovered voluminous drug and drug related evidence including over 40 grams of fentanyl, thousands of stamp bags, blenders and grinders, and gas masks to protect from fentanyl exposure. Additionally at the West Carter address, investigators recovered a fully loaded 9mm Glock handgun, a fully loaded Bushmaster .308 assault rifle, two extended 9mm magazines, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. At another location in Wilkinsburg, on Rebecca Street, investigators recovered another firearm and ammunition, a quantity of fentanyl, six digital scales for drug distribution use and fentanyl packaging material.

Evidence presented at trial showed that Basking used the West Carter address to store the fentanyl, the Princeton Boulevard address to cut and mix the fentanyl for distribution, and the Rebecca Street address as the distribution center. In handing down the sentence, Judge Horan found that Basking had an aggravating role in the offense as he was the leader of five or more people in a narcotics trafficking organization.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Christopher Cook represented the Government in this prosecution and trial.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. The Allegheny Office of the Medical Examiner, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics and Vice Division, and Drug Enforcement Agency also assisted in the prosecution of this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, 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 Deandre Darnell Hawkins, age 23, formerly of Duquesne, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on September 19, 2019, Hawkins possessed a firearm, knowing he had been previously convicted of carrying a firearm without a license, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits anyone from owning a firearm who has been convicted of a crime for a term of one year or longer.

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(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Carlisha Williams, age 30, of Aliquippa, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, between September 2016 and July 2017, Williams provided co-conspirators an address to receive packages of fentanyl shipped from overseas into the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

This prosecution is part of a long-term investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department. The Department of Homeland Security Investigators also assisted in the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

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

Jesse Tedrow, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Tedrow is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Tedrow purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Ronald Williams, and re-sold the drugs to other customers.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 4, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Rogers remains on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Windber, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to two years (24 months) in prison and two years’ supervised release for violating conditions of supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Paul Marone, 40.

According to information presented to the court, Marone was on supervised release from a conviction in 2012 in the Western District of Michigan for violating Title 18, United States Code Section 2423(b), by traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.

Marone was on supervised release for the same conviction in 2015 when Judge Gibson revoked that release for similar conduct. In 2015, Marone was sentenced to 24 months in prison and five years’ supervised release for violating the terms of release by possessing ten cell phones and using them to communication with minors.

On February 7, 2020, Marone was again revoked for violations of his supervised release for enticing, coercing a minor to engage in sexual activity, and using an electronic device to communicate with a minor for the purpose of promoting sexual relations with a child.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Greensburg, PA, has been sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine after his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Dr. Milad Shaker, 49, of who was found guilty of 14 counts of illegal dispensing opioids on October 18, 2019.

The evidence introduced during the six-day trial established that from October 2014 through March 2017, Shaker, a primary care physician, illegally dispensed Hydrocodone, Percocet and Tramadol to a patient in return for sex and sexually explicit photos and texts. According to testimony at trial, Shaker would meet the patient at various hotels in Westmoreland and Fayette counties and at two locations on the side of the road to engage in sex in return for opioid prescriptions. Shaker also exchanged prescriptions for texts containing sexually explicit images of the patient. During cross examination, Shaker, in defending his illegal prescribing, testified that, "opioids are like candy," and "10 to 20 opioid pills will not hurt you."

In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Bissoon stated, "Dr. Shaker, you have abused your position as a doctor, a trusted healer, by feeding the addiction of a vulnerable woman for your personal gratification. Your actions, and your utter failure to appreciate your wrongdoing, particularly amid the opioid crisis in America, and, indeed, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, are troubling." Judge Bissoon continued, "I do hope at some point you come to realize how devastating your actions were to another individual and the sentence imposed today reinforces the gravity of your actions."

Judge Bissoon remanded Shaker to the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Mark V. Gurzo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU) for conducting the investigation leading to the prosecution of Shaker. The Western Pennsylvania OFADU, led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, combines the expertise and resources of federal and state law enforcement to address the role played by unethical medical professionals in the opioid epidemic.

The agencies comprising the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Three southwestern Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on January 16, named Ronnell Taylor, Jr., 37, of Jeannette Pennsylvania; Barry Nealer, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Michael Galanis, 31, of Export, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, between March 2016, and August 2017, the defendants knowingly and willfully conspired to commit wire fraud, including, among other alleged conduct, by activating and programming cell phone numbers later used by individuals impersonating employees of the United States Internal Revenue Service to defraud victims in the United States.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distributing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Gary Whisner, age 36, 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 August 5, 2017, Whisner distributed multiple videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including two females who were approximately 10 years old. A subsequent search of Whisner’s electronic devices revealed approximately 10,700 images and 800 videos that depicted child pornography.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 27, 2020, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the 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.

Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Whisner.

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

PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to two years (24 months) in prison on his conviction of Illegal Reentry After Deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nicholas J. Ranjan imposed the sentence on Jorge Segundo-Cruz, 29, of Mexico.

According to information presented to the court, Segundo-Cruz had been previously deported and removed from the United States in 2010. In 2017, after unlawfully reentering the United States, he was convicted of aggravated assault, attempted rape, and other related charges in Pittsburgh. As a result of these charges, he was identified by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and charged with illegal reentry.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranhan stated that the 24 month sentence would further the goals of deterring Segundo-Cruz and others from illegally reentering the United States and committing crimes.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Segundo-Cruz.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Plum Borough, PA, has been sentenced in federal court today to 10 years (120 months) of imprisonment on his conviction for violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Brandon Winters, age 43, formerly of Plum Borough, PA, who pleaded guilty in September 2019 to the two-Count Indictment charging him at Count One with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl; and at Count Two, with possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

According to information presented to the Court, on January 30, 2019, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division executed a search warrant at an apartment located in Pittsburgh, which was utilized by Mr. Winters and his alleged coconspirators, Eduard Rijo and Erick Martinez. Upon entry into the apartment, case agents located Winters, Rijo, and Martinez, approximately 1,500 "bricks" (the equivalent of roughly 75,000 individual dosage units) containing mixtures of heroin and fentanyl, and more than 500 grams of cocaine. Additionally, case agents seized over $250,000 in U.S. Currency, which was found in and around Mr. Winters and his alleged coconspirators.

Prior to sentencing Mr. Winters to a 10-year term of imprisonment, the Court noted Mr. Winters’ acknowledgement that his criminal conduct in this case was motived by his selfishness, greed, and addiction to the fast and easy money associated with narcotics trafficking. Following Mr. Winters release from his sentence of incarceration, the Court ordered that he be under the supervision of the United States Probation Department for a period of five years.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome A. Moschetta and Tonya Sulia Goodman 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 Mr. Winters.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 57 months in prison and three 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 Derrick L. Harper, Jr., 27.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 27, 2018, Harper possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, fentanyl and cocaine.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnstown Police Department for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Harper.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Mark Carter, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in June 2016, Pennsylvania State Police arranged for a confidential informant 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 three bricks of heroin and one-half of an ounce of crack. On June 27, 2016, the CI purchased heroin and crack from Carter using $2,150 in pre-recorded funds.

On June 28, 2016, troopers executed a search warrant on Morris’ residence located on E. Brady St. in Butler, PA. In the bedroom where Carter was found, 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 $4,150 pre-recorded funds, and various items of drug paraphernalia.

On July 21, 2016, the CI arranged to buy drugs from Carter. Carter asked the CI to pick up Janell Hunter from the Greyhound Bus Station and to get her a hotel room in Butler. Carter arrived from Philadelphia a short time later. A search warrant on the hotel room revealed a bag containing 80.58g of crack cocaine, 38.83g heroin, and drug paraphernalia.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2020. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Carter remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy 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 prosecution of Carter.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Blair County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of tax evasion and wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Patrick S. LaMarsh, age 40, of Altoona, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, between 2011 and 2013, LaMarsh defrauded TracFone and Walmart by selling fraudulently obtained Straight Talk airtime cards on Amazon.com. According to the information provided to the court, LaMarsh fraudulently re-encoded Straight Talk prepaid wireless cards and sold them for a discount, netting in excess of one million dollars in sales. LaMarsh used the proceeds to buy precious metals and a recreational vehicle. In addition, LaMarsh deposited proceeds into nominee bank accounts to conceal income.

Judge Bissoon scheduled the sentencing for June 24, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years’ imprisonment for each count of conviction for tax evasions, and 20 years imprisonment for each count of conviction for wire fraud, a fine of $4,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to conspiracy to commit marriage fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Makhan Singh, 53, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

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

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for August 6, 2020. 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. The defendant remains on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH – Quoc Boa Trinh pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Trinh, age 40, pled guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing to occur on July 7, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. Trinh was serving a prior federal prison sentence when he committed the crime to which he pled guilty.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The 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.

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.