Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Erie Man Indicted for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drugs laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Joel Nicholas Gustave, Jr., 39, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about November 1, 2019, Gustave possessed with the intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Canonsburg Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Pornography on His Cell PhoneRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA-A former resident of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Robert Fichter, 54, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that investigative efforts during a Homeland Security Investigation revealed that Fichter utilized an Android cellular phone running BitTorrent software to access, view and download child pornography. The court was further informed that law enforcement officials executed a federal search warrant at Fichter’s residence on May 24, 2018, wherein they seized Fichter’s cellular phone. During a forensic review of the cell phone, agents uncovered images and videos of child pornography, some of which involved children under the age of 12, as well as violent sexual conduct.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2020 at 9:30 AM The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Fichter remains incarcerated pending sentencing.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from members of the North Strabane and Canonsburg police departments, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Fichter.
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.
Brownsville, PA Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Sean Houston, age 47, of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 20, 2016 and from July 22, 2017 through October 2018, Houston produced and attempted to produce visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of a minor. Additionally, on October 29, 2018, Houston knowingly possessed visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of minors.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 11, 2020. The law provides for a sentence of not less than 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $750,000.00, 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 Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Centerville Police Department, the North Strabane Police Department, and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Houston.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
“Impatient” Bank Robber Sentenced to 6 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of six years (72 months) to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Christian Elijah Moore, age 30.
According to information presented to the court, on September 5, 2017, Moore walked into the First National Bank in Homestead, PA and asked for change. While the teller was providing him with change, Moore placed his wallet on the counter and stated that his friend wanted him to give her a note. In the note, Moore threatened to shoot the teller if he she did not provide him with money.
The teller provided Moore with $1,055.00, as well as a GPS tracking device. As Moore was walking from the bank, he removed identifiable clothing and left the items in the bushes of the homes along his path. Officers later recovered the gray Adidas jacket that he was wearing during the bank robbery from the bushes of a home near the bank. He then walked to a jitney station and asked for a ride to Oakland. The jitney driver proceeded across the Homestead Grays Bridge. Moore observed Homestead police, who were alerted to the area by the GPS device, and instructed the jitney driver to make a U-turn and proceed to Hazelwood. After observing the vehicle make a U-turn, police stopped the vehicle. Officers recovered a loaded Kel-Tec semi-automatic .9mm pistol as well as the money and tracking device from Moore. Moore admitted that when he woke up that day, he decided to rob a bank because he needed money and did not like having to wait.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Moore.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years in Prison for Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 57 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Brian Horvath, 48.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around September 2016, and continuing thereafter to November 30, 2017, Horvath conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms but less than 15 kilograms of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. The court was further informed that during the period of the conspiracy, Horvath frequently received cocaine from two of his co-defendants in quantities ranging from, at the beginning of the conspiracy, one-half ounce to, towards the end of the conspiracy, 18 ounces, which he then redistributed to various individuals in Allegheny and Westmoreland County.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Jerome A. Moschetta prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Horvath. The task force was headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The Stowe Township Police Department also provided assistance in this investigation. 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.
Latrobe Woman Sentenced for Role in Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on her conviction of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed sentence on Kathy Darling, age 62.
In connection with sentencing, the court was advised that during the period from January 2011 through May 2016, Darling became a member of a money laundering conspiracy. Darling conducted financial transactions affecting interstate commerce, knowing that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Darling knew that each of the financial transactions was designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. As part of the money laundering conspiracy, the defendant and her co-conspirators conducted the following financial transactions: 1) withdrew funds from prepaid debit cards and credit cards; 2) transmitted and received funds via MoneyGram, Walmart and Western Union; 3) cashed checks and money orders; and 4) sent and received wire transfers of funds. The funds involved in these transactions, which totaled thousands of dollars, were the proceeds of wire fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Derry Woman Sentenced for Participating in a Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on her conviction of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed sentence on Barbara Miller, 58, of Derry, Pennsylvania.
In connection with sentencing, the court was advised that during the period from January 2011 through May 2016, Miller became a member of a money laundering conspiracy. Miller conducted financial transactions affecting interstate commerce, knowing that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Miller knew that each of the financial transactions was designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. As part of the money laundering conspiracy, the defendant and her co-conspirators conducted the following financial transactions: 1) withdrew funds from prepaid debit cards and credit cards; 2) transmitted and received funds via MoneyGram, Walmart and Western Union; 3) cashed checks and money orders; and 4) sent and received wire transfers of funds. The funds involved in these transactions, which totaled thousands of dollars, were the proceeds of wire fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
Westmoreland County Heroin Addict Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of West Newton PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to federal drug and firearms violations, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
William Kalna, 51, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of possession of firearms and ammunition by a person addicted to a controlled substance before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh, PA. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wiretap investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications confirmed that Kalna was obtaining distributor quantities of heroin from another member of the conspiracy, which Kalna both used and distributed in Westmoreland County to support his addiction. In connection with the guilty plea, Kalna took responsibility for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 254 grams of heroin. The court was further informed that during the execution of a federal search warrant at Kalna’s residence on June 12, 2019, law enforcement officials seized 28 firearms, a large quantity of ammunition, $2,669.00 in United States currency, and four digital scales. Kalna, who was at the time addicted to heroin, was prohibited from possessing these firearms and ammunition.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2020 at 9 a.m. date and time of sentencing The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 and not more than 40 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. Kalna remains on bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Owner and Manager of Anwar Fresh Meat Market in Erie Charged with Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Two people have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The five-count Indictment named Laith Kadhem, 35, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Haydar Al-Kofi, 41, of Lakeside, California, as defendants.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from in and around March 2016 to in and around September 2017, Kadhem, who was the owner and operator of Anwar Fresh Meat Market in Erie and Al-Kofi, who was the manager and partner working at Anwar Fresh Meat Market, conspired to defraud the United States by filing an application containing false information for a license to accept SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits and accepting food stamps for cash, and ineligible items.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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.
This case was investigated as part of the Pittsburgh Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF), 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.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Castle Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa.-A former resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Zaamar Stevenson, age 43, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on November 9, 2015, officers utilized a confidential informant to purchase heroin and crack from the defendant. While on surveillance, officers observed a female get into the back seat of the defendant’s rental vehicle. Officers stopped the vehicle and secured the occupants. The defendant was the driver of the vehicle. The female admitted that she arranged to buy crack from the defendant. A blue grocery bag was found under the front passenger seat. The bag contained baggies of crack cocaine and stamp bags of heroin. The defendant had $1,506 in his possession, $150 of which were prerecorded official funds and the front passenger had $185 in her purse, $20 of which were prerecorded official funds.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 27, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Stevenson remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Butler County District Attorney's Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stevenson.
McKees Rocks Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges in West End Wiretap InvestigationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, cocaine and heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Tamra Moore, age 35, pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Tamra Moore and her co-conspirators distributed cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne Saadi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led the multi-agency investigation, which also included 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, that led to the prosecution of Tamra Moore.
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 Man Charged with Possession and Distribution of FentanylRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The Indictment named Nathaniel Jackson, 44, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about April 29, 2019, Jackson distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and 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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force 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.
Former Duquesne Resident Maintained a Drug House where Police Found Multiple Drugs, Cash, and Packaging MaterialsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of maintaining a drug premises, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Ericka Smith, age 40, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Court Judge David Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 10, 2018, when parole agents went to the home of Ericka Smith, the lessee of the residence, and parolee Donte Taylor for a routine visit, they smelled marijuana. Taylor tested positive for marijuana and cocaine. Smith appeared to be extremely nervous. Police responded and Smith advised that there was a small amount of marijuana in the house and gave consent to search. Officers recovered crack cocaine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl and marijuana. They also recovered $14,466.00 in a safe, scales and other drug packaging materials. While speaking with agents, Smith stated that she would take the charges because Taylor needed to be home with the kids. She also inquired about what penalty she would face if she said the drugs recovered belonged to her.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Smith remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Smith.
Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to one count each of conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Keith Scoggins, 54, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
During his plea hearing, Scoggins admitted that between 2011 and 2017 he was an employee of Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), one of four related entities operating in the home health care industry. The other three entities were Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI), and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS). MCI, ADL, and CCI were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients ("consumers"), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. Between in and around January 2011 and in and around April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for these services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount.
During that time, Scoggins, who was employed in a supervisory position as PAS Director, admitted that he participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims. As part of the conspiracy, Scoggins admitted that he fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, he never provided to the consumer identified on the timesheets. Scoggins further admitted that he caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of a "ghost" employee—a close relative—for PAS care that was never provided to the consumer specified on the claims. Likewise, Scoggins admitted that he paid kickbacks to a consumer, totaling approximately $160 every two weeks, in exchange for the consumer’s cooperation in the fraudulent billing scheme. In total, Scoggins admitted causing losses to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in excess of $100,000.
Judge Bissoon scheduled Scoggins’s sentencing for 2:15 p.m. on May 5, 2020.
The conspiracy and health care fraud charges each carry a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
To date, a total of sixteen defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation. Scoggins is the ninth defendant to enter a guilty plea. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation of the defendants.
Oklahoma Woman Sentenced to 6½ Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking of a ChildRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma, has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release on her conviction of violating the Mann Act by transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose of having the individual engage in prostitution and conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Shelby Summer Brown, age 28.
On September 12, 2019, Brown pleaded guilty and admitted that she agreed and conspired with another individual, Oscar Carter, to commit an offense against the United States, that is, to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an individual, Minor A (an individual who had not yet attained the age of 18 years) to travel in interstate commerce, from Ohio to Pennsylvania, to engage in prostitution and any sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense, and did so, from March 6, 2018 through March 14, 2018.
"Stopping human trafficking is a critical part of our mission. Without the professional and coordinated efforts of the City of Pittsburgh Police, the Cranberry Police Department and the FBI, the child victim would not have been rescued and her traffickers brought to justice. The sex trafficking of children in the Western District of Pennsylvania will not be tolerated," said U.S. Attorney Brady.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon indicated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary given Brown’s active participation in this horrible crime. Judge Bissoon acknowledged that Brown’s criminal conduct is a reason that these crimes continue to flourish.
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 Cranberry Township Police, and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brown.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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 better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Former Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Heroin Trafficking as Part of Braddock Wiretap InvestigationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Travis Moore, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Moore, and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications confirmed that Moore was an associate of co-defendant, Howard McFadden, and was as one of McFadden’s sources of supply for heroin. The court was further informed that on at least one occasion, in conjunction with intercepted communications, the defendant was observed via pole camera footage at a trap house location on Seddon Avenue in Braddock, PA, which was owned by McFadden and used by members of the conspiracy. As a result of today’s guilty plea, Moore has accepted responsibility for the distribution of at least 100 but less than 400 grams of heroin.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 19, 2020, at 11:00 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years, but not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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. Moore remains incarcerated pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Erie Man Indicted for Violating Federal Laws Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The five-count Indictment named Jeffrey Adam Jepson, 38, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, Jepson took sexually explicit photos of a victim who was under the age of six. He also distributed those computer images depicting the minor victim to an undercover officer.
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 140 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the District of Columbia’s Metropolitan 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.
Canonsburg Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Pornography Videos and ImagesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kevin Francisco Torres-Gerena, 26, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that investigative efforts in connection with a Homeland Security investigation revealed that Torres-Gerena was the subscriber of an IP address associated with successful downloads of child pornography from an electronic device using that IP address. The court was further informed that law enforcement officials executed a federal search warrant at Torres-Gerena’s residence on September 5, 2018, and later uncovered, during forensic review of the electronic devices seized during the execution of the search warrant, 116 videos and 36 images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, many of which involved children under the age of twelve.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 28, 2020 at 9:30 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendant remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigations San Antonio Field Office, the North Strabane Police Department and the Canonsburg Police Department, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Torres-Gerena.
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-Area Man Assaulted Security Guards at Downtown Pittsburgh Social Security OfficeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh-area man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of assault of federal employees, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Isaiah Paillett, 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 14, 2018, Paillett entered the Social Security Office in Downtown Pittsburgh and became irate and confrontational with an employee there. Paillett then left the office. The security guards at the office were notified that, due to Paillett’s behavior, he was not permitted back in the building. Within minutes of exiting, Paillett attempted to reenter the building. When a security guard prevented Paillett from reentering, Paillett shoved that guard back several feet. A second guard then began pushing Paillett out of the building, at which time Paillett began punching that second security guard in the head. The second guard was treated at an area hospital for the injuries inflicted by Paillett and released later that same day.
Chief Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of twenty-eight years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey R. Bengel and Douglas C. Maloney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Protective Service and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Paillett.
Federal Inmate Pleads to Escape ChargeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Milan, Michigan, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of escape after conviction, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Julian P. Villar, Jr., 55, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in and around July 2019, Villar failed to report to the satellite camp at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania after being furloughed from the Milan Federal Correctional Institution in Milan, Michigan on July 9, 2019. Villar was incarcerated at FCI Milan as the result of a conviction for distribution of heroin in the Northern District of Illinois.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for May 11, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offender 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 Marshal’s Service and officers of the
Elizabeth, PA Man Pleads Guilty to Sabotaging Railroad Signal OperationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – William Curry Brown, 26, of Elizabeth, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court today before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose to two counts of terroristic attacks and violence against a railroad carrier and mass transportation on land, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§1992(a)(5) and (a)(10) and 2.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about November 1, 2017, Brown knowingly and without lawful authority or permission did and did attempt to remove an appurtenance from, damage or otherwise impair the operation of a railroad signal system. Specifically, at one railroad location near Braddock, William Brown detached four railroad signal antennas by unscrewing them. Additionally, Brown used a pair of bolt cutters and cut the railroad signal cables which were housed in a signal bungalow, which caused a complete signal failure. At another location near McKeesport, Brown used the same bolt cutters to sever multiple bond strand signal wires that were attached to tracks along the rail line. The damage Brown caused to the rail lines resulted in significant financial loss. Further, the railroad system that was damaged was engaged in mass transportation, and carries both passenger and freight cars. The court was advised that the offense involved recklessly endangering the safety of this mass transportation facility.
Judge Ambrose set sentencing for May 11th, 2020 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years. 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher M. Cook is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the CSX Transportation Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Pittsburgh-Area Lab Owner Pleads Guilty to Multiple Kickback Conspiracies in Connection with Almost $130 Million in Medicare Claims for Genetic TestingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to three conspiracy counts and one substantive count related to the payment and receipt of unlawful kickbacks, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Ravitej Reddy, 52, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.
During his plea hearing, the defendant admitted that he owned two testing laboratories—Personalized Genetics, LLC, d/b/a Personalized Genomics (PGL), located in Pittsburgh, and Med Health Services Management, LP (MHS), located in Monroeville. Beginning as early as May 2018, and continuing through approximately April 12, 2019, the defendant admitted that he participated in three separate conspiracies related to Medicare billing for two types of genetic testing: cancer genomic testing (CGx) and pharmacogenetic testing (PGx). CGx testing used DNA sequencing to detect mutations in genes that could indicate a higher risk of developing certain types of cancers in the future. CGx testing, however, was not a method of diagnosing whether an individual presently had cancer. PGx testing detected specific genetic variations in genes that impacted the metabolism of certain medications. In other words, PGx testing helped determine, among other things, whether certain medications would be effective if used by a particular patient.
As part of his guilty plea, the defendant admitted that he and a group of co-conspirators—comprising business consultants, marketers, and the operator of a telemedicine entity, among others—acquired thousands of testing samples from Medicare beneficiaries located throughout the United States, as well as the corresponding physician-ordered prescriptions that PGL and MHS needed to bill Medicare for CGx and PGx testing. For their part, the marketers used targeted campaigns to induce beneficiaries to submit CGx and PGx specimens by means of cheek swabs sent to their homes or provided to them at purported "health fairs" held throughout the United States. Marketers, in turn, were paid percentage-based kickbacks depending upon the Medicare reimbursements for beneficiaries whose samples they had obtained and submitted to PGL or MHS.
Likewise, the operator of a Florida-based telemedicine entity allegedly was paid kickbacks in connection with obtaining CGx and PGx prescriptions from physicians who were contracted by his company to review the beneficiaries’ personal and familial medical histories. As alleged, contract physicians authorized testing for greater than 95% of beneficiaries despite the fact that the doctors did not conduct a proper telemedicine visit, were not treating the Medicare beneficiaries for cancer or symptoms of cancer, did not use the test results in the treatment of the beneficiaries, and generally were not qualified to understand and interpret the test results.
The defendant further admitted that he and his co-conspirators took advantage of PGL’s and MHS’s physical locations within the Medicare coverage area that offered the highest reimbursement rates in the United States. The court was further advised that the co-conspirators used PGL and MHS as the billing laboratory despite the fact that the labs did not possess properly validated equipment to conduct any CGx testing on-site and, as such, were forced to send samples for proper testing by a so-called reference laboratory that was located outside of the lucrative coverage area.
During the plea hearing, the defendant admitted to his participation in three separate kickback conspiracies related to the acquisition of CGx and PGx specimens—an initial conspiracy between May 2018 and April 12, 2019, involving Medicare billings through PGL and two side conspiracies between October 2018 and April 12, 2019, involving Medicare billings through MHS. The defendant further admitted that he engaged in the second and third conspiracies with some, but not all, of the same co-conspirators as the first conspiracy, and he pursued these alleged side deals, in part, as a means to increase his share of the profits relative to the first PGL-based conspiracy. Finally, the defendant pleaded guilty to a substantive charge of paying percentage-based kickbacks to another unrelated marketing entity in connection with the acquisition of PGx and other testing samples between October 2017 and April 2019.
The defendant admitted that he caused PGL and MHS to submit Medicare claims for CGx and PGx testing that regularly exceeded $12,000 per beneficiary. In total, between May 2018 and April 12, 2019, the defendant’s laboratories billed Medicare more than $127 million for CGx and PGx testing, with reimbursements of approximately $60 million.
Pursuant to a written plea agreement, the defendant further agreed to make restitution to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in the amount of $77,328,319.82.
For each of the three conspiracy counts, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the substantive kickback charge, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation of the defendant.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced for Possessing Images Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 months’ imprisonment, followed by 7 years’ supervised release, and was ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution to two child victims on his conviction of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States Senior District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Ryan Grasha, 25.
According to information presented to the court, on January 31, 2018, Grasha possessed approximately 250 images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years. Grasha obtained and distributed the sexually exploitive images over the Internet, using the "Omegle" and "Kik" peer-to-peer networks.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grasha.
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.
Licensed Firearms Dealer Charged with Selling 4 Handguns to an Out-of-State Purchaser in Violation of Federal LawRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of West Mifflin, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of illegal sale of firearms by a licensed dealer to an out-of-state resident, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on January 7, named Jamie Chonko, age 34, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 19, 2019, Chonko, being a licensed dealer of firearms, willfully sold four handguns to an out-of-state resident knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that, at the time of the sale, the purchaser did not reside in Pennsylvania, where Chonko’s place of business was located. Federal law prohibits sales of handguns by a licensed dealer to an out-of-state resident.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Brady Recognizes the Work of Western Pennsylvania’s Federally-Deputized Task Force Officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – United States Attorney Scott W. Brady used Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9, 2020, to show support and promote respect for law enforcement officers across the Western District of Pennsylvania and beyond.
"Today we say a loud ‘THANK YOU’ to the men and women of law enforcement, who each day go to the most dangerous parts of our communities and deal with our most violent citizens, so that we and our families can be safe," tweeted U.S. Attorney Brady. "We owe them a debt of gratitude we can never repay."
Western Pennsylvania is fortunate to have a long history of cooperative law enforcement. Our most significant investigations and prosecutions have been developed through collaboration among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. That collaboration includes state and local Task Force Officers who are deputized to perform the same functions as federal agents.
U.S. Attorney Brady said, "Task Force Officers, working in collaboration with federal agents, play a vital role in safeguarding our communities by bringing criminals to justice. Every day they work to remove the most violent offenders from our communities, including drug traffickers, illegal gun possessors, dangerous fugitives and immigration violators. Federal law enforcement could not be as effective without the willingness of state and local law enforcement agencies to assign their officers to Federal Task Forces. Simply put, they help us make our streets safer."
As the lead federal law enforcement agency in Western Pennsylvania, the U.S. Attorney’s Office works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies at all levels: city police departments, county sheriffs' departments, county prosecutors, state and federal law enforcement agencies and, on occasion, foreign law enforcement agencies and international police. Task Force Officers have worked with all of these federal partners: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Secret Service; IRS-Criminal Investigation; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Full-time Task Force Officers from the following state and local agencies are critical to our efforts to keep western Pennsylvania safe:
Pennsylvania State Police
Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General
Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole
Allegheny County Courts/Probation
Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office
Allegheny County Police Department
Allegheny County Port Authority Police
Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office
Cambria County District Attorney’s Office
Cambria County Drug Task Force
Cambria County Sheriff’s Office
Erie County District Attorney’s Office
Fayette County District Attorney’s Office
Indiana County District Attorney’s Office
Indiana County Drug Task Force
Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office
Baldwin Borough Police Department
Clairton Police Department
Duquesne Police Department
Erie Police Department
Greensburg Police Department
Homestead Police Department
Indiana (Indiana County) Police Department
McKees Rocks Police Department
McKeesport Police Department
Monessen Police Department
Monroeville Police Department
Munhall Police Department
New Castle Police Department
North Strabane Police Department
North Versailles Police Department
Perryopolis Police Department
Pittsburgh Bureau of Police
Richland Township (Cambria County) Police Department
Greensburg Police Department
Shaler Police Department
Stowe Township Police Department
University of Pittsburgh Police
West Homestead Police Department
West Mifflin Police Department
Wilkinsburg Police Department
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day was first observed in 2015 and provides an opportunity to recognize the courage, dedication and sacrifice of the uniformed men and women who protect and serve our communities.
Venango County Resident was a Middleman in a Large-Scale Drug Conspiracy Investigated by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task ForceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Franklin, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Brian Salaj, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Salaj 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.
Intercepted communications demonstrated that Mr. Salaj conspired with others to distribute controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl. Specifically, Mr. Salaj served as a middleman who purchased distribution-level quantities of narcotics from co-conspirators and then redistributed the narcotics to other customers. Mr. Salaj was responsible for the distribution of 15 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 2, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Salaj remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.
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 Felon Caught During Foot Chase Admits Illegally Possessing a Loaded Glock HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Derek Reddix, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 23, 2018, Derek Reddix was on pretrial release for two separate state court firearms charges. That day, Pittsburgh Police officers were driving outbound on the 7500 block of Formosa Way when they observed an individual, later identified as Reddix, manipulating what was believed to be a firearm in his waistband. Officers exited their vehicle in order to conduct an investigation. As the officers began approaching Reddix, he fled on foot, running between and behind houses, despite the officers’ repeated and clear orders to "Stop." One officer eventually was able to catch and tackle Reddix. Reddix fell to the ground, while clutching a blue flip phone. Officers handcuffed Reddix, and he stated that he had dropped his other cell phone while running, and asked whether the officers were able to find it.
Officers secured the area where Reddix had been observed running, and they discovered and seized a Glock handgun with a 30-round extended magazine under the rear porch of 7578 Kelly Street. The gun was loaded with one round in the magazine. Within approximately a few feet of the gun, officers also discovered and seized Reddix’s other cell phone. A subsequent search of the cell phone revealed photographs of Reddix holding the Glock.
Reddix is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm, as he was convicted on or about April 21, 2009, in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas of the crime of Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License, and was sentenced to one to two years’ in jail.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Reddix remain detained on the federal firearms charge.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Derek Reddix.
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.
Judge Sentences Getaway Driver to 4 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court for aiding and abetting armed bank robbery and attempted armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer sentenced Nicole Wallace, 35, to 48 months for her crime, and ordered that she pay restitution for the money she helped steal from the bank.
According to information presented to the court, in October 2018, Wallace acted as the getaway driver for two armed bank robberies (the October 17 robbery of Huntington Bank in Pittsburgh and the October 29 robbery of the First National Bank in Pittsburgh) and one attempted armed bank robbery (at the First National Bank in Pittsburgh on October 26) in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In one of those incidents, a security guard was assaulted, drew his weapon, and there was an armed stand-off with Wallace’s co-conspirator.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was warranted based on the seriousness of the offenses and the danger they posed to the community.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wallace.
Former Duquesne Man Served as a Drug Runner for the SCO GangRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Keenan Williams, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of heroin at Count One of the Indictment, before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Williams and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications over the phone of Williams’ co-defendant and brother, Richard Coto-Wheat, confirmed that Williams served as a drug runner for the conspiracy, distributing controlled substances in the North Versailles and Braddock neighborhoods.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020, at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, 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. Williams remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Unlawful Possession of a Pistol and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on January 7, named Aaron Lyons, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about November 19, 2019, Lyons, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol and 11 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. The Indictment also alleges that the defendant had been convicted in April 2018 of unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reductions 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 prevent and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York Man Indicted in Pittsburgh on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Brooklyn, New York, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Quaruan Chance, age 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Chance was found to be in possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, a term of supervised release of at least four years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Indicted on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The Indictment named Andrew R. Colvin, 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about October 7, 2019, Colvin possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana. Further, on or about October 9, 2019, Colvin possessed with intent to distribute one gram or more of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana, cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), ketamine, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force 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.
Former Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kyleif Harley, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. The defendant acknowledged his responsibility for the distribution of 15 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Mr. Harley 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.
Intercepted communications demonstrated that Harley possessed and distributed heroin and fentanyl, and communicated directly with his co-defendant, Christopher Highsmith, who was among the leaders of the drug trafficking conspiracy, in order to develop his drug trafficking business. The court was further informed that during a traffic stop of Harley near Philadelphia on August 1, 2018, law enforcement officials seized 261 stamps bags of heroin, over 60 pills that tested positive for various forms of fentanyl, and items related to narcotics distribution that were purchased in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Harley later pleaded guilty to state charges that stemmed from the traffic stop.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 6, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Harley remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
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.
Clearfield County Felon Charged with Federal Firearms Law ViolationRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Curwensville, Pa., was indicted on January 7, 2020, by a federal grand jury on a charge of violating federal firearms and ammunition laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Chancellor M. Shaw, 25, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on September 16, 2019, Shaw was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. On June 26, 2018, Shaw was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Clearfield County, of the crimes of flight to avoid apprehension and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, which are crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Timothy Bonner, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bonner conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance and a quantity of marijuana from April 2017 through April 2019.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for April 27, 2020 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bonner. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. 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. In this case, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the New Castle Police Department also participated in the investigation.
Sales Employee Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding National Tool Grinding in Erie, PARead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 22 months in jail and ordered to pay $200,000 in restitution on her conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Elizabeth McMahan, 51.
According to information presented to the court, McMahan was a commission sales employee at National Tool Grinding in Erie. From June 2010 to August 2014, she was selling products for a thirty to ninety percent discount without authorization from her employer, which resulted in greater commissions for her. In addition, McMahan falsified commission reports by submitting false sales that never occurred and increasing purchase prices.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McMahan.
Meadville Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Project Safe Childhood OffensesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Meadville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 96 months in jail and 8 years supervised release 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 Dennis Michael Kerr, 29.
According to information presented to the court, Kerr transported computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Kerr also transferred and attempted to transfer obscene material to an individual Kerr thought was a minor.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kerr.
Federal Inmate Assaulted Prison Staff MemberRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the Allenwood United States Penitentiary in Allenwood, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of infliction of bodily injury, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Lawrence W. Nelson, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about July 10, 2019, Nelson assaulted a staff member while an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution. The staff member suffered a broken nose, black eye and concussion as a result of the assault.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 28, 2020 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nelson.
Two Ohio Men Admit Robbing Western PA PharmaciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two Ohio men pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit armed pharmacy robbery, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and armed pharmacy robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mohammed Jibril, age 19, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, and Arthur Lee Worthy, II, age 21, of Columbus, Ohio, each pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Abdulrahman Abdelaziz Jamea is the leader of numerous well-orchestrated pharmacy robberies in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. He recruited other individuals, including Mohammed Jibril and Arthur Lee Worthy, II, to rob pharmacies. Jamea researched which pharmacies to rob and then would drive to the location of the pharmacy to be robbed, stake it out, then he and/or his crew would complete the robbery.
On November 17, 2018, two individuals robbed the Rite Aid pharmacy located on Third Street in Beaver, PA. One of the males pulled out a black colored automatic pistol and pointed it in the pharmacist’s direction. Worthy jumped over the counter and inquired about the safe and asked for codeine syrup. He pulled out a garbage bag then placed prescription pills into the bag. Based on historical cell site records, it appears that Jamea was on scene at the Rite Aid at the time of the robbery.
On November 22, 2018, at 2:22 am, two black males robbed the CVS pharmacy on Centre Avenue in Pittsburgh. One of the males pointed a gun at the pharmacist and told her to open the safe. Worthy jumped the counter and as the pharmacist opened the two safes, Worthy placed prescription narcotics into a black trash bag. Jamea was identified on the surveillance video entering the store shortly before the robbery occurred. As the males fled the store, the getaway vehicle, a red Hyundai Sonata with Ohio registration, owned by Jamea, pulled up and they fled.
On December 2, 2018, Worthy robbed the Rite Aid in Marietta, Ohio. He brandished a gun then jumped over the pharmacy counter and pistol-whipped the pharmacist. He pointed the gun at the cashier and demanded that he open the register. Worthy was only able to get $447.05 before fleeing in a dark red/maroon four door vehicle with Ohio tags. The weapon, a .177 pellet/BB pistol was found in the parking lot. There were also text messages between Jamea and Jibril leading up to the robbery.
On December 7, 2018, at 6:14 am, Worthy robbed the CVS Pharmacy in Erie, Pennsylvania. He approached the pharmacy counter and demanded drugs and money and threatened to kill the pharmacist. Worthy jumped over the counter and asked for oxycodone and money, then placed prescription narcotics in a Foot Locker bag. He also took $410 in U.S. Currency before fleeing the store. Worthy’s fingerprints were lifted from the pharmacy. At 9:09 am, Ohio state patrol initiated a stop on Jibril and Worthy’s rental vehicle. From the vehicle, officers recovered the Foot Locker bag filled with prescription drugs and $300 from Jibril. Text messages indicate that Jamea provided Jibril with the address of the pharmacy and told him where to park the vehicle prior to the robbery. The messages also indicate that Jamea arranged for the rental of the vehicle. During the time of the traffic stop, Jamea was texting Jibril.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Jibril for April 20, 2020, and for Worthy for April 22, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, 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 defendants. Pending sentencing, the court ordered both defendants to remain detained.
Abdulrahman Abdelaziz Jamea is pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Bridgeville Police Department and the Ohio Highway Patrol, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Former Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Narcotics TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court last week to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
John Fedorka, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. The defendant acknowledged his responsibility for the distribution of 18 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Mr. Fedorka 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.
Fedorka purchased heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Christopher Highsmith, and served as a middleman in drug transactions. The court was further informed that on January 17, 2019, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police made a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Fedorka was the front seat passenger. Police recovered three bricks of heroin from Fedorka.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for May 6, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. In addition to the charges to which he pleaded guilty, Fedorka has a prior felony drug conviction, and, as such, is subject to enhanced penalties. The defendant remains in jail pending the sentencing hearing.
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.
Three Members of GozNym Cybercrime Network Sentenced in Parallel Multi-National Prosecutions in Pittsburgh and Tbilisi, GeorgiaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Varna, Bulgaria, was sentenced on December 16, 2019, in federal court in Pittsburgh to a period of time served after having served more than 39 months in prison following his conviction on charges of criminal conspiracy, computer fraud, and bank fraud for his role as a member of the GozNym malware cybercrime network, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Krasimir Nikolov, 47, of Bulgaria. Nikolov will be transferred into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody and removed from the United States to Bulgaria.
At the request of the United States, Nikolov was arrested in September 2016 by Bulgarian authorities and extradited to Pittsburgh in December 2016 to face prosecution in the Western District of Pennsylvania. According to information presented to the court, Nikolov’s primary role in the conspiracy was that of a "casher" or "account takeover specialist." In that capacity, Nikolov used victims’ stolen online banking credentials captured by GozNym malware to access victims’ online bank accounts and attempt to steal victims’ money through electronic transfers into bank accounts controlled by fellow conspirators.
Nikolov conspired with fellow GozNym members charged in a related Indictment announced in May 2019 in The Hague, Netherlands by U.S. Attorney Brady and international partners from Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, Germany, Europol, and Eurojust. The Indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, charged 10 additional members of the GozNym criminal network with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to that Indictment, Alexander Konovolov, aka "NoNe," aka "none_1," of Tbilisi, Georgia, was the primary organizer and leader of the GozNym network who controlled more than 41,000 victim computers infected with GozNym malware. Konovolov assembled the team of elite cybercriminals charged in the Indictment, in part by recruiting them through underground online criminal forums. Marat Kazandjian, aka "phant0m," of Kazakhstan and Tbilisi, Georgia, was Konovolov’s primary assistant and technical administrator. Konovolov and Kazandjian were arrested and prosecuted in Georgia for their respective roles in the GozNym criminal network
In a related announcement today, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia announced the convictions and imposition of sentences against Konovolov and Kazandjian following a lengthy trial held in Tbilisi, Georgia. In an unprecedented level of cooperation, the Georgian trial included witness testimony from an FBI agent and a computer scientist from the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office, as well as evidence obtained by the
FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office through their parallel investigation. The Georgian prosecution was based on violations of Georgian criminal laws perpetrated by Konovolov and Kazandjian against GozNym victims in the United States, including victims in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
"In announcing the prosecution of the GozNym international cybercrime syndicate with our law enforcement partners at Europol in May, I stated that borderless cybercrime necessitates a borderless response," said U. S. Attorney Brady. "This new paradigm involves unprecedented levels of cooperation with willing and trusted law enforcement partners around the world who share our goals of searching, arresting and prosecuting cyber criminals no matter where they might be. I want to congratulate and personally thank the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia for their dedication and hard work in securing these important convictions, and for their willingness to seek justice on behalf of GozNym victims in the United States and around the world."
"The FBI will not allow cyber criminals from any country to operate with impunity," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. "For years, these cyber criminals believed they could steal millions from innocent victims. Through international cooperation with multiple agencies, we were able to target, takedown and bring to justice members of this criminal enterprise. We will continue to relentlessly pursue these cyber criminals who think they can conduct illicit activity from behind the perceived anonymity of a computer."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the U.S. government.
In addition to extending his gratitude and appreciation to the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia for their investigation and successful prosecution of Konovolov and Kazandjian, United States Attorney Brady commended the FBI for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutions of Nikolov, Konovolov and Kazandjian.
The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance with the extradition of Nikolov from Bulgaria as well as with the bi-lateral sharing of evidence with Georgia. Bulgaria’s General Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime assisted in the arrest of Nikolov.
Georgia Prosecutor's Office Press Release.pdfNevada Man Indicted on Attempted Coercion of a Minor and Travel for Sex ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of North Las Vegas, Nevada, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual Activity and Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on Dec. 17 and unsealed today, named Renad Bautista, age 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from in and around April 2018, until on or about December 9, 2019, Bautista used the Internet to knowingly attempt to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The Indictment further alleges that on from on or about December 5, 2019 until on or about December 9, 2019, Bautista travelled for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual contact.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than life in prison, a fine of $750,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
West Mifflin Man Operated Marijuana Stash House in Squirrel Hill ApartmentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Wayne Barker, age 61, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In April of 2019, investigators obtained authorization for the interception of wire and electronic communications over a telephone operated by another member of the conspiracy, which continued through May of 2019.
Based in part upon intercepted communications, on May 24, 2019, law enforcement established surveillance in the vicinity of an apartment on Covode Street in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, which was identified by investigators as a large-scale marijuana stash house operated by Barker. While conducting surveillance, law enforcement officials observed a Dodge Ram operated by another member of the conspiracy pull into the driveway of the apartment where several individuals unloaded boxes into the apartment and then loaded two additional boxes into the Dodge Ram. Investigators executed federal search warrants on the vehicle and the apartment, and seized $469,475 from the Dodge Ram. Additionally, the Court was informed that law enforcement seized 404 pounds of marijuana and an additional $5,012 from the apartment as well as vacuum sealers, a money counter and other items indicative of large-scale drug-trafficking.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2020 at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence, as to each count, of not less than five and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Barker remains on bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Two Plead Guilty to Charges Related to Safe Streets Task Force Investigation into Drug Trafficking in Braddock areaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Two more residents of Western Pennsylvania 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.
Reginald Brown, 29, formerly of Glassport, PA, pleaded guilty to one count related to drug trafficking, before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
Gregory Luptak, 51, of North Huntingdon, PA, pleaded guilty to one count related to drug trafficking also before Judge Schwab.
In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock area. Reginald Brown, Gregory Luptak, and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh Region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019.
As to Reginald Brown, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Brown was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances, namely cocaine base in the form commonly known as crack. Mr. Brown admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a member of "SCO." The court was further advised that on June 12, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and located the following items from the kitchen cabinets indicative of drug-trafficking, including: several cell phones, a Ruger 9mm pistol with loaded magazine and chambered round, a digital scale, suspected crack cocaine, sandwich baggies and baking soda, as well as $5,490.00. The court accepted Mr. Brown’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019.
As to Gregory Luptak, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Luptak distributed large quantities of heroin. Mr. Luptak admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he was observed purchasing heroin at a stash house location on Seddon Avenue in Braddock, which he then distributed. The court accepted Luptak’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 47 grams of heroin.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 14, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Brown and May 18, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Luptak. For Brown, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years in prison, with a maximum fine of $5,000,000. For Luptak, the law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000,000 at each count. 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 defendants. Williams was previously ordered detained by the court and will remain incarcerated pending sentencing. Luptak was released on bond pursuant to the court’s prior order and will remain out on bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Synthetic CannabinoidRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Kris Johnson, age 28, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on August 12, 2018, Kris Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of 5-F ADB, a synthetic cannabinoid, a Schedule I controlled substance
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Agency 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.
New Castle Defendant Now Facing Additional Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment today against a resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Superseding Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Zaamar Stevenson, aka Scrap, age 43, as the sole defendant.
According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about November 9, 2015, the defendant conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. In addition, the Superseding Indictment charges the defendant with possessing with intent to distribute both of those drugs on that date.
The law provides for a maximum total 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Butler County District Attorney's Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Grand Jury Returns Indictment Adding Drug, Firearms and Money Laundering Charges Against Alleged Fentanyl DealerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A federal grand jury returned a third superseding indictment against two residents of Pittsburgh, PA, on charges of violating the federal narcotics, firearms and money laundering laws, United States Scott W. Brady announced today.
The nine-count third Superseding Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Lynell Guyton, age 30, and Drevon Woodson, age 22, as the defendants.
According to the third Superseding Indictment, Guyton and Woodson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute varying quantities of an analogue of fentanyl, from May, 2017, to August, 2017. Guyton is charged with possession with intent to distribute the same. According to information provided to the Court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant at 7 Bond Street in Pittsburgh’s West End. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne. Several SWAT operators experienced dizziness and numbness. In all, 18 officers were transported to UPMC-Mercy for evaluation before being medically cleared. In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the "Ferrari" stamp and the "Louis Vuitton" stamp.
In addition, the third Superseding Indictment charges that Guyton possessed with intent to distribute a fentanyl analogue on July 20, 2017, and August 2, 2017, and that he attempted to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue on June 1, 2017. In addition, Guyton is charged with two counts of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and with two counts of sending international wire transfers to promote the drug trafficking.
The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 10 years to up to life in prison as well as certain statutory minimum sentences starting at 5 years in prison. Fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $20,000,000 may also be imposed. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Guyton and Woodson are currently detained pending resolution of these charges.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, conducted the investigation leading to the third Superseding Indictment in this case.
A third superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Former Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years for Robbing Four Banks and a Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Patrick Acierno, 34, who received a total of 57 months’ imprisonment, followed by 36 months’ supervised release.
According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2019, Acierno entered KeyBank, located at 9605 Harmony Drive, Ingomar, PA 15127, dressed in a black hooded sweatshirt, black mask, sunglasses, and blue latex gloves, proceeded toward the teller stations where two tellers were working and took $7,743, including eight $20.00 bait bills. Acierno fled on foot and was observed by one of the tellers getting into a blue Toyota Rav 4. Franklin Park Police later identified the Toyota Rav4, and apprehended the defendant after a brief vehicle chase. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement officials found the items Acierno wore during the robbery, and $7,743 in U.S. currency, including the bait bills from the Key Bank.
In addition to the March 5, 2019 KeyBank robbery, Acierno was sentenced for committing three additional bank robberies on September 12, 2018, at the PNC Bank at 20940 Route 19, in Cranberry, on November 12, 2018, at the West View Savings Bank, 2566 Brandt School Road, in Wexford, and December 5, 2018, at the WesBanco Bank, 3531 Broadhead Road, in Monaca.
Additionally, Acierno was sentenced for robbing the Cogos located at 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, also in Monaca, on October 11, 2018. Acierno was ordered to pay restitution to the victim banks and convenience store, which totals $26,423 from the banks and $630 from CoGos.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cranberry Police Department, the Franklin Park Police Department, the Center Township Police Department, the McCandless Police Department, and the Monaca Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Acierno.
Former Coraopolis Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl that Resulted in the Death of a Moon Twp. WomanRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Coraopolis, PA, was sentenced to eight years in prison to be followed six years of supervised release for distribution of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Cleo Maurice Bronaugh, age 42, was sentenced by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Bronaugh acknowledged as part of his guilty plea that the fentanyl he distributed resulted in the death of a Moon Township woman. Bronaugh has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court and will continue to remain detained pending his placement in the Bureau of Prisons.
According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2017, Bronaugh delivered a quantity of fentanyl to an individual identified as L.T. in Moon Township, PA. Bronaugh attempted to warn L.T. and her family members of the potency of the fentanyl he distributed to her by leaving numerous phone messages. However, these messages did not reach L.T. in time and she ingested the fentanyl without any of the defendant’s warnings. L.T. was discovered by her family members the next day. The Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner later determined that L.T.’s death was due to fentanyl toxicity.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Moon Township Police, the Allegheny County Police, the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner and the Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
South Carolina Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Fort Mill, South Carolina, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count each of conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Tia Collins, 44, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
During her plea hearing, Tia Collins admitted that between 2011 and 2017 she was affiliated with Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS)—three related entities operating in the home health care industry. MCI, ADL, and a fourth company, Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI), were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients ("consumers"), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. Between in and around January 2011 and in and around April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for these services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount.
During that time, Collins admitted that she participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims. As part of the conspiracy, Collins admitted that she fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, she never provided to consumers. Collins also admitted that she caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of a "ghost" employee for PAS care that was never provided to the consumers specified on the claims. Collins also paid or caused other individuals to pay certain consumers cash kickbacks in exchange for the consumers’ participation in the fraudulent arrangement. Likewise, Collins admitted that she paid additional kickbacks to consumers out of the proceeds of fraudulent transportation reimbursements Collins caused Medicaid to disburse on behalf of the consumers. In total, Collins admitted causing losses to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in excess of $150,000.
Judge Bissoon scheduled Collins's sentencing for 2:15 p.m. on April 9, 2020.
The conspiracy and health care fraud charges each carry a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
To date, a total of sixteen defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation. Collins is the eighth defendant to enter a guilty plea. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation of the defendants.