Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing 2 Handguns, a Rifle and AmmoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ (24 months’) imprisonment and two years of supervised release on her conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Latisha Butler, age 29.
According to information presented to the court, on or about May 14, 2018, Butler, an individual with a prior felony conviction for Possession with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, knowingly and unlawfully possessed a Smith & Wesson Model M&P-15 Rifle, a Smith & Wesson, Model SD9VE handgun, a Diamondback Model DB9 Handgun, and various types of ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Butler.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to More than a Decade in Prison for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Jamiek Moore, 23, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on Monday to 130 months’ imprisonment (10 years and 10 months) on his convictions for violating the federal narcotics and firearms and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W, Brady announced today. Following a two-day non-jury trial that concluded in March 2019, Jamiek Moore was convicted of conspiracy to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and two counts of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on or about June 8, 2017, Moore conspired with others, including co-defendant Jaimere Dehonney, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and that Moore possessed firearms on that day in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The government’s evidence largely consisted of items seized by law enforcement pursuant to search warrants from a residence and vehicle utilized by Moore, his co-defendant Dehonney, and others, located at a residence on Yosemite Drive in Penn Hills, Allegheny County. That evidence consisted of quantities of heroin, large quantities of heroin packaging materials, approximately $28,000 in U.S. Currency, and two loaded firearms. The government further established that on May 15, 2017, at a residence located on Rhine Court in Pittsburgh, Moore possessed quantities of marijuana and heroin with the intent to distribute them, and that he possessed two loaded firearms that day in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On December 16, 2019, United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton sentenced Moore to five-year terms of imprisonment on the firearms offenses, which were ordered to run consecutively to one another pursuant to federal law for a total sentence of 10 years’ (120 months’) imprisonment for those crimes. Additionally, Judge Walton sentenced Moore to an additional 10 months of imprisonment for the narcotics violations, also to run consecutively to the sentence for the firearms offenses, pursuant to federal law, for a total sentence of 130 months’ imprisonment. Upon Moore’s release from incarceration, he will be supervised by the United States Probation Department for a term of five years.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Penn Hills Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutio
Former Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Deliver Large Quantity of Heroin to Undercover FBI AgentsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mark Ridley, age 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute heroin and one count of possession with the intent to distribute heroin in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.
According to information presented to the court, on April 25, 2017, Ridley conspired with others to transport a large quantity of heroin to the Hazlewood section of Pittsburgh. Ridley believed that he was transporting the heroin to sell to a drug customer. However, Ridley was actually communicating with two FBI agents acting in an undercover capacity. FBI recovered a large quantity of heroin in a secret compartment of the passenger door after Ridley arrived to a location driven in a car by co-defendant Leonard Rushin-Felder, who has previously pleaded guilty in this case. After arresting Ridley, FBI agents recovered three cell phones from Ridley including the phone undercover agents were in contact with.
The law provides for a sentence of not more 30 years in prison and/or a fine of not more than $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Stowe Rox Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Wife of Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Leader Pleads Guilty to Maintaining a Drug-Involved Location which was the Site of Large FBI SeizureRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One former resident of Verona, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kaylin Lightfoot-Homa, age 26, pleaded guilty to one count of maintaining a drug involved premises before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.
According to information presented to the court, from May 2017 to November 2017, Kaylin Lightfoot-Homa lived at a home on Harvest Drive in Verona, PA with her husband and co-defendant Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. and co-defendant Chace Johnson. Both of these individuals have previously pleaded guilty. During this time, Lightfoot-Homa facilitated the use of the house as a drug involved premises where large amounts of cocaine and money were stored and distributed from there. On November 5, 2017, Lightfoot-Homa was present when FBI executed multiple search warrants at the residence and recovered 51 kilograms of cocaine, 85 kilograms of marijuana, multiple firearms, and over $500,000 in US Currency.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 20 years in prison and/or a fine of not more than $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Member of Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Distributing Large Quantities of CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Donora, PA, has pleaded guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Brett Fincik, age 45, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.
According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 to November 2017, Fincik conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Fincik would then resell large quantities of cocaine to customers in Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Washington Counties.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and a maximum of life and/or a fine of not more than $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Five Former Residents of Mexico Charged in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Four former residents of Sinaloa, Mexico, and a former resident of Sonora, Mexico, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Amado Alonzo Zazueta Garcia, Juan Jose Quintero Felix, Luis Antonio Alvarado Llanes, and Sergio Geovany Alvarado Felix, each of whom is originally from Sinaloa, Mexico; and Aracelis Martinez Nunez, formerly of Sonora, Mexico.
According to the Indictment, from in and around October 2019, to in and around November 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, the defendants conspired with one another, and with persons both known and unknown to the grand jury, to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each defendant of not less than ten (10) years in prison and not more than life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Unit 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.
Siemens Contract Employee Gets Jail Time for Intentionally Damaging ComputersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A contract employee for Siemens Corporation at the Monroeville, PA location has been sentenced in federal court to a six-month term of imprisonment to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release, and a fine of $7,500 on his conviction of intentional damage to a protected computer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on David Tinley, 62, of Harrison City, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2014 and continuing until on or about May 13, 2016, Tinley intentionally inserted logic bombs into computer programs that he designed for Siemens Corporation. The logic bombs ensured that the programs would malfunction after the expiration of a certain date. As a result, Siemens was unaware of the cause of the malfunction and required Tinley to fix these malfunctions.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai 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 Tinley.
Reynoldsville Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Jefferson County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Matthew James Kite, 23, of Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 26, 2017, and on April 18, 2018, Kite possessed more than 600 images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including children under the age of 12, as well as infants and toddlers. On October 26, 2017, during the first federal search warrant executed at Kite’s home, law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices containing child pornography. In a voluntary interview with law enforcement, Kite admitted to viewing and downloading child pornography. Five months later, in April 2018, a second federal search warrant was executed at Kite’s home. Kite admitted to viewing and downloading child pornography on an additional phone and additional laptop. In addition to the guilty plea to possession of child pornography, Kite accepted responsibility for one count of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for April 21, 2020, at 10:00 a.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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Kite remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kite. 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 Man Pleads Guilty in Wiretap Investigation of Drug Trafficking in Pittsburgh’s West EndRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Allen Green, age 40, of pleaded guilty to one count 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 wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Allen Green conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of powder cocaine.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 19, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years 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 detention.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. 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 Allen Green.
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 Attempted to Coerce a Minor to Have SexRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Joseph Hamilton, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 11, 2019 until on or about April 18, 2019, the defendant used a facility or means of interstate commerce, specifically the Internet and over a cellular phone network, to communicate with an undercover agent, believing the agent to be a minor, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce the purported minor to engage in sexual activity with him. In his messages with the undercover agent, the defendant detailed the sexual activity that he wanted to engage in with the purported minor. The defendant told the purported minor to delete their messages so that the purported minor’s mother would not find them. On April 18, 2019, the defendant made plans to meet with the undercover agent posing as a minor. The plan was for the defendant to pick the minor up at an agreed upon location in his vehicle and then they would go to the defendant’s residence to engage in sexual activity. Law enforcement arrested the defendant when he arrived to meet the purported minor.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 7, 2020 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hamilton.
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.
Ohio Woman Sentenced to Time Served for Check SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Ohio has been sentenced in federal court to time served, three years supervised release, 180 days of home detention, and restitution in the amount of $24,244.00 on a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Kadijha D. Starks, 25, formerly of Columbus, Ohio.
According to the information presented to the court, beginning in and around September, 2014, and continuing thereafter until in and around October, 2017, Starks and conspirators used false identification cards to negotiate counterfeit checks at casinos including the River’s Casino in Pittsburgh in December, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Attorney commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kadijha D. Starks.
Jamaican Defendant Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud for Lottery Scam that Defrauded Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Kristoff Cain, a Jamaican national, pleaded guilty in federal court today before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around September 2013, and continuing thereafter until in and around April 2018, Kristoff Cain knowingly and willfully conspired with others to engage in a scheme to defraud elderly victims by contacting them by phone and through a variety of other means to inform them that they had won large cash prizes in a lottery and that the victims needed to send money to specified addresses or recipients to pay taxes or other assessments in order to claim the cash prizes. Additionally, the defendant and other individuals associated with the conspiracy also contacted certain other victims by telephone; represented themselves to be law enforcement officers, and informed the victims that they needed to send money to specified addresses or recipients in connection with investigations involving the individuals’ bank accounts. The defendant, and other persons associated with the conspiracy, well knew that the victims were not associated with any lottery or cash prize award, and that they were not involved in any law enforcement investigation involving the relevant bank accounts, and that the victims did not need to send money to the specified addresses or recipients.
The court was also advised that the amount of loss attributable to Kristoff Cain as part of his scheme and artifice to defraud was more than $250,000, and that the victims who were defrauded as a result of his conduct were unusually vulnerable due to age. Specifically, the defendant and other individuals associated with the conspiracy targeted multiple victims over the age of 80, and induced them to send money via wire transactions and other means to addresses specified by the defendant. The court was further advised that Kristoff Cain was a manager of the conspiracy and directed his co-conspirators’ extensive criminal activity.
Judge Bissoon set sentencing for April 7th, 2020 at 10 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 and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Cain has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher M. Cook is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
High-Level Member of Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Distributing Large Quantities of CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Clairton, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Eugene Reddick, age 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2017 to November 5, 2017, Reddick conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Reddick would then resell large quantities of cocaine to customers in Allegheny, Westmoreland and Washington Counties.
Judge Hornak scheduled his sentencing for April 14, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. Reddick has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and a maximum of life and/or a fine of not more than $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Co-Leader of Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Running One of the Largest DTOs in Pittsburgh HistoryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Monessen, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Deaubre Lightfoot, age 29, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. Additionally, Lightfoot accepted responsibility for between five and 15 kilograms of cocaine and for having a leadership role supervising five or more people in the conspiracy. Judge Hornak scheduled his sentencing for April 16, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. Lightfoot has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.
According to information presented to the court, from April 2017 to November 5, 2017, Deaubre Lightfoot conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Lighfoot, and his brother Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. who previously pleaded guilty in this case, would store the narcotics at their respective homes. The drugs would be distributed to co-conspirators in almost every region of Western Pennsylvania. On December 12, 2017, FBI investigators recovered a kilogram of cocaine from Deaubre Lightfoot’s residence.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years and/or a fine of not more than $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation.
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 Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violations of federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Derrick Jones, 34, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July of 2017, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police had been surveilling Jones for suspected narcotics distribution out of his residence at 720 Hampshire Avenue in Pittsburgh. Successive trash pulls revealed packaging and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking and items with cocaine and crack cocaine residue. On July 21, 2017, Pittsburgh Police executed a search warrant at the residence and discovered a hanging basket in the dining room containing powder cocaine, baking soda, and drug packaging supplies. In various locations throughout the house, police recovered six firearms including an AK style assault rifle, additional powder cocaine and crack, and $4,578.00 in United States currency, as well as supplies for making crack cocaine. The defendant was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The court was further informed that Jones has a prior drug felony conviction and, as such, he is subject to enhanced penalties.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2020, at 9:00 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, 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. Jones remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.
Two Florida Residents Plead Guilty to Passing Counterfeit Checks in Multiple StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Orlando, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to pass counterfeit bank checks, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Calar Braxton, aka Vivian Hugo, aka Taylor Crimson, 45, and Brian Omar Campbell, aka Vincent Hugo, aka Troy Crimson, 30, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in September 2017, Braxton and Campbell flew to Pittsburgh and rented a room at motel located in North Fayette Township. Afterwards, they and another member of the conspiracy went to Imperial and Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, to steal outgoing mail from residential mailboxes. The stolen mail was taken back to the motel, where it was opened. If the mail contained a check, the check’s account information and routing number were used to prepare counterfeit checks. They then used the counterfeit checks to purchase merchandise from stores located in and around the Mall at Robinson. The conspirators targeted national chains with the intention of obtaining a cash refund for ill-gotten merchandise at a counterpart store located in another state. The scheme came to an end when members of the North Fayette Township Police Department obtained a warrant for the motel room and searched. During the search, the police recovered blank check stock; a laser jet printer; a laptop computer; a false identification cards for Braxton and Campbell. As part of their plea agreement, both defendants acknowledged that they had also passed counterfeits checks in the following states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.
Judge Horan scheduled Braxton’s sentencing for April 1, 2020, and Campbell’s was scheduled for April 2, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 35 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 and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendants’ detention.
Assistant United States Attorney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the North Fayette Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the charges in this case.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Identity Theft RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Terry Porterfield, age 44, 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 Porterfield participated in an identity theft ring, through which he broke into unoccupied vehicles and stole means of identification and access devices of individuals, including driver licenses, credit cards, debit cards, and Social Security cards. Porterfield and other members of the conspiracy used the stolen means of identification and access devices to make and attempt to make fraudulent purchases at various retail establishments, including Target and Best Buy.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 23, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, the Allegheny County Police, Ross Township Police, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Porterfield.
Homestead Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin He Obtained from SCO Gang MemberRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Thomas Dwyer, 42, pleaded guilty to one count 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. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Dwyer admitted that he obtained heroin, which he then distributed, from James Wells. Wells, a SCO gang member, has already pleaded guilty in this case, admitting by way of his guilty plea that he was a heroin trafficker in and around the Braddock area.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 11, 2020 at 10:00 AM. As to Dwyer, the law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not more than $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. Dwyer remains on bond 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.
7 Charged in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Seven residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have 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, returned on December 10 and unsealed today, named:
Martise Smith, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
Lamont Goodwine, Jr., 31, of Carrick, Pennsylvania;
Raymond Jones, 33, of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania;
Robert Howard, 33, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania;
David Joyner, 24, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania;
Duane Henderson, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
Mbuitidem Essiet, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to Indictment, from in and around June of 2019, and continuing thereafter to in and around December of 2019, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000 or both. 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.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Woman Facing Theft ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge relating to theft of Social Security funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment named Kristie Marraccini, age 40, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from in and around August 2016, to in and around December 2017, Marraccini knowingly received and converted Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, in an amount exceeding $1,000.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 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 Brian M. Czarnecki is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Getaway Driver for Downtown Pittsburgh Bank Heist Sentenced to 3 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of conspiracy to commit bank robbery and bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Mark Hammond, 55, who received a total of 36 months’ imprisonment followed by 36 months’ supervised release at both counts one and two of the Indictment, to run concurrently. In addition to the 36 months’ for the robbery, Hammond was sentenced to an additional 24 months’ imprisonment, to be served concurrently, as he was on supervised release for a prior bank robbery conviction at the time of the offense.
According to information presented to the court, on January 10, 2018, Hammond served as the getaway driver for his codefendant, Alonzo Dunbar, who robbed the Huntington Bank located at 650 Smithfield Street in Pittsburgh of $1,678.00. The court was further informed that prior to the robbery, Hammond parked his vehicle on Smithfield Street and went into the bank to make change for $5.00, when, in reality, he was surveilling the bank. Hammond’s vehicle was identified in video surveillance footage, circling the area around the bank, stopping across from the bank, and leaving the bank following the robbery with Dunbar as a passenger. Hammond later received a portion of the proceeds from the robbery from Dunbar for his participation in the conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hammond.
GBK Gang Member Admits Selling Cocaine, Crack and Heroin in Pittsburgh’s West End NeighborhoodsRead 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, and a charge of distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Monta Banks, age 29, pleaded guilty to four 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 Greenway Boy Killas (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. On January 29, 2018, agents made a controlled purchase of heroin from Banks. The wiretap interceptions began shortly thereafter, in February 2018, and continued through June 2018. The investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, gang member Monta Banks and his co-conspirators distributed cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. 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 offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
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 Monta Banks.
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.
Beaver County Man Admits Robbing PNC Bank in Cranberry TownshipRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Patterson Township, (Beaver County) Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Michael Ryan Neppach, 40, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on August 28, 2019, Neppach had robbed the PNC Bank at 20940 Route 19 in Cranberry Township of approximately $1,400.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 15, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty 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 Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Cranberry Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Neppach.
Turtle Creek Man Charged with Firearms Law ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Sean Johnson, Jr., age 25, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, on or about November 19, 2019, Johnson, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition..
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway and Brian M. Czarnecki are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, the Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Maryland Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Swissvale Man Facing Drug and Gun Possession Charges in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Swissvale, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on federal narcotics and firearms charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count superseding indictment named Kevin Darwin-Sewell, 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, Darwin-Sewell is charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crimes which occurred on July 19, 2016 and February 1, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years and up to life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Castle Woman Sentenced for Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of New Castle, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation and must pay $26,917.55 in restitution to the Social Security Administration on her conviction of charges related to Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Shawna Stelter, 37.
According to information presented to the court, Stelter failed to disclose that her husband was part of her household when applying for and receiving Supplemental Security Income ("SSI") benefits, and, as a result, received $26,917.55 in SSI benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, from June of 2014 to September of 2016. The court was further informed that Stelter made a false statement on her Redetermination Summary on October 30, 2014, when she further claimed that her husband was not part of her household, and that her household only consisted of herself and her two children.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to prosecution of Stelter.
McKeesport Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Curtis Farrar, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, on or about November 19, 2019, Farrar, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition..
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway and Brian M. Czarnecki are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, the Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Maryland Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentences Man to 10 Years in Prison in Project Safe Childhood CaseRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison 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 Kevin Christopher Oldland, 38.
According to information presented to the court, Oldland traveled to Erie, Pennsylvania for the purpose of engaging in illegal sexual activity with a minor and used a means or facility of interstate commerce to persuade, induce and entice the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.
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 Millcreek Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Oldland.
GBK Gang Member Pleads Guilty in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Delrico Clyburn, age 28, pleaded guilty to one count 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 Greenway Boy Killas (GBK) street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, GBK gang member Delrico Clyburn and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 7, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. 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 offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. 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 Delrico Clyburn.
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.
Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Lafon Ellis, age 25, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, on or about August 21, 2018, Ellis, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Market Owner Charged with Food Stamp and WIC Program FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of theft of government property, food stamp fraud and WIC program fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Kadhim A. Muhsin, 57, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from in and around January 2015 to in and around December 2018, Muhsin, who is the owner and operator of New Sara’s Market in Erie, committed food stamp and WIC fraud by accepting food stamps and WIC checks for cash, store credit, and ineligible items.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Setting Fire that Destroyed Erie Furniture CompanyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in jail on his conviction of malicious destruction of property by fire, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Tony Crawford, 35.
According to information presented to the court, in the early morning hours of February 5, 2016, authorities were alerted to a raging fire at Fred’s Bed’s and Furniture located about six blocks south of the federal courthouse in Erie. The building was completely destroyed within minutes. Investigators quickly determined that the fire was an arson after surveillance video from the area depicted an individual carrying a ladder to the store and then running away from the store once the fire started. Ultimately, attention turned to Crawford after several people came forward to reveal that Crawford had talked about setting the Fred's Beds fire. The ATF then conducted an analysis of Crawford's cell phone location that placed Crawford's phone in close proximity to Fred's Beds at the time of the fire.
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, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Erie Police Department and the Erie Fire Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Crawford.
Erie Felon Indicted for Fentanyl Death and Possessing Firearm and AmmoRead 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 drugs and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Dona Arell Cowans, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, Cowans sold a quantity of fentanyl that caused the death of R.R.W. on July 8, 2019. The Indictment also charges Cowans with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl on or about July 9, 2019 and possession of a firearm and ammunition while being a convicted felon.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Brooklyn, NY Man Pleads Guilty in Wiretap Investigation into West End Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBUGH - A resident of Brooklyn, NY, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kala Jones, age 48, pleaded guilty to one count 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 wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Kala Jones supplied conspirators in Pittsburgh with 500 grams or more of cocaine, which he obtained in New York and transported to Pittsburgh via couriers.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 14, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and up to life, 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.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. 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 Kala Jones.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Braddock Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Paula Debaker, 55, pleaded guilty to one count 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. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications confirmed that Debaker obtained controlled substances from one of her co-defendants, who was a member of SCO, a neighborhood street gang, and permitted that SCO member and other members of the conspiracy to use her home to cook powder cocaine into cocaine base, commonly referred to as crack.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2020 at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine 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. Debaker remains on bond 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.
Baden Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Baden, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Kristian Kirkland, age 35, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from April 2016 to October 2017, Kirkland converted to her own use over $1,000 in Supplemental Security Income benefits belonging to a deceased beneficiary.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
West End Retail Store Owner Admits Role in Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Willie Harris, age 40, pleaded guilty to one count 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 extensive drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Willie Harris conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine out of the retail convenience store that he owned, Woogie’s Market, located on Chartiers Ave., in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 18, 2020 at 11:00 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. 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 Willie Harris.
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.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to a Decade in Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 10 years (120 months) in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kenneth Watts, 35.
According to information presented to the court, from March 6, 2018, through April 2, 2018, Watts and a co-defendant conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, heroin, and fentanyl.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Watts.
Indian Businessman Pleads Guilty to Drug Importation, Smuggling and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A citizen of India pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to import Schedule II and Schedule IV controlled substances, one count of conspiracy to smuggle misbranded drugs, and one count of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jeetendra Harish Belani, a/k/a Jeetu, 37, of Nagpur, India, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
During his plea hearing, Belani admitted that he operated a drug-distribution entity based in India called LeeHPL Ventures. Belani also maintained an associated website—www.leehpl.com. Between 2015 and 2019, Belani admitted that he and his co-conspirators, through LeeHPL Ventures, imported into the United States various drugs available only by prescription, including tapentadol, a Schedule II controlled substance, as well as tramadol, carisoprodol, and modafinil, all Schedule IV controlled substances. In addition, Belani admitted that between 2015 and mid-2017, he worked with two co-conspirators in the United States—William Kulakevich and Julia Fees—to unlawfully smuggle a drug known as etizolam into the United States so that Kulakevich and Fees could resell it via a website they operated—www.etizy.com. Etizolam is part of a class of drugs similar to benzodiazepines, which are often used to treat insomnia and anxiety and carry a potential for abuse and overdose. To evade detection by United States Customs and Border Protection officials, Belani admitted that he and his co-conspirators used false customs declarations that mischaracterized and undervalued the contents of packages sent to the United States by LeeHPL Ventures. In addition, Belani caused drug shipments to be broken into smaller quantities and shipped to multiple addresses to help ensure delivery and avoid interception by United States customs authorities. Likewise, Belani admitted that he caused co-conspirators to initiate payments totaling tens of thousands of dollars from accounts in the United States to accounts he controlled in India or in other locations outside the United States, all as a means to promote his continued efforts to smuggle drugs into the United States.
Belani was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 3, 2019, and he was subsequently extradited to the United States to face the charges contained in an eight-count Indictment returned by a federal grand jury on June 26, 2019.
In addition to the three counts to which Belani pleaded guilty, he also accepted responsibility, pursuant to a written plea agreement, for the conduct charged in the remaining five counts of the Indictment: two additional smuggling charges, two additional drug importation charge, and one additional money laundering charge. Belani also agreed to forfeit a total of $100,000.
Belani faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $1,000,000 for the drug importation conspiracy charge; a maximum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for the smuggling conspiracy charge; and a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $500,000 for the money laundering conspiracy charge Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance during the investigation of this matter.
Fairview, PA Man Sentnced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to one day in jail, 12 months home detention, and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine 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 Matthew E. Poese, 48.
According to information presented to the court, Poese possessed computer images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Poese.
Ohio Man Who Came to PA Seeking Sex with Teen Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Vienna, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to four years’ (48 months’) imprisonment and seven years’ supervised release on his conviction of traveling with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The defendant was additionally ordered to pay $1,543.89 in restitution and a $5,100.00 special assessment.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jeffery Judd, 60.
According to information presented to the court, in late May 2017, Judd began conversing with a 14-year-old male over the "Chathour" software application and by email. He arranged to meet the child victim in the parking lot of his school on June 1, 2017, and traveled from Vienna, Ohio, to Hermitage, Pennsylvania, to engage in intercourse and oral sex acts with the victim. The victim was frightened by Judd’s arrival at the school, and failed to show at the meet location. He later reported his communications with Judd to school officials. Judd continued to communicate by email with the victim until June 5, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hermitage Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Judd. 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.
Monroeville Felon Sentenced to 12½ Years in Prison for Distributing Deadly Drug and Illegally Possessing a PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years and seven months (151 months) in prison on his conviction of distribution of fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Ryan Williams, 31, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about November 23, 2016, Williams distributed a quantity of fentanyl to an individual who later used the fentanyl and died from an overdose. Additionally, on December 1, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence and found him to be in possession of a Glock .40 caliber pistol. Given his prior felony convictions, Williams is not permitted to possess a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Monroeville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.
First of 37 Defendants Charged in Darccide/Smash 44 Gang Investigation Pleads Guilty to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of the Beltzhoover neighborhood in Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Amber Rogers, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. Rogers is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment, and the first to enter a guilty plea.
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 confirmed that Ms. Rogers was conspiring with others to distribute controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl, in and around the South Side of Pittsburgh. Specifically, Ms. Rogers conducted narcotics transactions on behalf of other members of the conspiracy by obtaining the drugs from stash locations and distributing them to customers. The Court accepted Ms. Rogers’ guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 10 grams of heroin and fentanyl.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for April 16, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Rogers remains on bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
“SCO” Gang Associate Admits Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Justin Law, age 30, formerly of Wilkinsburg, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy 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. Law 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 Law, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Law was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances. Law admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is an associate of one of the main members of the conspiracy and of "SCO." The Court was further informed that Law was a fugitive from June 12, 2019, when law enforcement executed numerous federal arrest and search warrants, until October 3, 2019, when he was arrested by the United States Marshals Western District of Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force. Law accepted responsibility for the distribution of at least 100 but not less than 400 grams of heroin.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Wells on May 11, 2020, at 9:00 AM. The law provides for a sentence of not less than 5 years 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. Law remains detained 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.
Multi-Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mario Tiller, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Specifically, Tiller pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 19, 2018, Pittsburgh Police surveilled the intersection of Federal Street and Eloise Street following citizen complaints of open-air drug trafficking in the area. During their surveillance, they saw the defendant sell suspected drugs to multiple people. Upon arresting Tiller, police seized over three dozen individually knotted bags of crack, $109 in U.S. currency, a Glock 9 millimeter pistol with six rounds of 9 millimeter ammunition in the magazine, an additional magazine containing 6 rounds of ammunition, a ZTE smart phone, and a pistol holder. The gun had been reported stolen that same morning. The court was further advised that Tiller had previously been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by more than one year in prison, including two convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, two convictions for terroristic threats, and one conviction for theft by unlawful taking. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 24, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Tiller remains in custody pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tiller. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
GBK Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jaimon Woods, age 29, pleaded guilty to one count 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 Greenway Boy Killas (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. During the investigation, on December 7, 2017, GBK gang member Jaimon Woods was observed driving a gold BMW, with expired inspection and emissions stickers and windows tinted in excess of code, on Ohio River Boulevard in Avalon Borough, PA. An Avalon Borough police officer conducted a traffic stop, but Woods and the passenger of the vehicle both fled. The officer chased Woods and was able to apprehend him. The officer searched Woods’ gold BMW and recovered two firearms, a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, and a Smith and Wesson 44 magnum revolver. Both guns were loaded and had been stolen. Woods’s fingerprint was found on the revolver. Because Woods had previously been convicted of felony offenses, he was prohibited from possessing the firearms and ammunition.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
In addition to the work of the Avalon Borough Police Department in conducting the traffic stop which led to the arrest of Woods, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led the multi-agency wiretap 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 Jaimon Woods.
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.
Suspended Pharmacist Charged with Health Care Fraud Conspiracy, Fraudulently Obtaining Controlled Substances and Misbranding DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A suspended pharmacist has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, PA, on charges of obtaining controlled substances by fraud, misbranding of drugs, and health care fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The 12-count superseding Indictment named Timothy W. Forester, 43, of Venetia, PA 15367, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from on or about November 14, 2018, to on or about February 14, 2019, Forester, a registered pharmacist who owned four pharmacies in Pittsburgh’s South Hills, knowingly, intentionally and unlawfully obtained oxycodone and hydrocodone, Schedule II controlled substances, by misrepresentations, fraud, and deception. In addition, the indictment alleges that Forester placed generic drugs into empty bottles of name brand drugs and sold the drugs as if they were name brand drugs. The superseding indictment alleges that Forester conspired with others to commit health care fraud.
The law provides for a maximum per count sentence of four years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both as to Counts 1-10. As to Count 11, the law provides for a maximum per count sentence of 3 years in prison, a fine of $ 250,000 or both. As to Count 12, the law provides for a maximum per count 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Defendant was released on a $100,000 secured bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon, with Prior Convictions for Drug and Domestic Violence Crimes, Admits to Unlawfully Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to of federal firearms violations, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kellan Hanner, 28, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on November 1, 2017, two Pittsburgh Police Officers were on patrol in the Hill District assisting in a call for a foot pursuit for a male with a firearm. The officers observed a group of three males, and noticed that one of them, later identified as Hanner, appeared to have a large weighted object in the front pocket of his hooded sweatshirt. The court was further informed that Hanner fled when the police officers attempted to question him, and that officers witnessed the defendant throwing a firearm into a sewer, which was later recovered. Hanner has a prior felony conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver heroin and prior misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and as such, is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 9, 2019 at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Hanner remains incarcerated pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hanner. This case was brought under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced for Possessing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 33 months to be followed by 6 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jamorr Mathis, age 41, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to information presented to the court, on November 16, 2017, FBI agents and other law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Mathis’ McKees Rocks residence. Agents recovered several bricks and bundles of heroin and fentanyl from a candle jar and a purse located inside of the residence. Mathis admitted that he sold about a brick or two a day and, he also admitted to buying about seven bricks every couple of days for $150 per brick.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stowe Township Police, McKees Rocks Police and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Departments conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mathis.
GBK Gang Member Admits Guilt in Heroin Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mark Givens, age 30, pleaded guilty to one count 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 Greenway Boy Killas (GBK) street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, GBK gang member Mark Givens and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2020 at 11:00 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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. 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 Mark Givens.
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.