Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Erie County Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Computer Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Matthew E. Poese, 47, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 9, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court placed Poese on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Poese.
McKees Rocks Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jamorr Mathis, age 40, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on November 16, 2017, FBI agents and other law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Mathis’ residence in McKees Rocks. 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.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for December 4, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Mathis remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stowe Township Police, McKees Rocks Police and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mathis.
Brooklyn Man Indicted on Heroin ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Brooklyn, New York has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on July 31 and unsealed today, named Miguel A. Rodriguez, 50, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on July 27, 2019, the defendant was found in possession of, with intent to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wilkinsburg Felon on Parole Admits Illegally Possessing a Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Monte Barry, 21, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on October 3, 2018, Barry unlawfully possessed a Taurus, Model PT 24/7 G2, 9mm handgun that was loaded with 17 rounds of ammunition. The Court was further informed that Barry was previously convicted of robbery, robbery of a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property, and possession of a firearm by a minor, and had been released on parole less than three months beforehand. As a convicted felon, Barry is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for December 2, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Barry remains detained 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 Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barry.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of time served (approximately 17 months), to be followed by three years of supervised release on a conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Darryl Leon Wilson, 61.
According to information presented to the court, on February 22, 2018, the defendant, entered the Key Bank, Downtown, Pittsburgh wearing a purple hat and scarf covering most of his face. When the teller requested that the defendant remove the scarf and hat, the defendant stated, "If I don’t get out of here fast, someone will get hurt." The defendant then placed a note on the counter which read, "Someone will get shot if you don’t give the 100’s 50’s 20’s and 10’s, No dye packs, smile and move fast Sorry." The teller gave the defendant lose $20 and $5 bills for a total of $540. Utilizing surveillance video from surrounding businesses, officers identified the defendant. When they went to the defendant’s house days later, Wilson answered the door with hands up and stated, "I did it." After officers identified themselves, Wilson stated, "I know why you’re here, I robbed the bank." Wilson provided a full confession, and admitted giving the teller a note that demanded money.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy 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 prosecution of Wilson through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty in Johnstown Federal Court to Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kenneth Watts, 35, pleaded guilty to one count in the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from Mar. 6, 2018, through Apr. 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.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Dec. 9, 2019, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Watts of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Watts.
Convicted Felon Charged with Firearm and Drug Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Duquesne, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on July 30 and unsealed today, named Rarji Neal, 26, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on December 11, 2018, Neal possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and a quantity of cocaine. The indictment further alleges that Neal unlawfully possessed a Ruger 9 millimeter firearm, a Glock 9 millimeter firearm, an Intratec 9 millimeter firearm, and ammunition, after being convicted of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy Criswell Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged in Series of Armed Robberies of Area BusinessesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal robbery laws, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The 16-count Second Superseding Indictment named George Wilson, III, age 37.
According to the Second Superseding Indictment, Wilson committed a series of armed robberies of businesses throughout the Pittsburgh area from November 2014 through December 2014. During that time, Wilson committed armed robberies of three stores called "The Exchange" and during one robbery, Wilson discharged a firearm. Wilson also committed armed robberies of two Sunoco stations and one Exxon station. Due to a prior conviction for a felony offense, Wilson is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 35years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000 at each count, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Heidi M. Grogan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Monroeville Police Department, the Ross Township Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Wilkins Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Second Superseding Indictment in this case.
A second superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
Erie Bank Robber Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years (36 months) in prison on his conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Peter Plaza, Jr., 37.
According to information presented to the court, on or about December 13, 2018, Plaza entered the Northwest Bank, located at 3407 Liberty Street in Erie, and by force, violence and intimidation took $4,750.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Plaza.
U.S. Attorney’s Office to Take Part in 36th Annual National Night OutRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady and U.S. Attorney’s Office employees will join law enforcement, community leaders and residents on Tuesday, August 6th at locations across western Pennsylvania from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to celebrate the 36th annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event.
National Night Out is a community-building and crime prevention campaign that promotes collaborative law enforcement-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Thousands of communities nationwide will participate in neighborhood block parties, festivals, cookouts, safety demonstrations, seminars, and activities that heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support for and participation in local anticrime efforts. Events such as these help to strengthen neighborhood spirit, police-community partnerships, and demonstrate a shared commitment for strong and safe communities.
U.S. Attorney Brady will visit community events in Pittsburgh’s Homewood, Hill District, Hazelwood and North Side neighborhoods. Office staff will attend events in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Erie Counties.
"For 36 years, National Night Out has rallied neighborhood residents, law enforcement and community leaders in the common goal of strengthening relationships to help prevent and deter crime in our local community. I am proud to stand with my colleagues and my neighbors to support safer streets and work together to drive out crime," said U.S. Attorney Brady.
According to George C. Spencer, Sr., President of the Greater Pittsburgh Area chapter of MAD DADS, "Events like National Night Out enhance MAD DADS’ efforts to organize street patrols and implement community-based programs that help maintain safer neighborhoods and communities."
National Night Out organizers are expecting over 16,000 communities and 38 million people nationwide to take part in community events on Tuesday.
For more information on National Night Out events in western Pennsylvania, please visit the official website of your local municipality.
Swissvale Man Charged with Heroin PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Tyler Caldwell, 33, formerly of Swissvale, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on May 9, 2019, Caldwell intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Newark Man Indicted in Pittsburgh on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Newark, New Jersey has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on July 30 and unsealed yesterday, named Herbert L. Felder, age 50, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, in and around December 2018, and continuing to on or about May 1, 2019, the defendant conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing 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 of up to $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 Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKees Rocks Felon Indicted for Possessing Multiple Guns and DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A McKees Rocks resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on July 16 and unsealed today, named Joseph Alexander, 38, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about September 11, 2018, Alexander possessed with the intent to distribute quantities of heroin, fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, N–Ethylpentylone, and Tramadol. The Indictment further alleges that Alexander possessed four firearms in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime and that Alexander was prohibited from possessing these firearms because he is a convicted felon.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Stowe Township Police, 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Coraopolis Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Fentanyl and Accepts Responsibility for Causing Death of VictimRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Coraopolis, PA, has plead guilty to a federal narcotics charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Cleo Maurice Bronaugh, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl before United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. As part of his guilty plea, Bronaugh also accepted responsibility for causing the death of victim L.T. Bronaugh has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court and will remain detained pending sentencing.
According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2017, Bronaugh delivered a quantity of fentanyl to an individual identified as L.T. in Moon Township, PA. Later L.T. ingested the fentanyl and died as a result of fentanyl toxicity.
Judge Fischer scheduled his sentencing for Dec. 19, 2019 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 30 years in prison and/or a fine of not more than $1,000,000. 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 is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Moon Township Police, Allegheny County Police, and the Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
Everett, Pa. Resident Charged with Selling Firearms Stolen from Federal FacilityRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on various counts related to firearms stolen from the National Firearms and Ammunition Destruction Branch (NFAD), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count indictment named Richard Adam Schreiber, 38, of Everett, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment presented to the court, between August 30, 2016, and March 4, 2019, Schreiber purchased multiple stolen firearms, firearm components and ammunition from Christopher Lee Yates. Yates was an employee of Allied Security and worked at NFAD, which was a facility used by ATF and other law enforcement agencies to have firearms and ammunition destroyed. The firearms at NFAD had been seized during criminal investigations or were retired by the agencies. The investigation by ATF began in February of 2019 when a firearm was seized in Philadelphia with different serial numbers, one of which was for a "slide" or firearm component that had purportedly been destroyed at NFAD. ATF learned that Yates stole in excess of five machineguns, 115 pistols and/or revolvers, 3,000 slides and ammunition. The indictment further alleges that Schreiber then sold the firearms and components over the internet from his residence in Everett, Pa. During the investigation, ATF Agents seized nine firearms from Yates, including a machinegun stolen from NFAD and an additional 11 firearms and rifles from individuals that Yates sold the stolen weapons to. ATF Agents also seized 101 firearms, 1,352 slides and 123,229 rounds of ammunition from Schreiber and an additional 28 firearms, including three machineguns, from individuals to whom Schreiber sold the stolen weapons. Yates has been charged with similar offenses in the Northern District of West Virginia.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 65 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Schreiber and Yates.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Deported Guatemalan Indicted for Illegal Re-entry into U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Illegal Reentry after Deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Carlos Esteban-Perez, 27, of Guatemala, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Esteban-Perez had been previously deported and removed from the United States and was found in the United States after unlawfully reentering.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine up to $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 Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Controller for Westmoreland County Packaging Company Charged with Embezzling $191,000Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The former Controller for a packaging company located in Export, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count Indictment, returned on July 30 and unsealed Aug. 1 following her arrest, named Victoria Mazur, 51, of 265 McKim Drive, Pittsburgh, PA (Plum Boro), as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from approximately December 2012 until December 2017, Mazur embezzled funds from her employer, Gateway Packaging Corporation, by processing fraudulent refunds through the employer’s point of sale terminal, which is used to process credit and debit card transactions for customers. The Indictment further alleges that the total amount embezzled was approximately $191,000.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years for each count of wire fraud. The law also provides for a fine of $250,000 for each count of wire fraud. 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 Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations 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.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty in Crack Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Joann Williams, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from November 2015 to May 2016, Williams conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for November 20, 2019 at 3:30 p.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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joann Williams. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Judge Convicts Pittsburgh Man of Multiple Federal Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Following a two-day non-jury trial, Jamiek Moore was convicted of multiple violations of the federal narcotics and firearms laws, including 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, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Moore, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was tried before United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to Assistant United States 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, Dehonney, and others, located 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, 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.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for Nov. 22, 2019 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department and the Penn Hills Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jamiek Moore.
Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. Pleads Guilty to Running One of the Largest Drug Trafficking Organizations in Pittsburgh-Area HistoryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A leader of one of the largest Drug Trafficking Organizations to operate in the Pittsburgh area has pleaded guilty to federal narcotics and firearm charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jamie Lightfoot, Jr., 27, formerly of Verona, PA (Penn Hills) pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. In all, Lightfoot, Jr. accepted responsibility for between 50 kilograms and 150 kilograms of cocaine. Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for January 10, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. Lightfoot, Jr. has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.
According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 to November 5, 2017, Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. The drugs would be driven to his Harvest Drive home from out of state in a Mercedes Sprinter ‘Sno Cold’ Van and eventually a large RV. Once the drugs came into Western Pennsylvania, Lightfoot and his co-conspirators would use his residence and other locations to break down, repackage, and distribute the drugs to co-conspirators in almost every region of Western Pennsylvania.
On November 5, 2017, an FBI and Pennsylvania State Police Task Force executed a search warrant at Lightfoot’s residence after the RV arrived at the location. The search netted 52 kilograms of cocaine and heroin, 85 pounds of marijuana, illegal steroids, three firearms, and nearly a million dollars in cash. Lightfoot, Jr. pleaded guilty to possessing of one of the firearms, which was found in the house, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. As part of his plea, Lightfoot, Jr. agreed to forfeit all of the US Currency seized at the house as well as any interest in his Harvest Drive residence.
The law provides for a combined maximum sentence of not less than 15 years in prison and up to 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.
Lightfoot DTO Member Pleads Guilty to Guarding and Maintaining Drug Premises in Penn Hills, PA where Hundreds of Pounds of Drugs Were Later RecoveredRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A member of the Lightfoot-Mendoza Drug Trafficking Organization has pleaded guilty to a federal narcotics charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chace Johnson, 21, formerly of Verona, PA pleaded guilty to one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. Judge Hornak scheduled his sentencing for December 13, 2019 at 10:30 a.m.
According to information presented to the court, in August and September of 2017, Chace Johnson lived at a residence on Harvest Drive in Verona, PA (Penn Hills), the home of Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. During that time, Chace Johnson helped to maintain the premises that was used as one of the centers of the Lightfoot-Mendoza Drug Trafficking Organization. During this time, Johnson guarded large sums of drug proceeds in the house and helped to gather drug paraphernalia and other supplies in order to aid in the distribution of narcotics that came into the home. Later on November 5, 2017, an FBI and Pennsylvania State Police Task Force executed a search warrant at the residence netting 52 kilograms of cocaine and heroin, 85 pounds of marijuana, illegal steroids, three firearms, and nearly $1 million dollars in cash.
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.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Federal Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count Indictment named Antwon Shamar Bonner, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about July 12, 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Bonner possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The Indictment further alleges that Bonner possessed four firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime charged in the Indictment.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Couple Charged in Marriage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -A Nigerian citizen residing in the Pittsburgh area and a resident of Newark, NJ have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on July 11 and unsealed yesterday, named:
• Monsuru Ogunbiyi, age 36, of Pittsburgh, PA 15227 (Whitehall); and
• Ajia Strauss, age 28, of Newark, NJ 07017.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from June 2016, to March 2019, Monsuru Ogunbiyi and Ajia Strauss conspired with one another to defraud the United States. Ogunbiyi, a native and citizen of Nigeria, and Strauss, a native and citizen of the United States, agreed to enter into a sham marriage so that Ogunbiyi could obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States. As part of the conspiracy, Ogunbiyi agreed to pay money to Strauss, including $1,500 on the day of their June 3, 2016, marriage in New Jersey. Also as a part of the conspiracy, Ogunbiyi and Strauss submitted false and fraudulent statements and documents to the United States.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both, for the charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentences Erie Man to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Violating Laws Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six years and eight months (80 months) in prison, followed by five years supervised release and ordered to pay $1,500 in restitution 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 Terry Chase White, 51.
According to information presented to the court, White received computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of White.
Erie Man Sentenced to 5+ Years in Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years and 10 months (70 months) in prison, 5 years supervised release and a $5,100 special assessment 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 Eric J. Andrzejewski, 33.
According to information presented to the court, Andrzejewski received computer images depicting 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 and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Andrzejewski.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in Project Safe Childhood CaseRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kevin Christopher Oldland, 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 9, 2019 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 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 Oldland on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Oldland.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced for Attempted Distribution of HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation on her conviction of attempted distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Ada Johnson, age 33, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ada Johnson was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that in June 2016, Johnson traveled to Mechanicsburg, PA to meet with a heroin supplier to attempt to bring nearly 400 bricks of heroin back to Pittsburgh for distribution of the heroin by members of the conspiracy.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.
Maryland Man Pleads Guilty in September 1999 Kidnapping and Sexual Assault of Somerset County, PA GirlRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Cumberland, MD, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of kidnapping and aggravated sexual abuse of person under 12 years old, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Timothy D. Nelson, Jr., 50, pleaded guilty to the two-count information before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
"This horrible crime struck fear into the heart of the community," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Through the perseverance and dedication of law enforcement and the bravery of the victim, justice has been served."
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on September 19, 1999, Nelson drove into a Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania neighborhood and drove past a group of three children multiple times. The group was walking when the vehicle came by one more time, stopped, and Nelson exited his car and asked them a question. As the minor victim, a 10-year old girl, began to answer, Nelson grabbed the minor victim and placed her in the car through the driver’s side and exited the area. Nelson then placed the minor victim on the floor of the front passenger seat. While driving away from the area of the abduction, Nelson threatened the minor victim with a handgun pointing it at her head. The minor victim was screaming and Nelson struck the minor victim with his hand in an attempt to quiet her.
At some point, Nelson drove the car and the minor victim into West Virginia. When Nelson eventually stopped the car, he forced the minor victim to perform a sex act. Afterwards, Nelson gave the minor victim a paper bag and napkin to clean herself with. Nelson also cleaned himself and then discarded the bag out the window.
Nelson then drove the vehicle in the direction of Markleysburg, Pennsylvania and shortly after crossing the Pennsylvania line from West Virginia, dropped the minor victim off on the side
of the road, instructed her to count to 100, and then proceed to a location to call her mother. Subsequently, another vehicle happened upon the minor victim who was in distress and offered her assistance. Law enforcement responded, to include the Pennsylvania State Police.
The minor victim was subsequently able to direct law enforcement to the location of the sexual assault and the brown paper bag and napkin were recovered which appeared to contain evidence of the above-described assault. The evidence was subsequently forensically examined and determined to contain multiple partial fingerprints and DNA extracted from the bodily fluids. Certain of the recovered partial prints were identified as originating from the minor victim. There remained unidentified latent prints and a search through the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), did not return any results at that time. Likewise, the FBI Lab was successfully able to identify a suitable DNA profile at that time, but when compared to the FBI Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database, no matches were detected.
In April 2004, the FBI Laboratory reported that a DNA profile generated from evidence from a different kidnapping / sexual assault of another minor female, which occurred in September 1988 in Hagerstown, Maryland, was a match to the DNA profile of the 1999 Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania kidnapping event. This match was made from the FBI CODIS database, but the identity of the perpetrator of these crimes was still unknown at that time.
Over the years, advancements were made to IAFIS and the new fingerprint identification system called Next Generation Identification system (NGI) came into existence.
In the Fall of 2018, the partial prints obtained from the brown paper bag and napkin were re-submitted to NGI to search for a possible match. NGI identified a possible match with a person identified as Timothy David Nelson. The FBI Laboratory subsequently confirmed the partial prints as a match to Timothy David Nelson, Jr., who was living in Maryland.
On January 7, 2019, an arrest warrant was issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania charging Nelson with multiple offenses to include, but not limited to, Kidnapping and Aggravated Indecent Assault. Also, a federal search warrant was issued for Nelson’s DNA.
On January 8, 2019, Nelson arrived at the Cumberland (MD) City Police Department and the Pennsylvania arrest warrant and the federal DNA search warrant were executed. Subsequent forensic analysis proved that Nelson’s DNA was a match for the 1999 Cairnbrook kidnapping on September 19, 1999, as well as a match to two separate kidnappings/sexual assaults on minor females from 1988 and 1989 in Maryland.
"This case is just one of the many examples that exemplify the FBI’s mission," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. "Our agents and law enforcement partners are dedicated to seeing cases through no matter how long it takes and working to get justice for our victims."
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 27, 2019, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nelson.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced for Participating in Conspiracy to Distribute CrackRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court yesterday for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone sentenced Mark Fisher, 40, to serve two years and four months (28 months) in prison following his guilty plea on March 6, 2019, to one count of conspiracy.
In connection with the guilty plea, Fisher admitted that from in and around April 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around October 2016, he conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack. During his plea colloquy, the defendant admitted that he obtained crack from a co-defendant on numerous occasions during the period of the conspiracy, and that on one occasion, he fled his vehicle, leaving five grams of crack on the floor, when law enforcement initiated a traffic stop.
Fisher is one of nine co-defendants who were indicted for their roles in the conspiracy on August 1, 2017. To date, all nine defendants have entered guilty pleas, and seven have been sentenced.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and comprises members drawn from the Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The Stowe Township Police Department also provided assistance in this investigation. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Judge Sentences Felon with Multiple Convictions to Prison in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of four years and seven months (55 months) to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Ambrose J. Sample, II, age 39.
According to information presented during a bench trial, on June 17, 2017, Sample pulled a firearm from his waistband and fired shots into the air after a dispute with neighbors. He then fled the area on foot and was stopped by police a short distance from his home. Sample agreed to submit to a gunshot residue test of his hands and it was found that he had components of primer-gunshot residue on both of his hands. Sample had been drinking heavily that day and he had also ingested prescription Percocet. Officers obtained search warrants for several locations, including the defendant’s residence. In the defendant’s residence, officers recovered one GFL .380 ammunition. The exact firearm that the defendant discharged was not recovered. Sample has been previously convicted of the charges of murder of the third degree, aggravated harassment by a prisoner, simple assault, fleeing and eluding police and tampering with physical evidence, all of which preclude him from possessing ammunition or firearms.
Assistant United States Attorneys Shanicka L. Kennedy and Yvonne Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted 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. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Police conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sample.
Felon Admits He Illegally Possessed WeaponsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Thomas Cole, 45, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 14, 2019, Cole possessed a semi-automatic handgun and a semi-automatic rifle that was capable of accepting a large capacity magazine. Cole is prohibited from possessing these firearms because he is a convicted felon.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 2, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Cole remains detained pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. 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.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Police, Alleghany County Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cole.
California Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Bring Fentanyl and Carfentanil from Overseas into Western PA for DistributionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of California has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years’ (120 months’) imprisonment and five years’ supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Nikia Perkins, 44, of Bloomington, California.
According to information presented to the court, the charges in this case resulted from a wiretap investigation conducted by the FBI and other law enforcement partners. During the investigation, the defendant was intercepted over a wiretapped phone discussing drug transactions. The investigation revealed that the defendant, along with others, was responsible for over a kilogram of fentanyl and a quantity of carfentanil being brought into the Western District of Pennsylvania from overseas. The defendant requested that he be able to serve his sentence back in California.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution was part of a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
Virginia Man Sentenced for Role in Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Virginia resident has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation, including six months of home detention, on his conviction of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed sentence on Thomas Powell, 64, of Salem, Virginia.
In connection with sentencing, the court was advised that during the period from January 2011 through May 2016, Powell agreed to become a member of a money laundering conspiracy. Powell conducted financial transactions affecting interstate commerce, knowing that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Powell knew that each of the financial transactions was designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. As part of the money laundering conspiracy, the defendant and his co-conspirators conducted the following financial transactions: 1) withdrew funds from prepaid debit cards and credit cards; 2) transmitted and received funds via MoneyGram, Walmart and Western Union; 3) cashed checks and money orders; and 4) sent and received wire transfers of funds. The funds involved in these transactions, which totaled thousands of dollars, were the proceeds of wire fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
US Postal Service Employee Charged with Stealing Money from the MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Midland, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail by a postal employee, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Stephanie Atkins, age 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 14, 2019, Atkins was an employee of the United States Postal Service and stole money that was intended to be conveyed by mail.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Bond of $5,000 unsecured has been requested.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Citizen Sentenced to Prison for Leading an International Counterfeit Currency Operation Headquartered in UgandaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A U.S. citizen who resided in the Republic of Uganda, has been sentenced in federal court to six years and two months (74 months) in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $230,890 in restitution on his conviction of conspiracy to manufacture/pass/transfer/sell counterfeit currency, conspiracy to launder money, and committing counterfeiting acts outside the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Ryan Andrew Gustafson, aka Jack Farrel, aka WillyClock, 31.
At the time of his guilty plea, the court was advised that Ryan Gustafson was leading an international counterfeit U.S. currency operation headquartered in the Republic of Uganda, which flooded the United States and Uganda with more than $2 million in counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes. Although counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes were being manufactured and distributed in Uganda, by December 2013, these Ugandan-manufactured counterfeit bills were being passed in Pittsburgh-area retail stores and businesses, specifically, in Oakland, Carnegie and McCandless Township. The scheme quickly spread to cities around the country. The bills were being advertised, bought and sold on a Dark Net website created by Gustafson called Community-X that was dedicated to the selling and passing of these counterfeit bills.
According to additional information provided to the court, the participants were producing counterfeit $100, $50 and $20 bills, packaging the counterfeit currency disguised as "Give a Child Hope Today" pamphlets, and shipping the packages to individuals they met through online criminal forums. In total, approximately $1.8 million fake notes were passed and seized in Uganda. In the U.S., approximately $270,000 in counterfeit currency was passed and seized. The criminal conspirators were passing the counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes in exchange for legitimate currency in the United States, Uganda and other countries.
Upon his arrest in Uganda in December 2014, Gustafson was provided the option of returning to the United States to face prosecution or to stay in a Ugandan prison and face prosecution in Uganda. Gustafson choose to stay in a Ugandan prison. Due to the Gustafson being a U.S. citizen and failing to present his passport to demonstrate that he was legally permitted to be in Uganda, the Ugandan government ordered the Defendant deported. He arrived in Pittsburgh to face prosecution in this instant case in December 2015. This 74-month sentence is time to be served in the United States and does not allow the Defendant to seek further credit for any time served in Uganda.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gustafson.
Philadelphia Brothers Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two residents of Philadelphia, Pa., were indicted on July 9, 2019, by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count first superseding indictment named brothers John T. Terry, 44, and Gerald Terry, 50, as defendants.
According to the first superseding indictment presented to the court, between March 30, 2018, and April 4, 2018, John Terry and Gerald Terry conspired to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and cocaine. Also, on April 4, 2018, they were found in possession of a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. On June 2, 1998, John Terry was convicted in United States District Court for the Eastern District of PA, of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. On March 13, 2012, Gerald Terry was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, PA, of aggravated assault, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms. John Terry and Gerald Terry are also charged with possessing that same firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of life in prison and a fine of up to $31,000,000 or both for each of the defendants. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed on each of the defendants would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police SHIELD Unit and Somerset Turnpike Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of John Terry and Gerald Terry.
Two Plead Guilty in West End Drug CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two residents of Pittsburgh, PA, have pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising from a wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in Pittsburgh’s West End neighborhood, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jaamiyl Dean, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking before Senior United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton. Tyree Davis, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine before Senior Untied States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty pleas, 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. Jaamiyl Dean was intercepted over the wiretap discussing drug transactions. When agents executed a search warrant at Dean’s home and vehicle on June 20, 2018, they recovered, among other things, two firearms, several rounds of ammunition, drug packaging materials, and over $64,000 in cash. Dean has previously been convicted of a felony offense, and was prohibited from possessing the firearms. The wiretap investigation also revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Tyree Davis and his co-conspirators distributed crack cocaine in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for Jaamiyl Dean for Nov. 8, 2019, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Tyree Davis for Nov. 25, 2019 at 10:30 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, both defendants will remain detained.
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 these prosecutions.
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.
McKeesport Man Sentenced for Role in Fentanyl Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to two-and-a- half years’ (30 months’) imprisonment and six years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Michael Henry, 37, of McKeesport, PA.
According to information presented to the court, the charges in this case resulted from a wiretap investigation conducted by the FBI and other law enforcement partners. During the investigation, it was learned that Henry, among other things, assisted with the procurement of fentanyl packages from China, as well as provided locations to which the fentanyl was delivered in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution was part of a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5 Years in Prison for Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ (60 months’) imprisonment and four years’ supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Adrian Jordan, 29.
According to information presented to the court, the charges in this case resulted from a wiretap investigation conducted by the FBI and other law enforcement partners. During the investigation, the defendant was intercepted over a wiretapped phone discussing drug transactions. Furthermore, in connection with the investigation, fentanyl was recovered from the defendant on both December 16, 2016 and February 24, 2017.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution was part of a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
Siemens Contract Employee Intentionally Damaged Computers by Planting Logic Bombs into Programs He DesignedRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Harrison City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charge of intentional damage to a protected computer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
David Tinley, 62, pleaded guilty to one count beforeSenior or Chief United States District Judge Peter J. Phipps.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around 2014 and continuing until on or about May 13, 2016, Tinley, a contract employee for Siemens Corporation at the Monroeville, PA location, 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.
Judge Phipps scheduled sentencing for Nov. 8, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Tinley.
Syrian Man Indicted on Terrorism Charges After Planning Attack on Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A federal grand jury on July 17 returned a three-count indictment (the Indictment) against Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in connection with his planned attack on a Christian church in Pittsburgh, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The Indictment charges Alowemer with one count of attempting to provide material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization, and two counts of distributing information relating to an explosive, destructive device, or weapon of mass destruction.
Alowemer was initially arrested on a Complaint on June 19, 2019, and appeared before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy. Alowemer was ordered detained and has been in federal custody since his arrest.
As alleged in the Indictment and complaint:
The FBI Pittsburgh JTTF investigation of Alowemer revealed that Alowemer plotted to bomb a church located on the North Side of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (the Church), using a weapon of mass destruction (i.e., an explosive device). According to Alowemer, his motivation to detonate a device at the Church was to support the cause of ISIS and to inspire other ISIS supporters in the United States to join together and commit similar acts in the name of ISIS. Alowemer also targeted the Church in order to "take revenge for our [ISIS] brothers in Nigeria." Alowemer was aware that numerous people in the proximity of the Church could be killed by the explosion.
According to the complaint, Alowemer was born in Daraa, Syria, and has resided in the United States since August 2016.
In furtherance of the plot to bomb the Church, in May 2019, Alowemer distributed multiple instructional documents related to the construction and use of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to an individual Alowemer believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter, but who was in fact an FBI employee. Alowemer distributed these documents with the intent that the information be used in the assembly of a destructive device and in furtherance of conducting an attack in support of ISIS. In or around June 2019, Alowemer purchased several items with the belief that they were necessary to assemble a destructive device and with the
intention that they be used to construct the explosives that would be detonated in the vicinity of the Church.
Between April 16 and June 11, Alowemer met four times in person with an FBI Undercover Employee (UCE) and/or an FBI Confidential Human Source (CHS). At the June 11 meeting with the UCE and CHS, Alowemer provided additional details about the bomb plot and provided the materials, including boxes of nails, he had purchased for construction of the device. Alowemer provided two printed copies of detailed Google satellite maps, which included hand-written markings identifying the Church and routes of arrival and escape. Alowemer also wrote and provided a 10-point handwritten plan ("Confirmation of this operation") outlining details related to his plot to personally deliver explosives in a backpack. Alowemer expressed a desire to meet one more time to conduct planning and coordination prior to carrying out the attempted bombing in July 2019. That meeting was later scheduled for June 19 in the Pittsburgh area, at which time Alowemer was arrested.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, each count has a 20-year maximum term of imprisonment. 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.
Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force who were directly involved in this investigation include: FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE)/U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services(USCIS)/Homeland Security Investigations(HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Port Authority Police, Allegheny County Probation, University of Pittsburgh Police Department, and UPMC Police Security.
The case is being prosecuted by the Western District of Pennsylvania’s National Security Coordinator Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brenda Sue Thornton of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Prison for Running Drug Trafficking Ring and Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl Resulting in Two Deaths and One Non-Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA was sentenced to 23 years (276 months) in prison and six years of supervised release for violating federal narcotics laws, including three charges of distribution of heroin and fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and death, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur Schwab imposed the sentence on Justin McBride, 27, on counts of Conspiracy To Possess With The Intent To Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl and 100 Grams or More of Heroin, Possession With The Intent To Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl, Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises, and Distribution of Fentanyl resulting in the death of victim E.B. McBride previously, as part of the plea, accepted responsibility for distribution resulting in the death of victim T.B. and the serious bodily injury overdose of victim J.B.
According to information presented to the court, Brad and Greg Reed, Justin McBride, Richard Ruby, and Antoinette McBride operated a family-run heroin and fentanyl ring in the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County from 2014 – 2017. Brad and Greg Reed ran the operation out of a home on Lytle Street in Pittsburgh while Justin McBride and Antoinette McBride utilized a location in Munhall, PA, and Richard Ruby at a residence on Glenwood Avenue in Pittsburgh. Utilizing these locations and others, members of this drug trafficking ring sold to hundreds of drug customers in Allegheny County. On October 4, 2016, Justin McBride distributed fentanyl to victim, E.B. who later died of acute fentanyl toxicity. On January 30, 2017, Justin McBride distributed a mixture of heroin and fentanyl to victim T.B. who later died of a combined drug toxicity of heroin and fentanyl. Pittsburgh Police Narcotics and Vice detectives were able to use victim T.B.’s phone in order to set up an undercover purchase of narcotics from Justin McBride. On January 31, Justin McBride was arrested attempting to deliver heroin and fentanyl to an undercover Pittsburgh Police Narcotics and Vice detective. On July 8, 2017, Justin McBride delivered fentanyl to victim J.B. who overdosed on the fentanyl, but was revived by EMS personnel using Narcan.
Co-defendant Richard Ruby was previously sentenced to 12½ years on a separate, but related indictment and a concurrent five-year sentence on this Indictment. Co-defendant Antoinette McBride was sentenced to time-served of one year and two months and three years of supervised release. Co-defendants Greg and Brad Reed were previously sentenced to 13 years and 16 years and three years of supervised release, respectively. Justin McBride’s sentence is believed to be the longest sentence imposed in the Western District of Pennsylvania for distribution of heroin or fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and death.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Lanni and Heidi Grogan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police – Narcotics and Vice Division, and West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the guilty pleas and sentences in this case. The FBI Opioid 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 Sheriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Sto-Rox Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Penn Hills Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Role in Multi-District Drug Distribution NetworkRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years (180 months) in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Angelo Massie, 41, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around November 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2016, Massie conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The indictments from August 2016 were the result of an investigation, which utilized Title III wiretap intercepts and other investigative techniques that established the existence of several overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks with tentacles in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Northern District of Ohio, Eastern District of Michigan, and the District of the Virgin Islands. The FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force’s focus began in early 2015 on a drug trafficking organization operating on Pittsburgh’s North Side and thereafter they were able to track drug suppliers beyond the borders of their own district and across the Caribbean Sea.
Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team – Narcotics, Firearms, & Violent Crime Task Force, as well as the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Organized Crime Section – Western Regional Office contributed significantly to the investigation, which resulted in the instant sentence.
This case grew out of a federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation that resulted in several federal indictments in August of 2016. The OCDETF task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department. Substantial assistance was provided by FBI San Juan, Puerto Rico (St. Thomas Resident Agency, U.S. Virgin Islands) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Numerous other FBI field offices, including Detroit, Cleveland, New York, and Atlanta, in addition to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, also assisted with this investigation. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Beaver Falls Man Sentenced to 5+ Years in Prison for Robbing New Brighton BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Beaver County has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of five years and five months (65 months), to be followed by three years of supervised release, on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Ernest Dewayne Taylor, 50, of Beaver Falls, PA.
According to information presented to the court, on August 17, 2018, Taylor entered the Huntington Bank located at 921 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, Pennsylvania and passed a teller a note indicating that he was armed and demanding cash. As a result of the robbery, Taylor obtained $600.00 in U.S. currency.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Brighton Area Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Wilkinsburg Felon Charged with Federal Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Jerome Solomon, 39, formerly of Wilkinsburg, PA.
According to the Indictment, on or about February 19, 2019, Solomon possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. On the same date, Solomon is also charged with possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and possession of that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a minimum of five years and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force, the Wilkinsburg Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ridgway Resident Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Ridgway, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jesse Porter, 42, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Porter took sexually explicit photos and video of two minor victims. One victim was three years of age when Porter recorded himself sexually abusing her. The other victim was 15 when Porter took sexually explicit surreptitious video of her.
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.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Porter on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Ridgway Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Porter.
Pittsburgh Felon, 22, Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release, on his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Andre Charles Hall, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Hall, a convicted felon, illegally possessed a .40 caliber pistol on October 5, 2016. Hall led the Pittsburgh Police on a high speed chase through the Hill District of Pittsburgh, crashed the stolen vehicle he was driving, and then attempted to escape on foot before being apprehended. The firearm was recovered from a coat he threw down. Hall had a previous burglary conviction which made him a prohibited person as a felon.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the City of Pittsburgh Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hall.
Monessen Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 11+ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Monessen, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 11 years and eight months (140 months), to be followed by 10 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Donald Mitchell, age 38.
According to information presented to the court, Mitchell was a heroin distributor for the Jarran Bell Drug Trafficking Organization. Mitchell was intercepted via Title III intercepts communicating with Bell during this investigation. For instance, in early April of 2015, Jarran Bell, Krystle Barretto, and Amanda Santiago traveled to Paterson, New Jersey to orchestrate a 250-brick shipment of heroin, which was confirmed upon their return when Bell started contacting distributors for his organization, including Donald Mitchell. Mitchell received 100 bricks of heroin from Bell at that time. From December 2014 through April 2015, Mitchell received over one kilogram of heroin from Bell.
The investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts from December 2014 through April 2015 of 10 different cellular telephones, surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and other investigative techniques, established the existence of a number of overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks at work in the afflicted regions, which included Clairton, McKeesport, Port Vue, areas in Washington County, Westmoreland County, and New Jersey.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation led to the prosecution of Barretto. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clairton Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Former Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Loaded Handgun to Aid in Heroin Delivery to Undercover FBI AgentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Leonard Rushin-Felder, 23, pleaded guilty on July 16, 2017 in front of the Chief U.S. District Judge Mark R. Hornak in Pittsburgh.
The court was advised that on April 25, 2017, members of the FBI’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force executed a search warrant in the City of Pittsburgh. Based on that investigation, FBI agents were able to act in an undercover capacity to order a delivery of heroin from a co-defendant. Leonard Rushin-Felder drove the co-defendant to the delivery location when the car was intercepted by FBI agents. After Rushin-Felder and his co-defendant were detained, a search of Rushin-Felder’s car yielded a loaded semi-automatic handgun in a secret compartment in the armrest of the driver’s window and approximately 20 bricks of heroin in a secret compartment in the armrest of the passenger side window. Rushin-Felder admitted to possessing that firearm to further the delivery of the heroin. Rushin-Felder has been detained and will continue to be detained pending sentencing which Judge Hornak set for November 8, 2019. Rushin-Felder is also serving a federal sentence for assaulting two United States Marshals during his arraignment and detention hearing on this case.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation –Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force 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, Sto-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Contracted Physician, Operations Manager of Redirections Treatment Advocates Sentenced for Suboxone Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Two former employees of Redirections Treatment Advocates – a contracted physician and the clinic’s operations manager - have been sentenced in federal court for offenses related to the unlawful distribution of controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab sentenced Dr. Madhu Aggarwal, 69, of Coraopolis, PA, to three years of probation with six months of home confinement; ordered her to pay $82,973.75 in restitution along with a fine of $40,000, and criminal forfeiture in the amount of $50,000; and ordered her to perform 100 hours of community service on her conviction of unlawfully distributing controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and health care fraud.
Judge Schwab sentenced Christopher Handa, 48, of Pittsburgh, PA, to two years of probation with 90 days of home confinement, and ordered him to pay $40,000 in restitution and to perform 50 hours of community service on his conviction of aiding and abetting the unlawful distribution of controlled substances and health care fraud.
According to information presented to the court, Madhu Aggarwal was a physician practicing at Redirections Treatment Advocates, a Suboxone clinic, located in Washington, PA. Aggarwal and others conspired together to create and submit unlawful prescriptions for buprenorphine, known as Subutex and Suboxone, and then unlawfully dispensed those controlled substances to the clinic’s patients. Aggarwal pre-signed prescriptions, which were completed by non-physicians employed at the clinic. Aggarwal often did not see the patient before a prescription was issued and on several occasions was out of the country when Suboxone was prescribed in her name. Aggarwal was also convicted of health care fraud for causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.
Christopher Handa was employed by RTA as the operations manager. According to the government’s evidence, Handa, Jennifer Hess, the owner of Redirections Treatment Advocates, and doctors employed by the clinic conspired together to create and submit unlawful prescriptions for buprenorphine and then unlawfully dispensed those controlled substances to the clinic’s patients. The doctors would pre-sign the prescriptions and Handa and other employees would complete them. The doctors were not present when the prescriptions were completed and on most occasions had never seen their patients before the prescriptions were completed. Handa was also convicted of health care fraud for causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicaid for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.
Assistant United States AttorneysMichael L. Ivory and Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended 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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Handa.