Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Aiding and Abetting the Making of False Claims to the U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was charged with one count of aiding and abetting the making of false claims to the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Toby Bonitz, 27, was named as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, Bonitz falsely claimed to have performed water quality tests at various Department of Veterans Affairs facilities causing his employer to charge the Department of Veterans Affairs for the water quality tests.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, a term of not more than three years supervised release, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Veterans Affairs - OIG conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Bonitz.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Philadelphia Woman Indicted on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – One resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Ana Rodriguez Gonzalez, 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 1, 2019, Rodriguez Gonzalez possessed with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000.00 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 Brian M. Czarnecki will prosecute this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
Felon with Multiple Convictions Charged with Illegally Possessing Heroin, Fentanyl and GunsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The four-count superseding indictment named Douglas Tyrone Williams, 39, of East Pittsburgh, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about July 20, 2016, Williams possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The Indictment further alleges that Williams conspired with others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl.
According to the Indictment, Williams also possessed a 9 mm caliber semi-automatic Ruger pistol; a 9 mm caliber semi-automatic Beretta pistol with an obliterated serial number; a 45 caliber semi-automatic Para-Ordnance pistol; a 22 caliber American Tactical Imports assault-style rifle; and a 22 caliber CBC assault-style rifle in furtherance of those drug offenses, after having been convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those cases include one conviction for Aggravated Assault, one conviction for Illegally Carrying a Firearm without a License, and one conviction for Murder.
The law provides for a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,500,000, and the forfeiture of the firearms, ammunition, money and jewelry. 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 Ross E. Lenhardt and Special Assistant United States Attorney Chad R. Parks are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Delaware Man Indicted in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Middletown, Delaware, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Tyrone Pratt aka Tyrone Booker, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on May 8, 2019, Pratt was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition after having already been convicted of at least one crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives 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.
Brackenridge Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Brackenridge Credit UnionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A criminal complaint has been filed in federal court charging a resident of Brackenridge, PA., with the July 10, 2019 armed robbery of the Allegheny-Ludlum Brackenridge Federal Credit Union, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Criminal Complaint named Thomas George as the sole defendant. George made his initial appearance in federal court today before Chief Magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy. George has been detained without bail pending a preliminary hearing.
According to the Affidavit in Support of the Criminal Complaint, on July 10, 2019 at around 2 p.m. George entered the Allegheny-Ludlum Brackenridge Federal Credit Union, located at 1131 Brackenridge Avenue in Brackenridge, PA, armed with a handgun and took approximately $101,000 in $5 and $10 denominations from the vault located in the teller area. The Affidavit also says that an eyewitness tip regarding a potential getaway vehicle led to the identification of George as the person responsible for the armed robbery.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that the defendant is guilty of an offense.
Akron, Ohio Man Indicted on Bank Robbery ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Akron, Ohio has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on three charges related to bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on July 10 and unsealed today, names Vernon Marquis McGhee-Luster, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on October 18, 2018, McGhee-Luster robbed the PNC Bank at 3830 Pine Ave., Erie, PA 15504. On October 24, 2018, McGhee-Luster robbed the Citizens Bank at 4761 Route 8, Allison Park, PA 15101 and attempted to rob the PNC Bank at 2802 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie Police Department, the Hampton Township Police Department, the Neshannock Township Police Department, and the Akron Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Millcreek Community Hospital Will Pay $2,451,000 to Settle Claims for Medically Unnecessary Inpatient Rehabilitation ServicesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Millcreek Community Hospital, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay $2,451,000 to resolve claims that the hospital violated the False Claims Act by billing Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary inpatient rehabilitation services, Scott W. Brady announced today.
Millcreek Community Hospital (Millcreek) has an inpatient rehabilitation unit located within its hospital. An inpatient rehabilitation unit is intended to provide services to patients needing rehabilitative services that require hospital-level care. The United States contends that between July 1, 2013 and December 31, 2017, Millcreek admitted patients to its inpatient rehabilitation unit who did not qualify for such services, and failed to adequately document in the patients’ medical records that the inpatient rehabilitation services were medically necessary and reasonable.
As part of the settlement, Millcreek also agreed to enter into a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Counsel to the Inspector General, which will require, among other things, regular monitoring of the hospital’s billings for a period of five years.
"Health care fraud threatens the safety and integrity of our entire health care system," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "When doctors and medical professionals order unnecessary testing or services, they in effect steal from the most vulnerable members of our community by raising the cost of care for everyone."
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Mamula handled the investigation that led to this settlement on behalf of the United States.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Mexican Removed from U.S. Seven Times Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Juan Aranda-Lara, 38.
According to information presented to the court, on or about December 17, 2018, Aranda-Lara was found to be unlawfully present within the United States. Aranda-Lara had been previously ordered deported and removed from the United States on May 11, 2001 and was removed from the United States on May 15, 2001, September 29, 2009, November 14, 2009, November 24, 2009, December 1, 2009, and November 20, 2014. The defendant subsequently reentered the United States, and was found to be present in this country without the permission of the Attorney General of the United States or her successor the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. While in the United States illegally, Aranda-Lara was convicted of a domestic assault in Erie County, Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Aranda-Lara.
Federal Jury Finds Dubois Man Guilty of Filing False Joint Tax Returns by Intentionally Under-Reporting His and His Wife’s IncomeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - After deliberating less than three hours, a federal jury of nine men and three women found Gary E. Mills guilty of three counts of filing false tax returns following a three-week trial, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mills, of Dubois, PA, was tried before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
"People who lie about their income on their taxes steal from the citizens of western Pennsylvania who work hard and play by the rules," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "My office is strongly committed to promoting compliance with federal tax laws, and will draw on all available law enforcement tools to identify, prosecute and punish tax cheats."
"This guilty verdict confirms that all income is taxable, no matter what the source of the income is" said Guy Ficco, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "The verdict should also be a message to others who may be considering not reporting all of their income and paying their fair share of taxes that they too could face criminal prosecution by doing so. The Special Agents of IRS-CI will continue to investigate and recommend prosecution against those who cheat the tax system and victimize the honest taxpayers."
The evidence presented at trial established that on April 15, 2015, April 15, 2014, and August 1, 2014, Mills filed false joint tax returns by intentionally under-reporting his and his wife’s income to the IRS. During the trial, evidence was presented that the Defendant’s wife embezzled $12.9 million from Matthews International from 1999 to 2015. The Defendant’s wife embezzled more than $4 million during the 2012-2014 tax years. The Defendant allegedly believed the monies came from gambling. However, in April 2012, the Defendant received a Notice of Deficiency from an IRS civil audit focused on the 2003-2007 tax years. The Notice of Deficiency informed the Defendant and his wife that he owed more than $930,000 in back taxes, penalties, and interest for the years in question. While litigating and settling this civil audit, the Defendant offset gambling winnings with gambling losses resulting in approximately $100,000 in taxable income for each of 2012, 2013, and 2014 tax years, which resulted in approximately $15,000 in taxes per year. During these years, the Defendant spent approximately $2.7 million dollars, which included a $600,000 yacht, another large recreational boat, and various luxury and recreational vehicles.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for December 12, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $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.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul Desai prosecuted this case for the government.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Mills on bond.
The Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mills.
Carnegie Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of More than a Kilogram of HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Carnegie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with the intent to distribute a kilogram or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
William Thompson, 36, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 7, 2015, law enforcement attempted to stop Thompson, who was then operating a Porsche Cheyenne without a license. Thompson led the police on a high-speed chase on Route 28 during which speeds reached in excess of 100 miles per hour. Thompson eventually crashed and fled on foot, but law enforcement eventually captured him. A search of his vehicle revealed that Thompson was in possession of what later laboratory analysis determined was more than one kilogram of heroin.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Nov. 5, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10.00.000, or both, and a mandatory minimum of ten years of imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Oakdale Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thompson.
Pittsburgh Twins Sentenced to 13 Years and 16 Years for Running Heroin and Fentanyl Ring that Resulted in Numerous OverdosesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – Two former residents of Pittsburgh, PA were sentenced today for running a heroin and fentanyl ring that resulted in numerous fatal and non- fatal overdoses, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
On July 3, 2019 Senior United States District Judge Arthur Schwab imposed the sentence of 13 years (156 months) on Greg Reed, 28, 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, and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises. Greg Reed also accepted responsibility for causing the non-fatal overdose of victim, C.B. C.B. was revived by Narcan after ingesting narcotics supplied by Greg Reed. On July 11, 2019, Judge Schwab imposed the sentence of 16 years (192 months) on Greg Reed’s twin brother, Brad Reed, 28, 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, Distribution of Fentanyl, Destruction or Removal of Evidence, and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises. Brad Reed also accepted responsibility for causing the non-fatal overdose of victim, J.M. J.M. was revived by Narcan after ingesting narcotics supplied by Brad Reed.
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 residence on Lytle Street in Pittsburgh while Justin McBride and Antoinette McBride utilized a location in Munhall, PA, and Richard Ruby at a location 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. Ultimately, the ring was responsible for causing two fatal drug overdoses and three non-fatal drug overdoses.
Co-defendant Richard Ruby was previously sentenced to 151 months 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. Justin McBride has pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing on July 18, 2019.
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 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, Stowe-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Judge Sentences Jamaican to Time Served for Gun Offense, Orders Transfer of Defendant to Homeland Security for DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A citizen of Jamaica has been sentenced in federal court to time served, totaling 14 months’ imprisonment, and three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating a federal firearm law, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Kevin Ruddock, 35, formerly of Verona, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in May 2018 Ruddock possessed a Ruger Model 9E, 9 millimeter handgun, along with 123 rounds of ammunition with an extended magazine, and that the possession was illegal both because Ruddock was admitted into the United States on a non-immigrant visa and because he was in the United States at the time of his possession illegally and unlawfully. Ruddock, who is from Jamaica, was under investigation based on suspicion that he entered into a fraudulent marriage, and during that investigation law enforcement obtained photographs of Ruddock with a firearm. Law enforcement then executed a search warrant at his home, which led to the recovery of the firearm, along with the ammunition and the extended magazine. As part of his purchase of the firearm, Ruddock falsely represented on federal forms that he was a citizen of the United States.
After imposing sentence, Judge Schwab ordered that the defendant be transferred to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security for his deportation.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted 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.
United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ruddock.
Youngstown, Ohio Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Dealing Heroin and Violating the Release Conditions of a Previous Drug ConvictionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to four years (48 months) in prison and six years supervised release on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Frank Christian, 46, of Youngstown, Ohio.
According to information presented to the court, on or about February 22, 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Christian possessed with the intent to distribute and distributed heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Christian’s conduct also violated the conditions of his supervised release related to a previous federal drug trafficking conviction, and Judge Bissoon imposed an incremental 12-month term of imprisonment to run consecutively to the 48-month sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police, and the New Castle Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Christian.
West Virginia Woman Accused in Multi-State Fraud Scheme Targeting Kmart StoresRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A West Virginia woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The seven-count Indictment, returned on June 25 and unsealed yesterday, named Tanya Thompson, aka Tanya Whetzel, 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment presented to the court, from approximately June 2017 until December 2017, Thompson traveled to approximately 25 states and purchased, among other things, third party gift cards, including prepaid credit cards, at various Kmart stores using fraudulent mobile phone coupons. The total loss from the fraud scheme is approximately $101,567.50.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison for each count, a fine of $250,000 for each count, or both for each count. 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 Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Ohio Woman Sentenced to More Than 4 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Heroin and Launder the ProceedsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to four years and four months (52 months) in prison on her convictions of conspiracy to distribute heroin and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Britny Beaver, 25, of East Liverpool, OH.
According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 to February 2016, Beaver conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute kilogram quantities of heroin. She also conspired to launder $60,000 of the proceeds of the heroin trafficking.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to address the factors set forth at 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hopewell Township Police Department, Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, Aliquippa Police Department, and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Beaver
Man Believed to Have Entered US Illegally Charged with Fraud, Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – An individual believed to have entered the United States illegally in March 2018 has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of access device fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The 12-count indictment named Janos Vaczi, 48, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from in and around March 2018, to on or about June 22, 2019, Vaczi conspired to use unauthorized access devices by installing skimming equipment on ATMs in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, which resulted in losses to banks, credit unions and their customers.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Local Woman Sentenced for Filing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Western Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to one day incarceration and one year probation, including eight months home confinement, and restitution in the amount of $47,378 payable to the Internal Revenue Service on her conviction of filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Tina Gordon of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Gordon filed two false tax returns for calendar years 2010 and 2011, which were verified by written declarations that Gordon knew were false. In the 2010 tax return, Gordon falsely stated that her "other income" (line 21 of Form 1040) was $13,250, whereas, as she then and there well knew her "other income" was in fact much greater, an amount of approximately $69,076 (approximately $55,826 of unreported "other income"). In the 2011 tax return, Gordon falsely stated that her "other income" (line 21 of Form 1040) was $1,856,252 (identified elsewhere in her return as "gambling winnings"), whereas, as she then and there well knew, her "other income" was in fact much greater, an amount of approximately $1,996,226 ("approximately $139,974 of unreported "other income").
United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tina Gordon.
Beaver Falls Drug Dealer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Beaver County has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ imprisonment and four years of supervised release on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Donavan McFrazier, 31, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about July 9, 2018, McFrazier possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine and cocaine base and 40 grams or more of fentanyl, all Schedule II controlled substances.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in this case. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
GBK Gang Member Sentenced to 16+ Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Crack Cocaine in Greenway ProjectsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh-area gang member has been sentenced in federal court to 16 years and eight months (200 months) in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Brett Rodgers, 33, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the Greenway Boy Killas (GBK) street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Brett Rodgers conspired to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, primarily in and around the Greenway Projects.
"Brett Rodgers is one of 28 members and associates of the violent GBK street gang charged last June with drug trafficking. Gangs like GBK terrorize their communities and force law-abiding citizens to live in fear," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "The people of the West End are safer today than they were last year, while Rodgers will have the next decade-and-a-half to reflect on his illegal conduct."
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rodgers.
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.
Former Clairton Resident Sentenced for Distributing Fentanyl and Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to nine years’ imprisonment, followed by 10 years’ supervised release, on his conviction of conspiring to distribute narcotics and unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Elliot Page, 38.
According to information presented to the court, Page supplied fentanyl to his codefendants, Skyler Carter and Cecil Shields, and others, for further distribution in the Clairton area. Agents seized approximately one kilogram of fentanyl and three firearms during the execution of a federal search warrant at Page’s residence on July 6, 2017. Page had three prior felony drug offenses and was forbidden from possessing a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Member of Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Clairton, PA, has pleaded guilty to a federal narcotics charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Kevin Ford, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. Ford has been detained since his initial arrest on April 25, 2018 and will remain detained pending sentencing.
According to information presented to the court, from April to December 2017, Ford was a member of the Lightfoot drug trafficking organization. As part of that conspiracy, Ford would acquire quantities of cocaine from Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. and would then resell that cocaine to other members of the conspiracy. Over the course of the conspiracy, Ford was responsible for between 500 grams and 2.5 kilograms of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $8,000,000. 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. Due to a prior drug trafficking conviction, Ford is facing increased penalties.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is 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.
Homestead Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Multiple DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A former resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Arrmon Davon Hagans, 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 23, 2018, police executed a search warrant at Hagans’ residence in Homestead, Pennsylvania. There they located quantities of fentanyl and the fentanyl analogue para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, as well as a separate mixture that contained heroin, fentanyl and cocaine. Law enforcement officers also located over $3,700 in cash and a box of ammunition.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Thursday, November 21, 2019 at 9 a.m. Because the defendant has been previously convicted of another felony drug offense, the law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
The defendant remains in jail pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Pittsburgh Woman Helped her Bank Robber Son Hide from PoliceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of accessory after the fact, for assisting the "Sorry, Happy Holidays" bank robber, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Melissa Kane, 48, pleaded guilty to Count Three of a three-count Indictment, which also charges her son, Brent Richards, who pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment, charging him with armed bank robbery, on June 25, 2019, before United States District Judge Peter J. Phipps.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Ms. Kane knew that her son, Brent Richards, robbed the Citizens Bank located at 31 Foster Avenue in Pittsburgh, at gun point, on January 8, 2018, and she assisted Mr. Richards, following the robbery, by allowing him to stay at her residence, disposing of the clothing worn by Mr. Richards and the bb gun used by Mr. Richards, and later denying any knowledge of or involvement in the bank robbery, when interviewed by law enforcement. The Court was further informed that Ms. Kane was engaged in a physical altercation with Mr. Richard’s former girlfriend, who Ms. Kane believed would tell law enforcement that Mr. Richards had robbed the bank.
Judge Phipps scheduled sentencing for Nov. 6, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 12 years and six months in prison, a fine of $125,000, 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. Ms. Kane remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Crafton Borough Police Department, the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Kane.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 4 years and 9 months (57 months) of imprisonment and six years of Supervised Release on his conviction of charges involving guns and drugs, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chance Rice, 26, had previously pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy M. Bissoon.
According to information presented to the Court, Rice was involved in three separate federal investigations. The first occurred as a result of the September 16, 2015, candlelight vigil shooting. There, multiple people were injured, and multiple guns were fired, as family members and friends held a vigil for the one-year anniversary of the shooting death of a teenage boy in Homewood. The joint investigation between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (PBP) revealed that the person who fired one of the guns during the vigil shooting later transferred his gun to an individual who was subsequently shot and killed. Before his death, that person transferred the gun to Rice, and Rice transferred it to a defendant named Keith Lovelace. Lovelace and Rice have both been prosecuted in federal court, while the shooter is pending state charges.
The second incident started when Rice told his former girlfriend that he had recently been shot at and that she needed to buy a gun for her own protection. Rice quickly obtained possession of that gun. On October 31, 2015, Edgewood Police officers stopped the vehicle Rice was driving and noticed a spent casing on the dashboard and a black pistol in the car. Rice fled in the vehicle and was a wanted fugitive until his December 18, 2015 arrest. Rice had prior Allegheny County felony convictions in 2014 for carrying a firearm without a license and for dealing cocaine. These convictions made it illegal for Rice to subsequently possess a firearm or ammunition, under federal law.
Rice was being housed in the Butler County Jail (BCJ) while awaiting his trial. On July 10, 2018, the Deputy Warden of the BCJ received information that caused her to arrange for Rice’s cell to be searched. Guards located drug-soaked paper in Rice’s cell. The lab determined that the paper contained a substance called 5 Flouro ADB, a type of synthetic marijuana. In Court, Rice admitted to possessing this drug to provide to other inmates.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the ATF, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Butler County Jail, the Edgewood Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole for the investigations that led to the successful prosecution of Rice.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ probation and 100 hours’ community service on her conviction of mail theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ekeyma Harris, 32.
According to information presented to the court, on November 17, 2018, a woman living in Longmont, Colorado, reported to her local police department that she believed she had been victimized by unknown individuals living in Jamaica who telephoned her and reported that she was a Publishing Clearing House winner. In order to collect her winnings, the callers convinced her to send two U.S. Postal Express packages, one to "David Miller" containing $810 and a second to "James Holliday" containing $6,800 to an address on Imogene Road, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15217. Following her report, the Postal Service intercepted the package and delivered it on November 21, 2018, under the direction of law enforcement. Harris opened the door and signed a fictitious name on a Postal Service Domestic Return Receipt, in order to take receipt of the package and its contents, knowing that no individual by the name of James Holliday resided at that address.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Harris.
Natrona Heights Man Charged with Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on June 26 and unsealed today, named Jack Ulrich, Jr., 41, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on October 12, 2018, Ulrich, Jr., unlawfully possessed photographs and videos in computer graphics files, which depicted minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years, engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. If the defendant has a prior qualifying sex offense, the law requires a sentence that includes a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years. 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 Carolyn J. Bloch 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 Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Blair County Man Sentenced for Stealing U.S. Railroad Retirement Board Disability PaymentsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Roaring Springs, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation with conditions of 180 days of home detention, and restitution due and owing to the United States Railroad Retirement Board in the amount of $50,985.21, on his conviction of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence upon Glenn P. Rhykerd, 69.
According to information presented to the court, from Jan. 1, 2015, to May 31, 2016, Rhykerd did receive and convert falsely to his own use a total of $50,985.21 in United States Railroad Retirement Board disability payments made to him to which he was not entitled.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the United States Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Rhykerd.
RRB-OIG Inspector General Martin J. Dickman said: "Lying in disability applications is a serious crime that honest taxpayers cannot abide, and that the RRB-OIG will aggressively continue to root out. Through our ongoing investigation, we will continue to hold accountable those who would abuse a system that is meant for legitimately disabled workers who have served our nation’s railroads. I would like to thank the agents from my Office for their outstanding work on this investigation, as well as our law enforcement partners at the United States Attorney’s Office.
Swissvale Man Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug Charges in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Swissvale, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Brandon Spearman, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the defendant possessed a semi-automatic pistol as well as 46 stamp bags of fentanyl and 2.2 grams of crack cocaine.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 29, 2019, at 10 a.m. The defendant is incarcerated pending the sentencing date and the preparation of a Pre-Sentence Report detailing the defendant’s educational, criminal, family, and work histories.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Penn Hills Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Penn Hills Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Multiple Drugs and a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on June 25, named Duane Eugene Cash, Jr., age 47, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about December 7, 2018, Cash possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of an analogue of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and quantities of cocaine, marijuana and tramadol. The Indictment further alleges that Cash, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Penn Hills and Monroeville Police Departments 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.
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.
Former Steel Valley Authority Financial Manager Sentenced to Prison for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Westmoreland County has been sentenced in federal court to one-and-one-half years’ (18 months’) incarceration and five years of supervised release on her conviction of bank fraud and mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Nicolette Gizzi, age 46, of North Huntingdon, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from December 2009 through approximately June 2016, Gizzi, who was employed as the Financial Manager for Steel Valley Authority, embezzled by issuing checks to herself and her credit card company, without authorization, and then forging the required signatures. The checks were drawn on Steel Valley Authority’s business bank account. Steel Valley Authority is funded primarily by federal grants. Additionally, Gizzi, who has a prior federal fraud conviction in South Carolina, defrauded the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina as it attempted to collect restitution for her previous victim.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon imposed an obstruction of justice sentencing enhancement based on false statements Gizzi made to the United States Probation Office during the course of a Presentence Interview.
U.S. Attorney Brady said, "Nicolette Guzzi perpetrated her fraud scheme on an economic development organization that is primarily funded through grants from the U.S. Department of Labor. An important part of our work is ensuring that public monies are used for their intended purposes, as we have demonstrated through this prosecution."
"Nicolette Gizzi devised a scheme to embezzle over $82,000 in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funds from her employer at the expense of job seekers who were eligible for those resources. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment Training Administration to protect the integrity of services designed to strengthen and improve America’s workforce," said Richard Deer, Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gizzi.
Brownsville, PA Man Indicted on Charges Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Fayette County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count Indictment, returned on June 26, named Sean Houston, age 47, of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to indictment, on or about December 23, 2015; May 20, 2016; October 2016 to October 2018; July 22, 2017 to October 2018; May 2018 to October 2018; October 2016 to October 2018; and October 5, 2018, Houston produced and attempted to produce visual depictions, images and a video of the sexual exploitation of a minor. The Indictment further alleges that on or about October 29, 2018, Houston knowingly possessed visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of minors.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment for the production and attempted production of child pornography, 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 Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Centerville Police Department, the North Strabane Police Department and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Verona Man Charged with Federal Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – One former resident of Verona, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment, returned on June 25, named Richard Anthony Burke, 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the superseding indictment, on November 12, 2016, Burke possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. On February 3, 2017, Burke, a convicted felon, was also in possession of a firearm. As a convicted felon, Burke is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 40 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Former Residents of Dubois Plead Guilty to Mail TheftRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, PA – Two residents of DuBois, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit mail theft and mail theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
David E. Moore, 26, and Joshua J. Frantz, 26, each pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from in or around February 2016 through in or around March 2016, cousins, Joshua J. Frantz and David E. Moore, Jr., agreed to and did steal mail from mail receptacles located at an apartment complex at 122 West Washington Avenue, in DuBois, PA. The court was further advised that on at least 11 occasions, either one or both of the defendants were observed on surveillance video and that more than 60 individuals had pieces of US mail stolen from their mail receptacles as a result of the mail theft conspiracy.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 22, 2019 at 10 a.m. for Frantz, and at 1 p.m. that same day for Moore. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 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. Both defendants remain imprisoned pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the DuBois Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Moore and Frantz.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Marvin Dennis was sentenced to six years (72 months) in prison for committing heroin and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Dennis, age 23 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab also sentenced Dennis to serve three years of supervised release after his prison term.
In February 2019, Dennis pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin and crack cocaine from September 2017 to April 3, 2018, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy from September 2017 to April 3, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Defrauding Area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Robert Campoli, Jr, age 49, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from March 6, 2019 to March 20, 2019, Campoli, Jr. engaged in a scheme to defraud Citizens Bank, Huntington Bank and Key Bank. The indictment alleges Campoli, Jr. used forged and counterfeit checks payable to him to withdraw money from business accounts at the banks, even though he had no relationship with the businesses named on the checks.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service, along with members of the Moon Township, Brentwood Borough, Northern Regional, Penn Township, Peters Township, and Austintown, Ohio, Police Departments conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Kensington Man Charged with Distributing Fentanyl and Fentanyl AnaloguesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on June 25, named Thomas Vaughn Kelly, Jr., 33, formerly of New Kensington, PA.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 12, 2019, Kelly possessed with the intent to distribute and distribute 10 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl analogues and fentanyl.
The law provides for a minimum of five years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration 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 Sends Verona Man to Prison for 15 Years for Producing, Distributing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court 15 years’ (180 months’) incarceration to be followed by 15 years of supervised release to violating charges of production, distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on John O’Donnell, 51, formerly of Verona, PA.
According to information presented to the court, O’Donnell distributed material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor on Facebook. When authorities searched his home, he was found to be in possession of nearly 300 images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. During the investigation into his illegal activities, authorities also learned that, through the use of a hidden camera, O’Donnell secretly videotaped a 12-year-old girl in his bathroom.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney’s General Office, the Allegheny County Police Department and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of O'Donnell.
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.
Indian Businessman Charged with Drug Importation, Smuggling, and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A citizen and resident of Mumbai, India, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics, smuggling, and money laundering laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count Indictment, returned on June 26, named Jeetendra Harish Belani, aka Jeetu, age 36, of Mumbai, India, as the sole defendant. He is charged with conspiracy to import Schedule II and Schedule IV controlled substances, conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the United States, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and various substantive counts of drug importation, smuggling, and money laundering.
According to the Indictment, Belani operated a drug-distribution entity based in India called LeeHPL Ventures. Between 2015 and 2019, Belani and his co-conspirators, through LeeHPL Ventures, allegedly imported and smuggled into the United States various drugs available only by prescription in the United States, including Tapentadol, a Schedule II controlled substance, as well as Tramadol, Carisoprodol, and Modafinil, all Schedule IV controlled substances. The Indictment also alleges that between 2015 and mid-2017, Belani conspired with William Kulakevich and Julia Fees to unlawfully smuggle a drug known as Etizolam into the United States for re-sale by Kulakevich and Fees via a website they operated—www.etizy.com. Etizolam is part of a class of drugs similar to benzodiazepines, which are often used to treat insomnia and anxiety and carry a potential for abuse and overdose. To evade detection by United States Customs and Border Protection officials, Belani and his co-conspirators also allegedly used false customs declarations that mischaracterized and undervalued the contents of packages sent to the United States by LeeHPL Ventures. In addition, according to the Indictment, Belani caused drug shipments to be broken into smaller quantities and shipped to multiple addresses to help ensure delivery and avoid interception by United States customs authorities. Belani also caused co-conspirators to initiate payments totaling tens of thousands of dollars from accounts in the United States to accounts controlled by Belani in India or other locations outside the United States, all as a means to promote Belani’s continued efforts to smuggle drugs into the United States.
The most serious offenses with which Belani is charged, involving importation of a Schedule II controlled substance, carry a maximum sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to 15 More Months in Prison for Possessing BuprenorphineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, and immediately following, was sentenced to 15 months in prison, consecutive to the current prison term he is serving, and three years’ supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Ryan S. Harris, 36, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on September 28, 2018, Harris possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in Project Safe Neighborhoods CaseRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jonathan Dominic Mull, 20, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 4, 2018, Mull possessed a firearm which he was precluded from possessing because of an active protection from abuse order and as a result of being a convicted felon.
Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for October 22, 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 continued Mull on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United Marshal’s Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mull with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reductions efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevent and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
“Happy Holidays” Bank Robber Pleads Guilty in Armed Heist of Citizens Bank in CraftonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Crafton, PA, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Brent Richards, age 33, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Peter J. Phipps to Count One of the three-count Indictment, which also charges his mother, Melissa Kane, at Count Three.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on January 8, 2018, at approximately 9:18 a.m., Richards, dressed in all black, entered the Citizens Bank located at 31 Foster Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15205, carrying a black umbrella and, what appeared to be, a black and silver semi-automatic style handgun, which was later determined to be a bb-gun. The Court was further informed that Richards pointed the bb-gun at two of the tellers, placed a white bag on the counter and demanded that the tellers empty their drawers of cash. Richards took $10,003 from the bank and, when exiting the bank, stated: "Sorry, Happy Holidays."
Judge Phipps scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 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. Richards remains in custody pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Crafton Borough Police Department, the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of this case.
New Kensington Man Charged with Heroin PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Kevin Watson, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about April 26, 2019, Watson possessed with intent distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and not more than life in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, 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 Brian M. Czarnecki is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Indicted on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - One resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Calvin Berkins, Jr., 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about October 24, 2018, Berkins possessed with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of cocaine base, a schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel 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.
Georgia Resident Used Counterfeit Credit Cards and IDs to Obtain Cash AdvancesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Georgia resident pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to a charge of bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Khambrel Coleman, 33, of Johns Creek, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one felony count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
According to the information presented to the Court, Coleman unlawfully used and attempted to use counterfeit credit cards and identification cards to fraudulently obtain cash advances from November 2016 through February 3, 2017. During one such transaction, he used a credit card number belonging to a Pittsburgh resident to fraudulently obtain a cash advance from a Citizens Bank Branch in Shadyside, Pittsburgh.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 23, 2019. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 30 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.
Pending sentencing, the court released Coleman on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Aliquippa Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count Indictment named Omar Jamal Griffin, Jr., 20, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, Griffin possessed and distributed cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance, on multiple occasions. The Indictment further alleged that Griffin possessed a firearm in furtherance of these crimes and that Griffin was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior conviction.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 95 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $4,500,000 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.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Chad R. Parks is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Whitaker, PA Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Whitaker, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Aqui McKeithen, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about January 10, 2019, Aqui McKeithen possessed a firearm after having been convicted of a crime which would prohibit him from legally doing so.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as officers with Pennsylvania State Parole and the Whitaker Police Department 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.
Washington County Man Indicted on Possession of Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment named Jesse R. Price, 61, of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, in and around September 2018, and on or about October 3, 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Price unlawfully possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. The Indictment further alleges that on or about October 12, 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Price unlawfully possessed a firearm and various ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to thirty years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police 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.
Superseding Indictment Means 48 Defendants Now Charged in Multi-State Drug Smuggling Prison RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment charging 48 defendants, many of whom are serving federal prison sentences or were recently released from federal prison sentences, with committing drug trafficking, money laundering, and firearm crimes and with engaging in interstate travel and transmissions in aid of racketeering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The 10-count Superseding Indictment, returned on June 18 and unsealed on June 21, adds 21 defendants and two counts to a 27-defendant, eight-count Indictment that was returned in January 2019. The Superseding Indictment charges 46 defendants in Count 1 with conspiring from January 2017 to January 2019 to distribute Schedule I, II, and III controlled substances, including 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 1 kilogram or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, a quantity of para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, a quantity of carfentanil, a quantity of oxycodone, a quantity of 5F-ADB, a quantity of FUB–AMB, a quantity of ADB-CHMINACA, a quantity of 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, a quantity of MMB-CHMICA, and a quantity of buprenorphine.
The 46 defendants charged in Count 1 are:
- Noah Landfried, Moon Township
- Mario Allen, USP-Lee, Virginia
- Larry Benavides, Clinton County Jail, Pennsylvania
- Dashawn Burley, Monroeville
- Michel Cercone, Sewickley
- Ahmad Fletcher, FCI-Gilmer, West Virginia
- Michael S. Frawley, Pittsburgh
- Christopher Gahagan, Ambridge
- Richard Georgelos, Santa Cruz, Arizona
- Nicholas Giammichele, FCI-Danbury, Connecticut
- Robert Korbe, FCI-Loretto, Pennsylvania
- Ross Landfried, USP-Lee, Virginia
- Sterling Marshall, USP-Lee, Virginia
- Darren Martin, Aliquippa
- Harold Novick, Ambridge
- Paul Nuara, Erie
- Omari Patton, FCI-Fort Dix, New Jersey
- James Perry, Ambridge
- John Ramsey, FCI-Ray Brook, New York
- Donnell Steward, FCI-Otisville, New York
- Quoc Boa Trinh, FCI-Otisville, New York
- Terrell Williams, Pittsburgh
- Richard Wood, Pittsburgh
- Shayla Yates, Dinwiddie, Virginia
- Krystian Zarate, Santa Cruz, Arizona
- Shamar Banks, FCI-Hazelton, West Virginia
- Nicole Bracey, Waldorf, Maryland
- Richard Bracey, FCI-Lee in Virginia
- David Curran, FCI-Berlin, New Hampshire
- William Fielder, FCI-Hazelton, West Virginia
- Darwin Good, FCI-McKean, Pennsylvania
- Eugene Hall, West Mifflin
- Dorianne Harris, Homestead
- Andrea Hopes, Pittsburgh
- Thomas Hopes, FCI-Elkton, Ohio
- Richard Jasek, West Mifflin
- Seth Lindsey, Verona
- Brandon Massie, FCI-Schuylkill, Pennsylvania
- Lamar Middleton, USP-Big Sandy, Kentucky
- Dana Penney, Beaver County Jail
- Diassandai Serrano, North Versailles
- Anthony Smith, McKeesport
- Christian Stevens, Allegheny County Jail
- Christopher Threet, RRM Detroit, Michigan
- Paris Wilson, FCI-Sandstone, Minnesota, and
- Sandra Wilson, McKees Rocks.
The Superseding Indictment charges 17 defendants in Count 2 with conspiring to launder drug trafficking proceeds from January 2017 to January 2019. The 17 defendants charged in Count 2 are Noah Landfried, Allen, Benavides, Cercone, Fletcher, Korbe, Ross Landfried, Marshall, Perry, Steward, Yates, Nicole Bracey, Richard Bracey, Andrea Hopes, Thomas Hopes, Middleton, and Threet.
The Superseding Indictment charges Angelo Williams (FCI-Cumberland in Maryland) and Priyanka Kumar (of Potomac, Maryland) in Count 3 with engaging in interstate travel and transmissions in aid of racketeering from January 2017 to January 2019.
Counts 4, 6, and 7 of the Superseding Indictment charge Gahagan with distributing cocaine in September 2017, January 2018, and April 2018. Count 5 charges Benavides with possessing para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl and 5F-ADB with intent to distribute in November 2017. Count 8 charges Noah Landfried with possessing with intent to distribute and distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin in June 2018.
The Superseding Indictment adds Counts 9 and 10. Count 9 charges Penney with possessing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in June 2018. Count 10 charges Penney with possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in July 2018.
The Superseding Indictment seeks forfeiture of the proceeds of the crimes as well as property that was acquired with the proceeds or was used to commit the crimes.
The law provides for minimum and maximum sentences for the counts in the Superseding Indictment ranging from at least 10 years to up to life in prison for Counts 1 and 10, up to 20 years for Count 2, up to 5 years for Count 3, up to 20 years for each of Counts 4 through 7 and 9, and from at least 5 years to up to 40 years for Count 8. Fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $20,000,000 may also be imposed. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
A Superseding Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted for Robbing Castle Shannon Dollar BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment names Deontre Simpson, 23, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about April 29, 2019, Simpson robbed the Dollar Bank located at 400 Mount Lebanon Boulevard, Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania 15234, of approximately $4,661.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Mount Lebanon Police Department, and the Castle Shannon Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Illegal Alien Residing in Clinton, PA Charged with Unlawfully Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A citizen of Mexico residing in Clinton, PA has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of unlawful reentry after removal, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Luis Ramirez-Barron, 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Ramirez-Barron 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 of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of 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.