Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH -A resident of Penn Hills, PA, was sentenced in federal court to 120months’ imprisonment on a charge of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Angelo Everett, age 36.

According to information presented to the court, Angelo Everett was the leader of a drug trafficking organization distributing in Pittsburgh’s Hill District neighborhood. Everett was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that Everett and others conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute between 700 grams and one kilogram of heroin between January and September 2016.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF programsupplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Angelo Everett.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – An Allegheny County felon has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Michael William Horvwalt, 32, formerly of Homestead, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about January 8, 2019, Horvwalt possessed a firearm and ammunition, despite his prior felony convictions.  Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Probation Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).  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.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The twelve-count indictment named Joshua Davis Loucks, 35, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Loucks took sexually explicit photos and produced videos of a minor victim who was under the age of eighteen. He also received computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 361 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of San Juan, Puerto Rico, has been indicted by a grand jury on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 19, named Lancelot De Montsegur, aka Patrice Berthome, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, De Montsegur was involved in a complex fraud that involved fraudulently processing credit card payments. The credit card companies will not allow their products and services to be used to pay for certain precluded activities, including the on-line sales of recreational and designer drugs, kratom, and CBD oil. De Montsegur participated in a conspiracy designed to conceal from the credit card companies the fact that De Montsegur and his co-conspirators used their products and services to pay for precluded activities and to subvert the internal controls the credit card companies had in place to detect and prevent this type of activity.

The fraud involved establishing shell corporations and web sites associated with the shell companies that falsely claimed that they sold a product other than designer drugs, kratom, or CBD oil. The conspirators then applied for PayPal, Stripe, Square, or merchant accounts from the credit card companies in the names of the shell corporations and the fake web sites. Once the accounts were established, they were used to process payments for designer drugs, kratom, or CBD oil. Additionally, the conspirators arranged for the credit card statements sent to the consumers to have the names of the shell corporations and telephone numbers. The conspirators set up a telephone bank to receive calls from customers questioning billings on their credit card statements, and the conspirators explained to the customers the true nature of the transactions in hopes of avoiding charge-backs that could cause the credit card companies to question the legitimacy of the transactions.

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 Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Jeffrey R. Bengel are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Mark Fisher, 40, pleaded guilty on March 6, 2019, to one count before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around April 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around October 2016, Fisher conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack. During his plea colloquy, the defendant admitted that he obtained crack from a co-defendant on numerous occasions during the period of the conspiracy, and that on one occasion, he fled his vehicle, leaving five grams of crack on the floor, when law enforcement initiated a traffic stop.

With his guilty plea, the defendant is the last of nine co-defendants to admit guilt in connection with the Indictment returned on August 1, 2017.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2019, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than 5 and not more than 40 years, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and comprises members drawn from the Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The Stowe Township Police Department also provided assistance in this investigation. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced in federal court last week for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton sentenced Adolph Brown, 48, to serve 210 months (17.5 years) in prison following his conviction of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Judge Walton previously found the defendant guilty at the conclusion of a bench trial on July 9, 2018.

According to the evidence presented at trial, on March 2, 2015, the defendant traveled from Akron, Ohio, to Farrell, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of completing a sale of approximately 722 grams of cocaine. En route to Farrell, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle in which Brown was traveling. A subsequent search resulted in the discovery of the cocaine concealed inside a children’s car seat in the back seat of the vehicle. Brown subsequently provided a voluntary statement, admitting that the cocaine was his and that he was on his way to sell the cocaine to a customer in Farrell.

At the time of the offense in this case, the defendant was awaiting sentencing in Summit County, Ohio, following his guilty plea to state heroin and cocaine trafficking charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Adolph Brown, with assistance from the Southwest Mercer County Regional Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New York, NY, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jose Ortega, 32, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around November 2016 through in and around February 2017, Ortega conspired with his codefendants, David Francis and William Rosario, to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, which he transported from New York to the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 10, 2019, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Monroeville Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Ingram Borough Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and Monaca Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ortega.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Munhall, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment and a three-year term of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy and mail theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Christopher Eric Carr, 46.

According to information presented to the court, from February through May of 2018, Carr, along with his co-defendant Ron Matthew Sharp, entered multiple apartment buildings in the Shadyside and North Oakland areas of Pittsburgh, and opened United States Postal Service packages or other mail items that were not addressed to them, stole packages, and stole items from within packages that had been left at authorized mail depositories. Defendants stole items from more than 40 victims, filling up trash bags, duffel bags, and backpacks with their loot. Defendants then provided items they had stolen from the mail, including gift cards, to others, who redeemed the gift cards at various locations, including Giant Eagle and GETGO. Defendants also re-sold, and instructed others to attempt to re-sell, items defendants had stolen from the mail.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the United States Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Christopher Carr.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former City of Pittsburgh Police Officer and resident of Allegheny County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of making false statements to government agents, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Antoine Cain, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements to government agents before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that during the course of a federal investigation pertaining to an armed bank robbery that occurred on January 8, 2018 at the Citizens Bank in Crafton, PA, federal agents interviewed Cain, who was at the time a 25-year veteran police officer for the City of Pittsburgh. Through the course of their investigation, federal agents learned that Mr. Cain had been involved in a seven-year, on-again, off-again, relationship with a woman identified as Melissa Kane. Federal investigators had identified Melissa Kane as the mother of the lead suspect in the Citizens Bank armed robbery, Brent Richards.

The court was further advised that federal agents interviewed Cain on July 27, 2018, and July 31, 2018, wherein he made false statements to government agents. Namely, Cain told federal agents during both of these interviews that he did not know the identity of the individual who had robbed the Citizens Bank, when in fact he did. On September 18, 2018, federal agents spoke once again with Cain and advised Cain that their investigation revealed additional information indicating that Cain knew who robbed the Citizens Bank.

Cain was asked once again if he had any information regarding the identity of the bank robber, to which Cain admitted, during this interview, that he did. During this interview Cain explained to law enforcement that Brent Richards, who Cain knew through his relationship with Melissa Kane, had committed the Citizens Bank armed robbery. Cain further admitted that Brent Richards told him that he had "hit" a bank, which Cain understood to mean that Brent Richards had committed a bank robbery, and Melissa Kane told him that Brent Richards had robbed the Citizens Bank, wearing a mask and using a bb gun and that Brent Richards had been covered up so law enforcement could not prove that it was Brent Richards who had robbed the bank.

Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2019 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Eric G. Olshan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Antoine Cain.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was sentenced in federal court to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on LaRon Hollaman, 29. Judge Bissoon also required that this sentence must be served consecutive to any state parole violation.

The court was advised that on May 6, 2017, a Robinson Police Officer observed Hollaman engage in suspicious drug activity in the parking lot of the Hilltop Inn. The officer then followed Hollaman to a nearby GetGo gas station where he approached the defendant to investigate further. When asked for his license and registration, Hollaman told the officer, "I just did six up at State," referring to his prior conviction. Hollaman continued to tell the officer, "There are two guns loaded underneath the front passenger seat." Hollaman was removed from the car and handcuffed. Police then recovered two loaded Glock firearms, which were reported stolen out of the City of Pittsburgh. At the time of his arrest, Hollaman was on Pennsylvania State parole for committing a carjacking and two separate illegal firearms possession charges.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Robinson Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the guilty plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation with 180 days of incarceration at Renewal, Inc. along with 180 days of home incarceration, a $15,000 fine and ordered to pay $391,472 in restitution on his conviction of filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Allan W. Clark, M.D.

According to information presented to the court, Clark was the owner and operator of the South Hills Recovery Project (SHRP), a strictly cash-based suboxone clinic. A patient’s first visit fee during the relevant times was $250. The follow-up monthly visits were $150. Over the course of 2011, 2012 and 2013, Clark hired approximately 11 different doctors to work part time at SHRP to assist him in handling the follow up visits. Of the $150 collected from the patient for the follow- up visit, the 11 doctors were paid approximately half, or $75, and SHRP kept the other $75. Clark did not report all of the cash collected, and used some of it for personal expenses such as improvements on his home.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clark.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Canfield, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to probation for a term of five years and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $331,509.00 on his conviction of tax evasion, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Douglas A. Hagy.  

According to the information presented to the court, Hagy earned approximately $982,000 in personal income between 2012 and 2016, which he failed to disclose on federal income tax returns.

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

The U.S. Attorney commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Douglas A. Hagy.

PITTSBURGH – Today, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced a dramatic decrease in overdose deaths in western Pennsylvania in 2018. Overdose deaths are down 43% throughout the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This includes significant decreases in the counties most impacted by the crisis, including of 50% in Beaver County, 50% in Butler County, 47% in Lawrence County, 47% in Allegheny County, 44% in Washington County and 37% in Westmoreland County.

"This crisis has impacted every community in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady, calling western Pennsylvania "Ground Zero" for the opioid epidemic. "From day one of my administration, I vowed to fight the opioid epidemic with every tool the Department of Justice has, and to do so with new urgency."

United States Attorney Brady created a new Narcotics and Organized Crime Section and filled it with the office’s most experienced narcotics prosecutors. He appointed an Opioid Coordinator to serve as a point person for the district’s strategic efforts, and obtained funding from the Department of Justice for new federal prosecutors. With the international reach of federal law enforcement, and strong mandatory minimum penalties under federal law, the United States Attorney’s Office brings significant resources to the fight in investigating and prosecuting opioid traffickers.

Additionally, United States Attorney Brady has prioritized cyber investigations into Darknet marketplaces and placed a continued emphasis on health care professionals who abuse their prescribing privileges. Thus far, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Pennsylvania has prosecuted 25 health care professionals for illegal drug distribution.

"Every life is precious—every person addicted to drugs is a son, daughter, mother, father, brother or sister. We will continue to fight for every life," said U.S. Attorney Brady. Brady praised the efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement partners in combatting the epidemic, as well as the crucial role that the health care and treatment communities have played in treating those with opioid abuse disorder.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiracy to launder proceeds of marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christopher Schanck, 36, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Drug Enforcement Administration and other agencies conducted a multi-year investigation of the marijuana trafficking conspiracy of Schanck and his co-conspirators. From 2012 through 2017, Schanck and his co-conspirators arranged for marijuana to be supplied from the West Coast and mailed to the Pittsburgh area through the United States Postal Service. Schanck and his co-conspirators would then distribute the marijuana in the Western District of Pennsylvania, primarily on college campuses, such as Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During the operation of the conspiracy, Schanck conspired to distribute from 100 to 400 kilograms of marijuana. He also conspired to launder approximately $258,404 in proceeds from marijuana trafficking.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019, at 11:45 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Indiana Borough Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Schanck. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

Phil Bradford, 24, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bradford, an individual with a prior felony drug conviction, knowingly and unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019 at 1 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bradford.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, including six months of home detention, on her conviction of aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David Cercone imposed the sentence on Talaya Thompkins, 36.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about August 27, 2016, and continuing thereafter to on or about August 7, 2017, Talaya Thompkins unlawfully aided and abetted Vincent Eggleton’s possession of firearms. Thompkins purchased the two firearms in August 2016 and February 2017 and made them available to Eggleton. Thompkins was aware that Eggleton had a prior felony conviction, which prohibits Eggleton from possessing any firearm.

On March 1, 2018, Eggleton pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, as well as conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and a related drug-trafficking charge. On August 1, 2018, Eggleton was sentenced to a total of 10 years and one month in prison on those charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as a federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -A former resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Glenn Ford, 60, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior Judge Reggie B. Walton of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on September 15, 2017, Ford robbed the Huntington Bank, on Smithfield St. wearing a long black curly wig, a long leather coat, and a sticker on his face covering his nose and mouth. He demanded $100 and $50 bills and received $2,340. On September 28, 2017, Ford robbed the same Huntington Bank. He attempted to conceal his face as he approached the same teller. Ford demanded $100, $50 and $20 bills and received $2,370. The teller recognized Ford from the prior bank robbery and placed a dye pack with the money, which exploded as he fled.

On September 20, 2017, Ford, wearing a hat, a dress, a trench coat and caramel-colored dress shoes, entered the Citizens Bank located on East Carson St. with a white plastic bag covering part of his face. He demanded money and received $2,950. He discarded his clothing after he exited the bank.

The Court was further advised that on October 4, 2017, wearing a Darth Vader mask and black hoodie, Ford robbed the CoGo’s on East Carson Street with a knife and took $186.

Ford confessed to committing the robberies to support his crack addiction. He told officers about his efforts to clean and use the money damaged from the dye pack explosion. Ford took officers to recover the damaged money, as well as clothing and shoes from an abandoned house in Wilkinsburg, a short distance from his house.

Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for May 2, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Ford remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Department, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ford.

PITTSBURGH -A resident of Salem, Virginia, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Powell, 64, pleaded guilty to one felony count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that during the period from January 2011 through May 2016, Powell agreed to become a member of a money laundering conspiracy. Powell conducted financial transactions affecting interstate commerce, knowing that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Powell knew that each of the financial transactions was designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. As part of the money laundering conspiracy, the defendant and his co-conspirators conducted the following financial transactions: 1) withdrew funds from prepaid debit cards and credit cards; 2) transmitted and received funds via MoneyGram, Walmart and Western Union; 3) cashed checks and money orders; and 4) sent and received wire transfers of funds. The funds involved in these transactions, which totaled thousands of dollars, were the proceeds of wire fraud.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentence, the court released Powell on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa.-A former resident of Pitcairn, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

William Kelly Penn, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on March 27, 2018, agents executed search warrants on Penn and his residence in Pitcairn, PA. From the residence, agents recovered unpackaged heroin/fentanyl, one brick of heroin/fentanyl, packaging materials including blank stamp bags, a stamper, $3,820 in U.S. currency, three cellphones, and a digital scale. Penn also had two bricks of heroin stamped "Hot Shots" on his person. Penn admitted to obtaining drugs from an out of state supplier in order to set up a heroin distribution network in Pittsburgh.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Penn remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Penn.

PITTSBUGRH, PA – A former resident of Mount Oliver, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years and seven months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release on his convictions on federal bank robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United Stated District Judge Mark Hornak, imposed the sentence on David Payo, 52. Payo was detained at his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence.

The court was advised that on May 27, 2017, Payo entered the PNC Bank in Homestead wearing a black baseball hat, black hoodie, and approached the teller. Payo stated, "This is a robbery, give me 50s, 100s, 20s, and no dye packs." Payo escaped with $3,460 in cash out of the front door of the bank.

The court was also advised that on June 8, 2017, Payo, wearing an orange sweatshirt, black baseball cap and black sunglasses on top of the hat, approached a teller at the Citizens Bank in Monroeville, PA. He sat down at the desk and told her, "This is a robbery." He then repeated, "This is a robbery, give me your 100s, 50s, and 20s, no 10s, and no dye packs." The teller complied and handed over $1890 in cash and one dye pack. Payo fled from the bank. A search of Payo’s residence recovered dye stained clothes from the exploding dye pack given to him at the Citizens Bank.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, the Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Evans City, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on one charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on March 5, names Chad Vaughan, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 23, 2018, Vaughan robbed the NexTier Bank, located at 226 South Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than twenty (20) years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Borough of Zelienople 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at Moshannon Valley Correctional Center in Philipsburg, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The indictment named Jose Juarez-Diaz, 34.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 25, 2018, Juarez-Diaz possessed a quantity of marijuana.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Moshannon Valley Correctional Center, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Juarez-Diaz.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wrongfully disclosing the health information of another individual, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Linda Sue Kalina, 61, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Linda Sue Kalina worked, from March 7, 2016 through June 23, 2017, as a Patient Information Coordinator with UPMC and its affiliate, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers (TRMC) in Mars, Pennsylvania, and that during her employment, contrary to the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) improperly accessed the individual health information of 111 UPMC patients who had never been provided services at TRMC. Specifically, on August 11, 2017, Kalina unlawfully disclosed personal gynecological health information related to two such patients, with the intent to cause those individuals embarrassment and mental distress.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2019, at 10 a.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. Kalina remains on bonding pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kalina.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The indictment named Ryan S. Harris, 35.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on September 28, 2018, Harris possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Harris.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Veryl Long, 29, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between October 2016 and March 2017, Long participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2019 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Long.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named Francisco Covias-Lopez, 39.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 1, 2018, Covias-Lopez, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 22, 2012, was found in Cambria County, Pa. He had unlawfully re-entered this Country without receiving permission to do so from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/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.

PITTSBURGH, PA -- A Tennessee resident waived indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to conspiracy and transferring counterfeit currency, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cole M. Harris, aka Ink, 23, of Knoxville, TN pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Harris was a reshipper in the United States for the distribution of Ugandan-manufactured counterfeit currency that was being sold online by an individual using the moniker Willy Clock. Harris traveled to Uganda and smuggled the counterfeit currency into the United States.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for July 18, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service, assisted by U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cole.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempted distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Ada Johnson, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ada Johnson was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that in June 2016, Johnson traveled to Mechanicsburg, PA to meet with a heroin supplier to attempt to bring nearly 400 bricks of heroin back to Pittsburgh for distribution of the heroin by members of the conspiracy.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 26, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges regarding his trafficking of cocaine and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Richard Stuart Wright, 76, pleaded guilty to three counts before President United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty pleas of Wright and his co-defendant, 69-year-old Walter John Amman, III, the court was advised that Wright had been purchasing kilogram level amounts of cocaine each month for over two decades. The defendant would process the cocaine by packaging it in smaller quantities and converting some into crack. In more recent years, co-defendant Walter Amman would help the defendant with the processing, packaging and distribution of the cocaine. Two controlled purchases of cocaine were made from Amman, helping the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Branch, Homeland Security Investigations and Pittsburgh Police obtain search warrants for locations attributable to Amman and Wright. The January 11, 2017 searches resulted in law enforcement locating items which included:

- In the defendant’s residence: cocaine prepackaged for sale and color-coded for size; multiple firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition; large amounts of cash; multiple vehicles registered to Amman and his family;

- In the defendant’s garage: amounts of powder cocaine; numerous inositol bottles and material to convert cocaine into crack; large amounts of cash; three pistols (including one registered to Amman); and a safe imbedded into the concrete floor; and

- At Amman’s residence: firearms; prepackaged amounts of crack and cocaine in a jacket with Amman’s name on it; keys to a truck (in the jacket); in the truck was approximately $1,000 and additional prepackaged cocaine.

Wright and Amman both utilized the same color-coded bread-tie system to signify the quantities in the baggies. In this way, the defendant was both a buyer of large quantities and a street-level dealer, keeping all of the middleman profits for himself. The drugs located by police included 5,864.588 grams (5.9 kilos) of cocaine and 289.607 grams (1/4 kilo) of crack cocaine. Wright admitted to all of the drugs, while Amman agreed that he was personally responsible for between 700 grams and one kilogram of cocaine, as well as the 5.767 grams of crack cocaine found at his property.

The court was also advised that Wright and others commonly laundered his drug money by structuring it. In one example, Wright deposited $10,000 in cash into another person’s account, added it to $40,000 of that person’s "legitimate" money and used it to make a $50,000 deposit on a Daytona Beach house. They paid the next $100,000 off by buying multiple postal money orders - for $1,000 each, at multiple different locations, in short periods - and then used them to pay the monthly amount due on the property. They also financed the purchase of vehicles and many other items listed in the Indictment similarly. Wright also cashed paychecks in return for cocaine.

The government forfeited numerous items from the defendants including a residence, automobiles, motorcycles and large amounts of cash.

President Judge Hornak scheduled Wright’s sentencing for July 18, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. and Amman’s sentencing was scheduled for June 7, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 60 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, 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 a defendant.

After considering Wright’s frail health and recent hospitalization, the Court agreed to allow the defendant to remain on Electronic Home Monitoring (with a house arrest bracelet) pending his sentencing. Co-defendant Amman is incarcerated pending his sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Richard Stuart Wright and Walter John Amman, III.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Terry Chase White, 51, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that White received computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 15, 2019 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of White.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six years and ten months in prison and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $1,000 on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Nathan Richard Kosmatine, 31.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kosmatine.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jeffrey Vitale, 29, of Ellwood City pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about February 16, 2018, Vitale distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 17, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Vitale. 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.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dontez Peoples, 27, Duquesne, Pennsylvania 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 or about May 2, 2018, Peoples possessed a loaded 9mm caliber Glock pistol and ammunition. It is unlawful for Peoples, who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019 at 11:30 a.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.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christopher Morrison, 26, of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 20, 2018, Morrison possessed images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for July 1, 2019, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Morrison remains on bond pending sentencing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Adams Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Morrison.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Oil City, PA has been sentenced in federal court to two-and-a-half years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 27, 2019, Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Emmett Freshcorn, 30, on one count of possession of firearms by convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 11, 2017, Freshcorn, who is a convicted felon, went into a gun store with another individual. Freshcorn gave that individual money to purchase a BMG, .50 caliber rifle. Freshcorn then carried the rifle out of the store and took possession of it. Further, on March 7, 2018, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Explosives recovered the remaining firearms and ammunition from locations connected to Freshcorn in Oil City, PA.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni and Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Wheeler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Oil City Police conducted the investigation leading to the plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Oil City, PA has been sentenced in federal court to two-and-a-half years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 27, 2019, Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Emmett Freshcorn, 30, on one count of possession of firearms by convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 11, 2017, Freshcorn, who is a convicted felon, went into a gun store with another individual. Freshcorn gave that individual money to purchase a BMG, .50 caliber rifle. Freshcorn then carried the rifle out of the store and took possession of it. Further, on March 7, 2018, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Explosives recovered the remaining firearms and ammunition from locations connected to Freshcorn in Oil City, PA.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni and Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Wheeler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Oil City Police conducted the investigation leading to the plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Darnell James Shipman, 29, 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 or about April 29, 2018, at a residence in Pittsburgh, Shipman, who is a convicted felon, brandished a 9 millimeter semi-automatic Canik pistol at another individual and threatened the individual. The court was further advised that on or about May 2, 2018, the defendant was arrested on outstanding warrants with the Canik pistol and 17 rounds of 9 mm ammunition in his possession, which were found in the center console of a vehicle he was driving. Shipman has 13 prior convictions in seven cases, and is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for August 6, 2019. 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. Shipman will remain under detention pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorney David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTBURGH - A resident of Tarentum, 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, returned on February 19 and unsealed today, named David Linder, 40, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Linder participated in a scheme to defraud S&T Bank by opening accounts with a false Social Security number, depositing fraudulent checks into those accounts, and then making transactions drawing on the accounts.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 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 Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Department of Homeland Security and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – Dorothy McCracken was sentenced to 36 months of federal probation for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

McCracken, 60 of Ambridge, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti. McCracken’s sentence includes a requirement that she perform 300 hours of community service.

McCracken’s indictment and conviction followed a 2016 investigation into the drug trafficking activities of her sons, Sam McCracken and Wayne McCracken. The investigation led to the interception of wiretapped communications over cell phones used by both McCracken brothers. The phone interceptions confirmed that the McCracken brothers were obtaining large amounts of fentanyl between July and December 2016. The phone interceptions, combined with the service of a search warrant in December 2016, confirmed that they were storing illegal drugs at Dorothy McCracken’s residence with her knowledge and consent.

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

A federally administered Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. The task force was headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and was comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, PA- An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession and distribution of materials depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on February 26, named Michael Moran, 60, South Park, PA.

According to Indictment, from on or about August 16, 2018 through on or about September 2, 2018, Moran distributed visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and on October 24, 2018, Moran possessed images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. A number of the images Moran distributed, as well some of the videos and images he possessed, depicted the sexual exploitation of minors under the age of twelve.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Moran remains in custody pending the resolution of state charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of federal firearms violations, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment returned on February 26, named Eric Antoin Johnson, 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about January 21 through on or about January 29, 2019, Johnson unlawfully possessed an Intratec model AB10 9 millimeter pistol and 9 millimeter ammunition, after having been convicted of robbery and assault, crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on February 26, named Brandon Winters, 43, of Plum Borough, PA; Eduard Guzman Rijo, 48, of the Dominican Republic; and Erick Alexander Martinez, 33, of Yonkers, NY.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, in January 2019, Winters, Rijo, and Martinez conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than one kilogram of heroin/400 grams of fentanyl. Also according to the Indictment, Winters possessed with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine.

The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Jerome A. Moschetta are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on February 19 and unsealed on February 22, named Jeffrey Judd, 60, Vienna, Ohio, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Judd, on June 1, 2017, knowingly traveled in interstate commerce from Vienna, Ohio, to Hermitage, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with a minor.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hermitage Police Department 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.

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

Krystle Barretto, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Barretto, who was intercepted over a Title III wiretap, conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed more 100 grams of heroin. The court was further advised that Barretto arranged for approximately 500 bricks (i.e. 25,000 stamp bags) of heroin to be transported from the Patterson, New Jersey area to the McKeesport, Pa. area, which was seized by law enforcement officers. In addition, the court was made aware that Barretto had a loaded, Glock 17, 9mm handgun, an additional five bricks of heroin, and a large money counter in the bedroom of her residence in Port Vue.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 19, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation led to the prosecution of Krystle Barretto. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clairton Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

The investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts from December 2014 through April 2015 of 10 different cellular telephones, surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and other investigative techniques, established the existence of a number of overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks at work in the afflicted regions, which included Clairton, McKeesport, and Port Vue in Allegheny County, and areas in Washington County, Westmoreland County, and New Jersey.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Roaring Springs, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Glenn P. Rhykerd, 68, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2019, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rhykerd.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Bobby Washington, Jr., 35, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on March 17, 2018, Washington distributed a quantity of cocaine base, and on April 24, 2018, he possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack."

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2019, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison and a fine of $6,000,000 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 Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Washington.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Shawn R. Kmecak, 37, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on March 15, 2018, Kmecak possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2019, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kmecak.

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Turtle Creek, PA has been sentenced in federal court to three years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions on a federal firearms charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Hashim Rashad, age 28. Rashad was detained after his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence. Rashad was on state parole for manslaughter when he committed the offense he was sentenced for today.

Accordingly to information presented to the court, on October 18, 2017, City of Pittsburgh Police executed a search warrant at a home on Larimer Avenue in Turtle Creek, PA while Hashim Rashad was detained in the house. Police recovered an EZ9 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number from the couch of the location. Police then recovered a Bryco Arms Jennings J-22, 22LR handgun, inside a purse in the living room of the house. The Bryco Arms Jennings 22 handgun was previously reported stolen. Prior, to possessing these firearms, Rashad was previously convicted of voluntary manslaughter, a crime punishable by more than one year in jail.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police – Narcotics and Vice Unit conducted the investigation leading to the sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two former residents of DuBois, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and mail theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 19, names David E. Moore Jr., 26, and Joshua J. Frantz, 25, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, from February through March of 2016, Moore and Frantz stole mail from mail receptacles at an apartment complex in the DuBois area.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Marvin Dennis was convicted of committing heroin and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dennis, age 23 of Pittsburgh, pled 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. He pled guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing to occur on June 24, 2019, at 9:00 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 5 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $1,250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting 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 in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime 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.