Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
San Antonio Man Sentenced for January 2018 Threats Made Against Players and Fans at NFL Playoff Game at Heinz FieldRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of San Antonio, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months incarceration on his conviction of Threatening Interstate Communications, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Yuttana Choochongkol, aka Jason Manotham, age 41.
According to the information presented to the court, on January 10 and 11, 2018, Choochongkol made three threats against the athletes and attendees of the National Football League Divisional Playoff Game on Sunday, January 14, 2018. Choochongkol used the internet to send threats to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania through the KDKA.com and Heinzfield.com "contact us" portals that he was going to engage in mass shootings and suicide at the game.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. In imposing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the offense of sending internet communications threatening to harm fans and players participating in a public event.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Yuttana Choochongokol.
Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty in Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl and Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Laron Harvey, 35, pleaded guilty before Chief Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around November 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2016, Harvey and others conspired with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.
Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2019 at 3:30 p.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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grace. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Honduras Citizen Removed 3 Times from the U.S. is Sentenced to Time Served for Illegally Re-Entering the CountryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served and one year supervised release on his conviction of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Rolando Tabora Fuentes, age 40, of Honduras. Judge Hornak further ordered that, following service of the sentence of imprisonment, Tabora Fuentes be remanded to the custody of federal immigration authorities for commencement of deportation proceedings.
According to information presented to the court, Fuentes was formally removed from the United States by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 9, 1998, September 8, 2009, and September 20, 2013. Fuentes was found by federal agents to be illegally present in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 29, 2018. Law enforcement also determined that Fuentes did not receive permission to re-enter the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fuentes.
Bhutan Citizen Pleads Guilty to Receiving Sexually Explicit Images of a Minor Under 12Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Mukesh Khawas, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 14, 2016, to June 15, 2016, Khawas engaged in online chat conversations with a minor female via the social networking/dating application Skout.com, and during the conversation requested and received sexually explicit images, knowing the minor victim had not yet attained 12 years of age. In addition to the guilty plea, Khawas acknowledged his responsibility for the production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2019. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000.00, and a term of up to a lifetime of supervised release. 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. Khawas, who is a citizen of Bhutan but a lawful permanent resident of the United States, has also agreed to be deported to Bhutan upon the conclusion of his sentence without the ability to appeal or reenter the United States. Khawas remains detained pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Khawas.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Monroeville Man Sentenced for Distributing Heroin that Caused Woman’s Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment, followed by 3 years’ supervised release, on his conviction of distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Warren Worthy, age 21.
According to information presented to the court, on March 3, 2016, Worthy sold a bundle of heroin (10 stamp bags) to a female who used the heroin that day and overdosed. The female was taken to the hospital, where she died a few days later. An autopsy confirmed that the cause of death was heroin toxicity. The Allegheny County Police Department thereafter conducted a lengthy investigation, which confirmed that Worthy had distributed the lethal heroin to the female victim.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Worthy.
Buffalo, NY Man Sentenced to 6+ Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -A New York state resident has been sentenced in federal court to six years and five months in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence yesterday on Waverly Primm, 31, of Buffalo, NY.
According to information presented to the Court, in 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other agencies joined forces in a long-term wiretap investigation of drug trafficking in New Castle, Pa. The investigation revealed that Waverly Primm conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was transported from Buffalo, NY, to the New Castle area for further distribution.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police Department, and the Lawrence County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Primm.
Washington County Man Sentenced to Prison for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of three years and five months, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction on a charge of armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Gary White, 21, formerly of Fredericktown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on September 20, 2017, White robbed the PNC Bank on Saw Mill Run Blvd with a knife. White instructed one of the two tellers to open the glass partition separating the tellers from the public. When the teller could not remove the glass, White removed the window. He then climbed through the window and ordered the tellers to open several safes located behind the teller counter. He also advised the tellers that he had a gun while motioning towards his hip. The tellers backed away and White removed piles of cash from each safe and placed them into a red drawstring bag that he was carrying. He took $111,409 before fleeing the bank in his vehicle. Authorities were able to identify White from surveillance video as well as his vehicle’s registration. Law enforcement executed search warrants on his apartment and car. The search warrant on the car revealed the red Under Armour bag, containing $103,309, as well as the clothing worn during the robbery and the knife. White turned himself in a few days later and confessed to the robbery.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Brentwood Police Departments, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of this case.
Newark Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former New Jersey resident has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of seven years, to be followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Shawn Robinson, 36, formerly of Newark, NJ.
According to information presented to the court, on October 14, 2015, one of Robinson’s co-conspirators made arrangements to sell 100 bricks of heroin for $14,500 to another individual. Robinson’s co-conspirator also agreed to advance an additional 50 bricks of heroin. Robinson and another of his co-conspirators arrived at the Hyatt Place in Robinson Township to deliver the heroin. When they arrived, Robinson was carrying a black plastic shopping bag. Inside of the shopping bag, officers recovered a clear plastic vacuum-sealed bag containing 150 bricks of heroin, weighing 185.92 grams.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robinson.
Erie Man Sentenced to Prison for Preparing more than 1,000 False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and 1 day in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $324,817.00 on his conviction of violating federal income tax laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Roderick M. Jones, 54.
According to information presented to the court, Jones prepared and presented approximately 1,015 false and fraudulent individual income tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service. On each return, Jones falsely claimed the individual earned household help income which qualified them for the Earned Income Tax Credit and other credits increasing the refund paid to the individuals. Jones was paid $1,000 for his services and electronically filed the false returns with the IRS.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jones.
Erie Man Sentenced in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A local man has been sentenced in federal court to six months probation and six months home detention on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jason Edward Moyer, 33, of Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Moyer conspired with four co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Coshocton County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Moyer.
California Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Foster City, California, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Robert Masaki Taylor II, 39.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around September 2013 to in and around January 2015, Taylor and three co-defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one hundred kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Taylor.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Role in Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison followed by eight years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Christopher Butler, 32, of Twinsburg, Ohio.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2016 in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Butler conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the OCDETF task force headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Christopher Butler. Substantial assistance was provided by FBI San Juan, Puerto Rico (St. Thomas Resident Agency, U.S. Virgin Islands) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Numerous other FBI field offices, including Detroit, Cleveland, New York, and Atlanta, in addition to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, also assisted with this investigation. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
This investigation which utilized Title III wiretap intercepts and other investigative techniques that established the existence of a several overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks with tentacles in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Northern District of Ohio, Eastern District of Michigan and the District of the Virgin Islands. The FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force’s focus began in early 2015 on a drug trafficking organization operating on Pittsburgh’s North Side and thereafter they were able to track drug suppliers beyond the borders of the aforementioned districts and across the Caribbean Sea.
North Carolina Car Broker Sentenced to Prison for Ponzi-like Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- A former North Carolina resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on David Charles Smith, 44, of Denver, North Carolina.
According to information presented to the court, Smith, who operated a business named DCS Auto Consulting that acted as a broker for the sale of high-end vehicles, devised a scheme to defraud his customers. Smith ultimately used DCS Auto Consulting much like a Ponzi scheme in which Smith, through a series of misrepresentations, solicited and obtain money from vehicle purchasers. Smith would then fraudulently use the monies from the vehicle purchasers to repay other customers who had previously provided Smith with money to purchase vehicles, or to purchase vehicles that Smith intended to sell to other customers. As a result of Smith’s illegal activities, a Murrysville business suffered a loss of $270,000, and Smith was ordered to pay $339,000 in restitution.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Smith.
New Jersey Heroin Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of East Orange, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of felony heroin trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Marvin Anthony pleaded guilty to the sole count of the indictment before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, in March of 2018, the defendant brought 475 "bricks" of heroin to Western Pennsylvania from out of state in order to sell them. A "brick" is a common street term for a group of 50 stamp bags containing opiates, such as heroin, meaning that the defendant brought nearly 24,000 stamp bags with him. The prosecutor noted that the lab determined that the heroin in the stamp bags weighed 430 grams.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 26, 2019 at 11 a.m. Because the government filed a document detailing the defendant’s prior felony drug conviction, the law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Rather than incarcerate the defendant at the time of his plea, Judge Ambrose agreed to permit the defendant to turn himself in to United States Marshals on January 2, 2019 following a scheduled surgery. At that point, Anthony is expected to remain in custody until the conclusion of his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a federal prosecutor in the Major Crimes Section, is the lead prosecutor for this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Anthony, with the valuable assistance of many different federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Monessen Police Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Two Minor VictimsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of sex trafficking of a child and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Thomas Patrick Petoff, 31, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2015 to October 2015, Petoff and a co-defendant, Devonte Lucas, knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, advertised and maintained two minor victims who engaged in commercial sex acts at the behest of Petoff and Lucas. Petoff’s illegal activity was ultimately stopped when members of the Millcreek Police Department observed Lucas transport a minor female to a Millcreek motel after the Millcreek officers, acting in an undercover capacity, had set up a meeting at the motel with the victim via an Internet advertisement that had been placed by Petoff.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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. As part of his plea, Petoff has agreed to a sentence of fourteen years in jail to be followed by ten years of supervised release.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Petoff.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Nathan Richard Kosmatine, 31, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Kosmatine distributed, received and possessed 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 March 18, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Kosmatine on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kosmatine.
Erie County Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of North East, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years in jail and 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Wesley Chase, 34.
According to information presented to the court, Chase distributed, received and possessed 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Chase.
2nd SKS Associates Doctor Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Dispensing Controlled Substances, Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A prescribing physician with SKS Associates, an opioid treatment facility located in Johnstown, Pa., waived indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of distribution of controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Ruth D. Jones, 57, of Bedford, Pa., pleaded guilty to three counts before Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Jones illegally distributed prescriptions for buprenorphine, a Schedule III controlled substance. She also pleaded guilty to a conspiracy with co-defendant Dr. Michael Cash to create and distribute illegal prescriptions for buprenorphine. In addition, Jones pleaded guilty to health care fraud for allegedly submitting fraudulent claims to Medicare, for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.
According to the government, Jones and Cash saw on average 43 patients every day for periods lasting no more than three to five minutes. Moreover, the government advised the court that upon execution of a search warrant, investigators located more than 2,000 blank, pre-signed prescriptions with Jones’ or Cash’s signatures.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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 placed Jones on bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Michael L. Ivory are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.
Washington County Businessman Admits Defrauding the IRS and Making a False Declaration in a Bankruptcy ProceedingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service and of false bankruptcy declaration, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
George Retos, Jr. 70, of Washington, Pa., pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Retos agreed with another individual to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by failing to pay over to the IRS payroll and employer taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc. and Plastic Power, Inc., two companies controlled by Retos. Specifically, to avoid ongoing collection efforts by the IRS related to unpaid taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc., Retos and his co-conspirator arranged for employees of Prime Plastics, Inc. to be transferred to Plastic Power, Inc., which, in turn, also failed to pay employer and payroll taxes to the IRS. The unpaid employer and payroll taxes totaled more than $250,000.
At Retos’ direction, Prime Plastics, Inc. filed for bankruptcy and, in its court filings, stated that there had been no withdrawals from the entity outside the normal course of business during the preceding two years. In fact, Retos was responsible for numerous such expenditures, including thousands of dollars belonging to Prime Plastics, Inc. spent by Retos at casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada and elsewhere.
In addition, Retos accepted responsibility for a charge of wire fraud in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain unemployment compensation from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for employees of Prime Plastics, Inc. and, later, employees of Plastic Power, Inc. Retos reduced the salaries of numerous employees and instructed them to seek unemployment from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to make up the difference, knowing full well that the employees were ineligible for such unemployment compensation. During the execution of the scheme, Retos siphoned company funds for his personal benefit.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentence, the court released Retos on bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mary McKeen Houghton and Eric G. Olshan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Retos.
New Castle Man Charged with Violating Federal Firearms and Drug LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearm and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on Nov. 13 and unsealed today, named Samuel A. Cheeks, 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about July 23, 2017, and September 27, 2017, Cheeks unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition after having previously been convicted of crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. The indictment also alleges that, on September 27, 2017, Cheeks unlawfully possessed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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, the Ellwood City Police Department, and the New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hopewell Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Selling Fentanyl that Caused an Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Hopewell Township, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 7 years’ imprisonment on his conviction of distribution of fentanyl, which he acknowledged caused the death of a victim identified as L.K., United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Corey Bargerstock, 43.
According to information presented to the court, on July 6, 2016, Bargerstock sold stamp bags of fentanyl to L.K., which caused L.K. to fatally overdose.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Timothy Lanni prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office Detectives Bureau, and the Hopewell Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bargerstock.
Criminal Complaint Filed Against McCandless Man Caught by FBI while Intending to Rob 4th Bank in 8 DaysRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Dylan Michael Poole, 24, of McCandless, Pa., has been charged by criminal complaint with robbing three area banks and attempting to rob a fourth bank, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Poole was arrested on Nov. 15, 2018 after entering the PNC Bank in Latrobe, Pa. FBI investigators found on his person a robbery demand note that stated, "I have a gun this is a robbery empty the drawer no funny business no one gets hurt." According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, this note was similar to ones Poole left at the scene of two of his prior bank robberies: Nov. 9 in Donegal, Pa., and Nov. 13 in Wexford, Pa.
Additionally, the complaint alleges that on Nov. 8, 2018, Poole entered the WesBanco Bank in McCandless, Pa., and handed the teller a note that read, "This is a robbery, give me all the 100s, 50s and 20s. No funny stuff and nobody will get hurt." Poole received approximately $2,030 from the teller and fled the bank.
On Nov. 9, 2018, Poole entered a PNC Bank located in Donegal, Pa. He approached the teller and handed the teller a note that read, "I have a gun empty all your 100s, 50s, 20s from the drawer. No funny business and no one gets hurt." Poole received approximately $2,388 from the teller and fled the bank. During his flight, Poole left the note behind. Pennsylvania State Police collected the note when responding to the scene.
On Nov. 13, 2018, Poole entered a First National Bank in Wexford, Pa. Poole approached the teller and handed the teller a note that read, "This is a robbery empty the drawer I have a gun that I don’t want to use no funny business no one gets hurt." Poole received $1,028 from the teller and fled the bank. Poole also left this note in the bank during his flight and it was recovered by Allegheny County Police.
FBI investigators were able to track a vehicle leaving the Nov. 13, 2018 bank robbery that was captured on video surveillance. The car was registered to Poole. On November 15, 2018, FBI investigators set up surveillance on Poole at his home in McCandless. Poole drove to the PNC Bank in Latrobe and entered the bank. Once Poole entered the bank he was arrested by FBI investigators. Located on the person of Poole was a note that read, "I have a gun this is a robbery empty the drawer no funny business no one gets hurt."
After Poole was detained, investigators searched his vehicle and recovered money stolen from the November 13, 2018 robbery in Wexford.
Poole made an initial appearance today in federal court. U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisa Lenihan scheduled a detention hearing for Poole on Nov. 20 at 11:30 a.m.
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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Yvonne Saadi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police, Northern Regional Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, McCandless Police Department and Shaler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Brockway, Pa. Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 18 months, to be followed by 2 years of supervised release on his conviction on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Douglas Means, 35, formerly of Brockway, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, in August of 2016, Means stole a .380 caliber semiautomatic Smith and Wesson pistol from his father’s residence in Brockway, PA. Means kept the firearm for a few weeks before selling it to his drug source for $400 and 1 gram of cocaine. The firearm was transferred to a drug dealer in New York, so that it could be resold for more money. The gun was later recovered in New York with the serial number intact. Means wrote a voluntary statement confessing to his conduct.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with a detective from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Youngstown Doctor Failed to Pay IRS Nearly $900K in Employment and Income TaxesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Wexford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of willful failure to pay over taxes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
William L. Houser, Jr., 58, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Houser, a licensed medical doctor and practitioner in Youngstown, Ohio, was required to withhold monies from the paychecks of his employees to cover their individual income, Social Security, and Medicare tax obligations, referred to as trust fund monies, and to remit the trust fund monies to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on a quarterly basis. He was also required to pay over to the IRS matching contributions for Social Security and Medicare, commonly known as employment taxes. Houser failed to pay over both employment and trust fund taxes during the period September 2009 through December 2014. He pleaded guilty to one count charging him with failing to pay over to the IRS trust fund taxes totaling $7,057.75, due by January 31, 2014, and agreed to pay the IRS restitution totaling $899,269 for both employment and income taxes that he failed to pay.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five 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.
Houser was released on an unsecured bond pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Houser.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Pass Counterfeit $100 Bills at Western PA StoresRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to time served plus one day, approximately two months incarceration, and three years supervised release with the immediate condition of residency in an inpatient drug treatment up to twelve months, on his conviction of conspiracy to utter and pass counterfeit Federal Reserve notes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed sentence on Joshua Kinney, 29, of Columbus, Ohio.
In connection with the sentencing, the court was advised that it was a part of the conspiracy that Kinney and his co-conspirators obtained counterfeit Federal Reserve notes in the denomination of $100 dollars in Ohio and transported the counterfeit Federal Reserve notes into the Western District of Pennsylvania. It was further a part of the conspiracy that on numerous occasions Kinney and his co-conspirators passed, and attempted to pass, counterfeit $100 bills at various retail store locations in the Western District of Pennsylvania and received legitimate currency as change.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service, the Scott Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, and the Bethel Park Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.
West Virginia Man Indicted on Charges of Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Large Amounts of Meth and CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A West Virginia man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, after having first been charged by complaint, on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on November 13, named Durell Anthony Jones, 33, of Fairmont, West Virginia, as the sole defendant.
According to the criminal complaint presented to the court, at 5:30 a.m. on October 21, 2018, Jones was observed by law enforcement officers parking near a tractor trailer with California tags in the back of a gas station in Portersville, Pennsylvania. After opening his trunk and making movements to the rear of his vehicle, he drove a Kia Sedan onto Interstate 79, southbound. A trooper from the Pennsylvania State Police stopped the Kia for a violation of the Pennsylvania motor vehicle laws as it was traveling South on Interstate 79. Jones provided his name and date of birth, and State Police were able to determine that Jones had an active warrant in Michigan.
According to the complaint, a search of the Kia revealed approximately 55.5 kilograms (122 pounds) of methamphetamine and approximately 4.58 kilograms (10 pounds) of cocaine. The meth and cocaine were located in the trunk of the vehicle in four separate duffle-type bags.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of not more than $25,000,000, 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 Troy Rivetti and Jeffrey R. Bengel are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the indictment of Jones.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Transport Crack Cocaine from Buffalo for Sale in New CastleRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -A New York resident has been sentenced in federal court to 7 years’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Marlin Scott, 26, of Buffalo, NY.
According to information presented to the Court, in 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other agencies joined forces in a long-term wiretap investigation of drug trafficking in New Castle, PA. The investigation revealed that Marlin Scott conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was transported from Buffalo, NY, to the New Castle, PA area for further distribution.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police Department, and the Lawrence County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Scott.
New Castle Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of Cocaine, a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearm and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on November 13, named Gage Gilmore, 21, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about February 6, 2018, Gilmore unlawfully possessed cocaine, and firearms and ammunition after having been previously convicted of crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 and the New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Turning the tide of rising violent crime in America is a top priority of the Department of Justice. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Attorney General announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 7-Year Prison Term in Cross-Country Crack Cocaine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 7 years and one month in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on John Alexander, age 53.
According to information presented to the Court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh, PA. The interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, John Alexander was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was shipped from California in powder form to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Alexander.
Former Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office Employee Pleads Guilty to Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of obstruction of justice, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Erika Romanowski, 40, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, Romanowski admitted that while employed as a clerk with the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), she had access to sensitive law enforcement information, including information related to ongoing federal investigations with which ACSO assisted. Romanowski further admitted that, between in and around February 2018 and in and around April 2018, she disclosed non-public, sensitive law enforcement information to two personal associates, identified as Person A and Person B, in an effort to protect Person B from investigation and prosecution by federal authorities. The court was further advised that Person A and Person B were targets of an ongoing federal grand jury investigation focused on the criminal activities of a drug trafficking organization operating in the West End neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Romanowski further admitted that during the course of an interview with Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation on June 20, 2018, she repeatedly lied about having disclosed non-public, sensitive law enforcement information to Person A and Person B.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 18, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Rachael L Dizard are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Romanowski.
Price Montgomery Convicted on Charges Relating to the Killing of a Federal WitnessRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – After deliberating for approximately five hours, a federal jury found Price Montgomery guilty of violating federal drug, firearms, witness tampering and money laundering laws and James Perrin guilty of violating federal drug and firearms laws. Montgomery’s conviction for killing a federal witness carries a mandatory life sentence.
"Today, justice has been served in the murder of federal witness Tina Crawford. Twelve citizens in western Pennsylvania found Price Montgomery guilty of the murder of Ms. Crawford and the attempted murder of Patsy Crawford in the same attack," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "The Department of Justice mobilized all available resources in the investigation of Ms. Crawford’s murder and today’s result is a testament to the tireless efforts of a team of prosecutors and law enforcement agents."
Montgomery and Perrin were also convicted of operating a drug conspiracy which distributed over a kilogram of heroin in the Pittsburgh area.
Montgomery, formerly of William Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Perrin, formerly of Sherman Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were tried before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. Assistant United States Attorneys Shaun E. Sweeney and Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
According to evidence presented during the trial, from April 2013 until June 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Montgomery and Perrin conspired to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. On June 8, 2014, Montgomery and Perrin, who both have prior felony convictions, possessed 16 firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Montgomery also conspired to commit money laundering by using the proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking to purchases items, including cars and lease-to-purchase agreements on homes. Finally, the evidence proved that approximately an hour before Tina Crawford was scheduled to appear at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to discuss her role as a courier in the Montgomery drug distribution organization, Price Montgomery shot and killed her and wounded her mother, Patsy, in the garage area of the Hill District home they shared.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison for Montgomery. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both for Perrin. 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.
The Western Pennsylvania office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation led the investigation, assisted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation leading to the convictions in this case.
Elk County Man Facing Charges Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ridgway, 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 three-count indictment named Jesse Porter, 41, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Porter took sexually explicit photos of a minor victim who was under the age of five. He also distributed and 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 70 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 Department of Homeland Security, 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.
Turtle Creek Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charges after 3 Days of TrialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to two charges of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Iklas Richard Davis, age 37, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Davis pleaded guilty after three days of trial and after the government rested its case.
In connection with the trial and guilty pleas, the court was advised that, on or about July 27, 2016 and October 12, 2017, Davis, who has a prior felony conviction in Pennsylvania, knowingly possessed several firearms and ammunition. Law enforcement officers discovered the firearms and ammunition during the execution of a search warrant of Davis’s home and vehicle in 2016. One of the firearms was an AR-15 assault rifle engraved with the phrase "Let it Rain" and included graphics of skulls. Some of the ammunition were forty rounds contained in an extended magazine compatible with the AR-15. Davis shared that home with Quinyahta Rochelle, who has pleaded guilty to celebrity hacking, identity theft and firearms offenses. She is awaiting sentencing.
After the 2016 search warrant, Davis was charged by Wilkins Township Police Department and released on bond. However, United States Secret Service agents, working with the Allegheny County Police, subsequently developed evidence that Rochelle and Davis were engaged in various identity-theft related activities. Thus, Rochelle and Davis were both federally indicted for firearms-related offenses based on the 2016 search warrant, and law enforcement executed both the arrest warrants, which were for firearms-related offenses based on the 2016 search warrant, and new search warrants seeking evidence of identity-theft related offenses, on October 12, 2017. During that search, agents recovered another loaded firearm in the master bedroom closet, along with numerous rounds of ammunition and a bulletproof vest. Davis admitted to possessing that firearm, and he was federally indicted a second time for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The two firearm cases – one based on the 2016 search warrant and the other based on the 2017 search warrant – were consolidated for trial, which began on November 5, 2018.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2019 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence on each count of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Brendan T. Conway and Nicole Vasquez Schmitt are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Wilkins Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davis.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Davon Dixon, 29, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around November, 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around May, 2016, Dixon conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for February 28, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davon Dixon. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Munhall Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Heroin, Gun and More than $25K in Cash during Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Munhall, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Charles Payne, 25, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, before United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on November 10, 2017, Allegheny County Police assisted by Munhall Police Department executed a search warrant at a home on Martha Street in Munhall, PA. Payne was discovered in the upstairs bedroom with his girlfriend and infant child. In the first floor of the house, investigators found a large garbage bag filled with bricks of heroin, empty brick wrappers, a Pennsylvania state ID for Charles Payne, and approximately $25,000 in cash. Investigators also found two digital scales, three boxes of ammunition, a laser sight, and a loaded stolen silver handgun in the house. Payne had previously been convicted of a state drug trafficking conviction and is prohibited from possessing any firearms.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 23, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of a mandatory minimum five years in prison to life, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and prior record of the defendant. Payne will continue to be detained pending sentencing.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Turning the tide of rising violent crime in America is a top priority of the Department of Justice.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police – Narcotics Unit conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.
Jefferson County Felon Will Spend 5 Years in Prison for Recruiting Others to Buy Him GunsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of five years, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction on charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Peter Digiacomo, 32, formerly of Brockway, PA.
According to information presented to the court, on various dates between July 2016 and March 2017, Digiacomo recruited straw purchasers to buy a total of 20 guns, and acquired one additional stolen gun which he later transferred to another individual for drugs and cash. Digiacomo admitted to investigators that since he cannot purchase firearms due to prior convictions, including one for domestic violence, he solicited others to purchase firearms on his behalf. The straw purchasers provided false information on federal forms in order to facilitate the purchase of the firearms. Due to his prior convictions, Digiacomo is prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with a detective from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted this investigation.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Newberry Springs, Calif., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of distributing methamphetamine in violation of federal drug trafficking laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Richard Sperry, 53, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Sperry distributed five grams or more of methamphetamine on two occasions, February 4 to 7, 2017, and April 7 to 10, 2017.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 21, 2018 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five 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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Richard Sperry.
U.S. Attorney Brady Statement on Departure of Attorney General SessionsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania thanks Attorney General Jeff Sessions for his leadership of the Department of Justice during his two-year tenure as Attorney General.
General Sessions’ strong leadership recommitted the Department to the rule of law, religious liberty, decreasing violent crime and attacking the opioid epidemic. General Sessions was unwavering in his support of U.S. Attorneys as well as state and local law enforcement across the country. By providing us with additional prosecutors, we continue to aggressively fight the opioid epidemic and keep our communities safe in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
We look forward to working under the leadership of our next Attorney General, as we continue to effectuate the law enforcement priorities of President Donald J. Trump.
Philadelphia Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Crack Cocaine, Fentanyl and GunsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Robert L. Green, 40.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on July 27, 2018, Green possessed with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack," and a quantity of fentanyl. Also, on July 27, 2018, he was found in possession of a Harrington & Richardson .32 caliber revolver and a Smith & Wesson .380 caliber handgun. On April 12, 2004, Green was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, of robbery, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 70 years in prison and a fine of $6,250,000 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.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnstown Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Green.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Indicted on Drug Charge following Investigation by FBI and Cambria County Drug Task ForceRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Shawn R. Kmecak, 37, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on March 15, 2018, Kmecak possessed with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.
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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Houston, Pa. Residents Indicted on Drug and Gun Charges as Part of Operation Synthetic Opioid SurgeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging two residents of Washington County, Pennsylvania, with violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned under seal on October 9, named Vashaun Lasalle Wright, 29, and Alyssa Ashley Adkins, 29, both of Houston, Pa., as the defendants.
According to the indictment, on March 23, 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Wright and Adkins possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine. The indictment further charges the defendants with conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl between March 7, 2018, and March 23, 2018. The defendants, both of whom have prior convictions that prohibit them from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law, are charged with unlawfully possessing three firearms and ammunition on March 23, 2018, and with possessing those firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each defendant of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $11,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta and Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Wheeler of the Washington County District Attorney’s Office are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.). On July 12, 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions selected the Western District of Pennsylvania as one of ten districts from across the country to implement the program. All cases involving the illegal distribution of synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, arising in Washington County, Pennsylvania will be systematically prosecuted in federal court. The surge in federal resources has the twin goals of reducing the number of overdose fatalities and eliminating drug trafficking in synthetic opioids. The United States Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local Washington County Police Departments, are leading Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing ContrabandRead the Press Release
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 David Smeltzer, 37.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 5, 2018, Smeltzer 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.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. 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 Smeltzer.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
FCI-Loretto Inmate Charged with Illegally Possessing Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
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 Samuel Vargas, 32.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 21, 2018, Vargas 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.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. 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 Vargas.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Carmichaels Woman Sentenced for Defrauding Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A Greene County resident has been sentenced in federal court to four years of probation, together with twelve months of home detention, and restitution of $115,597.94 on her conviction of Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Cindy Hancheck, 62, of Carmichaels, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from 1999 to 2002, Hancheck made a series of false statements to the Social Security Administration, such as falsely claiming that her husband had left her home and that she did not know his whereabouts. Between 1999 and 2016, Hancheck failed to disclose to the Social Security Administration her husband’s continued presence in her household and his continued financial support of her, with the intent fraudulently to secure Supplemental Security Income benefits. From January 2000 to February 2016, Hancheck received and converted $115,597.94 in Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cindy Hancheck.
12 Charged in Investigation into Drug Trafficking in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny CountiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twelve Western Pennsylvania residents have been charged in a superseding indictment by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count superseding indictment named:
Shawn Hendrix, 42, of Cranberry Township, PA;
Nikia Perkins, 44, of Monaca, PA;
Adrian Jordan, 28, of Braddock, PA;
Leroy George, 49, of Johnstown, PA;
Thomas Hannon, 36, of Aliquippa, PA;
Aleece Bowser, 32, of Monaca, PA;
Ashley Miller, 33, of Aliquippa, PA;
Carlisha Williams, 29, of Aliquippa, PA;
Sheila Alford, 61, of Aliquippa, PA;
Michael Henry, 36, of McKeesport, PA;
Jeremy Fooks, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
Terry Johnson, 34, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around September 2016, continuing until in and around July 2017, the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of heroin. In addition, on various dates during the course of the conspiracy, defendants Shawn Hendrix, Nikia Perkins, Adrian Jordan, Aleece Bowser, Ashley Miller, Carlisha Williams, and Sheila Alford are charged with the crimes of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl or carfentanil, and/or attempts to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Defendant Jeremy Fooks is further charged with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
For the drug charges, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 and years up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. For the ammunition charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is part of a long-term investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department. The Department of Homeland Security Investigators also assisted in the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.
This 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.
United States Attorney Brady Announces Department of Justice Efforts to Protect the Right to VoteRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced the appointment of Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Olshan to lead the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day program for the Nov. 6, 2018 general election.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olshan will serve as the District Election Officer for the Western District of Pennsylvania. In that capacity, he is responsible for overseeing the handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania, in consultation with Justice Department headquarters.
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department of Justice for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on Election Day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, Assistant U.S. Attorney Olshan will be on duty while the polls are open. Assistant U.S. Attorney Olshan can be reached by the public at 412-894-7446.
Nationally, the FBI has Special Agents in each Field Office and Resident Agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses. In the Western District of Pennsylvania, the FBI can be reached at 412-432-4000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] (link sends e-mail) or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
Philadelphia Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Meth, Cocaine and a PistolRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Pennsylvania man was indicted on October 16, 2018, by a federal grand jury in Johnstown, on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment named John T. Terry, 43, of Philadelphia, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on April 4, 2018, Terry possessed with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine. Also, on April 4, 2018, he was found in possession of a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. On June. 2, 1998, Terry was convicted in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms. Terry is also charged with possessing that same firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of life in prison and a fine of $10,500,000 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 of the defendant.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Arnold Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, Somerset Turnpike Barracks, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Terry.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Financial Manager Admits Embezzling $82K from Steel Valley AuthorityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank fraud and mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Nicolette Gizzi, 44, pleaded guilty on Friday to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea to bank fraud, the court was advised that from December 2009 through approximately June 2016, Gizzi, who was employed as the Financial Manager for Steel Valley Authority, embezzled $82,060.50, which was under the control of PNC Bank. She perpetrated the embezzlement by issuing checks to herself and her credit card company, without authorization, and forging the required signatures. The Court was further advised that the funds at issue were primarily public funds, as Steel Valley Authority obtains it operating funds through grants from the United States Department of Labor.
In connection with the guilty plea to mail fraud, the court was advised that Gizzi had a prior federal court conviction in South Carolina for embezzling from an employer and owed $141,480.60 in restitution. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina attempted to collect the restitution by issuing a writ of garnishment to Steel Valley Authority. Gizzi, however, received the writ of garnishment and undertook several fraudulent actions to minimize her garnishment payments and to conceal her previous conviction from Steel Valley Authority.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 14, 2019 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both for bank fraud and 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for mail fraud. 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 Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nicolette Gizzi.
Romanian Indicted in Pittsburgh for Bank Fraud Scheme that Used ATM Skimming DevicesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Romania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on Nov. 1, named Elvis E. Roman, age 33, of Romania.
According to the indictment, in September and October 2018, Roman participated in a conspiracy and scheme to defraud banks in Western Pennsylvania. As part of the scheme, participants installed ATM skimming devices designed to fraudulently obtain the account information associated with cards inserted into the targeted ATM machines. Using that account information, participants created cloned ATM cards and fraudulently withdrew funds from ATM machines maintained by banks in Washington County.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 Secret Service and the Cecil Township, Peters Township, and South Strabane Township 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.
Repeat Drug Offender Pleads Guilty to Trafficking 5 Different DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of West Mifflin, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a federal narcotics charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Stanley Church, 47, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to one count of possession with intent to distribute quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, and Psilocyn mushrooms before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 17, 2017, Allegheny County Police detectives went to execute a search warrant on the person of Stanley Church and his vehicle. This search warrant was approved after investigators observed Church trafficking drugs out of this same vehicle. Investigators conducted a traffic stop on Church and then began to search his car. Inside Church’s car investigators found quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, and Psilocyn mushrooms, drug packaging material, scales, and other paraphernalia. Church has previously been convicted of state and federal narcotics offenses.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 13, 2019. The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 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 record of the defendant.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni 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 guilty plea in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.