Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Aliquippa Woman Admits Role in Heroin and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of conspiracy to launder money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Britny Beaver, 25, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, 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 January 2015 to February 2016, Beaver conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute kilogram quantities of heroin. She also conspired to launder $60,000 of the proceeds of the heroin trafficking.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 22, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Hopewell Township Police Department, Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, Aliquippa Police Department, and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Beaver.
Former Employee of Allegheny County Drug Laboratory Charged with Stealing more than $78,000 in Drug EvidenceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been charged in federal court with stealing federal drug evidence from the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner (ACOME), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Matthew Ieraci, 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was charged by criminal Information with one count of theft concerning a program receiving federal benefits.
According to the Information, on multiple occasions between on or about February 8, 2017, and on or about February 27, 2017, Ieraci stole a total of approximately 52.45 grams of powder alprazolam, a Schedule IV controlled substance, from ACOME, where he was employed as a laboratory scientist. The information further alleges that Ieraci stole the evidence from a larger quantity of alprazolam that the United States Postal Inspection Service had submitted to ACOME for chemical analysis in connection with an ongoing multi-jurisdiction, multi-agency federal drug-trafficking investigation. According to the charging document, Ieraci, the scientist assigned to analyze the evidence on behalf of ACOME, had received training in proper evidence-handling techniques and was aware of the consequences of evidence tampering, including the possibility that such evidence would not be admissible at trial. The street value of the alprazolam Ieraci is alleged to have stolen was at least $78,675.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
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 of Ieraci.
A criminal Information is an accusation.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The filing of an Information generally indicates that the defendant intends to enter a guilty plea.
28 Members and Associates of “GBK” Neighborhood Street Gang Charged in Drug Trafficking ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- After a lengthy Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking and violence in Pittsburgh’s West End neighborhoods and other communities in the Greater Pittsburgh area, 28 people, all residents of Western Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws. A federal grand jury has issued two separate, but related, indictments, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady and FBI-Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Bob Jones announced today.
U.S. Attorney Brady stated, "Reducing violent crime and making our communities safe for law-abiding citizens is a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Working with our federal, state and local partners and using every tool at our disposal, we will prosecute gangs like the Greenway Boy Killas, which terrorize our neighborhoods and put innocent people in danger, to the fullest extent of the law."
"The FBI works closely with our law enforcement partners to make sure those bringing violence to our streets are held accountable," said Special Agent in Charge Bob Jones. "We want to make this clear to other gangs operating in our communities. We are coming for you, and the violence won’t be tolerated."
THE INDICTMENTS
The first indictment, unsealed today, containing four counts, named:
• Jewell Hall, 36, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
• Willie Harris, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Marvin Younger, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
• Joelle Hollis, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Allen Green, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Mardeja Chapple, 24, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Brett Rodgers, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Marshinneah Manning, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Bryan Smith, 24, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Balon Kennedy, 24, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Tyree Davis, 34, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
• Cecil Howard, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Brianne Dean, 30, of Bridgeville, PA;
• Antoine Dean, Jr., 28, of Washington, PA;
• Antoine Dean, Sr., 53, of Heidelberg, PA; and
• Mary Cerezo, 57, of Lawrence, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around November 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around June 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, during that same time frame, Jewel Hall, Willie Harris, Marvin Younger, Joelle Hollis, Allen Green, Brianne Dean, and Mary Cerezo conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of powder cocaine. The indictment also charges Jewel Hall and Marvin Younger with one count each of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, on December 29, 2017, and May 21, 2018, respectively.
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. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The second indictment, also unsealed today, containing four counts, named:
• Monta Banks, 27, of McKees Rocks, PA, currently incarcerated
• Lawrence Morrison, 35, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Tamra Moore, 34, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Jaimon Woods, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
• Robert Moore, 36, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Raymond Chrzanowski, 50, of Zelienople, PA;
• Mark Givens, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Eric Kaminski, 46, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Charles Jones, 25, of Bellefonte, PA;
• Delrico Clyburn, 26, of Braddock, PA; Rashem Littleberry, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
• Kellie Gossett, 36, of Canonsburg, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around November 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around June 2018, Monta Banks, Tamra Moore, Jaimon Woods, Robert Moore, Raymond Chrzanowski, and Eric Kaminski conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, during the same time frame, the same defendants, along with Charles Jones, Mark Givens, Delrico Clyburn, Rashem Littleberry, and Kellie Gossett conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of heroin. Also according to the indictment, during the same time frame, Monta Banks, Lawrence Morrison, Tamra Moore, and Raymond Chrzanowski conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of powder cocaine. The indictment also charges Jaimon Woods with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition on or about December 7, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence on the drug charges of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. The law provides for a maximum sentence on the firearm charge of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael Dizard and Tonya Sulia Goodman are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Moon Township Police Department, Avalon Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Altoona Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Shaler Township Police Department, Canonsburg Police Department, Cecil Township Police Department, Allegheny County Adult Probation, ICE/Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Parole, and the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Washington, DC Man Charged with Aiding Others File False W-2 FormsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington, DC, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of aiding in the filing of false tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady, announced today.
The 13-count indictment, returned on March 27, 2018, named Jaason J. Weatherly, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Weatherly, filed false tax returns in 2012 and 2013 for other persons, which contained false W-2 forms, income and withholding information.
The law provides for a total sentence of 39 years in prison, a fine of $3,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal 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.
Two Charged in FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Wiretap InvestigationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Michigan, and one resident of Ohio, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment named Victor Burnett, Jr., 37, of Oak Park, Michigan, and Christopher Butler, 31, of Twinsburg, Ohio, as defendants.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around January 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2016 in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Burnett, Jr. and Butler conspired with each other and others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Additionally, on or about September 1, 2016, Burnett, Jr. possessed multiple firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An 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 conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case. 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.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Felon Admits Illegally Possessing Loaded PistolRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Anthony Rodney Edwards, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Mar. 15, 2018, he was found in possession of a loaded Norinco .38 caliber pistol. On Mar. 31, 2017, Edwards was convicted in Cambria Co., Pa., of firearms not to be carried without a license, 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.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 23, 2018, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory sentence of at least 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Edwards.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Western Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney’s Office Employee at the National Director’s Awards CeremonyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tamara L. Collier, Community Outreach Specialist and Reentry Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Pennsylvania, was one of 162 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 34th Director’s Awards Ceremony Friday in Washington D.C.
The Western District of Pennsylvania was one of 35 districts represented at the ceremony, which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In addressing the award recipients and guests, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said, "These honorees earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, they earned the gratitude of our fellow citizens — the people whose communities you made safer, whose lives you improved, and whose trust you rewarded. Today, we pause to honor and recognize a small portion of your work."
Tamara L. Collier, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, was recognized for her superior performance in the area of prevention and reentry. Ms. Collier is the district’s reentry coordinator, and she has worked tirelessly to implement strategies to reintegrate former offenders successfully into our communities. She acts as a key participant in the district’s two reentry courts, in Pittsburgh and Johnstown, during which she consistently develops the trust and respect of the re-entrants. Ms. Collier also took the initiative to develop strong and positive relationships with staff at a federal prison located within the Western District of Pennsylvania, Federal Correctional Institute McKean, and she was instrumental in supporting a life-coaching program, under which inmates assist one another in developing strategies for success upon release. Ms. Collier’s unflagging efforts help to ensure that individuals who are reentering society have the best possible chance for success.
"I echo the sentiments of Attorney General Jeff Sessions who has said that while the job of a prosecutor is to enforce the law, we also recognize that prevention efforts and re-entry programs for offenders play a key part in an effective strategy to reduce violent crime," said U.S. Attorney Brady.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Cambria County Man Lied on Federal Firearms Purchase Form Claiming He was Buying it for HimselfRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Cambria County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jesse Edward Lester, 36, of Sidman, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on Sept. 10, 2016, in connection with the purchase of a firearm, Lester knowingly made a false statement in an effort to deceive Sporting Goods Discounters, a federally licensed firearms dealer. Lester represented to Sporting Goods Discounters that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, when, in fact, he was purchasing the firearm on behalf of someone else.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 23, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lester.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Time Served and Ordered to Participate in a Residential Drug Treatment Program for July 2016 FBI Gate Crashing IncidentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of New Waterford, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of willfully injuring or committing depredation against any property of the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Thomas Ross, age 50, formerly of New Waterford, Ohio. Ross has been imprisoned since July 26, 2016, five months of which had been allocated to a separate state conviction on simple assault, fleeing and eluding, and failing to stop at traffic signals, committed on the same date as this offense. Ross was also ordered to a six-month to 12-month residential drug treatment program as part of a three-year term of supervised release. Additionally, Ross was ordered to pay $45,000 in restitution: $25,000 to the property owner of 3311 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and $20,000 to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to information presented to the court, on July 26, 2016, Ross drove his vehicle, a large dump truck, through the gate of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office, located at 3311 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA. Ross proceeded to ram through the security barriers at a high rate of speed, inflicting extensive damage on the gate and security barriers and causing the vehicle to become airborne. Upon hitting the ground, the vehicle struck a nearby light post in the interior parking lot of the FBI Pittsburgh.
Additional information presented to the court indicated that Ross’s actions caused a financial loss of $248,019.45, including $228,019.45 in property damage to the gate, barriers, and light post, as well as costs to the FBI associated with hiring additional security while the gate and barriers were being repaired.
"Unfortunately, the weaponization of large-scale vehicles is becoming increasingly commonplace," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Thomas Ross’ drug-fueled attack of the FBI’s Pittsburgh facility represented a serious threat that put the lives of others at risk. Thanks to the quick response of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police a potential tragedy was averted."
"The FBI Pittsburgh Division highly commends the actions of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police officer who responded to an incident at our facility on July 26, 2016," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. "Officer Wester's diligence and quick-thinking prevented the incident from escalating into a more dangerous situation and protected our staff from additional harm. We appreciate his efforts and the efforts of the entire Pittsburgh Bureau of Police to protect all of us in this community."
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas Ross.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Role in a Conspiracy to Distribute Counterfeit $100 BillsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Columbus, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to time served, approximately eight months incarceration, and three years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to utter and pass counterfeit Federal Reserve notes, and for possession of counterfeit Federal Reserve notes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Nathaniel Lee, age 35, of Columbus, Ohio.
According to information presented to the court, it was part of the conspiracy that Lee 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, Lee 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. Lee also possessed several counterfeit Federal Reserve notes in the denomination of $100.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this 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.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced to Two More Years in Prison for Escaping from Renewal CenterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of escape from custody, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Devon Johnson, age 29.
According to information presented to the court, on August 31, 2016, the defendant escaped from the Renewal, Inc. Residential Reentry Center, where he had been confined pursuant to a judgment and commitment order of the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia..
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.
Turtle Creek Brothers Charged with Violating Federal Drug, Gun and Witness Tampering LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug, firearms, and witness tampering laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on June 13 and unsealed today, named brothers Julian Gray, age 26, and Brandon Gray, age 24, both of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, as the defendants.
According to the Indictment, on April 24, 2018, Julian Gray and Brandon Gray conspired with each other and others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute quantities of heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base. The Indictment also alleges that on April 24, 2018, Julian Gray possessed a Ruger .380 LCP caliber handgun; a Mossberg 12 gauge shotgun; and, a black .22 caliber rifle bearing, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Indictment further alleges that on April 24, 2018, Brandon Gray possessed a Mossberg .22 caliber rifle, after having been convicted of a previous felony offense (robbery). Lastly, the Indictment alleges that from April 25, 2018, to June 6, 2018, Julian and Brandon Gray did knowingly corruptly persuade a person whose identity is known to the grand jury, and attempt to do so, with the intent to hinder and prevent the communication to a law enforcement officer of information relating to the commission of a Federal offense.
Julian Gray faces a maximum total penalty of up to life imprisonment, a fine of $2,500,000, or both. Brandon Gray faces a maximum total penalty of up to 70 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosive (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case with valuable assistance from the Wilkins Township Police. 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.
An Indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Carnegie Man Illegally Possessed 4 Firearms, Ammunition and Body ArmorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- On June 14, 2018, a resident of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegally possessing firearms, ammunition and body armor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Stanley Patterson, aka Robert Cook, age 65, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Patterson’s house in Carnegie, Pa, was searched pursuant to a search warrant on December 16, 2015 and police located items which included four firearms (one with the serial number obliterated), ammunition for those weapons, and body armor. Patterson has prior convictions for crimes that include Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy, Burglary (two counts), Theft, Receiving Stolen Property and Felony Criminal Trespass. Each of these offenses precludes a person from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law, since they carry a maximum possible penalty of more than 2 years of incarceration. A person is prohibited from possessing body armor under federal law if they have been convicted of a prior crime of violence, such as robbery.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for September 10, 2018 at 1 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 13 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded the defendant to the Allegheny County Jail. Patterson has several cases listed for trial in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas on September 17, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a veteran prosecutor in the Violent Crime and Major Crime Sections of the United States Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Carnegie Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Patterson. 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.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Two Federal Officers in Federal CourthouseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to assaulting two federal officers, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Leonard Rushin-Felder, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with his guilty plea, Rushin-Felder admitted that on May 2, 2017, he appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Robert C. Mitchell in the Joseph F. Weis, Jr., United States Courthouse for a detention hearing related to separate drug trafficking and firearms charges pending against him. At the conclusion of the detention hearing, Judge Mitchell ordered that the defendant be detained pending trial. The defendant further admitted that when two Deputy United States Marshals attempted to escort him from the courtroom, he forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated, and interfered with the Deputy Marshals while they were engaged in the performance of their official duties as federal law enforcement officers. During the ensuing struggle, the defendant made physical contact with the two Deputy Marshals. As part of his guilty plea, the defendant acknowledged that additional law enforcement and court personnel were needed to restrain him and assist with his removal from the courtroom.
As to each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 8 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Rachael L. Dizard are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation of Rushin-Felder.
New York Man Traveled to Pennsylvania for Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Andrew Michael Dubois, age 32, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on December 7, 2017, Dubois knowingly travelled in interstate commerce from New York to Pennsylvania for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.
United States District Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2018 at 02:15 P.M. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, a maximum term of lifetime supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the North Strabane Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dubois.
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.
Illegal Alien with 3 DUI Convictions Sentenced to 10 Months in Prison for Illegally Re-Entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 10 months incarceration and two years supervised release on his conviction of Illegal Re-Entry After Deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Cesar Garcia Alvarez-Paz, a/k/a Cesar Yohan Alvarez-Paz, Cesar Alvarez, Cesar Alvarez-Paz, age 29, of Guatemala.
According to the information presented to the court, Cesar Garcia Alvarez-Paz, an illegal alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on October 7, 2015. Cesar Garcia Alvarez-Paz was found to be illegally present in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, on October 10, 2017.
The court noted that his three drunk driving convictions supported the imposition of the 10-month sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Attorney commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to a successful prosecution of Cesar Garcia Alvarez-Paz.
Heroin Dealer Convicted at Trial will Spend Nearly 29 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of the Monessen, Donora, and West Mifflin areas of Western Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 345 months of incarceration on his conviction of federal drug charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judges Arthur J. Schwab and David S. Cercone imposed sentences yesterday on Maurice Kenneth Frezzell aka "Reece", age 35. Judge Schwab imposed a sentence of 327 months on Frezzell as a result of his recent conviction at trial for selling two "bricks" of heroin, containing a total of 1.784 grams of heroin, to a confidential informant. A "brick" is a street term for 50 stamp bags of heroin or other opiates. Judge Cercone added an additional 18 months of incarceration for committing the crimes while on federal supervison.
U.S. Attorney Brady said, "Maurice Frezzell is a career criminal and one of the most significant heroin and fentanyl dealers in Washington County. He and his drug organization are responsible for overdose deaths throughout the county, and the people of Washington County are safer today now that he is behind bars. The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting heroin and fentanyl dealers like Frezzell – through the Opioid Strike Force - to the fullest extent of the law."
During the sentencing hearing, the government presented evidence that Frezzell was a much larger heroin dealer than the modest drug buy would indicate. Testimony of DEA Task Force Officer Charles Tenny, who is also a Detective Sergeant with the Canonsburg Police Department, indicated that Frezzell was identified by the federal investigation as one of the highest-ranking members of the drug trafficking organization that has plagued Western Pennsylvania, and Washington County more specifically, in recent years. The federal investigation began in August of 2015 when large numbers of individuals began overdosing on high quality heroin and the much more deadly synthetic opiate fentanyl. Many of those people succumbed from the use of drugs packaged in stamp bags marked "Made in Columbia."
The government’s evidence implicated Frezzell as the source of drugs that have caused multiple overdoses investigated by the federal government. Charts submitted as evidence at the sentencing showed that in 2014, when Frezzell was serving his prior federal sentence for drug dealing, there were 1.77 overdose deaths per 100,000 people in Washington County. In 2016, after Frezzell was released on supervision, the number jumped from 1.77 to 51 per 100,000 residents. The Washington County Coroner’s Office supplied statistics showing that a total of 62 people had died of overdoses in the 10 years between 1992 and 2002, for an average of six people per year. That number was 73 in 2015 alone, and increased to 109 in 2016. A map of the Washington County locations where the victims overdosed showed that the majority of the deaths were within five miles of locations associated with Frezzell.
According to evidence presented to the Court, Frezzell began his criminal career when he was only 12 years and 3 months old and sexually assaulted a female victim twice in the same day. His second arrest occurred days later when he was arrested with crack cocaine. The government noted that Frezzell was sentenced during his multiple juvenile cases to penalties which include: curfew, probation, house arrest, electronic home monitoring, Agape Day Treatment, Glen Mills School for Boys, Mel Blount Youth Home, Vision Quest Boot and Hat Camp, and ultimately, Abraxas. The defendant was still on juvenile probation when he committed his first adult crime at the age of 18, when he was intoxicated and fled police with a concealed handgun with the serial number obliterated. Overall, the defendant has had 23 arrests during the 23 years between his first crime and his current conviction. Frezzell has spent essentially the entire 23 year time from the age of 12 either: pending trial; in jail; on supervision; and/or wanted for crimes. Frezzell is pending additional felony drug charges as a result of federal authorities executing a search warrant and locating approximately two pounds of marijuana, multiple vials of injectable steroids, several methamphetamine tablets and an amount of the highly concentrated form of THC commonly called "wax" or "shatter" at his residence.
Since Frezzell committed his new crimes while being supervised by the United States Probation Office after serving 80 months in federal prison for his last drug trafficking crime, Judge Cercone sentenced Frezzell to an additional consecutive period of 18 months incarceration for violating his federal supervision.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab noted that the defendant had a "significant criminal history," called the defendant a "Career Offender" and stated that the sentence was "sufficient, but not greater than necessary."
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a veteran federal prosecutor with the Violent Crime and Major Crime Sections of the United States Attorney’s Office, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
A group of law enforcement officers from the DEA, the Monessen Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the IRS conducted the investigation that led to the arrest and conviction of Frezzell. United States Attorney Brady commended the officers, agents, and detectives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Frezzell.
Clairton Drug Dealer Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Fentanyl Causing an Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to distribution of fentanyl resulting in an overdose death, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Skyler Carter, 37, pleaded guilty to one count of distributing fentanyl causing serious bodily injury and death. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Carter had supplied quantities of fentanyl and cocaine to his codefendant, Katie Spratt, which she then distributed to the victim user, identified as A.B., causing his overdose death on June 5, 2017. In addition to the overdose death, Carter acknowledged his responsibility for the distribution of at least 160 grams of fentanyl, 280 grams of cocaine base, and 3.5 kilograms of cocaine. Carter enlisted the help of his brother and sister, codefendants Courtney and Jalea Carter, among others, in his drug trafficking activities, using their residences to store, package and distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base. He is the seventeenth of 21 defendants charged in the conspiracy to enter a plea of guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years nor more than life in prison, a fine of not more than $1 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Carter remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced to Probation with Home Confinement for Operating a Forged Prescription RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 54 months probation, with 11 months of home confinement, and ordered to pay $3,434 in restitution on her conviction of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Tynesha Renee Dorsey, 46, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Dorsey, and two codefendants operated a forged prescription ring. Prescriptions were forged with the names, DEA numbers, medical license numbers, and signatures of real medical doctors. The prescriptions, most of which were forged for oxycodone and Percocet, were filled at a large number of Western Pennsylvania pharmacies and primarily paid for with Medicaid funds. The fraudulently obtained prescription pills were then sold on the street for substantial profit.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Brentwood Police Department, Mt. Pleasant Police Department and Bellevue Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dorsey.
Bridgeville Man Admits Possessing Child Pornography VideosRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
John Edward Desalome, age 30, of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on November 23, 2016, Desalome possessed videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer scheduled sentencing for October 23, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a maximum term of supervised release of life, and a fine of $250,000.00. 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Desalome.
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.
Westmoreland County Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Plum Boro Key Bank in June 2017Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a bank robbery charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady.
Michael Moschetti, age 39, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of bank robbery before United States Chief District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 19, 2017, at 12:35 p.m., Michael Moschetti entered the Key Bank located at 1801 Route 286, Pittsburgh, PA 15239 wearing a black sweatshirt over a white t-shirt, a black baseball cap, and white shorts. Moschetti waited in line to be called forward by one of the tellers, then approached the open teller station. Moschetti then handed the teller a demand note indicating that if the teller gave him the money from the drawer, nobody would be hurt. Moschetti then urged the teller to move quickly. The teller retrieved $2,235.00 from a nearby drawer. The teller then set the cash on top of Moschetti’s demand note, and Moschetti exited the bank with the money and note.
Moschetti faces a total maximum 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.
Monroeville Drug Dealer Admits Selling Heroin that Caused a Woman’s Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - On June 11, 2018, a resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Warren Worthy, 21, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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. Worthy acknowledged responsibility for selling the heroin that resulted in the woman’s death.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Wednesday, November 21, 2018, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Worthy remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Caitlin Loughran are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Warren Worthy.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to Time Served, Deportation for Illegally Re-entering U.S.Read the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to five months in prison, with credit for time served, and then ordered deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement to Mexico, on his conviction of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Yovani Escalante-Escalante, 32, of Blair County, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on Oct. 12, 2017, Escalante-Escalante, an alien who had been deported from the United States on May 13, 2009 was found in Blair County, Pa. He had unlawfully reentered this Country without receiving permission to do so from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Escalante-Escalante.
Federal Judge Sentences Philadelphia Heroin Dealer to 8 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 96 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kareem Jamal Jones, 28, of Philadelphia, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from Aug. 25, 2016, through Sept. 14, 2016, Jones conspired with a co-defendant to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Jones.
U.S, Attorney Brady Announces the Arrest in Nigeria of an Individual who Conspired with 4 Others Charged in a Business E-Mail Compromise SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today the arrest of Taiwo Musiliudeen Idris by law enforcement authorities in Nigeria. Idris was charged today by criminal complaint in the Western District of Pennsylvania with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering as part of a Business Email Compromise (BEC) scheme. The arrest was made public following an announcement by federal authorities of a significant coordinated effort to disrupt BEC schemes designed to intercept and highjack wire transfers from businesses and individuals, including many senior citizens.
According to U.S. Attorney Brady, Idris’ arrest was part of Operation Wire Wire, a coordinated law enforcement effort by the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the U.S. Postal Service, to disrupt Business Email Compromise (BEC) schemes. The operation was conducted over a six-month period, culminating in over two weeks of intensified law enforcement activity resulting in 74 arrests in the United States and overseas, including 29 arrests in Nigeria and three arrests in Canada, Mauritius, and Poland, respectively.
BEC, also known as "cyber-enabled fraud," targets businesses that regularly perform wire transfer payments, as well as individuals, including the elderly and purchasers of real estate. The schemes typically involve impersonating a key employee or other party to a business transaction after obtaining unauthorized access to that person’s email account. Fraudulent emails sent to the victim dupe the victim into wiring money to bank accounts controlled by the criminals instead of to a legitimate bank account belonging to a party to the transaction.
"Deception is at the heart of every business e-mail compromise or CEO impersonation scheme. Attackers gain access to a corporate e-mail account and then spoof the owner’s identity to defraud the company or its employees, customer or partners of money," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We are committed to identifying and prosecuting anyone who uses the internet to financially exploit western Pennsylvania businesses and citizens."
"These types of schemes are constantly evolving as criminals become more sophisticated in targeting their victims,’ said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. "The best way to avoid being taken advantage of is to verify the authenticity of requests before they are carried out."
According to the criminal complaint affidavit, Taiwo Musiliudeen Idris conspired with Ismail Shitu, Nathanael Nyamekye, Adnan Ibrahim, and Akintayo Bolorunduro to launder over $411,000 in real estate settlement proceeds that were fraudulently obtained from a BEC. The BEC targeted the sellers of residential property in Maryland, along with their real estate company, and the settlement company.
According to the complaint affidavit, the settlement company received fraudulent emails and faxes that caused the settlement company to wire the sale proceeds to a bank account belonging to Ismail Shitu in the Western District of Pennsylvania, instead of to the bank account of the victim sellers. Specifically, the complaint affidavit states that on April 29, 2016, Ismail Shitu sent an instant message to Akintayo Bolorunduro containing the details of Shitu’s bank account. Within minutes, Bolorunduro sent Shitu’s bank account information to Taiwo Musiliudeen Idris in an instant message. Within twenty minutes of Idris’ receipt of Shitu’s bank account information, the settlement company received a fraudulent fax purporting to be from the sellers which requested the settlement proceeds to be wired to a bank account which, unbeknownst to them, belonged to Shitu.
The complaint affidavit further describes how the $411,000 was then withdrawn through Shitu’s purchase of eight official bank checks payable to various individuals and/or entities in varying amounts. Photos of several of the official bank checks were sent in instant messages from Shitu to Bolorunduro. Bolorunduro then forwarded those photos to Idris. Shitu, Nyamekye and Ibrahim then laundered the remaining funds.
Shitu, Ibrahim, and Bolorunduro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. Bolorunduro was sentenced on May 10, 2018, by Judge Arthur J. Schwab to 63 months’ imprisonment. Shitu and Ibrahim are scheduled for sentencing on October 15, 2018. Nyamekye is scheduled for trial in September 2018.
Assistant United States Attorneys Charles A. Eberle, Adam N. Hallowell and James R. Wilson are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the arrest of Idris.
Redirections Treatment Owner Charged with Unlawfully Distributing Buprenorphine and Defrauding Medicare and MedicaidRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – The owner of Redirections Treatment Advocates, LLC, an opioid addiction treatment practice with offices in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, has been indicted on charges of unlawfully dispensing controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady of the Western District of Pennsylvania and United States Attorney William J. Powell of the Northern District of West Virginia announced today. This indictment is the eleventh in a series of charges filed in western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia since Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the formation of the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, a Department of Justice initiative that uses data to target and prosecute individuals that commit opioid-related health care fraud.
The 47-count indictment, returned on June 5, and unsealed Friday, names Jennifer Hess, 49, of Washington, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, Hess is the owner of Redirections Treatment Advocates, LLC, an opioid addiction treatment center with multiple locations in western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. The indictment alleges Hess aided five physicians on multiple occasions with unlawfully dispensing buprenorphine, also known as Suboxone and Subutex, a drug that should be used to treat individuals with addiction. The indictment also charges Hess with conspiracy to unlawfully distribute buprenorphine. Finally, the indictment charges Hess with health care fraud for allegedly causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare and Medicaid for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.
“Combatting the opioid epidemic in western Pennsylvania is the number one priority of this Office. We are aggressively prosecuting doctors and medical professionals who would exploit others’ addiction for their own financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Brady. “As detailed in this indictment, RTA owner Jennifer Hess operated a network of addiction treatment clinics – which could be helping those in their hour of greatest need – as a cash business, and then committed health care fraud. This Office will continue to protect those suffering from opioid abuse disorder from this illegal and unethical conduct.”
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with our colleagues in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The Northern District of West Virginia has been seriously affected by health care providers who violate federal law. Our citizens have suffered at their hands long enough. We will continue to aggressively prosecute those who choose to violate the law,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.
“The health care system is a critical piece of our nation's infrastructure,” said Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. “Individuals alleged to have defrauded health care programs place additional burdens and costs on the health care system, which affects every American citizen. The FBI views this crime as a severe problem and today's arrest sends a clear message that we are dedicated to stopping this type of activity.”
Hess faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each of the 45 counts charging her with unlawfully dispensing Schedule III controlled substances, a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $1 million for the single count charging her with conspiracy to unlawfully dispense a Schedule III controlled substance, and a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for the single count charging her with health care fraud. 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 Robert S. Cessar and Michael L. Ivory of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Assistant United States Attorney Sarah E. Wagner of the Northern District of West Virginia are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the United States.
The investigation leading to this indictment was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office - Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mount Oliver Man Admits Robbing PNC Bank in Homestead, Citizens Bank in MonroevilleRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
David Payo, age 52, formely of Mount Oliver, pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Mark Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 27, 2017, Payo entered the PNC Bank in Homestead wearing a black baseball hat, black hoodie, and approached the teller. Payo stated, "This is a robbery, give me 50’s, 100’s, 20’s, and no dye packs." Payo escaped with $3,460 in cash out of the front door of the bank.
The court was also advised that on June 8, 2017, Payo, wearing an orange sweatshirt, black baseball cap and black sunglasses on top of the hat, approached a teller at the Citizens Bank in Monroeville, PA. He sat down at the desk and told her, "This is a robbery." He then repeated, "This is a robbery, give me your 100’s, 50’s, and 20’s, no 10’s, and no dye packs." The teller complied and handed over $1890.00 in cash and one dye pack. Payo fled from the bank. A search of Payo’s residence recovered dye stained clothes from the exploding dye pack given to him at the Citizens Bank.
Payo faces a total maximum sentence of not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, the Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.
Heroin User Sentenced to Probation for Lying to Federal Agents about Two Pistols She Sold for DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to one year of probation on her conviction for lying to federal agents, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Cythnia Mahoney, age 49, of South Park, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Mahoney lawfully purchased two pistols and later began to use heroin. Mahoney told federal agents that the guns were stolen, when in fact she had sold them for money to buy heroin.
Judge Bissoon noted that the federal sentencing guideline range included a sentence of probation, and indicated that Mahoney’s subsequent efforts at drug rehabilitation were important to her sentencing decision. Judge Bisson noted the very serious nature of the offense and indicated that if Mahoney violates her probation, her next sentence "won’t be a probationary sentence." Mahoney’s conviction will also preclude her from possessing a firearm or ammunition in the future.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mahoney and noted the valuable assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police. 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.
First Defendant in Interstate Cocaine Trafficking Ring SentencedRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A resident of Donora, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 35 months in jail, to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Davis is the first defendant to plead guilty and be sentenced in connection with the Mendoza/Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization Indictments. The cases against the 38 other co-defendants remain pending.
United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Anthony Davis, age 41.
According to information presented to the court from approximately April 2017 to December 2017, Anthony Davis operated a cocaine "stash – house" for the Mendoza/Lightfoot Drug Trafficking Organization. Davis stored large amounts of cocaine, marijuana, along with drug production and distribution materials at his personal home in Donora. Davis ran this operation with Mendoza/Lightfoot DTO member and co-defendant Brandon Thomas.
On December 13, 2017, FBI Special Agents, Task Force Officers, as well as members of the Pennsylvania State Police executed a search warrant at Davis’ home. During the search, investigators recovered approximately five ounces of cocaine, large amounts of marijuana, approximately $11,025 in cash, and a large hydraulic kilo press in the basement of Davis’ home. As part of his guilty plea, Davis agreed to forfeit the items seized at his home on that day.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation - The Monongahela Valley Residential Agency, and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the guilty plea in this case.
U.S. Attorney Brady Announces Formation of Project Safe Childhood Task ForceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today the formation of the United States Attorney’s Project Safe Childhood Task Force to focus on protecting children from sexual exploitation and abuse.
"The number of technology-facilitated sexual crimes against children continues to grow," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "By establishing the United States Attorney’s Project Safe Childhood Task Force, with six experienced federal prosecutors dedicated to the protection of children, we are able to focus our resources on locating, apprehending and prosecuting pedophiles and predators who seek to exploit children."
The United States Attorney’s Project Safe Childhood Task Force is headed by Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan, who has been named as the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator. U.S. Attorney Brady noted, "Assistant U.S. Attorney Grogan has prosecuted crimes against children as both a state and federal prosecutor. She has a breadth of experience and a strong commitment to these cases that will serve her well in this new role." Task Force members include Asst. U.S. Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch, Lee J. Karl, Shanicka L. Kennedy, Soo C. Song and Christy C. Wiegand. These prosecutors will be responsible for using the weight of the federal justice system against these offenders, where stronger sentences and harsher penalties exist for sexual predators.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the work of Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar, who has been the coordinator of the office’s crimes against children cases since 2012. "AUSA Smolar’s hard work and dedication on these challenging cases has provided us with an excellent road map for moving forward," U.S. Attorney Brady said. AUSA Smolar will now focus her work on international cybercrime and national security.
"As United States Attorney and as a father, there is nothing more important to me than keeping our children safe. This new Project Safe Childhood Task Force will ensure that children are protected from the horrors of sexual abuse and those who harm children will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," U.S. Attorney Brady added.
Tulsa Couple Indicted on Child Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Interstate Transportation of a Minor for Purpose of Engaging in Unlawful Sexual Activity, Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking, and Sex Trafficking of a Child, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The indictment was brought following the creation of the U.S. Attorney’s new Project Safe Childhood Task Force that is focusing on protecting children from sexual exploitation and abuse.
"The number of technology-facilitated sexual crimes against children continues to grow," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "By establishing the United States Attorney’s Project Safe Childhood Task Force, with six experienced federal prosecutors dedicated to the protection of children, we are able to focus our resources on locating, apprehending and prosecuting pedophiles and predators who seek to exploit children."
"Without the professional and coordinated efforts of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Cranberry Police Department and the FBI, the juvenile victim would not have been rescued and her traffickers brought to justice. The sex trafficking of children in the Western District of Pennsylvania will not be tolerated," added U.S. Attorney Brady.
The three-count indictment, returned on June 5, named Oscar Carter, 34, and Shelby Summer Brown, 27, both of 1254 N. Cheyenne Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74106, as the defendants.
According to the indictment, onMarch 6, 2018, Carter and Brown knowingly and willfully transported Minor A, who had not attained the age of 18 years, from Ohio to Pennsylvania, with the intent that Minor A would engage in prostitution and other sexual activity for which a person could be charged with a criminal offense. Then, from March 6, 2018 to March 14, 2018, Carter and Brown knowingly entered into a conspiracy to recruit for sex trafficking a female minor who had not attained the age of 18 years. The indictment further alleges that from March 6, 2018 to March 14, 2018, Carter and Brown knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained by any means, in and affecting interstate commerce, a female minor under the age of 18 years, and did benefit financially or by receiving anything of value from participation in a venture engaged in commercial sexual acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact, and having had a reasonable opportunity to observe Minor A, that Minor A had not attained the age of 18 years, and that Minor A would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $750,000, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life. 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.
Carter and Brown are currently incarcerated at the Butler County Prison. The government intends to seek their continued detention pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cranberry Township Police, and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Trafford Man Admits Taking $57K in Railroad Retirement Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Trafford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Warren Robb, age 57, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, in 2010, Robb applied for and received disability benefits from the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board. Robb never notified the Board that his condition had improved or that he had performed work for any employer, and certified in December 2016 that his disability prevented him from working. Robb in fact worked as a short-order cook at a restaurant in Level Green, Pennsylvania, from October 2015 to February 2017, and intentionally received and converted RRB disability benefits during that time to which he knew he was not entitled. From November 2015 through July 2017, Robb received disability benefits totaling approximately $57,821.68.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2018, at 2:00 PM. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Warren Robb.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Multiple Violations of Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney ScottW. Brady announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on June 5, named Stephen Barnes, age 49, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment and information provided to the court, on six separate occasions, between March 28, 2018 and May 11, 2018, Barnes distributed and/or possessed with the intent to distribute various quantities of heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine. On May 11, 2018, he was arrested with over 100 grams of heroin. Barnes has been held without bond since the date of his arrest.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Various Opioids and a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Kevin Livsey has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for committing drug trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment, returned on June 5, charges Livsey, age 31, of Pittsburgh, with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, carfentanil, and heroin on May 9, 2018; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on May 9, 2018; and possession of a firearm after a felony conviction, also on May 9, 2018. Livsey was on federal supervised release as of May 9, 2018, following a prison sentence for prior federal convictions for distributing heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKeesport Man Pleads Guilty in Narcotics Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Cecil Shields, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring with Elliot Page, Skyler Carter, and 18 other individuals, between March and June of 2017, to distribute narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Shields purchased approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, commonly known as "bricks", per month from his codefendant, Elliot Page, for further distribution in the McKeesport area. Shields was arrested by officers of the McKeesport Police Department on unrelated charges on June 24, 2017, at which time he was found in possession of more than $5,000 cash. The officers also discovered a bag on the ground approximately five feet from Shields containing more than 270 "stamp bags" of fentanyl. Shields acknowledged responsibility for the distribution of at least 160 grams of fentanyl. He is the sixteenth of 21 defendants charged in the case to plead guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. Shields has at least one prior felony drug conviction, and as such, is subject to enhanced penalties. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Shields remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
McKees Rocks Man Charged with Robbing Two Family Dollar Stores, One BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - One resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of armed bank robbery and Hobbs Act Robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on June 5, named Hugo Lopez, age 55, formerly of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about February 6, 2018, Lopez robbed Family Dollar, located at 2020 Spring Garden Avenue, in Pittsburgh, PA. The indictment also alleges that on or about March 8, 2018, Lopez robbed Dollar General, located at 508 Pine Hollow Road, in McKees Rocks, PA. The indictment further alleges that on or about March 22, 2018, Lopez robbed at gunpoint the PNC Bank located at 500 Pine Hollow Road, in McKees Rocks, PA. PNC Bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police, the City of Pittsburgh Police, and the Kennedy 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.
Jamaican Indicted for Operating Telephone Scams Targeting Senior Citizens in the U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A Jamaican national has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal wire and mail fraud laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The seven-count indictment, returned on June 5, charged Kristoff Cain, age 22, of Jamaica, with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, and five counts of wire fraud.
“Kristoff Cain is charged with conducting a series of ‘Jamaican Lottery’ telephone scams targeting senior citizens in the United States. Cain and others called victims and, through misrepresentations such as telling the victim he or she needed to pay taxes on a lottery jackpot or by claiming to be a police officer, caused these victims to part with their hard-earned savings,” stated U.S. Attorney Brady. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting all Pennsylvanians, especially seniors, from becoming victims of financial exploitation. As this indictment demonstrates, we will even go beyond borders to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators of fraud schemes. Thanks to the outstanding collaboration between federal and state law enforcement, including the Pennsylvania Attorney General, our seniors are safer today from these scams.”
“Kristoff Cain is in custody thanks to strong law enforcement collaboration with our federal and state partners,” Attorney General Josh Shapiro said. “Because of our cooperation, the international ringleader in a lottery scam that has stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars from seniors across our Commonwealth and the country has been federally indicted by U.S. Attorney Scott Brady’s office. We’re proud of the partnership and I applaud U.S. Attorney Brady for his outstanding leadership.”
According to the indictment, from in and around September 2013 to in and around April 2018, Cain and other individuals conspired to defraud victims in the United States by making false representations over the telephone. In some instances, members of the conspiracy falsely told victims that they had won large cash prizes in a lottery and needed to send money in order to pay taxes or other assessments on those prizes. In other instances, members of the conspiracy pretended to be law enforcement officers and instructed victims to send cash to specified addresses in connection with purported investigations involving their bank accounts. The indictment states that an unindicted co-conspirator, a Western Pennsylvania resident, received packages containing cash sent by some victims of the scheme, and wired more than $210,000 via MoneyGram and Western Union wire transactions to recipients in Jamaica and other foreign countries between September 2013 and December 2016.
As further described in the indictment, in December 2015, Cain contacted an 82-year-old victim in South Carolina, claiming to be an FBI agent named “Trooper Phillips” investigating purported discrepancies with the victim’s bank account. Cain’s false representations induced the victim to send a package containing $25,000 in cash to the Pittsburgh co-conspirator via UPS in connection with the purported investigation. After receiving the package, the Pittsburgh co-conspirator sent $8,000 in MoneyGram wire transactions to a member of the conspiracy in Jamaica.
“Elder fraud is a serious and growing threat,” said Special Agent in Charge Bob Johnson. "We understand how devastating these schemes can be, not just financially, but emotionally, mentally and even physically. The FBI urges people to check with law enforcement before sending money to anyone they don't know.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to actively investigate fraudulent lottery schemes based in Jamaica directed at ripping off victims in the United States,” said Inspector in Charge Tommy D. Coke of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Pittsburgh Division. “Lottery scams tied to Jamaica are targeting victims in the United States, and we will not allow fraudsters to use the U.S. Mail to commit their crime.”
“Homeland Security Investigations and our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners are committed to investigate and bring to justice individuals perpetrating these lottery schemes,” said Special Agent in Charge Marlon V. Miller. “Fraud schemes, targeting vulnerable individuals within our communities, are simply appalling and will not be tolerated.”
Cain was arrested on a Pennsylvania state complaint in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 21, 2018, after law enforcement learned he was visiting the United States. Cain was subsequently charged by criminal complaint in federal court on May 9, 2018. Cain is expected to make his initial appearance in Federal Court this week.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 140 years in prison, a fine of either $1,750,000 or an alternative amount depending on the victims’ losses, 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 Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Harrisburg Financial Services Consultant Sentenced to Prison for Causing $374,000 in Illegal Transfers to His Bank AccountsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced in federal court to 41 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of wire fraud and damaging a computer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Sullivan, Jr. was also ordered to pay $374,198.73 in restitution.
United States District Judge Cathy Bisson imposed the sentence yesterday on William Simon Sullivan, Jr., 45, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Sullivan worked as a consultant for Triangle Payroll Services, Inc. (TPS), a Pennsylvania corporation that provides clients with various financial services including payroll and tax escrow processing services. Using the software program CyberPay, TPS created daily batch files that were uploaded to a national financial services company. The batch files contained specific instructions regarding the transfers of funds for TPS clients. From January 12, 2013, and continuing to January 24, 2014, Sullivan executed a scheme to defraud TPS and its clients. Using his position as a consultant to TPS, his knowledge of the CyberPay software, and his remote access to TPS’s computer network, Sullivan fraudulently altered TPS’s daily batch files and caused more than $374,000 to be transferred via wire transfers from bank accounts of TPS and its clients to Sullivan’s personal bank accounts, without the knowledge, approval or authorization of TPS or its clients.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle 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 Sullivan, Jr.
Former Branch Manager Embezzled Funds from Beaver Falls BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzlement by a bank employee, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Robin Chiappetta, age 63, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Chiappetta, who was employed as an Assistant Branch Manager at First National Bank, located at 1703 Seventh Avenue in Beaver Falls, embezzled funds belonging to and entrusted to the custody and care of the bank, resulting in a loss of $20,513.80.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 9, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 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 Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robin Chiappetta.
Highland Park Man Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Passing Counterfeit $100’s at TargetRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to four years of probation with eight months of home detention and ordered to pay $16,700.00 in restitution on his conviction of passing and uttering counterfeit money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bisson imposed the sentence on Peter A. Maiolo, Jr., 42, of 6060 Jackson Street, Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Maiolo passed counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes at Target stores in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Maiolo.
McKeesport Man Illegally Possessed Heroin and a PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Isaiah Pridgen, age 20, pleaded guilty yesterday to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Pridgen possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Further, on that same date, Pridgen possessed a Taurus Millennium, .45 caliber pistol, in furtherance of said drug trafficking crime.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 2, 2018, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $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.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the McKeesport Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Pridgen.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime, including violent crime caused by drug trafficking, and to make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Floridian Charged in Complex Fraud Scheme Related to the Processing of Credit Card PaymentsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Boca Raton, Florida, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy to commit mail, wire and bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on May 1, 2018, named Gennady Nudelman, 42, as the sole defendant. Nudelman was arrested today and the indictment unsealed.
According to the indictment, Nudelman was involved in a complex conspiracy related to the fraudulent processing of credit card payments. The credit card companies will not allow their products and services to be used to pay for certain precluded activities, including the on-line sales of pharmaceutical drugs and of products violating trademark infringement laws. The defendant participated in the conspiracy designed to conceal from the credit card companies the fact they used their products and services to pay for precluded activities and to subvert the internal controls the credit card companies had in place to detect and prevent this type of activity. The fraud involved establishing shell corporations and web sites associated with the shell companies that falsely claimed that they sold products other than pharmaceutical drugs or products that violated trademark infringement laws. The conspirators then applied for merchant accounts from the credit card companies in the names of the shell corporations and the fake web sites. Once the merchant accounts were established, they were used to process payments for pharmaceutical drugs or products that violated trademark infringement laws. Additionally, the conspirators arranged for the credit card statements sent to the consumers to have the names of the shell corporations and telephone numbers. The conspirators set up a telephone bank to receive calls from customers questioning billings on their credit card statements, and the conspirators explained to the customers the true nature of the transactions in hopes of avoiding charge-backs that could cause the credit card companies to question the legitimacy of the transactions.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Distributed Heroin and Fentanyl that Resulted in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - Larry Malloy, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to distributing Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Malloy pled guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. As part of the guilty plea, Malloy accepted responsibility for causing the fatal overdose death of T.C. in April 2016 and acknowledged being responsible for the distribution of at least 100 grams of heroin and at least four grams of fentanyl.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing to occur on October 3, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses, and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Allegheny County Police Department, the Verona Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
On the 500th Day of Trump Administration. AG Sessions Announces 311 New Asst. U.S. Attorney PositionsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. – On the 500th day of the Trump Administration, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania Scott W. Brady announced that the Department of Justice is taking a dramatic step to increase resources to combat violent crime, enforce our immigration laws, and attack the devastating opioid crisis.
In the largest personnel increase in decades, the Department of Justice is allocating 311 new Assistant United States Attorneys to assist in priority areas across the country. This includes 190 new violent crime prosecutors, 86 new civil enforcement prosecutors, and 35 additional immigration prosecutors. Many of the civil enforcement AUSAs will support the newly created Prescription Interdiction & Litigation Task Force which targets the opioid crisis at every level of the distribution system.
"Under President Trump's strong leadership, the Department of Justice is going on offense against violent crime, illegal immigration, and the opioid crisis—and today we are sending in reinforcements," said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. "We have a saying in my office that a new federal prosecutor is 'the coin of the realm.' When we can eliminate wasteful spending, one of my first questions to my staff is if we can deploy more prosecutors to where they are needed. I have personally worked to re-purpose existing funds to support this critical mission, and as a former federal prosecutor myself, my expectations could not be higher. These exceptional and talented prosecutors are key leaders in our crime fighting partnership. This addition of new Assistant U.S. Attorney positions represents the largest increase in decades."
The Western District of Pennsylvania will receive two of the new prosecutors who will focus on violent crime.
U.S. Attorney Brady said, "The top priorities of General Sessions and our Office are reducing violent crime and combatting the opioid crisis. These two new prosecutors will be critical to this mission. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to take dangerous criminals off the streets. These additional resources will be crucial in fulfilling our responsibility to keep the citizens of western Pennsylvania safe."
Pittsburgh-Area Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Defrauding Investors of $2.2 MillionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced by a federal district court judge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to 60 months in prison on charges of wire fraud and tax evasion, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Albert P. Majkowski, Jr., 59, went to trial in January and was found guilty by a jury of wire fraud and tax violations set forth in a seven-count indictment.
According to the evidence presented during trial, Majkowski defrauded potential investors over nearly a decade by, among other things, making false statements about his own success in "incubating" start-up businesses, misrepresenting his own personal wealth and producing a series of false documents that inflated the assets of his company and the funding he was supposedly receiving from outside sources. He also evaded his income tax obligations for the years 2007 through 2010 by a variety of means including failing to file tax returns, putting his assets into the names of other persons and manipulating a series of checks made out in blank or to cash. The evidence produced at trial showed that he evaded nearly $200,000 in federal income tax on income of more than $700,000. The presiding judge, U.S. District Court Judge Reggie Walton, made a finding at the time of sentencing that various investors had lost more than $2.2 million that they had entrusted to Majkowski.
At the sentencing proceeding Majkowski was given 60 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay more than $2.2 million to defrauded investors as well as restitution to the IRS of $181,456.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced Probation After Arranging for an Elderly Person’s Painkillers to be Sold to DealersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years of probation on her conviction of conspiring to commit health care fraud and conspiring to distribute oxymorphone, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Mildred Rainey, 61.
According to information presented to the court, Rainey participated in a criminal network of drug dealers by obtaining opiate painkillers prescribed to an elderly person and arranging for the sale of that medication to individuals who illicitly distributed the medication to individuals addicted to the medication. In addition, a taxpayer funded insurance program paid for the medication that Rainey arranged to distribute illegally.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rainey.
North Side Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Prescription Painkillers and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 25 months’ imprisonment followed by four years supervised release on her convictions for conspiring to commit health care fraud and conspiring to distribute oxycodone, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Teresa Bernardi, 56.
According to information presented to the court, Bernardi participated in a criminal network of drug dealers that obtained opiate painkillers and then illegally distributed them to users in the Pittsburgh area. Bernardi acted as a broker to arrange for co-conspirators to sell prescription opiates they obtained using prescriptions through health care providers to William Richardson, the primary dealer in the conspiracy. The conspirators paid for the prescriptions through taxpayer funded health care insurance.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bernardi.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5 Years in Prison for Supplying the Heroin that Resulted in Man’s Death in Oakland Hotel RoomRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Edward Skrine was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to distribute heroin in January 2015, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Skrine, age 61 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. Judge Hornak also ordered Skrine to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison. As part of Skrine’s conviction and sentence, he accepted responsibility for causing the overdose death of a customer in January 2015 and agreed to pay restitution to the customer’s family for expenses related to the death.
The information presented to the Court in support of the conviction and sentence revealed that, during the evening of January 25, 2015, P.W., age 47, suffered a fatal drug overdose in a hotel room in the Oakland section of Pittsburgh. He died from heroin he and his friend purchased earlier that day. Detectives with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, in conjunction with members of the Drug Enforcement Administration, promptly investigated who was responsible for supplying the heroin that killed P.W. The investigation led to an undercover purchase of heroin from Anthony McCullough two days later. McCullough and Skrine, who was McCullough’s direct supplier, were arrested at that time and were subsequently indicted and convicted in federal court in Pittsburgh.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.
Duquesne Woman Sentenced to Probation, Ordered to Pay Restitution, for Passing Counterfeit CashRead the Press Release
PITSBURGH, Pa. – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation and ordered to pay $9,570.00 in restitution on her conviction of conspiracy and passing and uttering counterfeit money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Destiny S. Dayton, 21, of Duquesne, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Dayton conspired and passed counterfeit $100, $50, and $20 FRNs throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania..
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dayton.
Judge Sentences Verona Man to Six Years in Prison for Robbing Edgewood BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Verona, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 72 months to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Christopher Gregg, 46, formerly Verona, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, on February 22, 2016, Christopher Gregg walked into First Commonwealth Bank in Edgewood and passed the teller a note, which stated, "no dye packs, hand over the money". Gregg kept his hand in the left pocket of his jacket and acted as though he had a gun in his waist area. He took $4,799 from the teller along with the note. Gregg was identified after surveillance video was shown on the news. He confessed to robbing the bank and stated that he spent all of the money on drugs.
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 Edgewood Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.