Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Update his Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 19 months’ imprisonment, followed by six months’ community confinement and lifetime supervised release on his conviction for failure to update his registration in accordance with the Sex Offender Notification Act (SORNA), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Kenneth Patrick Jeffries, 34, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Jeffries, who had previously been convicted of receiving child pornography, a conviction that required him to register as a sex offender, violated the provisions of SORNA when he failed to properly update his registration in January and February 2017, to reflect his current residential address. Contrary to the conditions of his supervised release, he had been living with his girlfriend, also a previously convicted felon, and her minor children.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jeffries.
North Versailles Man Pleads Guilty in Cocaine and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of North Versailles, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Dawndre Bivins, 30, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, between March and August 2017, to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bivins was responsible for the distribution of 1.9 kilograms of cocaine and 40 grams of fentanyl, which he purchased from his codefendant, Skyler Carter, in the Clairton, Pennsylvania area. He is the fourth of 21 defendants charged to enter a plea of guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 26, 2018, at 10 a.m. Bivins has a prior felony drug conviction, and as such, he 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 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. Bivins 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.
Hospice Company and Owner Agree to Pay $1.24 Million to Settle Two False Claims Act Whistleblower LawsuitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A privately owned for-profit hospice company and its owner and Chief Executive Officer agreed to pay the United States $1,240,000 to resolve allegations that the company had fraudulently billed Medicare and Medicaid for hospice services for patients who were ineligible for hospice, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The settlement resolves allegations in two whistleblower lawsuits filed in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania against Horizons Hospice, LLC and its owner and Chief Executive Officer John C. Rezk ("Defendants"). The settled claims contend that from June 27, 2007 to August 1, 2012, Defendants submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for patients who did not qualify for hospice because they did not have a life expectancy prognosis of six months or less. Typically, federal health care programs only pay for hospice care when patients have terminal illnesses with a life expectancy of less than six months. The settled claims also contend that Defendants falsified records to support the false claims. Horizons Hospice, LLC later changed its name to 365 Hospice, LLC. The alleged fraud occurred while the company operated as Horizons Hospice.
"Medicaid and Medicare are programs intended to provide care and assistance to the most vulnerable members of our communities, including seniors," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Those who seek to defraud these programs will be vigorously pursued by my office. This settlement is another step forward in that fight."
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul E. Skirtich and Rachael L. Mamula handled the investigation that led to this settlement on behalf of the United States.
The cases are captioned United States ex rel. Thomas v. Horizons Hospice LLC (No. 12-cv-315) and United States ex rel. Mizak, et al. v. Horizons Hospice LLC, et al., (No. 13-cv-1688).
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Convicted Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Trafficking Heroin and Deadly FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Henry T. Little-Proctor a/k/a "Bundles", of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison as a result of his conviction on multiple charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Little-Proctor, age 27, previously pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
The court was advised that Little-Proctor conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute both heroin and the even more potent synthetic opiate fentanyl, from late 2015 through July 20, 2016. Specifically, the federal investigation revealed that Little-Proctor was involved with a fentanyl sale on July 13, 2016, and a heroin sale on July 18, 2016. DEA then executed a federal search warrant on July 20, 2016 at a residence utilized by Little-Proctor. There, federal agents located Full Metal Jacketed ammunition for a .223 Rem caliber assault-style rifle and .22 caliber ammunition, as well as 25 "bundles" (250 stamp bags) of heroin. A receipt for the purchase of the .223 Rem caliber ammunition from Gander Mountain was located in the residence and showed that it was purchased on May 14, 2016, along with two extended length magazines for a AR-15 assault-style rifle and a $100 tactical light. The firearms themselves have yet to be located.
Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a prior felony offense from possessing either a firearm or ammunition and the Court was advised that Little-Proctor had been convicted of multiple crimes, including two prior convictions for heroin dealing.
The defendant specifically admitted to selling the fentanyl that caused the July 2016 death of a young woman.
Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced the defendant to 10 years in prison, followed by six years of supervision by the United States Probation Office and restitution to the victim’s family, after considering the defendant’s criminal, family, educational and work histories.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, of the Violent Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and law enforcement officers from the Duquesne Police Department, Homestead Police Department, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Little-Proctor.
United States Attorney Brady noted that 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, state, and local agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Two Pittsburgh Men Charged in Fentanyl Trafficking Scheme, One Also Facing Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two residents of Pittsburgh’s North Side have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on February 6 and unsealed today, named the defendants as Davon Stevens, age 24, and Demetrius Mitchell-Yarbrough, age 24, both of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, on or about July 28, 2017, Stevens and Mitchell-Yarbrough conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute quantities of cyclopropyl fentanyl, acetyfentanyl and fentanyl. On that same day, both defendants are also charged with possession with intent to distribute those same drugs. Individually, Mitchell-Yarbrough is charged with possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and possession of that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm.
For the drug charges, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000. Mitchell-Yarbrough faces a maximum total sentence on the firearms charges of not less than five years and up to life 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 Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Removed Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on February 6, named Juan Garcia-Cabrera, age 37, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Juan Garcia-Cabrera, an illegal alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on July 6, 2007. Juan Garcia-Cabrera was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on January 11, 2018.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney James R. Wilson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Pittsburgh sub-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.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Gun with an Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging a resident of Pittsburgh with violations of federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment, returned on February 6, named Nazim Burton, age 41, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the superseding indictment, on June 24, 2017, Burton illegally possessed a firearm with an altered or obliterated serial number. Burton has previously been convicted of a felony, and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years up to a maximum of life 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.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Northside Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of federal firearm violations, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on February 6, named Ambrose J. Sample, II, age 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about June 17, 2017, Ambrose J. Sample, II, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence at each count of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Fraud Scheme Targeting RealtorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of the state of Louisiana has been sentenced in federal court to 38 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $1,628,319.04, on his conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Rex Alan Harris, 41 of Covington, Louisiana.
According to the information presented to the court, since 2008, Harris and his company “Agents by City” defrauded hundreds of realtors nationwide who were promised television advertising to generate home sales leads and referrals for real estate agents. Realtors were induced into contracts for television advertising on major television networks based upon the realtors’ zip codes. Real estate agents in the Pittsburgh area were defrauded as well, and promised television advertising that neither occurred nor produced referrals. Harris and others spent the money on personal items.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rex Alan Harris.
Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced to Prison for Dealing HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment on her conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Auriana Torrez, age 25, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from April through August 2016, Torrez was intercepted over a DEA wiretap conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin and was found in possession of 200 stamp bags of heroin.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Torrez. 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.
East Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Time Served for Participating in Counterfeit Currency SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh-area resident has been sentenced in federal court on his 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 yesterday on Shad McClelland, 31, of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Shad McClelland received a sentence of time served and two years of supervised release, of which the first three months he will be on home detention with electronic monitoring.
According to information presented to the court, McClelland 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 McClelland.
Duquesne Woman Admits Passing Counterfeit Bills throughout Western PARead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and passing and uttering counterfeit money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Destiny S. Dayton, 21, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on January 31, 2018, to three counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between May 16, 2015 and June 12, 2015, Dayton conspired and passed counterfeit $100, $50 and $20 Federal Reserve Notes throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 31, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 45 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dayton.
Renewal Resident Charged with EscapeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of escape, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 30, 2018, named Derek Webb, 53, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, on June 26, 2017, the defendant escaped from the Renewal, Inc. Residential Reentry Center, where he had been confined pursuant to a judgment order of the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals 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 Charged with December Robbery of First National Bank in Mt. WashingtonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 30, 2018, named Matthew Gallo, age 34, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about December 4, 2017, Gallo robbed First National Bank, located at 55 Wyoming Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15211. First National Bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Federal Jury Finds Pittsburgh-Area Man Guilty of Defrauding Investors of $2 Million, Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating seven hours, a federal jury of eight men and four women yesterday found Albert P. Majkowski, Jr. guilty of three counts of wire fraud, two counts of tax evasion and two counts of a lesser included offense of failure to file a tax return, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Majkowski, Jr., 59, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was tried before United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton in Pittsburgh.
According to evidence presented at trial established that Majkowski defrauded potential investors of nearly $2 million over a five-year period by, among other things, making false statements about his own success in “incubating” start-up businesses and misrepresenting that investor monies’ would be used only for legitimate business expenses. He also evaded his income tax obligations for the years 2009 through 2010 by a variety of means including failing to file tax returns, putting his assets into the names of other persons and cashing a series of checks made out in blank. Additionally, he failed to file income tax returns for the years 2007 through 2008. The total loss for the tax charges was $181,456.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for May 25, 2018 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 27 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both, for each wire fraud count and up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both, for each count of tax evasion. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court revoked the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorneys James Wilson and Shardul Desai are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Majkowski.
DEA, Pittsburgh Police Investigation Results in Indictment of Pittsburgh Man for Dealing Heroin and Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base, commonly known as crack, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 30, 2018, named Devon Horne, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, on or about January 4, 2018, Horne did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and crack cocaine.
For Horne’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Sentenced in Counterfeit Credit Card SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Three residents of the State of Florida, have been sentenced in federal court on a charge of conspiracy to commit identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Raul Perez, age 38, of Miami, FL, to 24 months imprisonment with credit for time served, three years supervised release and restitution in the amount of $14,992.96; Alexis Delgado, age 44, of Hialeah, FL, to 18 months imprisonment with credit for time served, three years supervised release, restitution in the amount of $14,992.96, and a $5,000 fine; and, Leyanis Menendez, age 38, also of 83 Hialeah, FL, to 18 months imprisonment with credit for time served, three years supervised release, restitution in the amount of $14,992.96, and a $5,000 fine.
According to the information presented to the court, Raul Perez, Alexis Delgado, Leyanis Menendez and others conspired to manufacture and traffic-in counterfeit credits cards throughout the United States, which were used to purchase merchandise at stores nationwide, including the outlet stores in Gove City and Washington, PA, in June 2015.
“Incidents of credit card skimming, have reached epidemic proportions and consumers need to be very vigilant about any suspicious or unauthorized activity on their accounts,” said Marlon V. Miller, special agent in charge HSI Philadelphia. “These types of crimes not only result in major losses for financial institutions and merchants, but can cause a major disruption in consumers’ personal finances. HSI will continue to work closely with its federal and local law enforcement partners to target skimming schemes and the criminal syndicates that are behind them.”
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Scott W. Brady commended the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of these defendants. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
FCI-Loretto Inmate Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison following Guilty Plea to Possession of SuboxoneRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, and immediately following, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, consecutive to the current prison term he is serving, and three years’ supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
John D. Barnett, Jr., 41, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on December 24, 2016, Barnett, while an inmate at FCI Loretto, possessed a quantity of Suboxone.
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 Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Barnett.
Attorney General Sessions Announces New Tool to Fight Online Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Attorney General Jeff Sessions today announced a new resource to help federal law enforcement disrupt online illicit opioid sales, the Joint Criminal Opioid Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) team.
“Criminals think that they are safe on the darknet, but they are in for a rude awakening,” Attorney General Sessions said. “We have already infiltrated their networks, and we are determined to bring them to justice. In the midst of the deadliest drug crisis in American history, the FBI and the Department of Justice are stepping up our investment in fighting opioid-related crimes. The J-CODE team will help us continue to shut down the online marketplaces that drug traffickers use and ultimately that will help us reduce addiction and overdoses across the nation.”
J-CODE will more than double the FBI’s investment in fighting online opioid trafficking. The FBI is dedicating dozens more Special Agents, Intelligence Analysts, and professional staff to J-CODE so that they can focus on this one issue of online opioid trafficking.
In July 2017, Attorney General Sessions announced the seizure of the largest dark net marketplace in history. This site hosted some 220,000 drug listings and was responsible for countless synthetic opioid overdoses, including the tragic death of a 13 year old.
In August 2017, Attorney General Sessions ordered the creation of a new data analytics program, the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, to focus specifically on investigating opioid-related health care fraud. The same day, he assigned a dozen prosecutors to “hot spot” districts—where opioid addiction is especially prevalent—to focus solely on investigating and prosecuting opioid-related health care fraud.
In November, Attorney General Sessions ordered all 94 U.S. Attorney offices to designate an opioid coordinator who will customize federal law enforcement’s anti-opioid strategy in their district.
Texas Man Charged with Threatening Mass Shooting at Steelers-Jaguars Playoff GameRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Yuttana Choochongkol, aka Jason Manotham, 40, of San Antonio, Texas, has been arrested and charged in a criminal complaint with one count of transmitting interstate threatening communications, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
According to the January 12, 2018, criminal complaint, defendant Yuttana Choochongkol sent three separate communications threatening a mass shooting aimed at Pittsburgh Steelers players and fans at Heinz Field during the January 14, 2018, Steelers AFC Divisional Round game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Choochongkol is alleged to have communicated a threat of a mass shooting and suicide to KDKA-TV through their ‘Contact Us” internet portal on January 10, 2018, at 8:47 p.m. EST. He transmitted subsequent violent threats related to the Steelers playoff game through the Heinzfield.com “Contact Us” internet portal on January 10, 2018, at 8:26 p.m. EST and again on January 11, 2018, at 9:04 a.m. EST. Special Agents with the FBI-Pittsburgh’s Joint Terrorism Task Force were able to trace the originating address of the communications to a facility in San Antonio, Texas. FBI agents in San Antonio responded to that location and identified the individual who communicated the threats as Yuttana Choochongkol, aka Jason Manotham.
Choochongkol was arrested on January 12, 2018, in San Antonio, Texas. Today, a federal magistrate judge in the Western District of Texas granted the government’s request that Choochongkol be detained without bond pending trial in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
“Just days prior to 68,000 fans gathering at Heinz Field, the FBI worked rapidly to identify and arrest this defendant, who threatened mass violence against players and fans,” said U.S. Attorney Scott Brady. “We commend the FBI and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for their exceptional work in the arrest of Choochongkol, which averted a potential disaster. The safety and protection of the citizens of Western Pennsylvania remains our highest priority.”
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul Hull is prosecuting this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, aided by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the complaint against Choochongkol. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is also assisting in the prosecution of this case.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.
Virginia Man Who Travelled to Erie for Sex with a Minor is Sentenced to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ashland, Virginia, has been sentenced in federal court to fifteen (15) years in jail and lifetime supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence Wednesday on Kerry Eccles, 62.
According to information presented to the court, Eccles traveled to Erie from Virginia for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with a minor. While in Erie, Eccles took sexually explicit photos of a ten-year-old victim and sexually assaulted the victim. Eccles then transported the child pornography images of the victim back to Virginia where they were discovered during a search of his residence.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie County Detectives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Eccles.
Two Sentenced, Another Pleads Guilty in Health Care Fraud Scheme involving Prescription PillsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today a guilty plea and two sentencings in connection with related Heath Care Fraud and prescription pill distribution cases.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentences of 15 months and 13 months of incarceration, respectively, on Jennifer Troy, age 41, of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and James Roberson, age 62, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Troy was convicted of a charge of Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Oxymorphone, and Roberson was convicted of a charge of Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Oxymorphone and a charge of Health Care Fraud. Judge Hornak also accepted the guilty plea of Antoinette Adair, age 49, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to one count of Health Care Fraud, one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Oxymorphone, and eight counts of Possession with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Oxycodone and Oxymorphone.
According to information presented to the court, Adair, Troy and Roberson were all part of the same group of individuals involved in a large-scale Health Care Fraud and pill distribution network. As part of the criminal enterprise, Adair, Roberson and other obtained powerful and addictive prescription pain medication through physicians under the false pretense that they intended to use that medication themselves. In fact, they intended to sell the medication for profit to individuals addicted to those medications. Additionally, medication was often paid for through taxpayer-funded health care insurance programs. Thus, the taxpayers ended paying for much of the prescription medications that these conspirators sold.
Another source of supply for the pills distributed through this network was a pill supplier from the Detroit area named Kavon Dawkins. Troy’s role in the conspiracy involved, among other things, traveling to the Detroit area with her sister, Jaqueline Bauer, for the purposes of transporting large quantities of pills to the Pittsburgh area for distribution on behalf of Dawkins. Both Bauer and Dawkins have pleaded guilty to their roles in the distribution network and are awaiting sentencing.
A total of 18 individuals have been indicted in connection with this health care fraud and pill distribution conspiracy. Ten of those individuals have pleaded guilty, with two others scheduled to plead guilty shortly.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of these defendants.
Federal Prisoner Gets a Year and a Day More in Prison for Assaulting an OfficerRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A federal prisoner at McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and 1 day in jail on his conviction of assaulting a federal officer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The sentence imposed will be consecutive to the sentence the defendant is presently serving.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence Wednesday on Rogelio Muniz-Valdez, 42.
According to information presented to the court, on March 15, 2017, while incarcerated at FCI-McKean, Muniz-Valdez threw urine at a federal officer who was engaged in her official duties.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Muniz-Valdez.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in Food Stamp Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
John L. McDowell, 68, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that McDowell’s three co-defendants were engaged in food stamp fraud primarily involving exchanging food stamps for cash. John McDowell was enlisted to submit a fraudulent application for a food stamp license so that the food stamp terminals in use at the convenience stores owned and operated by two of the co-defendants would not be in their names. The defendants then used the food stamp terminals at locations where they were not authorized.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continue McDowell on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, the Erie Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McDowell.
Clairton Man Pleads Guilty in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Samuel Lopresti, 56, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, between March and August 2017, to distribute cocaine. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lopresti was responsible for the distribution of between 400 and 500 grams of cocaine, which he purchased from his codefendant, Skyler Carter, in the Clairton, Pennsylvania area. He is the third of 21 defendants charged in the conspiracy to enter a plea of guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 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. Lopresti remains on bond 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.
Removed Alien Charged with Illegally Re-entering the United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of reentry of removed alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 16, named Rene Hilerio-Ballina, 26, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, the defendant, was found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on December 18, 2017, without having applied for or received permission to reenter the United States from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, one year supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Pittsburgh sub-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.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms while Dealing Cocaine, Crack and MarijuanaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotic laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment, returned on January 16, named Denver Sangster, 41.
According to the superseding indictment, Sangster possessed four firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on March 30, 2016; specifically, in furtherance of the possession with intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana. The superseding indictment also charges Sangster with possession with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine and quantities of cocaine and marijuana.
For the count of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, the law provides for a minimum sentence of not less than 5 years and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the separate count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life 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.
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 a 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.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam N. Hallowell and Katherine A. King are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKeesport Man Facing Multiple Charges Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on three charges of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, three charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and one charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The seven-count indictment, returned on January 16, named Scott Joseph Payne, 31, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from April 9, 2017 through April 10, 2017, and in two separate incidents on June 10, 2017, Payne persuaded, induced, and coerced individuals who had not attained the age of 18 years to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. The indictment further charges that on June 19, 2017, Payne unlawfully possessed photographs and videos in computer graphics files which depicted minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 90 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bloomfield, New Jersey Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Crack Dealer Charged with Illegally Possessing Glock Handgun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 16, named Kedren Broadus, 34, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, on or about November 13, 2017, Broadus, an individual with a prior felony conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a .40 caliber Glock 23 handgun and ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
For Broadus’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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 an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Guilt in Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone, one count of health care fraud, and one count of perjury, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jeremiah Davidson, age 61, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to a one-count information and two counts of a Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Davidson obtained opioid prescription pain medication through physicians, often paid by taxpayer funded insurance programs, and sold the medication to a conspirator for later distribution to addicts. He arranged for the taxpayer funded insurance programs to pay for the pills by representing that he intended to use the medication for his own medical care when, in fact, he intended to sell the medication.
While on bond pending his guilty plea, the Pittsburgh Police arrested the defendant after observing him selling pain medication to a known pill distributor. During a hearing on the government’s motion to revoke the defendant’s bond, the defendant testified under oath that he did not receive money for selling his pain medication, that he had paid cash for the medication, that the medication had not been paid for through insurance, and that he had notified an agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation of his arrest within 24 hours. All of that testimony was false and provided the basis for the perjury charge to which Davidson pleaded guilty.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for May 9, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 35 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,500,000, 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davidson.
Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ incarceration, followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Carlos M. White, Jr., age 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around December 2013, and continuing to in and around March 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, White conspired with others to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute more than 100 grams, but less than 400 grams, of heroin. Also, on May 22, 2014, White possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carlos M. White, Jr.
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.
Judge Sentences Pharmacy Robber to 18 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of West Virginia has been sentenced in federal court to 216 months imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release on charges of conspiracy to commit robbery of a pharmacy, robbery of a pharmacy, brandishment of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Dana Lee Shipley, age 53, formerly of Fairmont, West Virginia.
According to information presented to the court, on March 11, 2016, Palmer's Pharmacy located in Russellton, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals armed with firearms and wearing masks. The suspects stole approximately 10,000 dosage units of prescription drugs, including Oxycodone and Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of approximately $235,000. As a result of their comprehensive and extensive investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and West Deer Police Department developed a general description of at least one suspect.
Then on April 28, 2016, Keystone Pharmacy located in New Alexandria Boro, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals wearing masks. One suspect had a gun and the other had pepper spray. The assailants placed employees on the ground and handcuffed them. Investigators determined that between 15,000 - 20,000 dosage units were stolen. Noting the similarities between both robberies, DEA then coordinated its investigation with that of the Pennsylvania State Police to identify and arrest the individuals in question. After locating and interviewing one suspect, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, Dana Shipley, was identified and arrested. When he was arrested, Shipley had a backpack containing a large amount of pills, money from the New Alexandria robbery and both masks. Shipley also had a .32 caliber firearm, that had been used in the commission of the crime, concealed in his pocket. Shipley has an extensive criminal history and had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the West Deer Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Shipley.
Convenience Store Owner Sentenced to Probation with Home Detention for Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to two years of probation, together with six months home detention, and restitution of $85,000.00 on his convictions of food stamp fraud and theft of government property, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Atif Imran, age 40, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, Imran, through the A to Z Convenience Store and gasoline station located in Homestead, engaged in an illegal pattern of exchanging food stamp benefits for cash.
Assistant United States Attorney James R. Wilson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Attorney commended the Department of Agriculture, assisted by agents of the Department of Homeland Security, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Atif Imran.
Clinton, Pa., Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years imprisonment to be served consecutively to any state sentence, followed by 20 years of Supervised Release, on a charge of Receipt of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Nicholas James Gaworski, age 26, of Clinton, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in December 2016, Gaworski received videos and images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Allegheny County Police Department, for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gaworski.
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.
Whitaker Man Gets 10½ Years in Prison for Distributing Drugs that Resulted in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Whitaker, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 126 months imprisonment followed by six years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence yesterday on Justin Thornton, 34, of Whitaker, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on August 7 and 8, 2015, Thornton distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of acetylfentanyl and a quantity of fentanyl. Thornton agreed that the drugs he distributed resulted in the death of A. N. Additionally, on August 13, 2015, Thornton possessed with intent to distribute heroin, acetylfentanyl, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Allegheny County Police Department, the West Mifflin Police Department, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thornton.
South Hills Man Sentenced to 6½ Years in Prison for Massive Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months of incarceration on his conviction of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, and mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose imposed the sentence on James Nassida, IV, age 50, of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Nassida owned and operated a mortgage broker business called Century III Home Equity (Century III), which assisted borrowers in obtaining loans collateralized by real estate. At the time of the events at issue, which was between 2002 and 2008, Century III was one of the largest mortgage broker businesses in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and during the course of that timeframe brokered hundreds of millions of dollars worth of loans using more than a dozen different lenders. Many of those loans, however, involved one or more aspects of fraud.
Some of the aspect of the fraud included the following:
- Appraisals that fraudulently inflated the true value of the properties;
- Settlement statements that falsely reflected that the borrowers made substantial payments associated with the purchases of real estate;
- Settlement statements that failed to disclose secondary financing;
- Settlement statements that failed to include cash payments charged by Century III and paid by the borrowers;
- Settlement statements and closing documents that were backdated to reflect that the settlements had occurred on a date prior to the actual settlement date; and
- Various loan documents, including loan approval forms, good faith estimates, and underwriting transmittal forms, that failed to disclose secondary financing and falsely represented the combined loan to value ratio.
The fraud also involved misrepresentations to some of the borrowers to induce them to enter into the transactions, including concealing the fees Century III received from lenders for the borrowers’ transactions and the impact of those fees on the borrowers’ interest rates; and concealing the nature of the mortgage products, including that some of the mortgage products could negatively amortize. Lastly, the fraud also involved Nassida’s receipt of kickbacks from the settlement company that he failed to disclose to the borrowers and lenders, as required.
Nassida also submitted multiple fraudulent documents associated with loans in which he served as a loan officer, but also that the loan officers working under his direction regularly submitted false information to lenders and borrowers. In addition, Nassida caused the submission of fake documents to the lender in connection with his purchase of a $300,000 vacation home near Seven Springs, including the following: (1) a settlement statement that overstated the sales price; (2) a loan application that falsely stated his income and assets; and (3) fake statements from an investment company that falsely verified that he had more than $600,000 in investments when he really had about $15,000. In the loan application, James Nassida reported that he earned approximately $980,000 in 2006, but he did not even file his tax returns in 2006, and his reported taxable income in 2004 and 2005 was not even close to that figure.
"This case was a breeding ground for many of the other investigations led by the Western Pennsylvania Mortgage Fraud Task Force," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson. “Mortgage fraud cases are a priority for the FBI because mortgage lending and the housing market have such a significant effect on the overall economy. At the time of this case, James Nassida was living a fancy lifestyle, in a million dollar home, taking money from victims who put their trust in him. That is why today's sentencing is significant. Since the task force formation in February, 2008, more than 100 people were charged and more than a half billion dollars in fraudulent loans were uncovered," added SAC Johnson.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Cindy Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Mortgage Fraud Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nassida. The Mortgage Fraud Task Force is comprised of investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and others involved in the mortgage industry. Federal law enforcement agencies participating in the Mortgage Task Force include the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the United States Secret Service. Other Mortgage Fraud Task Force members include the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office; the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection; the Pennsylvania Department of Banking; the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation; and the United States Trustee's Office.
Six Charged in Complex Fraud Involving Fraudulent Processing of Credit Card PaymentsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Six residents of New York, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and arrested on a charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
A one-count indictment, returned in December 2017, named Devan Abrams, 37, of New York, NY, Tamara Feldman, 29, of Brooklyn, NY, Azad Khizgilov, 43, of Staten Island, NY, and Roman Shaulov, age 50, of Brooklyn, NY. Separate one-count indictments named Philip Krasnikov, 31, of Brooklyn, NY and Svetlana Kapralova, 30, of Brooklyn, NY.
According to the indictments presented to the court, the conspirators were involved in a complex fraud that involved fraudulently processing credit card payments. The credit card companies will not allow their products and services to be used to pay for certain precluded activities, including the on-line sales of pharmaceutical drugs and of products violating trademark infringement laws. The defendants 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 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 defendants.
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. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mon Valley Men Charged with Violating Federal Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Three Mon Valley men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on January 9, 2018, named the defendants as:
- Deaubre Lightfoot, age 27, formerly of Monessen, PA;
- Anthony Davis, age 38, of Donora, PA; and
- Brandon Thomas, age 38, formerly of Donora, PA.
According to the indictment, on or about December 13, 2017, Lightfoot possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. On the same date, Davis and Thomas are charged with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both, for Lightfoot. For Davis and Thomas, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses, and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKeesport Gun Store and Owner SentencedRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Erik David Lowry, a resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months of incarceration on his conviction for illegal firearms possession, tampering with evidence, and tampering with a witness, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms, the gun store owned and operated by Lowry, was also sentenced for illegally selling firearms, United States Attorney Brady announced.
Lowry, age 38, of McKeesport, PA, and Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms (originally incorporated as Renaissance Electric, LLC), were both sentenced on January 10, 2018 by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
According to information presented to the court, ATF Industry Operations (IO) employees perform standard inspections of all gun dealers to ensure that federal laws are being followed. Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) inspections of this type reveal that the majority of gun dealers diligently ensure that firearms are sold to law-abiding citizens, thereby enhancing the safety of the public. A January 11 through 19, 2016, IO inspection of Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms (PTF), owned and operated by defendant Erik David Lowry, noted numerous significant and clear violations of law-- including 27 guns located in the store’s gun rack which Lowry called “cash and carry” and was willing to sell without completing any paperwork. ATF Special Agents followed up and that in-depth investigation determined that Lowry and PTF had been illegally selling and acquiring over 100 “cash and carry,” “cash out the door,” or “turn and burn” firearms “off books” at his store and through gun shows between 2014 and January 19, 2016. That is, neither Lowry nor PTF completed the required paperwork for either the acquisition or disposition of these firearms. The investigation also located firearms transactions that were made: without any required background checks being performed; to a prohibited person with a criminal record who was previously denied the ability to purchase a firearm by a background check at PTF; to a prohibited person with a prior mental health commitment (who was denied the ability to purchase a firearm by two other gun dealers who actually did perform the required background check); and by knowingly using false information on paperwork that had been completed. Some of these transactions involved military-style weapons and the ATF has expended significant resources attempting to locate and recover these illegally sold firearms.
Further, Lowry acquired a “destructive device,” specifically a Penn Arms Striker 12 military-style 12-gauge weapon with a drum magazine, not suitable for sporting purposes, and bearing serial number 11170, which, like a machinegun, silencer, grenade, rocket, or landmine must be specifically registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, but was not. Lowry acquired it in the summer of 2015 and disguised that fact until it was located by the ATF on January 19, 2016. As the investigation proceeded, Lowry attempted to conceal his actions by contacting multiple people to have them hide or destroy the unregistered Striker 12 by throwing it in a dumpster, in order to, he said, avoid federal prison.
As these attempts failed, Lowry contacted the previous Striker 12 owner and created a false story about the date, time and manner of the acquisition, which he and the prior owner both provided to ATF.
United States District Judge Schwab imposed a 30-month period of incarceration on Lowry, along with a $30,000 fine, and ordered that Lowry be supervised by the United States Probation Office for a period of three years after he is released from federal prison. The corporation’s conviction means that Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms is no longer legally permitted to possess or sell firearms and Judge Schwab ordered that Lowry notify the Court of the corporation’s dissolution as soon as that is complete.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a federal prosecutor with the Violent Crime Section of the Office of the United States Attorney, represented the federal government.
U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), including their Industry Operations investigators, and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, for the investigation that led to the prosecution of Erik David Lowry and his gun store, Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms.
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 crimes.
Citizen of Mexico Charged with Illegally Re-entering U.S. after DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on January 9, named Pedro Omar Martinez-Alba, age 30, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Pedro Omar Martinez-Alba, an illegal alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on January 23, 2014 and November 24, 2015. Pedro Omar Martinez-Alba was found to be illegally present in Westmoreland County, on April 12, 2017.
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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Tax Fraud Scheme He Perpetrated from PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years of imprisonment on his convictions for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud and Tax Fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Sean Brooks, age 28, who is currently incarcerated. Judge Hornak also ordered that Brooks pay $250,000 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, and that the three-year sentence run consecutively to the 12 to 24 year sentence Brooks is currently serving based on his conviction for involuntary manslaughter.
According to information presented to the court, Brooks, while incarcerated at various state prisons, engaged in a tax fraud scheme with other inmates and with other non-inmates. In summary, Brooks and other inmates filed tax returns on behalf of inmates and other individuals that falsely claimed tax refunds. The conspirators arranged for the Internal Revenue Service to send tax refund checks to addresses associated with members of the conspiracy who were not then incarcerated. The conspirators then forged the endorsements on the checks and deposited them into banks accounts. The conspirators then withdrew the funds associated with the fraudulently deposited refund checks and disbursed the money to members of the conspiracy. In total, the conspiracy involved the filing of hundreds of fraudulent tax returns and the issuance of hundreds of thousands of dollars of fraudulent refund checks.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brooks.
Johnstown Man Indicted for Distributing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Darryle D. Ford, 57, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on July 12, 2017, Ford distributed less than 100 grams of heroin, and a quantity of fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ford.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Johnstown Man Charged with Distributing CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Moses Lee Cunningham, 52, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on June 7, 2017, Cunningham distributed less than 500 grams of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cunningham.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing ContrabandRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Alexander Rodriguez-Melendez, 30.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on May 12, 2017, Rodriguez-Melendez possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Rodriguez-Melendez.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Deported Mexican Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment named Yovani Escalante-Escalante, 32, of Blair County, Pa.
According to the indictment 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.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty in $91K Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Brooklyn, New York, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Renaldo D. Coleman, 31, of Brooklyn, NY, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, in June, 2016, Renaldo D. Coleman and conspirators used counterfeit credit cards at multiple stores in Western PA to purchase gift cards and merchandise which totaled approximately $91,000.
Judge Fischer scheduled the sentence for May 18, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both at each count. 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 Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of these defendants. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Robinson Township Police Department.
Allentown Man Charged with Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Allentown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment named Clayton D. Dudley, 30, of Allentown, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on May 30, 2017, Dudley distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dudley.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Uniontown Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months’ incarceration, followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Rodney Harris, 45, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2010, and continuing thereafter to in and around June 2015, Harris conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five but less than 15 kilograms of cocaine, and more than one but less than three kilograms of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation who led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fayette County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Former New Yorker Living in Mexico Sentenced to Prison for $10 Million Scheme to Defraud Liberty Travel, ScotiabankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Wappingers Falls, New York, who had been living in Ciudad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico, has been sentenced to 51 months imprisonment and three years supervised release on his conviction of fraud conspiracy and access device fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Nicolas Frank Sucich, aka Francisco Javier Alavarez-Johnson, age 48, of Ciudad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico.
According to the information presented to the court, between November, 2007 and February, 2011, Sucich conspired to defraud Liberty Travel and Scotiabank of nearly $10 million through the purchase of airline tickets and travel with an unauthorized Scotiabank Mastercard. Upon completion of his sentence, Sucich will be sentenced in Duchess County, New York,on related fraud charges.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Attorney commended the U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Nicolas Frank Sucich.
Uniontown Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Fayette County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ incarceration, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Terrance Lewis, age 44, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2010, and continuing thereafter to in and around June 2015, Lewis conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation who led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fayette County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lewis.
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.