Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer to 8 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Garriton Jones was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Jones, 38, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Jones serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Former Erie Resident Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ramon Martinez-Silva, 38, pleaded guilty to one count at Criminal No. 14-26 Erie and one count at Criminal No. 15-20 Erie before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in the case at Criminal No. 14-26 Erie, from on or about May 16, 2013, to on or about August 26, 2013, Martinez-Silva and a co-defendant conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Martinez-Silva sold cocaine on four occasions in Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, at Criminal No. 15-20 Erie, Martinez-Silva possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon. According to information provided to the court, Martinez-Silva obtained a Marlin 9mm semi-automatic rifle from an individual at a residence in Erie and was then caught by law enforcement officers after selling that gun. Martinez-Silva was prohibited from firearm possession because of two prior felony convictions.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 19, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both for the drug charge and 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for the gun charge. 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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Martinez-Silva.
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, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Dhia Almaleki, 47, of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Dhia Almaleki and three co-defendants were engaged in exchanging food stamps for cash on a regular basis at The Lotto World, also known as Samir’s and Lotto World Convenience, a convenience store located at 832 State Street in Erie. The four defendants also allowed customers to pay off store credit with food stamps. Alquraishi was also using customers’ food stamp cards to buy items at various stores in the area.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 19, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Almaleki 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 Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Almaleki.
Conneaut Lake Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Possessing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months in jail, 10 years supervised release, and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $1,000 on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on John P. Hoffman, 49, of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Hoffman possessed and distributed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hoffman.
California Man Sentenced for Developing Malware and Infecting ComputersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Santa Clara, California, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months’ probation on his conviction of accessing a protected computer without authorization and initiating spam messages, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Sean Tiernan, age 29, of Santa Clara California.
According to information presented to the court, Tiernan, from his computer located in California, was involved in the development of malware, or a malicious computer program, which was programmed to infect computers at a rapid rate by spreading through the computer users’ use of social networking websites. Once a computer was infected with the malware, the malware was programmed by Tiernan to automatically communicate and receive direction from servers over the Internet which were controlled by Tiernan, without knowledge of the infected computers’ owners. The servers which the infected computers called back to were, in and of themselves, previously ‘hacked’, and were also being used without the knowledge of their legitimate owners. The combination of these hacked servers and malware-infected computers formed what is known as a "botnet”. This botnet was controlled by Tiernan and was used to transform the infected victims’ computers into proxy computers from which a high volume of spam (commercial electronic mail) messages could be sent over the Internet to other computers. Since on or about at least August 1, 2011, Tiernan would sell access to his botnet to those who sought to send out these commercial electronic email messages for their own personal commercial gain. At the time of the search of Tiernan's residence and computer via a search warrant on or about October 1, 2012, over 77,000 bots, or infected computers, were active in Tiernan's botnet. Each of these computers, along with the hacked servers used to control them, necessarily were “protected” computers because they were accessed over the Internet in order to be compromised without the owners’ consent. Several of these infected computers in Tiernan's botnet were located in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tiernan.
Arizona Couple Sentenced for Drug Reshipping SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two residents of Arizona have been sentenced in federal court on their conviction of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Sylvia Navarro Cruz, 44 and Miguel Cruz, 45, of Queen Creek, Arizona. Sylvia Cruz received a sentence of six months incarceration and three years supervised release, of which the first six months she will be on home detention with electronic monitoring. Manuel Cruz received a sentence of time served.
According to information presented to the court, on June 23, 2014, Sylvia Cruz and Miguel Cruz received and reshipped Schedule II and IV controlled substances and erectile dysfunction drugs, which were exported from India, to U.S. consumers who had ordered them through a Costa Rican website.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sylvia and Manuel Cruz.
Pittsburgh-Area Doctor Charged with Unlawfully Distributing OpioidsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A suburban Pittsburgh physician has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and unlawfully distributing controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The indictment of Andrzej Kazimierz Zielke, 62, is the first since Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the formation of the Opioid and Abuse Detection Unit, a Department of Justice initiative that uses data to target and prosecute individuals that are contributing to the nation’s opioid crisis.
“Today we are facing the worst drug crisis in American history, with one American dying of a drug overdose every nine minutes,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “An unprecedented crisis like this one demands an unprecedented response—and that’s why President Trump has made this a top priority for this administration," Sessions said. "This summer, I designated a dozen of our top federal prosecutors to focus solely on the problem of opioid-related health care fraud in places where the epidemic was at its worst--including Western Pennsylvania. These cases take on the supply of drugs and stop fraudsters from exploiting people suffering from addiction. Today, as President Trump unveils his plan to fight the opioid epidemic, we have filed the first charges by these prosecutors. We will file many more charges in the months to come—because the Department of Justice will be relentless in hunting down drug dealers and turning the tide of this epidemic.”
“Western Pennsylvania is experiencing some of the highest rates of overdose deaths in the nation,” added Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “In response, we in law enforcement aggressively target drug traffickers – both those who distribute on the street, and those who traffic under the guise of physicians writing excessive prescriptions.”
“Opioid-related health care fraud is a serious problem facing the Western Pennsylvania area today,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson. “Doctors who betray their trust and authority for their own financial gain by prescribing Schedule II narcotics for purposes other than medical reasons are contributing to our nation’s opioid crisis. This indictment is indicative of the FBI’s intent to employ substantial resources to combat this national epidemic. The FBI Pittsburgh Division will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in a unified effort to address the local effects of this national trend.”
According to the 14-count indictment that was returned on October 24, Zielke is a medical doctor who owned and operated Medical Frontiers, which advertised as a holistic pain management practice, located in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania. The indictment alleges that on 13 occasions Zielke prescribed Schedule II narcotics - Oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine sulfate and methadone – outside the usual course of professional practice and not for legitimate medical purpose. The indictment also alleges that Zielke conspired with others to distribute Schedule II narcotics. On October 5, Zielke was arrested on a criminal complaint. The complaint alleges that Dr. Zielke engaged in a pattern of illegally prescribing opioid painkillers to patients with no legitimate medical purpose and without examination, evaluation or testing.
According to the criminal complaint:
Agents began investigating his practice based on information they received that Dr. Zielke was writing a large number of oxycodone prescriptions for people residing in the McKeesport, Pennsylvania area, and that some of these pills were being obtained by a narcotics dealer.
According to accounts of former employees and patients, Dr. Zielke charged approximately $250 cash for office visits and many of his patients traveled long distances to see him.
On October 11, 2017, the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine issued a Temporary Suspension of Dr. Zielke’s license to practice medicine and surgery.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1 million, or both, for each count of the indictment. 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 Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Removed Alien Charged with Immigration ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of El Salvador has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on October 24, named Mario Nelson Reyes-Romero, age 27, of El Salvador, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about October 3, 2017, Reyes-Romero was found to be illegally present in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, having previously been removed from the United States on or about August 29, 2011.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell 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 Charged with Robbing Brentwood Bank Armed with a KnifeRead 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 armed bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on October 24, named Gary William White, age 20, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about September 20, 2017, White robbed PNC Bank, located at 3701 Saw Mill Run Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15227, with a deadly weapon, namely a knife. PNC Bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Brentwood Police Departments, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Robbing Bank, Illegally Possessing Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of bank robbery, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on October 24, named Christian Elijah Moore, age 28, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about September 5, 2017, Moore robbed First National Bank, located at 116 West 8th Avenue, Homestead, PA 15120. The indictment also alleges that in furtherance of the bank robbery, Moore was in possession of a firearm and ammunition, following a felony conviction in 2011. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life 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 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Homestead Police Departments, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Altoona Man Admits Possessing Pornographic Images and Videos of MinorsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pa. pleaded guilty today in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Trenton Stehley, 20, of Altoona, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on August 11, 2015, Stehley knowingly possessed videos and images in individual computer graphic files which were produced using minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 20, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Altoona Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stehley.
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 better 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.
Leader of Mexican Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ignacio Montes Leon, 36, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Leon engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine, and more than 100 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine. According to information provided to the court, Montel Leon was the local leader of a drug trafficking organization involved in importing cocaine and methamphetamine from Mexico into Texas, which was then transported to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere in hidden compartments in vehicles. Montes Leon was responsible for coordinating the drug shipments with higher-level conspirators in Texas, was directly selling pure methamphetamine to individuals in Erie, Pennsylvania on multiple occasions, and was responsible for distributing multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine at a time to his co-conspirators. In December 2013, law enforcement officers seized four kilograms of cocaine in Erie, Pennsylvania connected to Montes Leon. According to information provided to the Court, on November 1, 2014, after Montes Leon traveled to Texas to coordinate another drug shipment, two of his drug couriers were transporting the cocaine when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. Montes Leon arranged for those couriers to travel to the Houston, Texas area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. Montes Leon then fled into Mexico. Law enforcement officers located Montes Leon in Mexico, and he was arrested and extradited back into the United States to face prosecution in Erie.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Leon.
Judge Sentences Renewal Center Escapee to 366 Days in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A former Fayette County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment on her conviction of escaping from federal custody following a prior federal felony conviction, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tiffany Lilley, age 28. The sentence is to run consecutively to the unexpired portion of the sentence previously imposed for Lilley’s prior conviction.
According to information presented to the court, Lilley committed the crime on March 28, 2017, by escaping from federal custody at Renewal Incorporated Community Correction Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She was located, apprehended, and returned to custody by the United States Marshal Service roughly two weeks afterward.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tiffany Lilley.
Judge Sentences Erie Felon to 4 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Multiple Weapons and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on John Dominic Joseph Juliano, 33.
According to information presented to the court, Juliano unlawfully possessed a Smith & Wesson rifle, a Century Arms AK47 style rifle, a Norinco SKS semi-automatic rifle, a Glock pistol, a Springfield pistol, a DPMS rifle and a Maverick Arms shotgun, and more than 1,400 rounds of ammunition, while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon. Juliano’s sentence was enhanced because the Century Arms AK47 style rifle was loaded with a large capacity magazine and because he possessed a homemade improvised explosive device.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Juliano.
Former Erie Resident Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Guns while on BondRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ezra Eugene Davis, 33.
According to information presented to the court, on October 21, 2016, Davis possessed seven firearms while released on bond awaiting trial on local gun and drug charges. Davis was also convicted of the knowing possession of stolen firearms and with possession of firearms while a current user of controlled substances. The court was advised that Davis possessed multiple firearms that had been stolen during the burglary of a Millcreek Township residence in September 2016. The firearms were seized from Davis on October 21, 2016, when law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant in Erie, Pennsylvania.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Millcreek Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Davis.
Clairton Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Kevin Jabbar Thomas, age 42, of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Clairton Police Department were conducting an investigation into the illegal drug activities of the defendant. On April 26, 2016, agents and police officers executed a search warrant on the defendant’s Clairton residence. They recovered crack cocaine, heroin, cocaine, marijuana and other drug paraphernalia.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed 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, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Clairton Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Second Erie Resident Pleads Guilty in Schemes that Defrauded Auto Loan ProvidersRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal bankruptcy laws, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud in two separate cases, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Douglas Alan Grooms, 46, pleaded guilty to one count of Criminal No. 16-15 Erie and thirteen counts at Criminal No. 16-30 Erie before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Grooms concealed property from the United States Bankruptcy Trustee in connection with his bankruptcy case.
In addition, from in and around May 2015, to in and around March 2016, Grooms and two co-defendants engaged in a scheme to defraud auto loans providers by utilizing two straw purchasers to buy vehicles in their own names from Rick Weaver Buick GMC. The vehicles would then actually remain in Coover’s possession. The three facilitated the scheme by falsifying the loan applications to make the straw purchasers appear more credit worthy and by not revealing that the straw purchasers were buying multiple vehicles at the same time. The value of many of the vehicles was also inflated to increase the funds received by the co-conspirators.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for Criminal No. 16-15 Erie and a total sentence of 340 years in prison, a fine of $8.5 million, or both for Criminal No. 16-30 Erie. 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grooms.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty in Two Fraud Schemes Targeting Auto Loan ProvidersRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud in two separate cases, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Adam Brayton Coover, 35, pleaded guilty to eleven counts at Criminal No. 16-28 Erie and thirteen counts at Criminal No. 16-30 Erie before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around May 2015, to in and around March 2016, Coover and a co-defendant engaged in a scheme to defraud auto loan providers by using straw purchasers to buy cars from the co-defendant knowing that the vehicles would not actually be in the possession of the straw purchasers. Coover and a co-defendant also falsified the loan applications to make the straw purchasers appear more credit worthy.
In addition, from in and around May 2015, to in and around March 2016, Coover and two co-defendants engaged in a scheme to defraud auto loans providers by utilizing two straw purchasers to buy vehicles in their own names from Rick Weaver Buick GMC. The vehicles would then actually remain in Coover’s possession. The three facilitated the scheme by falsifying the loan applications to make the straw purchasers appear more credit worthy and by not revealing that the straw purchasers were buying multiple vehicles at the same time. The value of many of the vehicles was also inflated to increase the funds received by the co-conspirators.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both for Criminal No. 16-28 Erie and a total sentence of 340 years in prison, a fine of $8.5 million or both for Criminal No. 16-30 Erie. 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Coover.
Bridgeville Suboxone Clinic Operators Charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substances and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh-area residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of unlawfully distributing controlled substances and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 39-count indictment, returned on October 18 and unsealed today, named Mark R. Foster, 70, of Wexford, Pennsylvania and Terri C. Brown, 53, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Foster and Brown were arrested this morning at their respective residences.
According to indictment, Brown owned and operated Cherry Way, a Suboxone clinic, located in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, and Foster was a medical director at Cherry Way. The indictment alleges that Brown and Foster conspired together to create and submit unlawful prescriptions for Suboxone, Adderall and Percocet, and then unlawfully dispensed those controlled substances to Brown and to other persons not specifically named in the Indictment. Brown is also charged with health care fraud for allegedly submitting fraudulent claims to Highmark and Medicaid, through Cherry Way, for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed Suboxone, Adderall and Percocet.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $3,250,000, or both, for the controlled substances offenses. Brown faces an additional maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and fines of $500,000 for the health care fraud charges. 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 Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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.
Ambridge Drug Dealer Sentenced to 7 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months imprisonment followed by 4 years supervised release on his convictions of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Dwayne Corrigan, 33, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2016 and continuing thereafter to in and around July 2016, Corrigan conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Corrigan also distributed fentanyl on July 27, 2016, and, pursuant to his plea agreement with the United States, Corrigan accepted responsibility for the fact that the fentanyl he distributed on July 27, 2016, resulted in the serious bodily injury of two individuals.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of members drawn from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, the Baldwin Borough Police Department, the Duquesne Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Munhall Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Scott Township Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department, along with assistance from the Borough of McKees Rocks Police Department, the Borough of Ambridge Police Department, the Borough of Sewickley Police Department, the Crescent Township Police Department, the City of Aliquippa Police Department, the Borough of New Brighton Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Corrigan. 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.
South Hills Man Sentenced to Prison for Committing Ticket ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day in prison on his conviction of wire fraud, to be followed by a consecutive term of imprisonment of four months for a supervised release violation for a previous conviction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Daniel J. Isabella, Jr., 34, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about April 5, 2014, while on pretrial release, Isabella falsely represented to have tickets to entertainment events to potential purchasers on Craigslist. He would then have potential purchasers wire money for these tickets, but Isabella did not provide any tickets. Additionally, on August 11, September 16, and September 28, Isabella was found to have violated his conditions of supervised release for a previous conviction for similar conduct.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Isabella.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining Oxycodone then Distributing ItRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH-A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pleaded in federal court to charges of Obtaining Controlled Substance by Fraud, and Distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Carl T. Wilson, age 50, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, from late 2015 to March 2017, Wilson knowingly, intentionally and unlawfully obtained a controlled substance, namely oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, by misrepresentations, fraud and deception. Also, on March 27, 2017, Wilson knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute and distributed oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 15, 2018 at 9a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 24 years, a fine of $1,250,000.00, 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 Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carl T. Wilson.
Judge Sentences Drug Dealer to Maximum Sentence for Supervised Release ViolationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months of incarceration for violating his Supervised Release by committing new crimes, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Fischer imposed the sentence yesterday on Santana Wygant, age 40, formerly from McKeesport, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Wygant had previously been convicted of federal drug charges for selling crack cocaine near a playground in West Virginia, and served 87 months in federal prison. While he was on federal supervision after being released from incarceration, Wygant committed multiple violations that included raping his former girlfriend, assaulting that woman, assaulting his infant child, and entering the victim’s home without permission. Wygant also was also found to have absconded from a halfway house, tested positive for marijuana use, failed to report to his probation officer and failed to attend drug treatment.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer reviewed and considered that Wygant began his criminal career with an armed robbery offense as a juvenile and amassed numerous subsequent adult convictions.
Judge Fischer imposed the maximum sentence allowable by law, 36 months of incarceration, after considering factors that included the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public from future acts of Wygant. The Judge also ordered that, following his release, Wygant spend the first six months in a halfway house, and that the United States Probation Office supervise him for five more years. Wygant faces the possibility of additional periods of incarceration if he violates the Court’s order by having any contact with the rape victim or the infant daughter he assaulted.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crime Section prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Probation Office for their efforts in this matter.
Indiana County Man Sentenced to Probation with Community Confinement for Social Security ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 42 months probation with six months at a community confinement center on his conviction of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Carmen Donofrio, 63, of Indiana, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around July 2013, through in and around May 2015, Donofrio received approximately $16,577 in Supplemental Security Income to which he was not entitled because he had concealed a retirement account from the Social Security Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Donofrio.
Foreign National Sentenced for Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme Using Hacked UPMC Employee InfoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A foreign national residing outside of the United States has been sentenced in federal court to term of imprisonment of time served as to Count 17 and six months imprisonment as to Count 18, to run consecutive as to Count 17 on his conviction of charges of money laundering and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Yoandy Perez Llanes.
According to the information presented to the court, early in 2014, thousands of employees of UPMC had their personal information stolen by hackers, who intruded into a UPMC database and stole names, social security numbers, and PII. This data was then used to file false 2013 federal tax returns. Investigators learned that names and other identifiers were used by Llanes and other conspirators to file 935 false tax returns in which unlawful refunds were requested in the form of Amazon.com gift cards. Quick action by the IRS, UPMC, and Amazon.com frustrated the efforts of the fraudsters to file additional false returns and obtain further fraudulent proceeds. Though the perpetrators sought approximately $2.2 million in fraudulent refunds, $1.4 million was actually disbursed in Amazon.com gift cards, which were used by the fraudsters to purchase electronic merchandise.
This criminal scheme was complex and crossed national borders. Llanes and the conspirators used anonymous and encrypted email to disguise their identities and proxy computers to file returns. Using the fraudulently obtained Amazon.com gift cards, Llanes and others purchased hundreds of thousands of dollars in electronic merchandise for shipment through reshipping services in Miami, Florida, to overseas destinations in Maracay or Maracaibo, Venezuela.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the successful investigation leading the prosecution of Yoandy Perez Llanes.
Felon Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Possessing Gun and Ammo While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six years of imprisonment on his conviction of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and the related violation of his supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Marcus Thompkins, age 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Thompkins was on supervised release from a prior federal drug trafficking conviction that involved the armed robbery of a drug dealer. Two United States Probation Officers attempted to visit Thompkins on December 12, 2016 when Thompkins pointed a firearm at them. On the next day, Officers from the Probation Office and the United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force conducted a search of Thompkins’ residence, and they recovered the firearm and ammunition.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that he considered, as part of his sentence, the need to protect the safety of the Probation Officers as they go about their excellent work.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Probation Office and the United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompkins.
Waynesburg Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Drugs, Guns and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges involving the possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine and the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count Indictment, returned on October 17, named Julius Maurice Hurt, 32, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about May 3, 2017, Hurt possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and a quantity of cocaine. The Indictment also charges Hurt, a felon previously convicted of a felony drug offense, with unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition, and with unlawfully possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Waynesburg Police Department, and the Greene County District Attorney’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Gemere Bey was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Bey, age 27, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Bey serve four years of supervised release after he is released from prison. Bey’s sentencing guideline range for the heroin trafficking conviction was increased for his possession of a dangerous weapon and for his use of violence or credible threat to use violence.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl that Killed Two and Injured ThreeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Jocquinn Lamont Harris, a former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 144 months imprisonment, followed by six years supervised release, on charges of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Harris was also ordered to pay $11,396.76 in restitution, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton imposed the sentence Monday on Jocquinn Lamont Harris, age 31, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about November 29, 2015; December 3, 2015; December 4, 2015; and December 5, 2015, Harris distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute fentanyl. These distributions resulted in the death of two individuals and serious bodily injury to three individuals.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jocquinn Lamont Harris.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Running Heroin Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Christopher Brown was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Brown, age 24, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Brown serve five years of supervised release after he is released from prison. Brown’s sentencing guideline range for the heroin trafficking conviction was increased for possession of a dangerous weapon, for maintaining a premises for the purpose of distributing a controlled substance, and for management or supervision of criminal activity that involved five or more participants.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
North Side Man Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Pittsburgh-area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A local resident has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months incarceration and three years supervised release on his conviction of charge of bank fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence yesterday on Darein Clark, 24 of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Clark and others agreed to defraud Pittsburgh area banks by depositing counterfeit checks by remote mobile deposit, and then making ATM withdrawals or point of sale charges against funds credited from the deposited counterfeit checks.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted 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 this defendant. 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 is 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.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to 5 Years in Prison for Heroin Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Christopher Bradley-Bey was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Bradley-Bey, age 24, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Bradley-Bey serve four years of supervised release after he is released from prison. Bey’s sentencing guideline range for the heroin trafficking conviction was increased for his possession of a dangerous weapon.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Judge Sentences Former Pittsburgh Man to 10 Years in Prison for Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Holman Brown was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Brown, age 26, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Brown serve five years of supervised release after he is released from prison. Brown’s sentencing guideline range for the heroin trafficking conviction was increased for possession of a dangerous weapon, for maintaining a premises for the purpose of distributing a controlled substance, for management or supervision of criminal activity that involved five or more participants, and for his use of violence or credible threat to use violence.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Felon Charged with Illegal Gun Possession, Distributing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on October 17, named Nigel Macaya Broadus a/k/a Nigel Washington a/k/a “Little Nige”, age 21, of Wilkinsburg, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on April 30, 2015, May 4, 2015, and June 3, 2015, Broadus possessed with intent to distribute and distributed heroin. The Indictment further alleges that on April 25, 2017, Broadus possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl. The Indictment also alleges that Broadus was involved in a heroin and fentanyl dealing conspiracy from February 2017 through April 25, 2017. Lastly, the Indictment alleges that on April 25, 2017, Broadus possessed a 9 mm caliber semi-automatic Ruger pistol bearing serial number 33483389 and 9 mm ammunition after having been convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those cases include two (2) convictions for Illegal Possession of a Firearm.
The law provides for a maximum of 110 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,250,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case with valuable assistance from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Clairton Woman Admits Passing Counterfeit Money in Western PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and passing and uttering counterfeit money, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Seleste M. Foster, 25, of Clairton, PA pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between May 16, 2015 to June 12, 2015, Foster conspired and passed counterfeit $100, $50, and $20 FRNs throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for February 16, 2018 at 9 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 Foster.
Wexford Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Traffic a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years imprisonment, followed by 20 years supervised release, on a charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Daniel Teed, age 56, of Wexford, PA.
According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that from June 2015 to June 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Daniel Teed and another person knowingly entered into an agreement to conspire to recruit for sex trafficking a female minor who had not attained the age of 18 years.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the City of Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Allegheny District Attorney’s Office for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Daniel Teed.
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.
Two Charged with Dealing Heroin and Fentanyl on or near a Public Housing PropertyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Quinshawn Haynie and Dara Haynie have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for conspiring to distribute and distributing heroin, butyryl fentanyl, and fentanyl in, on, or within 1,000 feet of, a public housing facility, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment charges Quinshawn Haynie, age 28, and Dara Haynie, age 26, both of Pittsburgh, Pa., with committing the crimes from February 1, 2017, through March 31, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least one year and up to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole 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.
MedFast Pharmacist Sentenced to Probation, Community Service for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation and 150 hours of community service on her conviction of conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Correna Pfeiffer, 39, of Monaca, PA.
According to the information presented to the court, Pfeiffer is a pharmacist who was the manager of the MedFast Institutional Pharmacy located at 2003 Sheffield Road, Aliquippa, in Beaver County. As manager she prepared and oversaw employees who prepared prescription medications for residents of nursing homes. MedFast had its delivery drivers pick up unused medications from the nursing homes and return them to the institutional pharmacy where employees unpackaged them and returned them to stock to be re-used in other prescriptions in violation of state law and federal law. As a result, drugs from different manufacturers with different lot numbers and different expiration dates were commingled in stock bottles. When it was necessary for employees to place lot numbers and expiration dates on prescriptions, the employees were instructed to use inaccurate and false information rendering the drugs “misbranded.” In addition, Medicare, Medicaid and other insurers were not reimbursed for the unused drugs, but they were billed for illegal, “misbranded” drugs.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-OCI, the Drug Enforcement Administration-Diversion Investigators, the Health and Human Service-OIG and the Office of Personnel Management-OIG for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Correna Pfeiffer.
Former CFO Sentenced for Role in Department of Defense Fraud, Filing False Tax Returns on Behalf of IbisTekRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Wexford, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, six months home detention, 150 hours community service and a $15,000 fine, on charges of major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense and filing false tax returns on behalf of Ibis Tek, LLC, for 2009 and 2010, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Judge Schwab imposed these sentences on Harry H. Kramer, 52, of Wexford, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, Kramer was the Chief Financial Officer of Ibis Tek. Ibis Tek is a Butler, PA company previously owned 50/50 by brothers Thomas and John Buckner. Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, Butler, Pennsylvania 16002, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Ibis Tek manufactured both military and commercial products but specialized in the development of transparent armor and accessory products for tactical and military combat vehicles. Ibis Tek itself was not charged with any violations.
One of the primary sources of business for Ibis Tek was contracts and subcontracts for TACOM. TACOM is a Department of Defense agency in Warren, Michigan, was responsible for letting and overseeing contracts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense, including contracts concerning High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (hereinafter Humvees). Ibis Tek had a subcontract to produce Vehicle Emergency Escape Window (VEE Window) Kits for Humvees. The Buckners and Kramer inflated Ibis Tek’s costs to manufacture the VEE Window kits by creating Alloy America, LLC, (Alloy) a company that was co-located at Ibis Tek that the Buckners controlled, by using Alloy to purchase the frames in China for $20 per frame, and by using false invoices from Alloy to make it appear that Ibis Tek paid $70 per frame. In addition, the Buckners sold scrap aluminum collected in the manufacturing process but Kramer and the Buckners failed to credit that money to TACOM. The losses to TACOM were $6,085,709, of which $367,356 is associated with Kramer’s specific conduct.
The income tax evasion charges against Kramer and the Buckner brothers arose from not reporting the cash from sales of scrap aluminum, and for taking unallowable business deductions described below. The criminal losses from these false returns was $423,473.
The contract fraud violations described above formed the basis for False Claims Act charges against the Buckner brothers brought by the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Attorneys on both sides agreed on a civil settlement of $12,171,580.00. On Friday, October 6, 2017, the Buckners made the final payment to the Department of the Treasury on their civil settlement.
There is one more related defendant who is awaiting sentencing on November 6, 2017. David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) pleaded guilty to a one count information charging him with impeding the IRS by acting as a financial intermediary who received and then paid out money from Ibis Tek, LLC to Anthony Shaw, for the purpose of concealing that the monies were income of Shaw.
Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, pleaded guilty to a five-count information. Shaw, formerly a civilian employee at TACOM, was a Deputy Project Manager responsible for directing development of and managing government contracts for combat vehicle systems such as Humvees. Shaw was charged in Counts One and Two with demanding and receiving a total of $1,055,500 of illegal gratuities paid by checks, cash and wire transfers by Thomas Buckner to and through David Buckner’s company, D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories, for Shaw’s benefit. Counts Three and Four charged Shaw with income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting the illegal gratuities. In Count Five Shaw was charged with making false statements when he denied that he had socialized with Thomas Buckner and John Buckner, and denied that he had traveled in a car, boat and an airplane owned by Thomas Buckner or John Buckner. Shaw was sentenced to 46 months of incarceration, a $100,000 fine, and restitution to the IRS of $325,800.
These cases were investigated by the Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division.
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of these defendants.
FCI-Loretto Inmate Sentenced to Nine Additional Months in Prison for Possessing DrugsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, and was sentenced to nine months in prison, consecutive to the current sentence he is presently serving in federal prison, and three years’ supervised release, concurrent with his present sentence, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Edwin Manuel Guzman, 35, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on December 22, 2016, Guzman possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song 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 Guzman.
C & G Savings Bank Employee Admits Stealing Funds from Customers’ AccountsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Ebensburg, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of misapplication of funds by a bank employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Tonya Wade, 43, of Ebensburg, Pa. pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from Sept. 17, 2012, to Aug. 29, 2013, Wade, while employed as a teller at C & G Savings Bank in Gallitzin, Pa, removed $20,950 from customers’ accounts and thereafter converted those funds to her personal use.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 14, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wade.
Bridgeville Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on October 10 and unsealed today, named John Edward Desalome, age 29, of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on November 23, 2016, Desalome possessed videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a maximum term of supervised release of life, and a fine of $250,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Judge Sentences Indiana Investment Advisor to Prison for Fraud and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today that an Indiana County investment advisor was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment, three years supervised release and ordered to pay $1,212,663.93, on his conviction at trial of one count of securities fraud, one count of mail fraud and four counts of filing false tax returns.
Receiving the sentence from United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton was Bernard Parker, age 56.
According to Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Rachael L. Mamula, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Parker, the principal of Parker Financial Services, solicited his clients, by signing of “Investors Contracts,” to invest in tax lien certificates, municipal bonds, computer software, real estate, and other undefined investments. Parker then used the vast majority of the monies taken from these investors for his personal expenses instead of the various investments agreed upon with his clients. Further, Parker filed false federal tax returns for tax years 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, each of which failed to report his income.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the conviction of Bernard M. Parker.
Former Mon Valley Attorney Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Elderly ClientRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Keith A. Bassi, age 61, of Fayette City, PA, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Government represented in Court that since 2013, Keith A. Bassi, a licensed attorney, misappropriated for personal use approximately $505,000.00 in funds belonging to the estate of an elderly person diagnosed with dementia. Bassi held a power of attorney for the victim, and then engaged in a series of financial transactions in which he diverted the victim’s assets into bank accounts he created and controlled at Charleroi Federal Savings and PNC Banks. In one instance, Bassi made insurance premium payments using the victim’s funds on a whole life policy at Pacific Life purchased in the name of someone other than the victim, and then later cancelled the policy and kept the surrendered cash proceeds for himself. He also used the victim’s estate funds to operate Mid Mon Valley Publishing Co. in Charleroi, Pennsylvania.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 14, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Keith A. Bassi.
Costa Rican Pleads Guilty to Selling Drugs Imported from India in the United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Costa Rica, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ramiro Navarro Quesada, 41, a resident of Costa Rica pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose. Quesada was arrested in Madrid, Spain, in early 2017. He was extradited to the United States in late August.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Quesada used a Costa Rican website to advertise the Internet sale of Schedule II and IV controlled substances and erectile dysfunction drugs, which were exported from India and received in the United States.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 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.
“This case is a prime example of how the U.S. will use all available tools at our disposal to identify and apprehend drug traffickers,” said Wayne Salzgaber, INTERPOL Washington Acting Director.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Quesada.
Former Army Manager Sentenced to Prison for Taking $1 Million in Illegal GratuitiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Rochester Hills, Michigan, has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months incarceration and a $100,000 fine, on charges of taking illegal gratuities, income tax evasion and making false statements to federal law enforcement officers, United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Judge Schwab imposed the sentence on Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan.
According to the information presented to the court, Shaw was a Deputy Project Manager responsible for directing development of and managing government contracts for combat vehicle systems such as U.S. Army High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (hereinafter Humvees) at the U.S. Department of Army, Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM). TACOM is located in Warren, Michigan, and is the Department of Defense's facility responsible for contracting for design, production, modification and maintenance of vehicles used by the Armed Services. During a wartime buildup, it has been responsible for as much as $65 billion of contracts.
Because of his position at TACOM, Shaw came to know the Buckner brothers, who were 50/50 owners of Ibis Tek, LLC (hereinafter Ibis Tek). Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, Butler, Pennsylvania 16002, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Ibis Tek manufactured both military and commercial products but specialized in the development of transparent armor and accessory products for tactical and military combat vehicles. The Buckners were perennially interested in getting TACOM business. Over time, Ibis Tek held several subcontracts and prime contracts for TACOM.
In addition to his TACOM job, Shaw purchased houses in the Detroit area, and either flipped them or rented them. He owned more than 90 houses when the housing market sank in 2008. Shaw came from Detroit to the Buckners and complained about carrying more than $400,000 of credit card debt, explained that he needed money to avoid bankruptcy, which could result in him losing his job. As a result, from 2008 through 2011 Shaw took $1,055,500 in illegal gratuities from the Buckners. Shaw failed to pay income tax on these monies and ran up a criminal tax liability of $325,800. In addition, when federal agents interviewed Shaw, he lied to them by denying that he ever traveled in a car, a boat or an airplane owned by Thomas Buckner or John Buckner, and denied that he ever stopped to see Thomas or John Buckner in Pennsylvania while on a motorcycle trip, when in fact, he had done each of these things.
There are two more related guilty pleas entered in this investigation and each of these defendants is awaiting sentencing.
Harry H. Kramer, 52, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud for his role as CFO of Ibis Tek in a $6,085,709 fraud scheme against TACOM. Counts Two and Three charged him with filing false returns for Ibis Tek for 2009 and 2010.
David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with impeding the IRS by acting as a financial intermediary who received and then paid out money from Ibis Tek, LLC to Anthony Shaw, for the purpose of concealing that the monies were income of Shaw.
"Today's sentencing, the third of five related cases, is the successful product of a joint investigation conducted by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command and the U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Pennsylvania," stated Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent-in-Charge, DCIS Northeast Field Office. "Confidence in the integrity of the public officials working in the DoD procurement process and supply chain is of vital importance to all Americans. DCIS is committed to working with its law enforcement partners to investigate any violations of this public trust.”
"IRS-Criminal Investigation provides financial investigation expertise in our work with our law enforcement partners," said IRS Acting Special Agent in Charge Ed Wirth. "Pooling the skills of each agency makes a formidable team as we investigate allegations of wrong-doing. Today's sentence demonstrates our collective efforts to enforce the law and ensure public trust".
Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of these defendants.
Verona Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One former resident of Verona, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Richard Anthony Burke, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on November 12, 2016 Richard possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. On February 3, 2017, Burke, a convicted felon, was also in possession of a firearm. As a convicted felon, Burke is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentences of not more than 20 years 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 offenses and the criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Office of the Drug Enforcement Agency and Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking, Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Michael Ginyard, Jr. has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for heroin and fentanyl trafficking and committing related firearm crimes, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment charges Ginyard Jr., age 30, with committing the following crimes in January and February 2017: (1) possession of heroin and/or fentanyl with intent to distribute, (2) attempt to distribute heroin, (3) possession of a firearm and/or ammunition after five felony convictions for heroin and cocaine trafficking, and (4) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $6,750,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Penn Hills Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Pistol 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, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Deondre Steave, age 24.
According to the indictment, on or about September 28, 2017, Steave, an individual with prior felony convictions for Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute 100 Grams or More of Heroin and Escaping from Federal Custody, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Kahr CW .40 caliber pistol 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 Steave’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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former McKeesport Resident Charged with Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One former Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment named Deondre Lee Purter, age 23, formerly of McKeesport, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on September 15, 2017, Purter possessed with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl, carfentanil, and cocaine base. Also on September 15, 2017, Purter, a convicted felon, was in possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. As a convicted felon, Purter is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison to a maximum of life, and a fine of up to $1,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses, and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.