Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Brothers Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding U.S. Department of DefenseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Thomas G. Buckner, 66, of Gibsonia, Pa., and his brother, John. P. Buckner of Lyndora, Pa., have been sentenced in federal court to 30 months incarceration and a $500,000 fine, and 24 months incarceration and a $300,000 fine, respectively, on charges of major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense and income tax evasion violations, United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
According to the information presented to the court, the Buckner brothers were 50/50 owners of Ibis Tek, LLC. Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, in Butler, Pennsylvania, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania. 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.
TACOM, located 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 (Humvees). Ibis Tek had a subcontract to produce Vehicle Emergency Escape Window (VEE Window) Kits for Humvees. The Buckners 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 failed to credit that money to TACOM. The losses to TACOM were $6,085,709.
The income tax evasion charges against the Buckner brothers arose from not reporting the cash from sales of scrap aluminum, and for taking unallowable business deductions described below. Thomas Buckner repaid the I.R.S. more than $940,000 in restitution, penalties and interest; John Buckner repaid more than $980,000 in restitution, penalties and interest.
The contract fraud violations described above formed the basis for False Claims Act charges against the Buckner brothers brought by the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) 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 Buckner brothers made the final payment to the Department of the Treasury on their civil settlement.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song said, “The imposition of years of imprisonment, coupled with more than $2.7 million in restitution and fines, justly resolves the multi-year investigation into the $6 million fraudulent scheme of these defendants against the United States.”
There were three 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 the above described 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.
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.
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.
"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 sentences demonstrate 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.
Indiana, Pa., Bank Manager Pleads Guilty to Embezzling from EmployerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzling from a federally insured bank, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Madeline Isenberg, 37, of Indiana, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around February 2012 until in or around August 2015, Isenberg, while employed as an Assistant Manager for First Commonwealth Bank, embezzled approximately $88,000.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Thursday, February 22, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of thirty years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Madeline Isenberg.
Med-Fast Pharmacy Inc. and Former Exec Agree to Resolve Criminal and Civil ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Individuals and entities associated with Med-Fast Pharmacy, Inc. (“Med-Fast”) have agreed to resolve criminal and civil charges associated with Med-Fast’s improper submission of claims to the Medicare and Medicaid programs, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
As part of this global resolution, the former Vice President of Store Operations for Med-Fast, defendant Gino Cordisco, 47, of Mars, Pennsylvania, has been charged with one count of conspiracy related to his participation in a scheme to fill prescriptions for nursing homes with recycled unused drugs that were commingled with drug stocks on hand at Med-Fast’s Institutional Pharmacy. Defendant Iserve Technologies, Inc., which is co-located with and operated out of Med-Fast, participated in the same scheme, and was similarly charged with conspiracy. These criminal charges follow the earlier guilty plea on related charges of Correna Pfeiffer, 37, of Monaca, Pennsylvania, who previously served as the manager of the Med-Fast Institutional Pharmacy.
Med-Fast Pharmacy, Inc., its owner Douglas Kaleugher, and related entities also have agreed to pay the United States $2,666,300.00 to settle civil False Claims Act allegations. The civil settlement resolves allegations in two separate whistleblower lawsuits filed in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The settled claims contended that Med-Fast violated the False Claims Act by distributing and submitting claims to Medicare for medication that it had either recycled from long-term care facilities serviced by its institutional pharmacy, or that otherwise differed from the medications identified as part of the claims submitted to the United States. The settlement also resolves allegations that Med-Fast violated the False Claims Act by submitting claims to Medicare and Pennsylvania Medicaid that sought reimbursement for the retail-packaged version of diabetes testing strips, while actually supplying patients with cheaper mail-order-packaged version of the same strips.
“These criminal and civil agreements demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs and the safety and well-being of the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “Pharmacists and pharmacies must deal fairly and honestly with federal health care programs, and this U.S. Attorney’s Office will hold accountable those who do not.”
These matters were investigated by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration-OCI, the Drug Enforcement Administration-Diversion Investigators, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted the criminal cases on behalf of the government and Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin J. Callahan litigated the civil cases on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.
The civil cases resolved by this settlement are captioned United States ex rel. Darla Reid v. Med-Fast Pharmacy, Inc., Civil Action No. 13-715 (WDPA); and United States ex rel. Bryan Bisceglia v. Med-Fast Pharmacy, Inc. et al., Civil Action No. 13-0368 (WDPA). The claims resolved by the civil settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. The conspiracy charge against Cordisco carries a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. The conspiracy charge against Iserve Technologies, Inc. carries a maximum total sentence of 5 years probation, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Three New York Men Charges in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Three New York residents were indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of conspiracy, identity theft and false statements to a bank, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment named as defendants Anthony T. Sass, 26, of New York, NY; Nathaniel C. Graham, 25, of Bronx, NY; and Jacob Gunther, 41, Brooklyn, NY.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from Mar. 21 to Mar. 28, 2017, Sass, Graham and Gunther conspired to commit bank fraud; on Mar. 22, 2017, Sass and Gunther committed aggravated identity theft; and on Mar. 25, 2017, Sass and Gunther made false statements to a bank in connection with a loan application.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each Anthony T. Sass and Jacob Gunther of 62 years in prison, a fine of $2,250,000, or both, and for Nathaniel C. Graham 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. 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 Sass, Graham and Gunther.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Substitute Teacher Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Nicholas James Gaworski, age 26, of Clinton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, in December 2016, Gaworski, a substitute teacher, received videos and images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for February 7, 2018 at 9 a.m. the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gaworski.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
New Jersey Residents Charged with Conspiring to Traffic HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two residents of Paterson, New Jersey, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Jose Aponte, age 47, of Paterson, New Jersey, and Carolyn Spann, age 53, of Paterson, New Jersey.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from 2013 to September 2017, Aponte and Spann conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $20 million, 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.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lawrence County Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of a minor for purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
David Michael Monrean, 24, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, from August 14, 2016, to August 16, 2016, Monrean did knowingly and willfully transport or arrange, induce, procure, or facilitate the travel of Minor A, who had not attained the age of 18 years, in interstate commerce, from Pennsylvania to Ohio, with the intent that Minor A would engage in prostitution and other sexual activity for which a person could be charged with a criminal offense, and aided and abetted such conduct.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak scheduled sentencing for February 14, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than five years, or any or all. 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 and the Grove City Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Monrean.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Johnstown Woman Charged with Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Sabrina L. Rogers, 34, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on July 6, July 10, and July 11, 2017, Rogers distributed less than 28 grams of cocaine base, also known as crack, and on July 12, 2017, Rogers possessed with the intent to distribute less than 28 grams of crack.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 80 years in prison and a fine of $4,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rogers.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Inmate Admits Stealing IDs, Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to defraud the government and aggravated identify theft,, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
James Lamont Johnson, 51, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Johnson engaged in a conspiracy to defraud the United States by submitting false claims for income tax refunds using individuals’ identification information which was unlawfully obtained. Johnson stole the identities of 56 individuals who were clients of the Community of Caring, a non-profit social service agency in Erie, where he had access to the clients’ personal identification information. Johnson utilized TurboTax and filed approximately 71 tax returns, seeking refunds from the IRS of more than $100,000.00. Johnson and his co-conspirator inputted the stolen identity information and used wage information from W-2 forms taken from actual employees of local businesses to perpetrate the fraudulent tax refund scheme. The scheme to defraud successfully obtained more than $60,000.00 in tax refunds. The refunds came in the form of prepaid debit cards and U.S. Treasury checks, which were mailed to addresses where Johnson could access the mail and retrieve the refunds.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for February 26, 2018 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 12 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. A mandatory minimum sentence of two years must be imposed for the conviction of aggravated identity theft.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Johnson.
Dubois Man Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Benefit PaymentsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of DuBois, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of conversion of government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Daniel P. McIntosh, 39, of DuBois, Pa.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from Aug. 1, 2014, to July 31, 2016, McIntosh did receive and convert falsely to his own use a total of $41,529.70, which represents approximately 115 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to him and also to him as representative payee for his wife and minor children, to which he or they were not entitled.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of International Market in Erie Pleads Guilty to Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Jasmin Omanovic, 37, 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 October 2011 to February 2015, Omanovic, who was the owner and operator of International Market in Erie, committed food stamp fraud by exchanging food stamps for cash at fifty percent of face value. Omanovic also exchanged food stamps for ineligible items. He also allowed customers to pay off store debt with food stamps and he took customers’ EBT cards and used them at Walmart to restock his shelves.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for February 26, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Omanovic 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 and the Erie Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Omanovic.
Johnstown Bank Manager Sentenced to Prison for Stealing from Customer AccountsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 20 months in prison, three years’ supervised release and ordered to pay restitution to First National Bank in the amount of $270,434.70, on her conviction of misapplication of funds by a bank employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Anna Wilson, 35, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from Nov. 15, 2015, to Aug. 15, 2016, Wilson, while employed as a branch manager at First National Bank in Johnstown, Pa, removed approximately $270,434.70 from customers’ accounts and thereafter converted those funds to her personal use.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Wilson.
Former Minich Electric Office Manager Admits Defrauding EmployerRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bradford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Tyler Little, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Davie S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Little was an office manager at Minich Electric in Bradford. From November 2012 to September 2015, he wrote numerous checks to himself from the Minich Electric business account, failed to deposit numerous cash payments made by customers and used the funds for his own personal use and used the business credit card without the owner’s knowledge or permission to purchase numerous items for himself resulting in a loss of approximately $77,516.81 to Minich Electric.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for February 26, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Little on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Little.
Two Pittsburgh-area Men Charged with Violating Federal Drug, Robbery and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two Pittsburgh-area residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics, robbery, and firearms laws Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on September 26, 2017 and unsealed September 27, named Kahlil Shelton and Deron Howell.
According to the indictment, from August 4, 2017 to August 7, 2017, Shelton and Howell conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 kilograms or less of marijuana and did possess with the intent to distribute 50 kilograms or less of marijuana on August 7, 2017. Both are also charged with conspiring to commit Hobbs Act Robbery as well as committing the robbery itself on August 7, 2017. The indictment also charges that both men possessed a firearm in furtherance of both a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence, and that the firearm was discharged in furtherance of committing those crimes.
Both face a total mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison up to a maximum sentence of life, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Cranberry Township 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 Possessing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 30 and unsealed September 26, named Walter Porter, age 45, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on April 14, 2016, Walter Porter possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine.
On the sole count of the indictment, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Indiana Borough 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.
Former Treasury Specialist Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Stealing from her EmployerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh-area resident has been sentenced in federal court to 100 months imprisonment, three years supervise release, and restitution in the amount of $12,969,774.42 (Interest waived); on her conviction of mail fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence yesterday on Cynthia A. Mills, 56, of McKees Rocks, Pa.
“Cynthia Mills exploited her position as a trusted employee to embezzle a staggering $12.9 million over 16 years,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “These crimes constitute the largest corporate embezzlement in Western Pennsylvania and warrant a sentence of 100 months imprisonment and nearly $13 million in restitution.”
“Cindy Mills had been viewed as one of the victim company’s best and most trusted employees while working in the accounting department for a number of years, at least until the fraud was discovered. Despite efforts by the employer to put safeguards in place, Mills abused her position of trust and found a way to steal. When the U.S. Mail is misused to facilitate such a scheme, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to aggressively pursue these criminals,” said Pittsburgh Division Inspector in Charge Tommy D. Coke.
IRS-CI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Edward Wirth added, “Yesterday’s sentencing reflects that those who steal and line their pockets with money that they were not entitled to will be held accountable. The systematic and prolonged theft by Ms. Mills in this case was egregious, and the sentence imposed demonstrates that IRS Criminal Investigation will investigate and prosecute those who violate the law.”
According to information presented to the court, from February 1999 to May 2015, Mills embezzled $12,969,774.42 from Matthews International Corporation where she was employed as a Cashier and Treasury Specialist.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mills.
Brooklyn Felon Distributed Heroin, Illegally Possessed Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Brooklyn, New York pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Nashawn Williams, 35, currently incarcerated, but who last resided in Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Williams conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition as he is a convicted felon.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for February 1, 2018. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $8,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Williams.
Former Harrisburg Police Corporal Admits Stealing Government FundsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former Harrisburg Police official pleaded guilty in federal court in the Middle District of Pennsylvania to charges of conversion of government property and theft from programs receiving government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Sean D. Cornick, 45, of Harrisburg, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge John E. Jones, III.
In connection with the guilty plea, the United States presented information to the Court that on October 23, 2016, Cornick took $400 in government funds that he was not authorized to receive. Additional information described that Cornick stole government funds totaling $22,346.93 between October 15, 2015 and October 27, 2016. The Court was advised that at the time of the offenses, Cornick served as the Corporal and supervisor of the Organized Crime and Vice Unit of the Harrisburg Police Department.
Judge Jones scheduled a Presentence Conference for January 29, 2018, at 10:45 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 11 years in prison, a fine of $350,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Harrisburg Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cornick.
Squirrel Hill Man Charged with Attempting to Possess Fentanyl AnalogueRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of attempting to possess with intent to distribute butyryl fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on September 12 and unsealed on September 19, named Aaron Frankel, 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about August 17, 2017, Frankel attempted to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of butyryl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance. Butyryl fentanyl is an analogue of fentanyl that is temporarily controlled under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Lying of Firearms Purchase FormRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of falsifying information on a form to purchase firearms, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
John Iatesta, age 41, of Pittsburgh PA, pleaded guilty to a one-count indictment before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Iatesta provided false statements on a form to purchase three firearms. Specifically, he stated that he was purchasing the firearms for himself when, in fact, he was purchasing the firearms for another individual; he also falsely stated that he was not an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for February 1, 2018. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Heidi M. Grogan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of John Iatesta.
Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer Indicted for Trafficking Fentanyl Variant and HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for heroin and para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl trafficking while on federal supervised release for a prior heroin trafficking conviction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment, returned on September 26 and unsealed today following his arrest, charges Shawn Atkins, age 24, of Pittsburgh, with possessing a quantity of a mixture and substance containing heroin and para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl with an intent to distribute on June 9, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Munhall Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration and 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.
Pharmacist Sentenced for Conspiring to Smuggle Misbranded Drugs into U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation on each count to run concurrently, with 6 months in home detention; forfeiture in the amount of $650,000; $15,000 fine, and $200 special assessment on his conviction of conspiracy to smuggle misbranded drugs and conspiracy to money launder, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jeffrey A. Markovitz, age 62, of Clairton, Pa., who previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to smuggle into the United States drugs made for foreign markets, and conspiracy to money launder.
According to the information presented to the court, Markovitz, a pharmacist, previously owned Dierken’s Pharmacy in Monangahela, Pa. He ordered drugs from a Canadian company that sold drugs made in several other countries such as Spain and Turkey. Markovitz used these foreign made drugs to fill prescriptions. Markovitz wire transferred to Canada a total of $55,895.38 in payment for the smuggled drugs. All drugs in the United States are required to be monitored from manufacture to wholesale distribution to ultimate consumption by patients. In the event of a recall, this closed system enables warnings to be given to patients to not to consume a recalled drug. Foreign made drugs escape any oversight that all legitimate companies must undergo. Thus, the importation and sale of foreign made drugs destroy the protections provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that ensure the safe handling of drugs by manufacturers and wholesalers, and that protect patients from consuming a recalled drug.
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, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jeffrey A. Markovitz.
Convicted Heroin Dealer Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Heroin and Deadly FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Henry T. Little-Proctor a/k/a “Bundles”, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court, on September 26, 2017, to multiple charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Henry T. Little-Proctor a/k/a Bundles, age 27, formerly of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Little-Proctor conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute both heroin and the even more potent synthetic opiate fentanyl, from late 2015 through July 20, 2016. Specifically, the investigation revealed that Little-Proctor was involved with a fentanyl sale on July 13, 2016, and a heroin sale on July 18, 2016. DEA then executed a federal search warrant on July 20, 2016 at a residence utilized by Little-Proctor. There, federal agents located Full Metal Jacketed ammunition for a .223 Rem caliber assault-style rifle and .22 caliber ammunition, as well as 25 “bundles” (250 stamp bags) of heroin. A receipt for the purchase of the .223 Rem caliber ammunition from Gander Mountain was located in the residence and showed that it was purchased on May 14, 2016, along with two extended length magazines for a AR-15 assault-style rifle and a $100 tactical light. The firearms themselves have yet to be located.
Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a prior felony offense from possessing either a firearm or ammunition and the Court was advised that Little-Proctor had been convicted of multiple crimes, including two prior convictions for heroin dealing.
The defendant specifically admitted to selling the fentanyl that caused the July 2016 death of a young woman.
Judge Cathy Bissoon scheduled sentencing for February 7, 2018, at 2:15 p.m. and remanded the defendant back to the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending the sentencing. The Court ordered a Pre-Sentence Report to be prepared by the United States Probation Office detailing the defendant’s background including his criminal, family, educational and work histories in order to determine if the proposed sentence of 10 years in prison, at least 6 years of Supervised Release and restitution to the victim’s family should be approved by the Court.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, of the Violent Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration and law enforcement officers from the Duquesne Police Department, Homestead Police Department, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Little-Proctor.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal, state, and local agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Washington Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on September 19, named James Roosevelt Leach, 45, of Washington, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about December 14, 2016, Leach, a felon previously convicted of rape, robbery and aggravated assault in Washington County, Pennsylvania, unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual with a felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense 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. Troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Grand Jury Indicts Washington County Man for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of the City of Washington, Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 24, 2017, and unsealed today following his arrest, named Romone Barnes, 31, of Washington, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Barnes distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl on or about June 26, 2017. Barnes is detained pending trial.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Task Force Officers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, and Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force 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.
Beaver County Man Charged with Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on September 19, 2017, named Jamal M. Brooks, 25, of Aliquippa, Beaver County, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Brooks, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed three firearms and ammunition on or about August 22, 2017. Federal law prohibits an individual with a felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $ 250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense 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 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.
Indian Defendant Appears in Federal Court to Face Fraud, Conspiracy and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Mumbai, India, made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh this afternoon to face charges of mail fraud, conspiracy to misbrand and smuggle drugs, conspiracy to import Schedule IV controlled substances and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 14-count indictment, returned on July 28, 2015, named Ramesh Buchirajam Akkela, aka Ramesh Bhai, 44, of Mumbai, India as the sole defendant. Akkela was arrested in Panama earlier this year. He was extradited to the United States yesterday.
According to the indictment, Akkela, an Indian Internet-based supplier of prescription drugs, supplied those drugs - without prescriptions - to U.S. consumers. He was indicted on 10 counts of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to misbrand and smuggle drugs, one count of conspiracy to import Schedule IV controlled substances and two counts of money laundering.
Except for the conspiracy counts, each of which is punishable by five years imprisonment, all the other counts have a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Each money laundering count carries a maximum $500,000 fine, while $250,000 is the maximum fine for the remaining counts. 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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal 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.
U. S. Attorney’s Office and Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown Announce Members of Independent Oversight Board for Youth ProtectionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song and Bishop Mark L. Bartchak of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown announced the names of the five persons appointed to the Independent Oversight Board for Youth Protection for the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. The Diocese created the Independent Oversight Board earlier this year pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Diocese and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding, the Diocese established the Independent Oversight Board to supervise the implementation and provide ongoing review of the expanded child protection efforts of the Diocese. The five members chosen by Bishop Bartchak are:
- James W. Brown is a former Chief of Staff to both U.S. Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr. and Pennsylvania Governor Robert P. Casey. Mr. Brown will serve as Chair of the Board.
- Walter “Pete” Carlson is a former criminal investigator for the Pennsylvania State Police.
- Eileen Dombo, PhD, LICSW is an Associate Professor and Assistant Dean of the National Catholic School of Social Service at The Catholic University of America.
- Mary Herwig experienced abuse as a young child and is an advocate for child protection in all its forms.
- J. Alan Johnson served as United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania for eight years.
Mercer County Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Jeffrey T. Lewis, 48, waived indictment and pleaded guilty to a two-count Information before United States District Judge David Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lewis fraudulently solicited funds for investments but used those funds to pay off business losses, gambling and personal expenses.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 5, 2018, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lewis.
Johnstown Felon Sentenced for Illegally Possessing RifleRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to twelve months, plus one day, to be served concurrently with sentence he is presently serving in Clearfield County, and three years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Eric P. Williams, 36, of Johnstown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on December 8, 2015, Williams, who had been convicted in 2001 in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, of the felony offense of robbery, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did possess in and affecting interstate commerce a Stevens, Model 350, 12 gauge shotgun, and a Mossberg, Model 715T, .22 LR caliber, semi-automatic rifle. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Williams.
According to Ms. Song, Williams 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.
Cambria County Woman Admits Stealing from MailboxesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Patton, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of mail, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Jennifer R. Miller, 28, of Patton, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, in Dec. 2011 Miller stole various pieces of mail from mailboxes.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 6, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Miller.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Heroin and CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Marquette Williams, 39, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 through May 2015 in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Williams conspired with others, both known and unknown, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. In addition, from April 2014 through February 2015, Williams conspired with others, both known and unknown, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
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 the City of New Kensington Police Department and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Marquette Williams. 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 Drug Dealer Caused Washington County DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of dealing heroin and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Matthew David Adams, aka “Z”, age 28, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Washington County resident Jesse James King died of an overdose on April 19, 2016 and that the Washington County Coroner’s Office determined that he had a deadly amount of the synthetic opiate fentanyl in his system. Stamp bags marked “OMG” were located near the victim’s body. The victim’s phone ultimately led police to the seller of the “OMG” stamp bags, the defendant Matthew Adams. Police apprehended Adams with 47 stamp bags in his possession just two days after the death of Mr. King. The 17 bags stamped “OMG” were determined to contain fentanyl, while the other 30 bags marked “Gator” were found to contain heroin.
Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for January 19, 2018 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and up to a lifetime of supervision by federal Probation Officers. Adams, who was on probation as a result of a prior sentence from Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge Joseph K. Williams, III for a previous heroin dealing conviction, is expected to receive a sentence of 8 years in federal prison, at least 4 years of supervision and restitution to the family of the victim. He will also face an additional potential sentence from Judge Williams for committing the offense while on county probation.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded the defendant back to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ross E. Lenhardt and Katie A. King of the Violent Crimes Section are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Washington County Drug Task Force, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, and numerous local police departments including the Canonsburg Police Department, Houston Borough Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Kennedy Township Police Department, as well as the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Matthew Adams.
Optometrist Pleads Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Hazelet, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Dr. Vincent J. Gamuzza, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, Gamuzza, a doctor of optometry, admitted that he operated multiple vision centers in Pennsylvania, including Western Pennsylvania, and in New Jersey. Gamuzza further admitted that he was responsible for handling all billing to insurance companies, including Highmark Inc. and Davis Vision. As part of his plea, Gamuzza admitted that between in or around December 2015 and July 2016, he submitted fraudulent claims to Highmark Inc. for services that were never provided to patients. He also admitted that he impermissibly submitted claims for the same services to both Highmark, Inc. and Davis Vision.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for January 23, 2018, at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Eric G. Olshan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Defense – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation of Gamuzza.
Georgia Man Transported Stolen Vehicle from Pennsylvania to West VirginiaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Georgia resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Tom E. Smith, 55, of Fayetteville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about July 1, 2015, Smith transported a stolen Range Rover Sport, valued at $74,000, from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania across state lines into the State of West Virginia.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for February 21, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of ten 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 of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Smith.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Carlos M. White, Jr., 29, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around December 2013, and continuing to in and around March 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, White conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Also, on May 22, 2014, White possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for January 11, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Tonya Sulia Goodman are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of White.
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.
Union Financial Secretary Charged with Embezzling FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of embezzlement and theft of labor union assets, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Marianne Rodacy, 64, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
Rodacy was the Financial/Recording Secretary of United Steelworkers, AFL-CIO, Local 10-53-G. According to the indictment, from October 1, 2012 to June 24, 2015, Rodacy embezzled approximately $21,539 of union funds for her personal use.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Marianne Rodacy.
Trafford Man Charged with Benefits FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Trafford, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Warren Robb, age 57, of Trafford, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, between November 2015 and July 2017, Warren Robb received and converted approximately $57,821.68 in U.S. Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits to which he knew he was not entitled.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Texas Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Damaging Health Care System’s ComputersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Houston, Texas, was sentenced in federal court to 27 months in prison on his convictions of intentional damage to a protected computer and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Brandon A. Coughlin, age 29, of Houston TX.
According to the information presented to the court, the Court was advised that Coughlin intentionally hacked and damaged 13 servers operated by a health care facility known as Centerville Clinic, Inc. (CCI) and engaged in a scheme to defraud that healthcare facility by using its purchase card to order merchandise from Staples. On January 16, 2013, Coughlin was hired by CCI as an in-house computer systems administrator.
On February 4, 2013, he resigned from that position at the request of the management of CCI. Using the administrative passwords he knew from his employment, Coughlin on September 18, 2013 hacked the computer network of CCI. He disabled all administrative accounts needed to control any and all of the computer servers of CCI, and deleted users’ network shares, business data, and patient health information and data, including patient medical records. He caused a financial loss of approximately $60,000. He caused CCI facility to cease its medical treatment of patients until its system was restored.
Coughlin also admitted committing wire fraud when he attempted fraudulently to purchase online iPad Air tablets on the Staples account of CCI. As part of the fraud, Coughlin breached the email server of CCI. He directed that email server to delete email from Staples before it was routed to the purchasing supervisor who handled the Staples account for CCI.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the successful investigation leading to the prosecution of Brandon A. Coughlin.
Hazelwood Man Charged with Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug trafficking and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned yesterday, named James Weldon Johnson, age 32, of the Hazelwood neighborhood in Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on January 2, 2017, Johnson possessed with intent to distribute quantities of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, as well as possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Also according to the indictment, he possessed with intent to distribute, and distributed, fentanyl on December 30, 2016.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Greene County Child Pornographer Faces Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Greene County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of production, distribution, and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Eric James Stull, age 49, of Clarksville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, from May 8, 2006 to December 26, 2015, Stull produced 41 video and image files of the sexual exploitation of a minor. Also, on July 21, 2015, Stull knowingly distributed a video containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor to an undercover Pennsylvania State Police Corporal. Further, on April 29, 2016, Stull possessed images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose scheduled sentencing for January 8, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the production of child pornography counts, a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for distribution of child pornography, a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for possession of child pornography, a maximum term of supervised release of life, and a fine of $10,250,000.00. 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 Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Greene County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stull.
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.
Four Indicted for Roles in Selling Illegal Depressant Etizolam over the InternetRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of Alaska and three residents of Florida have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. Two of the defendants were also charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The two-count indictment, returned on August 22 and unsealed today, named William Kulakevich, a/k/a Vilyam Kulakevich, 31, of Delta Junction, Alaska; and Julia Fees, 25, Jacob Bassett, 20, and Ryan Bassett, 34, all of Odessa, Florida.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Kulakevich owned the website Etizy.com and sold the drug Etizolam to customers in the United States, including in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved Etizolam for use as a drug, and thus it cannot be sold or prescribed in the United States. Fees was responsible for managing Etizy.com, and the indictment alleges that Kulakevich and Fees conspired to launder the proceeds of Etizolam sales. Jacob and Ryan Bassett both played a role in the operation of Etizy.com and the illegal sale of Etizolam to customers throughout the United States.
According to the indictment, Etizolam is a drug known as a thienodiazepine, a class of drugs chemically related to benzodiazepines, which produce central nervous system depression. Physicians may prescribe FDA-approved benzodiazepines to treat insomnia and anxiety, but benzodiazepines and thienodiazepines also carry risks of dependency, toxicity, and even fatal overdose, particularly when combined with other central nervous system depressants.
While prescription drugs containing Etizolam have been approved in some countries outside of the United States, such as India, Ireland, and Japan, the FDA has not approved any drugs containing Etizolam in the United States. Accordingly, Etizolam cannot be legally imported, distributed, or prescribed in the United States for use as a drug.
For Kulakevich and Fees, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty years in prison, as well as a fine of not more than $500,000.00, or twice the value of the laundered funds, whichever is greater. For Jacob and Ryan Bassett, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,00.00, 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 defendants.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pennsylvania State Police, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Floridian Charged with Cocaine PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lauderhill, Florida, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Racoco Williams, age 35, of Lauderhill, Florida.
According to the indictment, on August 29, 2017, Williams possessed with intent to deliver 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. The earlier filed criminal complaint alleged that Williams was staying at a room at the Extended Stay Hotel in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. A federal search warrant of his room revealed 17 kilograms of cocaine and more than $192,000 in cash.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000 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.
Williams is currently detained and has been ordered to be held without bond pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Jury Finds New Jersey Man Guilty in Heroin Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former New Jersey resident has been convicted in federal court for one count of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Aldwin Vega, age 42, formerly of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was convicted yesterday by a federal jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Jury selection began on September 5, 2017, and Senior Judge Reggie B. Walton of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia presided over the trial.
For the crime of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10 million, 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 Attorneys Conor Lamb and Shanicka Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution, conviction and sentencing of Aldwin Vega.
Bedford Man Pleads Guilty in Controlled Substances Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Bedford, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiracy to distribute possess with intent to distribute and distribution of quantities of Tramadol, Zolpidem, Clonazepam, Lorazepam, and Carisoprodol, all of which are Schedule IV controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Damaris Rispoli, age 56, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from in and around Aug. 2014, to on or about May 20, 2015, Rispoli conspired with another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of Tramadol, Zolpidem, Clonazepam, Lorazepam, and Carisoprodol, and on or about May 20, 2015, Rispoli possessed with intent to distribute Carisoprodol, and distributed quantities of Tramadol, Zolpidem, Clonazepam, and Lorazepam.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 6, 2018, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rispoli.
McKean-FCI Inmate Admits Assault on Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A federal prisoner at McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of assaulting a federal officer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Rogelio Muniz-Valdez, 41, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 15, 2017, Muniz-Valdez assaulted a federal officer who was engaged in his official duties.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 8, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 8 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Office of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Muniz-Valdez.
Erie Man Sentenced to 13 years in Jail for Sex Trafficking Two Minor VictimsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 13 years in jail and 10 years of supervised release on his conviction for sex trafficking of a child and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Devonte Lamonte Lucas, 22.
According to the information presented to the court, from March 2015 to October 2015, Lucas and a co-defendant knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, advertised and maintained two minor victims who engaged in commercial sex acts at the behest of Lucas and his co-defendant. Lucas’ illegal activity was ultimately stopped when members of the Millcreek Police Department observed Lucas transport a minor female to a Millcreek motel. The Millcreek officers, acting in an undercover capacity, had set up a meeting at the motel with one of the victims via an Internet advertisement that had been placed by Lucas’ co-defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Millcreek Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lucas.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Possessing and Distributing Sexual Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of Distribution, and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on August 29, named James Clay Russell, 59, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on February 20, 2017 and March 23, 2017, Russell knowingly distributed an image containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. The indictment further alleges that on June 9, 2017, Russell possessed images and 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.
Russell was detained pending trial.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for each count of distribution of child pornography, a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for possession of child pornography, a maximum term of supervised release of life, and a fine of $750,000.00. 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 Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and Immigration and Customs Enforcement/ Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
4 Defendants Sentenced to Prison for Refusing to Testify during Heroin TrialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Newark, New Jersey and three residents of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, each have been sentenced in federal court to nine months of incarceration and three years of supervised release on their convictions for Contempt of Court, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton imposed the sentence on Khayri Battle, 36, of Newark, New Jersey, Shane Brooks, 30, Victoria Morgan, 32, and Bobby Rodgers, 48, all of Duquesne, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers refused to testify at the trial of Anthony Pryor and Lance Yarbough, for charges that included conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, despite a written order compelling them to testify pursuant to a grant of immunity from United States District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton. .
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway 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 Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers.
Cambria County Store Owner to Spend 18 Months in Prison for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 18 months in prison, and three years’ supervised release, on her conviction of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Tonia Vaughn, 41, of Portage, Pa.
Tonia Vaughn, along with her husband, Gary Vaughn, were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, that dealt in new and used merchandise. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. Tonia Vaughn and the store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customers” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.