Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Ohio Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Burglarizing Uniontown PharmacyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Columbus, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail, to be followed by three years of supervised release on his convictions for burglary of a pharmacy and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a Schedule IV controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Travis Russell Maynard, 38.
According to information presented to the court, on December 7, 2015, Maynard used a crowbar to break into Nickman’s Pharmacy in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and proceeded to steal over 3,000 Schedule IV pills from the Pharmacy.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Maynard.
Former New York Resident Pleads Guilty in Nearly $10 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH –A former resident of Wappingers Falls, New York, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Nicolas Frank Sucich, aka Francisco Javier Alavarez-Johnson, 48, of Cuidad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between November 2007 and February 2011, Sucich conspired with others to defraud Liberty Travel and Scotiabank through the purchase of millions of dollars in airline travel packages and point of sale transactions throughout the U.S. using an unauthorized Scotiabank Mastercard. According to the information presented to the court, Sucich and others accumulated nearly $10 million in debit card charges, principally in the purchase of discount travel packages he purchased for himself and others using a business name of FCO Travels, located in Veracruz, Mexico, where Sucich had been living as a fugitive since approximately 1996.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 5, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, and fine of $1,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Sucich is being held in custody pending his sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nicolas Frank Sucich.
Escaped Felon Headed Back to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pa. and the Hill District area of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of Escaping From Federal Custody, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Anthony Lee, aka Jamar Mitchell, age 37, pleaded guilty to the escape before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on October 23, 2016, Lee was serving the last portion of his sentence at a halfway house in Pittsburgh called the Renewal Center after being convicted in federal court of felony charges involving drugs and guns. Court records show that Lee had ultimately been sentenced to 120 months at that prior federal case after the term was reduced from a higher sentence. When Lee’s girlfriend came to visit him at the Renewal Center, she found him with another woman. An argument ensued and Lee punched the girlfriend in the face, knocking her to the ground. The defendant fled the scene with the other woman and was in escape status until arrested by the United States Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force on November 22, 2016, at the residence of the other woman. During the hearing, Lee’s attorney stated that he admitted the escape, but did not admit that he assaulted his former girlfriend.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for January 5, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. 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 charge and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
The court ordered that the defendant remain in federal custody pending his sentencing date.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crime Section is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshal Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the apprehension and prosecution of Lee.
Cambria County Man Admits He Possessed Pornographic Photos and Videos of ChildrenRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Northern Cambria, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Anthony P. Mason, Jr., 24, of Northern Cambria, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on April 19, 2016, Mason knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for December 12, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. 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 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 Mason.
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.
Sharpsburg Man Charged with Stealing his Dead Mother’s BenefitsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government money, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Kevin Roehlig, 56, of Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, between November 2003 and August 2016, Roehlig converted to his own use the Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits of his mother, Carolyn Roehlig, who died in and around October 2003, knowing he was not entitled to said benefits. The stolen funds totaled $124,514.00.
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 Charles A. Eberle 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.
Knoxville Man Charged with June Robbery of Mt. Washington BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal robbery laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Joseph Abbinanti, age 49 as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on June 29, 2017, Abbinanti robbed the PNC Bank, located at 236 Shiloh Street, Pittsburgh, PA, of $2,420.00.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s 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.
Guatemalan Deported Three Times Charged with Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Guatemala has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of reentry of removed alien, Acting States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Alex Grajea-Navarro, 26, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, the Grajea-Navarro, who was previously removed from the United States on August 13, 2010, September 23, 2011, and February 10, 2016, was found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 27, 2017, without having applied for or received permission to reenter the United States from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two years in prison, one year supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) 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.
Cincinnati Man Pleads Guilty to Using Counterfeit Checks at Gaming CasinosRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Cincinnati, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
James Brown, 59, of Cincinnati, OH, 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 2014 through February 2017, Brown and others negotiated counterfeit checks at gaming casinos along the east coast from Florida to New York, using false identification documents produced with the names of real persons to negotiate the counterfeit checks. Some of those checks were negotiated at the River’s Casino in Pittsburgh. Fraud losses total several hundred thousand dollars.
Judge Fischer scheduled the sentencing for December 21, 2017 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence for the bank fraud conspiracy is 30 years in prison, and a minimum sentence of 24 months incarceration for aggravated identity theft, and fines for both crimes totaling $1,250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Agents from Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of James Brown.
Businessman Pleads Guilty to Mortgage FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank and wire fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
James Nassida, 49, of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nassida owned operated a mortgage brokerage business called Century III Home Equity (Century III), which assisted borrowers in obtaining loans collateralized by real estate. At the time of the events at issue, which was between 2002 and 2008, Century III was one of the largest mortgage broker businesses in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and during the course of that timeframe brokered hundreds of millions of dollars worth of loans using more than a dozen different lenders. Many of those loans, however, involved one or more aspects.
Some of the aspects of the fraud included the following:
- Appraisals that fraudulently inflated the true value of the properties;
- Settlement statements that falsely reflected that the borrowers made substantial payments associated with the purchases of real estate;
- Settlement statements that failed to disclose secondary financing;
- Settlement statements that failed to include cash payments charged by Century III and paid by the borrowers;
- Settlement statements and closing documents that were backdated to reflect that the settlements had occurred on a date prior to the actual settlement date; and
- Various loan documents, including loan approval forms, good faith estimates, and underwriting transmittal forms, that failed to disclose secondary financing and falsely represented the combined loan-to-value ratio.
The fraud also involved misrepresentations to some of the borrowers to induce them to enter into the transactions, including concealing the fees Century III received from lenders for the borrowers’ transactions and the impact of those fees on the borrowers’ interest rates; and concealing the nature of the mortgage products, including that some of the mortgage products could negatively amortize. Lastly, the fraud also involved James Nassida’s receipt of kickbacks from the settlement company that he failed to disclose to the borrowers and lenders, as required.
James Nassida submitted multiple fraudulent documents associated with loans in which he served as a loan officer. In addition, loan officers working under his direction regularly submitted false information to lenders and borrowers. Nassida also caused the submission of fake documents to the lender in connection with his purchase of a $300,000 vacation home near Seven Springs, including the following: (1) a settlement statement that overstated the sales price; (2) a loan application that falsely stated his income and assets; and (3) fake statements from an investment company that falsely verified that he had more than $600,000 in investment when he really had about $15,000. In the loan application, James Nassida reported that he earned approximately $980,000 in 2006, but he did not even file his tax returns in 2006, and his reported taxable income in 2004 and 2005 was not even close to that figure.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for January 10, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Cindy Chung are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Mortgage Fraud Task Force, in conjunction with the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nassida. The Mortgage Fraud Task Force is comprised of investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and others involved in the mortgage industry. Federal law enforcement agencies participating in the Mortgage Task Force include the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the United States Secret Service. Other Mortgage Fraud Task Force members include the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office; the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection; the Pennsylvania Department of Banking; the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation; and the United States Trustee's Office. The primary investigators from this case were from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service.
Georgia Man Sentenced for Defrauding Banks and Credit UnionsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Alpharetta, Georgia, has been sentenced in federal court to serve one day in the custody of the United States Marshal, six months in a Community Confinement Center and six months in home detention while serving three years of supervised release on his conviction of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Willie Hugh Joy, 47, of Alpharetta, Georgia.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2009, to in and around January 2013, Joy and his co-defendants engaged in a fraudulent loan program in which a hierarchy of brokers, managers, processors and straw borrowers falsified bank loan documents and supporting documentation in order to obtain various auto and consumer loans and lines of credit from banks and credit unions. Mr. Joy was also ordered to pay restitution jointly with his co-defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Joy.
Erie Woman Admits Dealing FentanylRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Tiesha Lasha Henderson, 30, 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, Henderson possessed with intent to distribute 67.27 grams of fentanyl. The fentanyl was discovered when members of the Erie County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Henderson’s residence in Erie, Pennsylvania. According to information provided to the court, Henderson attempted to flush the fentanyl down the toilet before officers executed the warrant. The fentanyl was packaged in three baggies, one of which had been diluted or “cut” for redistribution to other individuals in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 11, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years to a maximum sentence of 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 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 Erie County Detective Bureau, the Erie Police Department, the Millcreek Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Henderson.
Erie Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served of 20 months in prison 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 Adam John Carlson, 34.
According to information presented to the court, Carlson possessed a firearm and numerous rounds of ammunition which he was precluded from possessing because of an active protection from abuse order.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Erie Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carlson.
Erie Felon Gets Prison Time for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 32 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 Kevin Dimitri Tate, 24.
According to information presented to the court, Tate unlawfully possessed a .380 ACP firearm while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force, Erie Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tate.
Costa Rican Defendant Appears in Federal Court to Face Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Costa Rica made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh this afternoon to face multiple charges involving conspiracy to import prescription drugs from India for distribution, without prescriptions, to consumers throughout the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on October 13, 2015, charged Costa Rican Ramiro Navarro Quesada, 42, with three counts of mail fraud and one count each of conspiracy to misbrand and smuggle Schedule II and Schedule IV and erectile dysfunction drugs and money laundering. Quesada was arrested in Madrid, Spain, earlier this year. He was extradited to the United States yesterday.
According to the indictment, 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 by co-defendants Sylvia and Miguel Cruz. The latter two then mailed the drugs to U.S. consumers who had ordered them through the Costa Rican website. The consumers were falsely led to believe that the drugs were “FDA approved,” that the counterfeit drugs were genuine Adderall and Viagra, and that it was legitimate to distribute such drugs without prescriptions.
"Ordering prescription drugs online from illegal websites can lead to dangerous consequences for U.S. consumers. Such websites, while they may look professional and legitimate, often sell drugs that have not been checked for safety or effectiveness," said Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations' Metro Washington Field Office. "We will continue to pursue and bring to justice criminals who operate outside of FDA's oversight and place the public's health at risk."
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison on each of the mail fraud and money laundering counts, and 5 years on the conspiracy count; as well as a $250,000 fine on each count except money laundering, which carries a potential fine of $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul 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 leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Heroin Dealer to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH– Cody Duncan was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute at least 1 kilogram of heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Duncan, age 26, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that Duncan serve five years of supervised release after he is released from prison. Duncan’s sentencing guideline range for the heroin trafficking conviction was increased as a result of 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.
27 Southwestern Pennsylvania Residents Indicted for Trafficking Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twenty-seven southwestern Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of narcotics trafficking and other controlled substances offenses, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The indictments were returned on Tuesday, August 22, and unsealed today.
These 27 defendants are charged in two separate, but related, indictments, one of which (“the Skyler Carter Indictment”) contains four counts and names:
- Skyler Carter, 36, of Clairton, PA;
- Dawndre Bivins, 30, of North Versailles, PA;
- Jojuan Bray, 21, of Clairton, PA;
- Courtney Carter, 39, of Clairton, PA;
- Jalea Carter, 25, of Clairton, PA;
- Bernard Dawkins, 60, of Clairton, PA;
- Jammie Fridley, 48, of West Mifflin, PA;
- Malcolm Howard, 25, of Clairton, PA;
- Jean Hull, 52, of Clairton, PA;
- Kevin Jackson, 34, of Clairton, PA;
- Samuel Lopresti, 55, of Clairton, PA;
- Cameron Ranson, 42, of Clairton, PA;
- Eugene Reddick, 35, of Dunlevy, PA;
- Paul Sedor, 36, of Elizabeth, PA;
- Katie Spratt, 31, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Erika Turner, 30, of Clairton, PA;
- Terrence Wade, 47, of Clairton, PA.
The second indictment (“the Corey Jackson Indictment”) contains three counts and names:- Corey Jackson, 31, of Clairton, PA;
- Alex Brown, 39, of Clairton, PA;
- John H. Jenkins, Jr., 48, of Finleyville, PA;
- Quintin Napper, 30, of Clairton, PA;
- Tywan Napper, 33, of Clairton, PA;
- Colleen Paff, 47, of Finleyville, PA;
- William Paff, 52, of Finleyville, PA;
- Herbert Ranson, 30, of Clairton, PA;
- David Stevenson, Jr., 32, of Clairton, PA;
- Samuel Terrant, 49, of Finleyville, PA.
According to the indictments presented to the court, the above-named defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin and various other controlled substances. The Skyler Carter Indictment alleges that he and the other defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine between March and August of 2017. The Corey Jackson Indictment alleges that he and the other defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine between January and August of 2017. The quantity of crack cocaine attributed to Skyler Carter, Corey Jackson, and David Stevenson, Jr. is 28 grams or more. In addition, in the Skyler Carter Indictment, Courtney and Jalea Carter are each charged with using or maintaining a drug involved premises between March and June 2017. In the Corey Jackson Indictment, Alex Brown, Jr. is charged with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of butyryl fentanyl (a fentanyl analog that is temporarily controlled under Schedule I) and fentanyl (a Schedule II controlled substance) on February 23, 2017. Tywan Napper is charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin on February 28, 2017.For Skyler Carter, Corey Jackson, and David Stevenson, Jr., 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 million, or both. For the remaining defendants in both indictments, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $1 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, 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.
Two Alleged Heroin and Fentanyl Dealers IndictedRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two former residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on August 22, named David Anthony Somerville, aka Charles Payne, aka Midnite, age 29, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Natel Deque Walker, aka Natel Harper, aka Davone Scott, age 30, of Pittsburgh, PA, as the defendants.
According to the indictment, from September 11, 2015 to January 9, 2016, Somerville and Walker conspired with each other and others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. The indictment further alleges that on January 9, 2016, Somerville and Walker possessed with intent to distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, 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 offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crimes Section is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Robinson 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.
Mercer County Woman Charged with Producing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of producing and distributing images of the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Mary B. Jacobs, 25, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Jacobs, from February 27, 2017, through February 28, 2017, produced and distributed still images depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 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 United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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.
McKeesport Man Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and HeroinRead 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 drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 22, named Michael Henry, 35, of McKeesport, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from in and around September 2016, and continuing thereafter until in and around July 2017, Henry conspired with others to distribute quantities of fentanyl and heroin.
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 Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is part of a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Career Offender Sentenced to over 15 Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – On Monday, August 21, 2017, a resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 188 months (15 years, 8 months) incarceration and four years supervised release on his conviction of violating the federal narcotic laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Edward Hicks, age 31.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around October 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around November 2012, Hicks and others conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute twenty-eight grams or more of crack cocaine. In addition, on November 6, 2012, and again on November 15, 2012, Hicks sold multiple ounces of crack cocaine to a confidential informant who was working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hicks has a prior state court felony drug-trafficking conviction, as well as a prior state court robbery conviction. As a result, he was classified as a “career offender” and subject to a much higher sentencing guidelines range.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Ambrose rejected Hicks’ request for a downward departure and/or a variance from the career offender sentencing guidelines range, specifically noting that Hicks had served 8 years in jail for his prior convictions, and yet quickly returned to criminal conduct following his release from incarceration. Hicks was on state parole when he committed this federal offense.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Homestead Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hicks.
Northern Cambria Man Sentenced for Converting Social Security Benefits to His Own UseRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Northern Cambria, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, 225 hours of community service and a fine of $3,000, on his conviction of conversion of government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Bernard M. Dospoy, 67, of Northern Cambria, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, from in or around June 2005, to in or around October 2015, Dospoy did receive and convert falsely to his own use, a total of $207,592, which represents 176 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to him to which he was not entitled. He also agreed to pay restitution of $207,592 pursuant to a related Civil Settlement Agreement entered into by him and the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government and Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin J. Callahan litigated the case on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Ms. Song commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Dospoy.
New York Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Use Fake Credit Cards to Buy Gift CardsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Jamaica, NY, has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months imprisonment with credit for time served on any federal detainer, to be served consecutively to the sentence imposed by the Albany County Criminal Court at Case No. 16-21078; three years Supervised Release, and restitution in the amount of $28,106.27 on his conviction of conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ronald Heggs, 27, of Jamaica, NY.
According to the information presented to the court, in April, 2015, Heggs and his co-conspirator used counterfeit credit cards which they used to purchase gift cards at K-Mart stores in Western Pennsylvania in April, 2015.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the U.S. Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ronald Heggs.
Bradford Man Charged with Receipt, Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bradford, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Daniel Thomas Sutton, 29, of Bradford, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Sutton received and possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 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 United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Woman Admits Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has pled guilty to the charge of theft of government money, stemming from her receipt and use of social security benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, to which she pled guilty before United States District Court Judge David Cercone on August 9, 2017, named Rosemary Thomas, 64, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment and the evidence summarized during the plea proceeding, from January 2001 to February 2014, Thomas converted to her own use $98,949 in Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits of another individual to whom she was not related, to which benefits she knew she 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.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment and guilty plea in this case.
New Castle Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of sex trafficking of a child, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ronald Kyle Hartman, 28, 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, Hartman knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained by any means, in and affecting interstate commerce, a female minor under the age of 18 years, and did benefit financially or by receiving anything of value from participation in a venture engaged in commercial sexual acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact, and having had a reasonable opportunity to observe Minor A, that Minor A had not attained the age of 18 years and that Minor A would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak scheduled sentencing for December 7, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life, 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 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 Hartman.
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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Melvin Russaw, age 35.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 6, 2017, Russaw illegally possessed a firearm. Russaw has previously been convicted of a felony and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to ten (10) years in prison, a fine of up to $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.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Georgia Man Admits Illegally Possessing a Gun and Ammo at Beaver County Movie TheaterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Covington, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
William D. Gossett, 22, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 23, 2016, William D. Gossett, a convicted felon, was in possession of a Phoenix Arms, .25 caliber, semi-automatic handgun, that had been reported stolen from Columbiana, Ohio, and ammunition. On July 23, 2016, officers from the Center Township Police Department were called to the Cinemark Theater where their attention was drawn to a young male wearing full length and full sleeved army fatigues and carrying a large backpack. It was approximately 94 degrees outside that day. The young man had been wandering around the theater for about two hours. As officers began to approach him, he quickly ducked into the restroom. An officer was able to make contact with him there, and to obtain consent to search his backpack. The male, who identified himself as William Glanton, but was later identified by Law Enforcement as William Gossett, had a ticket for the movie, “The Purge”, which was to begin in 20 minutes. The officer pulled out all of the items in the backpack and located the following: a firearm, a box of .25 caliber ammunition, four knives, a painter’s respirator mask, multiple handkerchiefs, two first-aid kits, paracord rope, gloves, black spray paint, multiple small rations of food, and a few articles of clothing. Gossett stated that he found the box of ammunition “on the road” and that he received the firearm from his uncle four weeks prior. Gosseet has a prior felony conviction for Identity Theft Fraud. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for December 14, 2017 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Center Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William D. Gossett.
Four Charged in Fentanyl Analogue Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three residents of Pittsburgh, Pa., and one resident of Mercer County, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count indictment named Lynell Guyton, age 27, of Pittsburgh; Calvin Armstrong, age 31, of Pittsburgh; Anthony Lozito, age 38, of Pittsburgh; and Kristen Shearer, age 22, of Mercer County.
According to the indictment, Guyton, Armstrong, Lozito and Shearer conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of an analogue of fentanyl, from August 8, 2017 to August 9, 2017, and possessed with intent to distribute the same. According to a criminal complaint filed prior to the indictment, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant at 7 Bond Street in Pittsburgh’s West End. Upon arrival, Pittsburgh SWAT made entry into the home and observed Anthony Lozito attempting to exit the residence through a back window. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne.
In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the “Ferrari” stamp and the “Louis Vuitton” stamp.
In addition, the indictment charges that Guyton possessed with intent to distribute a fentanyl analogue on July 20, 2017, and that he attempted to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue on June 1, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. All four individuals are currently detained pending resolution of these charges.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, 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.
Convenience Store, Owner Resolve Charges Relating to Food Stamp Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has entered a plea of guilty to charges of food stamp fraud and theft or conversion of government funds, and in the process causing a loss to the federal food stamp program of $85,000, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. In the course of the proceeding Imran also indicated that he had entered into a civil settlement agreement with the United States and had agreed to make restitution of $85,000.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone presided over the plea proceeding involving Atif Imran, 41, of Monroeville, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, Imran was the owner and operator of A to Z Convenience Store, Inc., a gas station and convenience store located on West Street in Homestead. A to Z participated in the United States Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as the Food Stamp Program. Food stamp recipients could purchase eligible food items at A to Z using food stamp benefit cards. The defendant was aware that Food Stamp Program rules prohibited the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, Mr. Imran and employees of his exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving his customers only 50 cents on the dollar for food stamp benefits. A typical exchange would involve the customer purchasing a bottled drink and a snack food item and then providing $100 in food stamp benefits for which he would receive $50 cash.
Assistant United States Attorney Colin Callahan litigated the case on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney's Office.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Imran.
Seattle Woman Indicted for Distributing Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Seattle, Washington, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution of quantities of 4-ANPP and furanyl fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on August 1 and unsealed today, named Christina M. Arias, aka Wasabisauced, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about April 5, 2017, Arias distributed a quantity of 4-ANPP. The indictment also states that, on or about April 24, 2017, on or about May 15, 2017, on or about June 7, 2017, and on or about June 15, 2017, she distributed quantities of furanyl fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 100 years in prison, a fine up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Substantial assistance was provided by the United States Attorney’s Offices in the Western District of Washington.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, Bellevue Police Department in Washington State, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and 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.
Pittsburgh Psychiatrist Sentenced to Prison for Health Care Fraud, Illegally Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH- A Squirrel Hill psychiatrist has been sentenced in federal court to a year and a day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release including 12 months of community confinement, six months of home detention and 500 hours of community service, and was ordered to pay $13,000 in restitution, on charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Dr. Kenneth M. Stanko, 68, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, Stanko, a medical doctor, illegally distributed a controlled substance, Oxycodone, for cash. Further, Stanko submitted false claims to be submitted to UPMC Health Plan and AETNA for prescriptions which were outside the usual course of practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stanko.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Passing Fake $100 Bills at North Hills Target StoreRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of passing and uttering counterfeit money, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The eight-count indictment, returned on August 8 and unsealed today, named Peter A. Maiolo, Jr., 42, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, on or about July 6, 2015, July 10, 2015, August 2, 2015, August 18, 2015, August 22, 2015, August 25, 2015, August 30, 2015, and September 7, 2015, Maiolo passed counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes at the Mt. Nebo Target store in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 160 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Erie Men and a Car Dealership Charged in Scheme to Defraud Auto Loan ProvidersRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A business located in Erie, Pennsylvania and three residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The thirteen-count superseding indictment named Rick Weaver Buick GMC, Inc., of Erie, Pennsylvania; Adam James Weaver, 41, of Fairview, Pennsylvania; Douglas Alan Grooms, 46, of Edinboro, Pennsylvania; and Adam Brayton Coover, 35, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as defendants.
According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, from in and around May 2015, to in and around March 2016, Coover, Grooms and Weaver 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.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 340 years in prison, a fine of $8,500,000, or both for each defendant. 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 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 leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted for Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, 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, returned on August 8, named Laquan Sims, age 38, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, on May 1, 2017, Sims possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a total combined sentence of not less than 10 years in prison up to a maximum of life in prison and a fine of not more than $8,500,000. 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 Timothy M. Lanni 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.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Nicky Evans, age 37, of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on July 23, 2017, Evans illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition. Evans has previously been convicted of three felonies and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to ten (10) years in prison, a fine of up to $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.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of Saga Restaurants Sentenced for Harboring Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of harboring illegal aliens, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The court imposed a term of imprisonment of one day, a term of supervised release of three years, with 24 weeks of intermittent confinement and home detention, followed by an additional three months of home confinement and a fine of $30,000. During the period of intermittent confinement, the defendant shall serve two days a week at a jail or a community confinement center designated by the Bureau of Prisons.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Xing Zheng Lin, aka Steve Lin, age 44, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2009, until on or about January 10, 2014, Lin harbored illegal aliens who were employed at Saga Restaurant in Monroeville, Robinson, and Bethel Park, all of which were owned by Lin.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lin.
Coraopolis Man Charged with Distributing Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 8 and unsealed today, named Cleo Maurice Bronaugh, 40, of Coraopolis, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on March 5, 2017, Bronaugh possessed with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl that caused the serious bodily injury and death of a person who used that fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Coraopolis 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 Indicted on Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, 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 three-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Lamont Willis, age 45, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about March 8, 2017, Willis possessed with the intent to distribute quantities of cocaine and cocaine base, commonly known as crack, Schedule II controlled substances. Further, on that same date, Willis possessed a Smith & Wesson .357 caliber revolver, a Harrington & Richardson .22 caliber revolver, a Remington .22 caliber rifle, a .308 caliber Mauser rifle, and numerous rounds of ammunition in furtherance of said drug trafficking crime. It is unlawful for Willis, who has previously been convicted of a felony offense, to possess 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 not to exceed $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 of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and North Strabane Township Police Department, 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.
Mount Oliver Man Charged with Three Pittsburgh-area RobberiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBUGRH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal robbery laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on August 8, named David Payo, age 52, of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on May 27, 2017, David Payo robbed the PNC Bank, located at 420 W. Waterfront Drive, in Homestead, PA 15120, of $3,460.00. On June 3, 2017, Payo robbed the Eat N Park, located at 3987 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA, of $5,396.83. On June 8, 2017, Payo robbed the Citizens Bank, located at 4010 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146, of $1,890.
Payo faces a total maximum sentence of not more than 60 years in prison, a fine of not more than $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Monroeville 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.
Four Pittsburgh Residents Face Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Four Pittsburgh-area residents have been arrested and charged in federal court with violating conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The criminal complaint charges Lynell Guyton, 27, Calvin Armstrong, 31, Anthony Lozito, 38, and Kristen Shearer, 21, with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance on or about August 9, 2017.
“Fentanyl exposure is an all too real risk to law enforcement as we learned this morning,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “During the search of the Bond Street residence pursuant to the search warrant, a table where the drugs were being bagged was overturned causing the suspected fentanyl to become airborne. Several SWAT operators experienced dizziness and numbness. In all, 18 officers were transported to UPMC-Mercy for evaluation before being medically cleared. Quick and professional action by first responders helped avert a potential catastrophe.”
According to the complaint, on August 9, 2017, at 6 a.m., U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant in Pittsburgh’s West End. Upon arrival, Pittsburgh SWAT made entry into the home and observed Anthony Lozito attempting to exit the residence through a back window. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne.
In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the “Ferrari” stamp and the “Louis Vuitton” stamp. On August 2, 2017, Pittsburgh Police arrested and charged Lynell Guyton locally for possession of both Louis Vuitton and Ferrari stamp bags. Guyton was also charged via criminal complaint on August 8 with attempting to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams of more a detectable amount of an analogue of fentanyl on or about June 1, 2017. In that instance Guyton attempted to receive a package shipped from Hong Kong containing approximately 100 grams of two fentanyl analogues.
The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court in Pittsburgh on Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cynthia R. Eddy. The government is seeking detention of the defendants.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachel L. Dizard is prosecuting this case. U.S. ICE/HSI, with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the complaint against these individuals.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.
Warren County Man Indicted for Possessing, Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Grand Valley, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment named Thomas John Cox, 59, of Grand Valley, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Cox received and possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 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 United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Verona Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug LawsRead 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 drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Terence Starr, 44, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about July 12, 2017, Starr possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.
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 Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Operation NightStalker is a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Woman Charged with Dealing FentanylRead 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 drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Brandi Law, 33, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about July 12, 2017, Law possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.
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 Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Operation NightStalker is a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing MarijuanaRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Edward R. Harris, 42.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on January 9, 2017, Harris possessed a quantity of marijuana.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Harris.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Bank Officer Pleads Guilty to Embezzling from His EmployerRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Butler, 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.
Keith A. Simpson, 60, of Butler, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count of embezzling from a federally insured bank before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from around April 2014 until around April 2016, while serving as Chief Accounting Officer of West View Savings Bank, Simpson embezzled approximately $41,806.90 from his employer.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for December 6, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys David Lew and Lee J. Karl are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Simpson.
Altoona Man Facing Child Pornography Distribution and Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pa. was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of distribution and possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The superseding indictment named Kenneth Scott Boyd, 34, of Altoona, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, on June 2, 2016, Boyd distributed material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and on June 17, 2016, he knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 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 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 and Altoona Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding 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 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.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Bethel Park Pharmacy BurglaryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Columbus, Ohio has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions for burglary of a pharmacy and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on William Dishman, 35.
According to information presented to the court, on September 4, 2015, Foughty used a crowbar to break into the Spartan Pharmacy in Bethel Park, Pa., and proceeded to steal over 6,000 Schedule II pills from the pharmacy.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bethel Park Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dishman.
Florida Man Charged with Distributing Fentanyl, Carfentanil, Meth and EcstacyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Florida resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of carfentanil, and distribution of quantities of methamphetamine, carfentanil, and ecstasy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned on August 1 and unsealed Friday, named Robert M. Gilner, a/k/a Gman19635, 30, of St. Petersburg, FL, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Gilner conspired with others, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of carfentanil. Additionally, the indictment charges that, on March 10, 2017, he distributed a quantity of methamphetamine and, on March 22, 2017, he distributed a quantity of carfentanil and a quantity of ecstasy.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $13,000,000, 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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, 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.
Four Plead Guilty to Contempt of Court for Refusing to Testify at TrialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Three residents of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and a resident of New Jersey pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of criminal contempt of court, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Khayri Battle, 36, of Newark, New Jersey, Shane Brooks, 30, Victoria Morgan, 32, and Bobby Rodgers, 48, all of Duquesne, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count each before United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencings for all four of the defendants for September 8, 2017. The law provides for an indeterminate prison sentence, an indeterminate fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecutions of Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers.
State Parolee Sentenced for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Demetrius Brown was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin while on state parole following prior convictions for trafficking crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Brown, age 29, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that the prison sentence be served consecutively to any state parole revocation sentence. Judge Fischer also ordered that Brown 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 Police Department 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.