Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Philadelphia Woman Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., was sentenced to 24 months in prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine as part of a group that operated in several locations throughout the country, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Brenda Mendez, 37, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Mendez to serve four years of supervised release following her prison sentence.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks 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.
Darby Man Charged for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Darby, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for the distribution of furanyl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 4-count indictment named Henry Koffie, a/k/a NarcoBoss, 32, of Darby, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment and associated criminal complaint, Koffie used the name NarcoBoss on the Dark Net marketplace AlphaBay to sell fentanyl products. Additionally, the indictment charges that on or about March 27, 2017; April 7, 2017; April 24, 2017, and May 15, 2017, Koffie distributed a quantity of furanyl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance to an address in the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 80 years in prison, 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 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 District of Oregon and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, 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.
South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Stalking ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clover, South Carolina pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate stalking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Nathaniel Earl Dunlap, 29, of Clover, South Carolina pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Dunlap placed false and fraudulent food delivery orders online, using the identity of other individuals, whereby placing the victim under substantial emotional distress.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the 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 United States Secret Service and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dunlap.
Grand Jury Returns Indictment Charging Two with Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – One Beaver County resident and one Allegheny County resident have each been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictments, returned on July 25, named Nathanael Nyamekye, 34, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, and Ismail Shitu, 35, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants.
According to the indictments, on or about June 29, 2016, Shitu caused Citizens Bank to reissue a $48,000 official bank check which Nyamekye deposited into his Huntington Bank account, both knowing that the funds were derived from a criminal offense, when in fact the funds were derived from a wire fraud scheme.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pittsburgh Field Office and Baltimore Cyber Task Force, with the assistance U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Chippewa Police and Aliquippa Police, conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Venezuelan Sentenced to 16 Months of Time Served following Guilty Plea to Participating in UPMC Employee Data HackRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Venezuela pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to time served for conspiring to defraud the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Maritza Maxima Soler Nodarse pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2014, Soler Nodarse conspired with others to file approximately 935 false form 1040 tax returns using identities belonging to hundreds of UMPC employees whose personal information was stolen in an intrusion into UPMC’s database in Pittsburgh in 2014. Nodarse and others obtained illegal tax refunds in the form of Amazon.com gift cards which they used to purchase hundreds of thousands of dollars of electronic merchandise at Amazon.com and have shipped to locations in Venezuela where Nodarse and others lived. Approximately $156,000 in merchandise was ordered by and shipped to Nodarse. Nodarse was arrested in Colombia in March, 2015, and then extradited to the U.S. to face criminal charges in November, 2016.
According to the terms of her plea, Judge Hornak sentenced Soler-Nodarse to a “time served” sentence, which represented approximately 16 months incarceration. She also agreed to be immediately deported back to Venezuela.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Maritz Maxima Soler Nodarse.
Monongahela Man Sentenced to Prison for Fraud, Forging Federal Judge’s SignatureRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Washington County resident convicted at trial in February on charges of mail fraud and forging a Federal Judicial Order has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison, followed by a term of three years of supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Steven P. Grados, 51, of Monongahela, Pa. Grados was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $300 and a fine of $7,500.
According to information presented at trial, Grados created, and twice mailed to the PA State Employees Retirement System (“PA SERS”), the state agency that administers pensions for State Employees, a fraudulent Court Order directing PA SERS to stop paying Grados’s ex-wife a portion of Defendant Grados’s pension. In creating the fraudulent Court Order, Grados forged the signature of the late Gary L. Lancaster, a United States District Court Judge for the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Judge Gibson also made a finding at sentencing that Grados had lied under oath at trial when he denied ever receiving or possessing a genuine order of court that had been entered by Judge Lancaster dismissing a civil suit that Grados had filed.
Assistant United States Attorneys Colin J. Callahan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grados.
Federal Jury Finds Knoxville Felon Guilty of Illegally Possessing a Loaded GunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for two hours on Tuesday, July 20 and for less than one hour on Friday, July 21, a federal jury of seven men and five women found Andrew M. Jones guilty of one count of a federal firearms violation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Jones, age 39, was tried before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Katherine A. King, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that, on January 31, 2016, Jones, a convicted felon, knowingly possessed a loaded firearm.
Chief Judge Conti will issue a written order scheduling a dare for sentencing. 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 is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, 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 that led to the prosecution of Andrew M. Jones.
19 Charged with Federal Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Nineteen Western Pennsylvania residents have been charged with violations of the federal narcotics laws in three separate, but related, indictments returned on July 11, 2017 and unsealed today, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced.
“Through this prosecution, we are identifying and holding accountable individuals responsible for distributing fentanyl and carfentanil, two particularly deadly controlled substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “These dangerous, powerful narcotics are being mixed with heroin to increase potency and profit, often with deadly consequences.”
“These arrests were the result of a year-long investigation conducted by the FBI's Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force targeting a large-scale drug trafficking organization with roots in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson of the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office. “Federal penalties for drug trafficking are severe, and the FBI will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to stop the flow illegal drugs and to dismantle the violent criminal enterprises that facilitate the flow, as we have done here today. We are extremely grateful to our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly with us throughout this investigation and who are equally committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
An eight-count indictment named:
- Shawn Hendrix, 41, of Cranberry Township, PA;
- Nikia Perkins, 42, of Monaca, PA;
- Adrian Jordan, 27, of Braddock, PA;
- Leroy George, 48, of Johnstown, PA;
- Khalifa Cochran, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Lawrence Devenshire, 49, of Aliquippa, PA;
- Thomas Hannon, 35, of Aliquippa, PA;
- Rance Vaughn, 21, of Beaver Falls, PA;
- Aleece Bowser, 31, of Monaca, PA;
- Ashley Miller, 32, of Aliquippa, PA;
- Carlisha Williams, 27, of Aliquippa, PA; and,
- Sheila Alford, 60, of Aliquippa, PA.
According to the Indictment, from in and around September 2016, continuing until in and around July 2017, the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of heroin. In addition, on various dates during the course of the conspiracy, defendants Shawn Hendrix, Nikia Perkins, Adrian Jordan, Khalifa Cochran, Aleece Bowser, Ashley Miller, Carlisha Williams, and Sheila Alford are charged with the crimes of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl or carfentanil, and/or attempts to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 and years up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
A three-count indictment named:
- Matthew Smith, 51, of Ambridge, PA;
- Che Turner, 38, of Aliquippa, PA;
- Timothy Protho, 41, of Monaca, PA;
- Eric Cansler, 46, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Rickee Dawkins, 50, of Aliquippa, PA; and
- Donte Williams, 44, of Aliquippa, PA.
According to the Indictment, from March 2017 to May 2017, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Smith, Turner, Protho, Cansler, and Dawkins conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. Smith is also charged with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base on May 3, 2017. Williams is charged with possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base on April 8, 2017.The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
A four-count indictment charged Ahmad Flannigan, 26, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, with violating federal controlled substances and firearms laws.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 2, 2017, Flannigan, a convicted felon, was in possession of firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The Indictment also charges Flannigan with possessing two of these firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Further, the Indictment charges that on or about June 2, 2017, Flannigan possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine.
For the controlled substances charges, federal 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. For the felon in possession charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting these cases 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.
Two Charged with Federal Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Two Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Jamiek Moore, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Jaimere Dehonney, 20, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, as defendants.
According to the indictment, on or about June 8, 2017, Moore and Dehonney conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Further, Moore is charged with possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and marijuana, both Schedule I controlled substances, on or about May 15, 2017. The indictment further charges Moore and Dehonney with possessing a firearm in furtherance of said drug trafficking crimes.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years to a maximum of 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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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.
Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Import Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Houston, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to import prescription drugs, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Manuel Martin Pena, 65, of Houston, Texas.
According to information presented to the court, in and around November 2013, to in and around January 2015, Pena conspired to misbrand, smuggle, and import drugs that were exported from India and received in the U.S. by Pena.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pena.
Postal Employee Charged with Opening Greeting CardsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of opening mail matter by postal service employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Andrew J. Dickey, 24, of Sewickley, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the information presented to the court, Dickey engaged in the rifling of first class letters and their valuable contents from the U.S. mails. Specifically, the indictment alleges that on or about October 23, 2015, Dickey, being an employee of the United States Postal Service, did detain, delay, and open three greeting card type letters (pink, blue and red colored envelopes), which had been entrusted to him and had come into his possession intended to be conveyed by mail.
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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Service-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.
Georgia Man Facing Fraud and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A Georgia resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Khambrel Coleman, 31, of Johns Creek, Georgia, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Coleman used and attempted to use counterfeit credit cards in in-person transactions at bank locations to obtain unauthorized cash advances on credit card accounts of other individuals. The Indictment additionally charges that, on or about January 10, 2017, Coleman unlawfully possessed and used the credit card number of another person to obtain an unauthorized cash advance at a Citizens Bank branch in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 42 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, 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 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.
Financial Secretary Charged with Embezzlement and Theft of Labor Union AssetsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny 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 on July 18, named Charles Hill, 51, of Avonmore, Pa., as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Charles Hill was the Financial Secretary of Glass Molders, Pottery, Plastics, and Allied Workers (GMP), AFL-CIO Local Union 46. The indictment alleges that from November 3, 2014, to May 10, 2016, Hill embezzled approximately $7,000.00 of union funds for his own use.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000.00, 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar 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 Charles Hill.
Braddock Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Braddock, 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 July 18, named Laron Hollaman, 25, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on May 6, 2017, Hollaman illegally possessed a firearm. Hollaman has previously been convicted of three felonies 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 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.
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 Robinson Township Police Department 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.
Penn Hills Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Erick Lamont Griffin, Jr., a/k/a Ericc Bucc, age 23, of Penn Hills, Pa, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge David Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Griffin was previously convicted of felony drug dealing charges on November 18, 2013. Although federal law prohibits persons with a conviction for a crime punishable by more than 1 year of incarceration from possessing firearm or ammunition, Griffin accompanied a purchaser of firearms to a gun dealer on four separate dates: March 24, 2016; June 4, 2016; June 11, 2016; and June 13, 2016. In a scenario law enforcement officers call a “straw-purchase” of firearms, Griffin took possession of the two 9 mm and two 40 caliber semiautomatic pistols the same day that they were purchased and kept them until they were recovered by police.
On July 13, 2016, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a federal search warrant at Griffin’s house and located items which included manufacturer’s boxes (complete with the serial numbers of the firearms), extra magazines for two of the pistols, a holster, ammunition, and indicia of residency for Mr. Griffin. Federal agents had previously located a picture of a Taurus pistol that Griffin illegally purchased just two weeks earlier when checking his Facebook page.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Friday, November 17, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of his crimes and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded Griffin to the custody of the United States Marshal Service noting that Griffin was on probation in Allegheny County at the time of his crimes.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crimes Section is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The ATF conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Griffin.
Agents Seize More Than $930,000.00 in Drug Distribution InvestigationRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - Five residents of Erie, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug and money laundering laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count superseding indictment named Adelfo Rodriguez-Mendez, 38, Geneva Gore, 48, John Edward Moyer, II, 35, Jason Edward Moyer, 32 and Guadalupe Cortez Beserra, 29, as defendants.
According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine. In addition, Rodriguez-Mendez, Gore and the Moyers possessed with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine. Rodriguez-Mendez and Beserra conspired to commit money laundering by transferring and delivering approximately $932,000.00 in U.S. currency representing the proceeds of the buying, selling and otherwise dealing in controlled substances. According to the superseding indictment, the approximately $932,610.00 in drug proceeds seized by the investigators is subject to forfeiture.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $3,500,000, or both for Rodriguez-Mendez; 80 years in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both for Gore; 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both for John Moyer and Jason Moyer; and 40 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both for Beserra. 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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Coshocton County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio Woman Charged with Providing Marijuana to Prison InmateRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Warren, Ohio has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of providing contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Malinda Penezich, 47, of Warren, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about November 27, 2016, Penezich provided a quantity of marijuana to an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution 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.
McKean-FCI Inmate Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A federal prisoner at McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of assaulting a federal officer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Rogelio Muniz-Valdez, 41, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Muniz-Valdez assaulted a federal officer who was engaged in his official duties.
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 would be 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 leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKean County Man Charged with Defrauding Housing Voucher ProgramRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Smethport, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Gary Herzog, 75, of Smethport, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Herzog represented himself to be property owner for a tenant in the Housing Choice Voucher program. He failed to inform the McKean County Redevelopment and Housing Authority that he transferred ownership of the property where the tenant was living back in 2007.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, 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.
Judge Sentences Butler County Man to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Minor BoysRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident convicted at trial in February on child exploitation charges has been sentenced in federal court to 30 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on James Mark Leroy, 55, of Renfrew, PA. Leroy was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $400, restitution of $25,000 and a fine of $125,000.
According to information presented at trial, Leroy, on two separate occasions, transported minor boys, aged 10 and 13, to Florida and Michigan with the intent to engage in illegal sexual conduct. During these trips, Leroy engaged in criminal sexual acts and plied the minor boys with alcohol and prescription pills. The government also presented evidence at trial and at sentencing that the defendant had historically sexually offended against two other victims when they were children between the age of 10 and 13.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab remarked that the defendant “must serve a significant custodial sentence for this most reprehensible pattern of criminal conduct.” He also found that a sentence of less than 360 months would create sentencing disparities among others charged with similar crimes.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song and Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. In court, Acting U.S. Attorney Song emphasized the aggravated nature of the defendant’s crimes referring to “the sinister drugging and incapacitation of children, overtly and surreptitiously by crushing up pills and putting them on the food of a 10-year-old child.” Attorney Song credited the child survivors of the defendant’s crimes, “This defendant underestimated the will and courage of these boys to speak out, to speak up and their determination to make sure that he did not offend against other children.”
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 Depart 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.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Butler County District Attorney’s Office and the Penn Township Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Leroy.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Janay Brown pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July of 2016, multiple individuals began overdosing on stamp bags marked “CEO.” A local law enforcement agency arrested an individual with some of these stamp bags and alerted the DEA. That person agreed to cooperate and identified Brown as the source of the heroin and fentanyl. The DEA investigation led to a search warrant which was issued for Brown’s residence. There, federal agents located Brown, over 100 “bricks” of heroin and fentanyl, firearms, ammunition, cellphones and a large amount of cash. Brown had a prior 2009 conviction for Forgery and a prior 2011 conviction for a drug offense. Each of these offenses precluded her from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for November 9, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brown with valuable assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police and other local police departments.
Georgia Man Transported Stolen Vehicle from Pennsylvania to West VirginiaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Stone Mountain, GA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Keon D. Butler, 34, of Stone Mountain, GA, 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, Butler transported a stolen Range Rover supercharged, valued at $93,000, from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania across state lines into the State of West Virginia.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2017. 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 Butler.
Clairton Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Two Southwestern Pennsylvania BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A former resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court, on July 7, 2017, to charges of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Raymond Zwibel pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge S. David Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 19, 2013, the First Commonwealth Bank in New Alexandria, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. On August 23, 2013, the Citizens Bank in Latrobe, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. On January 30, 2014, the First Commonwealth Bank in West Mifflin, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. Zwibel was identified by police from bank surveillance footage as the robber on January 30, 2014. After waiving Miranda, Zwibel confessed to committing the robberies on August 19, 2013 and January 30, 2014 and to using his girlfriend’s vehicles. Zwibel previously pleaded guilty to the January 30, 2014 bank robbery in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2017, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court returned Zwibel to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zwibel, with valuable assistance from many state and local police departments including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Latrobe Police Department and the West Mifflin Police Department.
Grand Jury Indicts Washington County Man for Distributing Heroin and 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 charges of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on June 28 and unsealed today, named Jerome “Bubba” Barnes, 32, of Washington, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office have worked intensively to disrupt large-scale fentanyl and heroin traffickers, like Bubba Barnes,” stated U.S. Attorney Song. “By deputizing a Washington County prosecutor to bring federal charges, we have added another dimension to our cooperative efforts to reduce overdose deaths.”
“This indictment and arrest demonstrates what law enforcement can do to eliminate the deadly poisons being sold in our communities,” said Washington County District Attorney Gene Vittone. “Law enforcement at all levels – municipal, county, state and federal - were involved in the investigation and apprehension of this defendant. Working together, we are better able to eliminate this deadly threat to families and neighbors.”
According to the indictment presented to the court, Barnes distributed and possessed with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and fentanyl between April and June of 2017.
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 of the defendant.
Yesterday, United States Magistrate Judge Robert C. Mitchell ordered the defendant to remain in federal custody, upon consideration, in part, of the June 6, 2017 Order of District Judge Nora B. Fischer detaining Barnes for allegedly violating his federal supervised release on his prior federal drug convictions.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta of the Washington County District Attorney’s Office 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.
Blawnox Man Gets 30-Year Prison Term for Producing, Possessing Child Exploitation VideosRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 years imprisonment for six counts of Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and one count of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, followed by a lifetime supervised release, and a $700.00 special assessment, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on George Orbin, 62, formerly of Blawnox, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the Court at trial, on or about December 10, 2011, April 8, 2013, June 10, 2013, and June 11, 2013, Orbin employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the sexual exploitation of the minors. Also, on or about August 11, 2012, and June 3, 2013, Orbin attempted to employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the sexual exploitation of the minors. In addition, on or about September 10, 2013, Orbin knowingly possessed videos and 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar and Heidi Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Orbin.
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.
Pittsburgh Man Admits Robbing 2 Western Pennsylvania PharmaciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit robbery of a pharmacy, robbery of a pharmacy, brandishment of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Stephan Edward Corrick, 66, pleaded guilty to six counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 11, 2016, Palmer's Pharmacy located in Russellton, (Allegheny County) Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals armed with firearms and wearing masks. The suspects stole approximately 10,000 dosage units of prescription drugs, including Oxycodone and Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of approximately $235,000. As a result of their comprehensive and extensive investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and West Deer Police Department developed a general description of at least one suspect.
On April 28, 2016, Keystone Pharmacy located in New Alexandria Boro, (Westmoreland County) Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals wearing masks. One suspect had a gun and the other had pepper spray. The assailants placed employees on the ground and handcuffed them. Investigators determined that between 15,000 - 20,000 dosage units were stolen. Noting the similarities between both robberies, DEA then coordinated its investigation with that of the Pennsylvania State Police to identify and arrest the individuals in question. Agents determined that Corrick purchased the Kylo Ren Stars Wars mask, used in the Palmer’s Pharmacy robbery from a local Target Store. After locating and interviewing Corrick, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, Dana Shipley, was identified and arrested carrying a backpack containing a large amount of pills, money from the New Alexandria robbery and both masks used in the New Alexandria robbery. Shipley also had a .32 caliber firearm used in the commission of the crime concealed in his pocket. Corrick has an extensive criminal history and had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for, October 26, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Judge Ambrose ordered that the defendant remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the West Deer Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Corrick.
New Derry Woman Admits Guilt in Fraud Scheme Targeting Victoria’s SecretRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of New Derry, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Charlene D. Moff waived indictment and pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from September 2013 to March 2016, Moff fraudulently ordered merchandise from Victoria’s Secret using her or her husband’s online account. After the items were delivered, she would call customer service and falsely represent one of the following: that she did not receive the shipment of merchandise, the shipment was missing certain items, or some of the merchandise was incorrect or damaged. She would then receive a credit to her account or a re-shipment of merchandise. The amount of loss to Victoria’s Secret exceeded $30,000.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for October 26, 2017 at 10 a.m. 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Moff.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, PA. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Ezra Eugene Davis, 32, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 21, 2016, Davis possessed seven firearms while released on bond awaiting trial on local gun and drug charges. Davis was also charged with the knowing possession of stolen firearms and with possession of firearms while a current user of controlled substances.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 23, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $750.000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davis.
Erie Felon Unlawfully Possessed Seven FirearmsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
John Dominic Joseph Juliano pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Juliano unlawfully possessed a Smith & Wesson rifle, a Century Arms rifle, a Norinco rifle, a Glock pistol, a Springfield pistol, a DPMS rifle and a Maverick Arms shotgun, while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 23, 2017 at 12:45 p.m. 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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting 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.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Juliano.
Conneaut Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing and Sharing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
John P. Hoffman, 54, of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Hoffman possessed and distributed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 23, 2017 at 3:00 p.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.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Hoffman on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hoffman.
Washington County Felon Back in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on June 28, 2017 to an additional 24 months of federal incarceration after violating his federal supervision, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the latest federal sentence on Zack James Sadler, age 32.
According to information presented to the court, Sadler had failed to report his address to United States Probation Officers as required and was then arrested on several different alleged gun-related offenses in Washington County. Most of those cases were dropped for reasons that include the victims failing to show in court, however, he was convicted of Recklessly Endangering Another Person and Illegally Possessing a Concealed Firearm charges at one Washington County case.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer noted that Sadler was on supervision for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm at one case in federal court where he was sentenced to 60 months of incarceration. Sadler received another 15 months of incarceration when charged with escaping from a halfway house after his release from federal custody. Prior court hearings revealed that Sadler has previous convictions for illegal firearm possession, assaults, drugs, burglary and shooting at civilians.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Violent Crime Section of the Office of the United States Attorney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Washington City Police Department and the United States Probation Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sadler.
Removed Alien Charged with Unlawfully Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on June 27, named Cirilo Castano-Garcia, age 29, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about May 24, 2017, Castano-Garcia was found in Pittsburgh, Pa., after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following one previous removal.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty (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 James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 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.
Physician Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Accepting Kickbacks and Failing to Remit Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hollidaysburg, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months in prison, 60 months of which will be concurrent with a sentence imposed in the Southern District of Florida; three years’ supervised release; and was ordered to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service of $722,476.55 and to Health and Human Services of $2,300,000, on his convictions of conspiring to commit an offense against the United States and willfully failing to remit employment taxes, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Dr. John H. Johnson, 55, of Hollidaysburg, Pa. Dr. Johnson will surrender today, June 30, 2017, to the United States Marshal Service to begin serving his 84-month federal prison sentence.
According to information presented to the court and in connection with Dr. Johnson conspiring to commit an offense against the United States:
- Universal Oral Fluid Labs (UOFL) was a clinical drug testing and drug screening lab located in Greensburg, PA. William Hughes was the owner and operator of UOFL. Dr. Johnson was a PA licensed physician practicing anesthesiology and pain management, who owned and operated a group of pain management clinics.
- Both Dr. Johnson and UOFL were enrolled providers in the Medicare program and the Pennsylvania Medicaid program. As a condition of becoming a Medicare and/or Medicaid provider and being authorized to bill Medicare and/or Medicaid, Dr. Johnson and UOFL were required to certify on their enrollment applications, Medicare Form 885B, that they would comply with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and program requirements.
- UOFL billed, and was paid by, Medicare and Pennsylvania Medicaid for performing drug tests and related services for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who were referred to UOFL by physicians enrolled in the program, including Dr. Johnson. UOFL also billed, and was paid by, various private health care insurance companies in the business of providing health care insurance to individuals and entities under various insurance policies, pursuant to which the private insurers paid UOFL for drug tests and related services performed for insureds who had been referred to UOFL by physicians.
- From in and or around May, 2011, and continuing thereafter until at least November, 2013, Dr. Johnson did knowingly and intentionally conspire with William Hughes and others to commit offenses against the United States, that is, to solicit and receive remuneration, directly and indirectly, overtly and covertly, in cash and in kind, namely, kickbacks and bribes, from William Hughes and UOFL in return for referring patients to UOFL for the furnishing and arranging for the furnishing of items and services, that is, the referral of patient lab work, for which payment was made in whole or in part under a Federal health care program, namely, Medicare and Medicaid, contrary to Title 42, United States Code, Section 1320a-7b(b)(1)(A).
- Dr. Johnson received cash payments from William Hughes and UOFL in exchange for referring Medicare and Medicaid patients to UOFL. Likewise, Dr. Johnson received monthly checks from UOFL in exchange for referrals, including Medicare and Medicaid referrals. Dr. Johnson also agreed on the value of the “kickbacks” that William Hughes and UOFL would pay Dr. Johnson for each referral of lab work sent to UOFL by Dr. Johnson. Specifically, the monthly “kickback” checks UOFL paid to Dr. Johnson were paid pursuant to the terms of a “joint venture” that Dr. Johnson entered into with UOFL. Under this “joint venture,” Dr. Johnson referred all of his patients, including Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, to UOFL for drug testing and related services. UOFL, in turn, billed third-party payors, including Medicare and Medicaid, for such tests, and then “kicked back” to Dr. Johnson, for each referred patient, reimbursement amounts for the tests that exceeded agreed upon thresholds, which were typically between $100.00 and $150.00. Dr. Johnson received these “joint venture” payments from William Hughes and UOFL solely in exchange for the referrals Dr. Johnson provided to UOFL, and not in exchange for the performance of any other services.
- Between May 2011 and November 2013, Dr. Johnson received more than $2,300,000 in “kickbacks” from Williams Hughes and UOFL for referrals. UOFL then received millions of dollars from third party payors, including approximately $3,443,528 from Medicare and $1,147,768 from Pennsylvania Medicaid, based on Dr. Johnson’s referrals.
In connection with Dr. Johnson willfully failing to remit employment taxes:
- On or about April 22, 2002, Central Anesthesia was incorporated with Dr. Johnson as the 100% shareholder who exercised complete control over every aspect of the business affairs. As the owner and operator of Central Anesthesia, Dr. Johnson had the corporate responsibility to collect, truthfully account for, and pay over Central Anesthesia’s payroll taxes to the IRS. Despite withholding payroll taxes from his employees paychecks, Dr. Johnson failed to make payments to the IRS. Specifically, for the taxable third quarter of 2013 (i.e., from on or about July 1, 2013 to on or about September 30, 2013), Dr. Johnson willfully failed to truthfully account for and pay over to the IRS all of the federal income taxes withheld and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes due and owing to the United States on behalf of Central Anesthesia and its employees, totaling $135,112.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Section for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dr. Johnson.
Millvale Man Charged with Transporting a Minor for Sex, Other Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Millvale, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of transporting a minor in interstate commerce for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct, as well as producing and distributing images and videos of such sexual conduct, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on June 27, named Daniel A. Kundrat, 34, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Kundrat, on August 10, 2016, traveled to Columbus, Ohio, where he picked up a 14-year old female, whom he brought back to the State of Pennsylvania with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity, including intercourse. He is further alleged to have produced videos of their sexual activity on August 22, 2016, and on August 31, 2016, as well as to have distributed in interstate and foreign commerce three videos depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and Millvale 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 Erie Residents Charged with Dealing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – Four Erie residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 11-count indictment, returned on June 13 and unsealed yesterday, named Ravone Robert Deberry, 24, Paris Xavier Boyd, 28, Chardonna Lasha Gordy, 21, and Andre Javon Knight, 34 as defendants.
According to the indictment presented to the court, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine. In addition, Deberry and Boyd possessed with intent to distribute and distributed crack cocaine. Knight and Goudy are also charged with using a cellular telephone in the commission of the drug conspiracy.
Andre Javon Knight is a fugitive. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call the FBI in Erie at (814) 452-4516 or the Erie Bureau of Police at (814) 870-1125.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $7,000,000, or both for Deberry; 100 years in prison, a fine of $8,000,000 or both for Boyd; 52 years in prison, a fine of $5,750,000 or both for Knight; and 48 years in prison, a fine of $5,500,000 or both for Goudy. 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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation 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.
West Virginia Man Charged with Traveling to Western PA for Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Huntington, West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of inducing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on June 27, named Steven Michael Pursell, age 34, of Huntington, WV.
According to the indictment, from on or about March 20, 2017, until on or about March 21, 2017, Pursell traveled in interstate commerce for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with another person, a minor under 18 years of age.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 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 Heidi M. Grogan 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. This case is being prosecuted 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Steel Valley Authority Financial Manager Indicted on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud and mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The five-count indictment, returned on June 27, named Nicolette Gizzi, age 44, of North Huntingdon, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from December 2009 through approximately June 2016, Gizzi, who was employed as the Financial Manager for Steel Valley Authority, issued checks to herself and her credit card company, without authorization, and forged the required signatures. The checks were drawn on Steel Valley Authority’s PNC Bank business account. Steel Valley Authority is funded primarily by federal grants.
Also according to the indictment, Gizzi, who had a previous federal conviction in South Carolina, fraudulently completed and mailed an Answer to a Writ of Garnishment by forging a signature of a former employee, forging a notary public signature and understating her income. The Writ of Garnishment was issued in an attempt to collect restitution on the prior conviction.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both for each count of bank fraud and 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both for the single count of mail fraud. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 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.
Carmichaels Woman Charged with Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Greene County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges relating to Social Security fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on June 28, named Cindy Hancheck, 60, of Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, between July 1999 and January 2016, Hancheck had knowledge of her husband’s continued presence in her household, his continued financial support of her, and the opening and maintenance of bank accounts held jointly between her and her husband, but concealed and failed to disclose those events to the Social Security Administration with the intent fraudulently to secure Supplemental Security Income benefits. Additionally, between January 2000 and February 2016, Hancheck, having filed an application for Supplemental Security Income benefits, received and converted approximately $115,597.94 in benefits to which she knew she was not entitled.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 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 Adam N. Hallowell 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.
Braddock Man Charged with Escape from Renewal CenterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of escape, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on June 27, named Devon Johnson, 29, of Braddock, PA.
According to the indictment, on August 31, 2016, the defendant escaped from the Renewal, Inc. Residential Reentry Center, where he had been confined pursuant to a judgment and commitment order of the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKean, Pa., Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of McKean, 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 three-count indictment named Nathan Mark Williams, 37, of McKean, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Williams distributed, 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 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, 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.
North Hills Man Admits Defrauding InvestorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allison Park, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Cameron Howat, 57, of Allison Park pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Howat solicited investment funds from friends and acquaintances for the purpose of investing those funds in the foreign exchange market. Howat represented to the investors that his compensation for making the investments on their behalf would be to take fifty percent of the profits from the investments. Instead of investing all of the funds, as promised to the investors, Howat took some of their money and used it to pay for personal expenses.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 3, 2017 at 10 a.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.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Howat.
Monessen Felon Guilty of Heroin Dealing and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Monessen, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of illegal firearm possession and heroin dealing, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Laurenti James Robertson, age 27, pleaded guilty to all four charges lodged against him before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Robertson was caught by local police officers in a rental car in possession of 158 stamp bags and $1,315.00 in cash on October 19, 2015. Just five days later, on October 24, 2015, other local police officers stopped Robertson after he had an argument in High Roller’s bar in Homestead, Pa. Police located one stamp bag of heroin on his person and 14 additional stamp bags hidden in the area behind the navigation unit in the dashboard of the SUV. Also behind the navigation unit, police located a loaded 9mm caliber semiautomatic Kel-Tec pistol. The Allegheny County Department of Laboratories was able to recover Robertson’s fingerprints from the firearm.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Friday October 13, 2017 at 10:00am The law provides for a total sentence of at least 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, or both. Robertson must also forfeit property to the government, including the $1,315.00 found in his possession. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court ordered Deputy United States Marshals to take Robertson into federal custody.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross Lenhardt of the Violent Crimes Section is the federal prosecutor who has the responsibility to prosecute this matter on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has joined forces with many state, county and local police departments in an effort to address the heroin and opioid issues within the Western District of Pennsylvania. In this matter, the DEA specifically worked with departments that included the Canonsburg Police Department, the Monessen Police Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office in order to successfully bring Robertson to justice.
Texas Cocaine Source of Supply Sentenced to 17 ½ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Brownsville, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 210 months imprisonment and 5 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Dante Ivan Lozano, age 42, of Brownsville, Texas.
According to information presented to the court, between 2011 and 2015, Lozano mailed dozens of packages of cocaine to Jeffrey Turner and April Racan in Elizabeth and McKeesport, in Allegheny County. Approximately eight kilograms (about 18 pounds) of cocaine were sent in this fashion.
Turner and Racan then sold the cocaine to others. Although drug proceeds in the form of cash were generally sent back to Lozano in Texas, during just a six-month period of time in 2012, as an experiment, $116,700 in postal money orders were purchased and sent by Turner and Racan from Pittsburgh back to Texas.
Seven other co-defendants were previously convicted and sentenced, including Turner and Racan, and former U.S. Postmaster Joseph Borrelli.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Postal Service in Pittsburgh, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration in Brownsville, Texas for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dante Lozano.
McKeesport Man Pleads Guilty in FBI Investigation into Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to charges of fraud conspiracy; mail fraud; wire fraud; trafficking or using unauthorized access devices aggregating $1,000 or more (attempt); and possession of 15 or more access devices, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Daniel K. Miller, 53, 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 from in and around June 2010, to on or about September 17, 2010, co-conspirators falsely represented to be employees of companies in order to arrange and cause the unauthorized purchases of merchandise, and thereafter directing its shipment to individuals (re-shippers), like Miller, who would re-ship the merchandise to co-conspirators overseas or would sell the products online and transfer the proceeds to co-conspirators overseas. On or about September 10, 2010, Miller attempted to traffic in and use an unauthorized credit card in the amount of $2,213.44. On or about September 17, 2010, Miller possessed 15 or more unauthorized credit cards.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for October 20, 2017 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Miller.
Squirrel Hill Restaurant and Owner Sentenced for Unfair Labor PracticesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Sun Penang, Inc., a Pittsburgh restaurant and itsOwner have been sentenced in federal court on a conviction of falsifying, concealing, or covering up by trick, scheme, or device a material fact, and, on behalf of the business, on willfully violating the Fair Labor Standard Act, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Hsiao Yen Wu, a/k/a Sophia Wu, age 40, of Pittsburgh and Sun Penang, Inc., located at 5829 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh. Wu was sentenced to three years probation to include eight months of home detention. Both Wu and Sun Penang were ordered to pay restitution of $35,388.97 joint and severally.
According to information presented to the court, after Sun Penang had agreed to pay back wage payments, Wu represented that Sun Penang had issued all back wage payments checks and provided faxed copies of these checks to the Department of Labor. However, Wu knew that the employees were not paid back wage payments because these employees were required either to deposit the checks into Wu's personal bank account or to work without pay until Sun Penang recouped the wages. Sun Penang failed to pay minimum wages and overtime pay to their employees from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Wage and Hour Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wu and Sun Penang, Inc.
Physician Pleads Guilty to Accepting Kickbacks and Failing to Remit Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A pain management doctor who owned and operated a group of pain management clinics within the Western District of Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to accepting kickbacks in connection with a clinical drug testing referral scheme operated by Universal Oral Fluid Labs (UOFL), of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Dr. John H. Johnson, 55, of Hollidaysburg, Pa., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kim R. Gibson to an information charging him with conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, and Count One of an indictment charging him with willfully failing to remit employment taxes.
In connection with Dr. Johnson’s guilty plea for conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, the court was informed that from in or around May, 2011, and continuing until at least November, 2013, Johnson accepted at least $2.3 million in kickbacks in return for referring patients, including Medicare and Medicaid patients, to UOFL for clinical drug testing and drug screening. UOFL then received millions of dollars from third party payors, including approximately $3,443,528 from Medicare and $1,147,768 from Pennsylvania Medicaid, based on Johnson’s referrals.
In connection with Dr. Johnson’s guilty plea to willfully failing to remit employment taxes, the court was informed that from on or about July 1, 2013 to on or about September 30, 2013, Johnson failed to truthfully account for and pay over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) all of the federal income taxes withheld and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes due and owing to the United States on behalf of Johnson’s company, Central Anesthesia, and its employees. Johnson is responsible for repayment to the IRS of more than $700,000 as a result of his unlawful tax practices.
“A physician’s decisions about what medical care to provide, and who will provide it, should be based upon the best interests of their patients, rather than a physician’s financial interests,” said Acting U. S. Attorney Soo C. Song. “The defendant who pleaded guilty today abused his position of trust by accepting kickbacks for referring his patients to UOFL, and by failing to meet his tax obligations.”
“Once again this demonstrates the effective cooperation we maintain with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners whether it be white collar crimes, drugs or violent crime” said Robert Johnson, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pittsburgh Division.
“Criminal kickback schemes destroy trust in health care decision-making and lead to increased costs to our Federal health care benefit programs,” said Nick DiGiulio, Special Agent in Charge of the Inspector General's Office for the United States Department of Health and Human Services in Philadelphia. “We will continue to work with our partners to expose corrupt business arrangements in the health care industry.”
"Business owners have a responsibility to withhold income taxes for their employees and then remit those taxes to the Internal Revenue Service," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Greg Floyd. "The failure to pay over withheld taxes is a serious offense. IRS Criminal Investigation vigorously pursues anyone who collects taxes and fails to timely remit those taxes."
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for October 11, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $260,000, 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 Stephanie L. Haines and Colin J. Callahan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Section conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dr. Johnson.
Members of Duquesne Heroin Trafficking Ring Guilty of Conspiracy to DistributeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - United States District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton found Anthony Pryor and Lance Yarbough guilty of one count each of Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Pryor and Yarbough participated in a large-scale heroin distribution operation centered in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. The verdict is the culmination of an investigation that began in 2010 and resulted in the convictions of nineteen individuals for heroin distribution and firearms charges, most of whom are from Duquesne. The core of the group called themselves Hardcore Entertainment, and some of the members of the conspiracy recorded music and video under that name as well. Some of videos, which they posted on YouTube, included members of the conspiracy bragging about their drug dealing activities.
Members of Hardcore Entertainment typically pulled their resources and obtained large quantities of heroin from New Jersey. They typically transported the heroin and money in vehicles with hidden compartments. Once the heroin reached the Pittsburgh area, members of the conspiracy split the heroin and sold it to other heroin distributors in the Pittsburgh area. During portions of the conspiracy, members of the conspiracy were making weekly trips between New Jersey and the Pittsburgh area transporting, on the monthly basis, hundreds of thousands of dollars and multiple kilograms of heroin. The conspiracy lasted from at least 2008 until 2012. The evidence presented at trial included controlled purchases of heroin, firearms, heroin, money, cellular telephone, and other evidence seized pursuant to search warrants, communications among the conspirators intercepted pursuant to Court authorization, and the seizure of heroin from the hidden compartment of one of the vehicles used to transports money and heroin between New Jersey and the Pittsburgh area.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for both defendants for October 16, 2017 The law provides for a total sentence for Pryor of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5 million, or both. The law provides for a total sentencing for Yarbough of life imprisonment, a fine of $10 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Dept., Oakdale Police Dept, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Pryor and Yarbough. The Duquesne Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police also participated in the investigation.
Jury Finds Indiana Man Guilty of Fraud and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today that after deliberating six hours, a jury of 6 men and 6 women found Bernard M. Parker guilty of one count securities fraud, one count of mail fraud and four counts of filing false tax returns.
Parker, age 56, of Indiana, Pennsylvania was tried before United States District Judge Reggie Walton in Pittsburgh.
According to Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Rachael L. Mamula, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Parker, the principal of Parker Financial Services, solicited his clients, by signing of “Investors Contracts,” to invest in tax lien certificates, municipal bonds, computer software, real estate, and other undefined investments. Parker then used the vast majority of the monies taken from these investors for his personal expenses instead of the various investments agreed upon with his clients. Further, Parker filed false federal tax returns for tax years 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, each of which failed to report his income.
Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 42 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, if any, of the defendant.
Parker was remanded pending sentencing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the conviction of Bernard M. Parker.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to 17 Months More in Prison for Attempting to Possess DrugRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempt to obtain contraband in prison, and immediately was sentenced to 17 months in prison, consecutive to the current prison term he is serving, followed by three years’ supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Michael Jackson, 28, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on October 12, 2016, Jackson attempted to obtain a quantity of Suboxone.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jackson.
Judge Sentences FCI-Loretto Inmate to Additional 9 Months in Prison for Attempting to Obtain SuboxoneRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 9 months in prison and three years’ supervised release, consecutive to the 120 months sentence and supervised release provision he is serving currently from the District of Maryland, on his conviction of attempting to obtain contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Douglas Vines, 45.
According to information presented to the court, on July 20, 2015, Vines attempted to obtain a quantity of suboxone.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Vines.