Western District of Pennsylvania
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
William Eger, 52, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Eger walked into the First National Bank in O'Hara Township on November 17, 2015, and handed the teller a note wherein he advised that he had a gun and demanded money. The loss to First National Bank was $2,648. Then on November 21, 2015, Eger walked into the Huntington National Bank in West Mifflin and handed the teller a note demanding money. The loss to Huntington National Bank was $3,216.00.
On November 24, 2015, Eger walked into the First Niagara Bank in the West End section of Pittsburgh holding his finger up and stating that he had a gun. Eger pulled up his shirt, exposing his waistband area, but when the teller did not see a gun, she advised Eger to leave. Eger then fled the bank without receiving any cash. Police responded to the scene; and, after a brief foot chase, Eger was apprehended and confessed to the robberies. As part of the investigation, agents recovered the notebook that Eger used to write the Huntington National Bank robbery note, as well as a hooded jacket and jeans which matched the description of the items Eger was seen wearing in the bank surveillance video.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for October 2, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Judge Bissoon ordered that Eger remain in custody.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern Regional Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Eger.
Brighton Heights Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Brighton Heights resident has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 151 months to be followed by 3 years of supervised release on his conviction of Bank Robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Boe Keenan, 34.
According to the information presented to the court, after an investigation, Keenan was arrested for robbing First National Bank in Wexford on June 30, 2015. The loss to the bank was $1,725.00.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern Regional Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Keenan.
Fayette County Woman Indicted for Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Fayette County woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for escaping from federal custody following a prior federal felony conviction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Tiffany Lilley, age 28, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Lilley escaped from federal custody at Renewal Incorporated Community Correction Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on March 28, 2017.
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 Conor Lamb 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.
Ellwood City Man Sentenced to Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 135 months imprisonment, followed by 20 years supervised release, and $1,000.00 in restitution, on a charge of Distribution of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Lucas Avery Klobetanz, age 40.
According to information presented to the court, on or about October 8, 2015, Klobetanz distributed videos and images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Klobetanz.
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 Indicted for Distributing Drug Resulting in Death, Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Deon Blair has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for distributing heroin, butyryl fentanyl, and fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and for committing related firearms crimes, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment charges Blair, age 24, who resided in Pittsburgh, with committing the following crimes in February 2017: (1) distributing a mixture containing butyryl fentanyl and fentanyl resulting in death; (2) conspiring to distribute and distributing heroin, butyryl fentanyl, and fentanyl; (3) possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and (4) possessing a firearm after 11 prior felony convictions for heroin and cocaine trafficking and firearms crimes in four prior prosecutions.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 25 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $4,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Penn Hills Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Christopher Hill, age 28.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on July 21, 2016, Hill possessed with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl that caused the serious bodily injury and death of a person who used that fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Burglarizing Bethel Park PharmacyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Columbus, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 108 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions for burglary of a pharmacy and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence yesterday on Dale E. Foughty, 38.
According to information presented to the court, on September 4, 2015, Foughty used a crowbar to break into the Spartan Pharmacy in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, and proceeded to steal more than 6,000 Schedule II pills from the pharmacy.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bethel Park Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Foughty.
Five Western Pennsylvania Residents Charged with Passing Counterfeit CashRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Five residents of the Western District of Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and passing and uttering counterfeit money, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The four-count indictment named Bruce M. Charles, Jr. 22, of E. Pittsburgh, PA; Edward J. Botti, 32, of Turtle Creek, PA; Seleste M. Foster, 24, of Braddock, PA; Destiny S. Dayton, 21, of Duquesne, PA; and Shad McClelland, 31, of McKeesport, PA.
According to the indictment, between May 16, 2015 to June 12, 2015, Charles, Botti, Foster, Dayton, and McClelland conspired and passed counterfeit $100, $50, and $20 Federal Reserve Notes throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania.
With respect to Charles and Botti, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 65 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. With respect to Foster and Dayton, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 45 years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Finally, with respect to McClelland, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Erie Man Charged with Violating Federal Laws Relating to the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, 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 Richard Kosmatine, 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Kosmatine 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.
Erie Man Charged with Producing, Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, 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 nine-count indictment named Michael Robert Heinrich, 66, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Heinrich took sexually explicit photos of two minor victims who were under the age of five. Heinrich also possessed computer images depicting other 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 260 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.
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.
McKeesport Gun Dealer Pleads Guilty to Possessing Illegal Firearms, Witness and Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Erik David Lowry pleaded guilty in federal court to charges involving illegal firearms possession, tampering with evidence, and tampering with a witness, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms, the gun store owned and operated by Lowry, also pleaded guilty to illegally selling firearms.
Lowry, age 37, of McKeesport, PA and Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms (originally incorporated as Renaissance Electric, LLC), also located in McKeesport, both pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that ATF Industry Operations (IO) employees perform standard inspections of all gun dealers to ensure that federal laws are being followed. Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) inspections of this type reveal that the majority of gun dealers diligently ensure that firearms are sold to law-abiding citizens, thereby enhancing the safety of the public. A January 11 through 19, 2016, IO inspection of Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms (PTF), owned and operated by defendant Erik David Lowry, noted numerous significant and clear violations of law-- including 27 guns located in the store’s gun rack which Lowry called “cash and carry” and was willing to sell without completing any paperwork. ATF Special Agents followed up and that in-depth investigation determined that Lowry and PTF had been illegally selling and acquiring over 100 “cash and carry,” “cash out the door,” or “turn and burn” firearms “off books” at his store and through gun shows between 2014 and January 19, 2016. That is, neither Lowry nor PTF completed the required paperwork for either the acquisition or disposition of these firearms.
The investigation also located firearms transactions that were made: without any required background checks being performed; to a prohibited person with a criminal record who was previously denied the ability to purchase a firearm by a background check at PTF; to a prohibited person with a prior mental health commitment (who was denied the ability to purchase a firearm by two other gun dealers who actually did perform the required background check); and by knowingly using false information on paperwork that had been completed. Some of these transactions involved military-style weapons and the ATF has expended significant resources attempting to locate and recover these illegally sold firearms.
Further, Lowry acquired a “destructive device”, specifically a Penn Arms Striker 12 military-style 12 gauge weapon with a drum magazine, not suitable for sporting purposes, and bearing serial number 11170, which, like a machinegun, silencer, grenade, rocket, or landmine must be specifically registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, but was not. Lowry acquired it in the summer of 2015 and disguised that fact until it was located by the ATF on January 19, 2016. As the investigation proceeded, Lowry attempted to conceal his actions by contacting multiple people to have them hide or destroy the unregistered Striker 12 by throwing it in a dumpster, in order to, he said, avoid federal prison. As these attempts failed, Lowry contacted the previous Striker 12 owner and created a false story about the date, time and manner of the acquisition, which he and the prior owner both provided to ATF.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 23, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both for Lowry. For Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms, the law provides a maximum total sentence of up to five years’ probation and a $500,000 fine.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a federal prosecutor with the Violent Crime Section of the Office of the United States Attorney, represented the federal government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), including their Industry Operations investigators, and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, for the investigation that led to the prosecution of Erik David Lowry and his gun store, Pittsburgh Tactical Firearms.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crimes.
Pittsburgh Man Possessed 300 Videos and 1,300 Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Walter B. Williams, 46, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 2, 2016, Williams possessed more than 300 videos and 1300 images in computer graphics and digital files, depicting the sexual exploitation of children, many of whom were under the age of 12 years.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 17, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Williams.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted on Drug and Gun Charges following Seizures of Fentanyl, Cash and Assault RifleRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on June 7, named Robert Allen, age 38, as the sole defendant.
On May 11, 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force assisted by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a series of search warrants in Allegheny County. Agents recovered over two kilograms of pure fentanyl, an AK-47 assault rifle, and more than $100,000 in cash.
As a result, according to the indictment, Allen is charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. As a convicted felon, Allen is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years nor more than life in prison, a fine of up to $20,000,000, or both. The United States is also seeking the forfeiture of $116,054 in United States Currency, a black Infinity QX56 SUV, a Romarm Assault Rifle, and numerous items consistent with drug packaging and distribution. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Port Authority Police Department, Munhall Township Police Department and West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Facing Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on June 7, named Richard Ruby, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on April 25, 2017, Ruby possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin. Ruby, a convicted felon, was also in possession of two firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. As a convicted felon, Ruby is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years nor more than life in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKeesport Residents Sentenced to Prison for Distributing CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two residents of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, were each sentenced in federal court to 36 months imprisonment and five years supervised release on their convictions 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 sentences on Jeffrey Turner, age 35, and April Racan, age 37, both of McKeesport, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, between 2011 and 2015, a cocaine source of supply in Brownsville, Texas, Dante Lozano, mailed dozens of packages of cocaine to Turner and Racan in Elizabeth and McKeesport, in Allegheny County. Approximately 8 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 a six-month period of time in 2012, $116,700 in postal money orders were purchased and sent by Turner and Racan from Pittsburgh back to Texas.
Five other defendants were previously convicted and sentenced. Dante Lozano is scheduled to be sentenced on June 22, 2017.
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 and the Drug Enforcement Administration in Brownsville, Texas for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jeffrey Turner and April Racan.
Health Care Worker Charged with Defrauding MedicareRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on June 7, named Rong Zhang, 55, of Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Zhang and others submitted billings to Medicare for services knowing that those services were outside the course of professional practice and not for legitimate medical purposes. The indictment further alleges that Zhang and others submitted billings to Medicare for medical procedures based on falsely diagnosed conditions. Zhang was an employee who provided various services to patients of B.E.C., a physician known to the grand jury, including drawing blood and conducting ultrasounds and electrocardiograms.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy Chung and Brendan T. Conway are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the Inspector General for Health and Human Services and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Felon on Federal Supervised Release Admits Having Illegal Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of felon in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Marcus Thompkins, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Thompkins, after having been convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess a firearm, namely a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol, Model 40 VE and approximately fifty rounds of .40 caliber Winchester ammunition. Thompkins, at the time of the offense, was on federal supervised release. An Officer with the United States Probation Office observed him with the firearm, and, based on that observation, the Probation Office and the United States Marshal Service conducted a search of Thompkins’ home, which led to the seizure of the firearm and ammunition.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 19, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded Thompkins to federal custody.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Service and United States Probation Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thompkins.
Bellevue Felon Stole then Sold 3 FirearmsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Patrick Snyder, age 33, pleaded guilty to three counts of possession of firearms by a prohibited person before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Snyder was previously convicted of a felony offense and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from December 2016 to January 2017, Snyder illegally possessed three firearms when he stole them from the lawful owner and sold them to third parties.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 1, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total 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.
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 Bellevue 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.
Westmoreland County Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, resulting in an overdose death and with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on June 6, named Jarrel Williams, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on Jan. 17, 2017, Williams possessed with intent to distribute and distributed a quantity of fentanyl, which resulted in the serious bodily injury and death of an individual, identified only as M.S. Count two of the indictment alleges that, on Jan. 19, 2017, Williams distributed or possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, West Leechburg Police, Allegheny Township Police, and 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.
Ten Indicted for Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - On June 6, 2017, after a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 10 Allegheny County residents were indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
“This case, compelled by the threat of gang activity in the Hill District, illustrates the effective partnership among local, state and federal law enforcement in Western Pennsylvania,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “We are allied in the effort to disrupt drug trafficking organizations, stem the flow of heroin and opioids and reduce violence in our communities. Cooperation with the offices of Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro and Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala made these charges possible.”
THE INDICTMENTS
The first indictment, containing six counts, named:
- Angelo Massie, 39, formerly of Penn Hills, PA;
- Raheem Buchanan, 32, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Lamont Butler, 45, formerly of Munhall, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Mark Watson, 43, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Russell Johnson, 41, of Braddock, PA;
- Thomas Grace, 33, of McKees Rocks, PA;
- Jason Green, 35, of Wilkinsburg, PA; and
- Jermaine Thompson, 31, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around November 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2016, the defendants conspired with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Mark Watson is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. Lamont Butler is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison up to life in prison, as well as mandatory minimum sentences starting at five years in prison. Fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $20,000,000 may be imposed. 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.
A second related indictment, containing one count, named:
- Robert Fields, Jr., 23, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
- Norman Blackwell, 42, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated.
According to the indictment, from in and around November 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around January 2016, the defendants conspired with one another to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $8,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan P. Fodi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team – Narcotics, Firearms, & Violent Crime Task Force, as well as the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Organized Crime Section – Western Regional Office led the investigation, which resulted in the June 6, 2017 federal indictments.
These June indictments grew out of a federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF)s investigation that resulted in several federal indictments in August of 2016. The OCDETF task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department. Substantial assistance was provided by FBI San Juan, Puerto Rico (St. Thomas Resident Agency, U.S. Virgin Islands) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Numerous other FBI field offices, including Detroit, Cleveland, New York, and Atlanta, in addition to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, also assisted with this investigation. 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.
The indictments from August 2016 were the result of an investigation, which utilized Title III wiretap intercepts and other investigative techniques to establish the existence of several overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks with tentacles in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Northern District of Ohio, Eastern District of Michigan and the District of the Virgin Islands. The FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force’s focus began in early 2015 on a drug trafficking organization operating on Pittsburgh’s North Side and thereafter they were able to track drug suppliers beyond the borders of the Western District of Pennsylvania and across the Caribbean Sea.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mexican Citizen Removed Four Times from U.S. is Sentenced for Further Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served subject to deportation, as well as one year of supervised release, on his conviction of Illegal Re-Entry After Deportation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence yesterday on Samuel Quib-Chub, age 28, of Mexico.
According to the information presented to the court, Samuel Quib-Chub, a native and citizen of Mexico, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or about June 17, 2015, May 18, 2016, May 26, 2016, and June 1, 2016. Quib-Chub was found to be illegally present in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, on January 24, 2017, when he was arrested by the Penn Hills Police Department for aggravated assault, simple assault, and harassment.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Quib-Chub.
Inmate Charged with Possessing Buprenorphine in PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Edwin Manuel Guzman, 35.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 22, 2016, Guzman possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Guzman.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Clearfield, Pa., Woman Charged with Purchasing Firearms for Another PersonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A former Clearfield, Pa., resident was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Heather L. Welker, 41, of Emigrant, Montana, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on various dates from January 28, 2015, to March 26, 2015, Welker purchased a number of firearms from Grice Gun Shop, a federally licensed firearms dealer, stating she was purchasing the firearms for herself, when, in truth and fact, she was not the actual buyer and was purchasing the firearms on behalf of another person.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Welker.
According to Ms. Song, Heather L. Welker is being 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.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Inmate Charged with Possessing ContrabandRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment named Christopher D. Rarick, 37.
According to the indictment presented to the court, on February 16, 2017, Rarick possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Rarick.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Union City Borough Secretary Sentenced to Prison for $200K Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Union City, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in jail, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $203,174.25 on her conviction of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Cheryl R. Capela 60.
According to information presented to the court, from July 2013 through July 2016, while employed as the Borough Secretary for the Borough of Union City, Capela took advantage of her access to the Borough’s checks to write Borough checks to pay her ballooning personal credit card
bills. She also used the Borough credit card for numerous unauthorized personal expenses and cash withdrawals. Capela manipulated internal Borough of Union City paperwork to hide her unauthorized personal expenditures that she made with Borough of Union City funds. As a result of Capela’s scheme, the Borough of Union City suffered an overall total loss of $203,174.25Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Capela.
Judge Sentences Erie County Man to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $2,500 on his conviction of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ian Matthew Ahenger, 43.
According to information presented to the court, Ahenger possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ahenger.
Former Firearms Dealer Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a MachinegunRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Port Allegany, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months in jail, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on James William McMichael, 72.
According to information presented to the court,McMichael possessed a machinegun not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. McMichael, who was a former federally licensed firearms dealer, ordered various firearm parts which were then fully assembled into a functioning machinegun. The machinegun was then hidden in the ceiling of McMichael’s Port Allegany home.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Port Allegany Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McMichael.
Houston Man Admits Hacking and Damaging Computers of Pittsburgh-area Health Care FacilityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Houston, Texas, entered pleas of guilty in Pittsburgh to charges of Intentional Damage to a Protected Computer and Wire Fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Brandon A. Coughlin, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Coughlin intentionally hacked and damaged 13 servers operated by a local healthcare facility and engaged in a scheme to defraud that healthcare facility by using its purchase card to order merchandise from Staples. On January 16, 2013, Coughlin was hired by the healthcare facility as an in-house computer systems administrator.
On February 4, 2013, he resigned from that position at the request of the management of the local healthcare facility. Using the administrative passwords he knew from his employment, Coughlin on September 18, 2013 hacked the computer network of the healthcare facility. He disabled all administrative accounts needed to control any and all of the computer servers of the healthcare facility, and deleted users’ network shares, business data, and patient health information and data, including patient medical records. He caused a financial loss of approximately $60,000.00. He caused the local healthcare facility to cease its medical treatment of patients until its system was restored.
Coughlin also admitted committing wire fraud when he attempted fraudulently to purchase online iPad Air tablets on the Staples account of the local healthcare facility. As part of the fraud, Coughlin breached the email server of the healthcare facility. He directed that email server to delete email from Staples before it was routed to the purchasing supervisor who handled the Staples account for the healthcare facility. He then monitored email communications between officials of the healthcare facility and others including the FBI through 2014. Coughlin admitted that he listened in on phone conferences between the FBI and the officials of the healthcare facility without their knowledge.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Brandon A. Coughlin.
Five Plead Guilty in $6 million DOD FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Five defendants have pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense, tax violations and illegal gratuities, Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Thomas G. Buckner, 66, of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and his brother, John P. Buckner, 68, of Lyndora, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of defrauding U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM), and two counts of income tax evasion.
In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was informed that the Buckner brothers were 50/50 owners of Ibis Tek, LLC (hereinafter Ibis Tek). Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, Butler, Pennsylvania 16002, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Ibis Tek manufactured both military and commercial products but specialized in the development of transparent armor and accessory products for tactical and military combat vehicles. Ibis Tek itself was not charged with any violations.
TACOM, located in Warren, Michigan, was responsible for letting and overseeing contracts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense, including contracts concerning High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (hereinafter Humvees). Ibis Tek had a subcontract to produce Vehicle Emergency Escape Window (VEE Window) Kits for Humvees. The Buckners inflated Ibis Tek’s costs to manufacture the VEE Window kits by creating Alloy America, LLC, (Alloy) a company that was co-located at Ibis Tek that the Buckner brothers controlled, by using Alloy to purchase the frames in China for $20 per frame, and by using false invoices from Alloy to make it appear that Ibis Tek paid $70 per frame. In addition, the Buckner brothers sold scrap aluminum collected in the manufacturing process but failed to credit that money to TACOM. The losses to TACOM were $6,085,709. Both Buckner brothers pleaded guilty to income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting the cash from sales of scrap aluminum, and for taking unallowable business deductions described below.
Harry H. Kramer, 52, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud for his role as CFO of Ibis Tek in the above described scheme against TACOM, and to filing false returns for Ibis Tek for 2009 and 2010.
David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with impeding the IRS by acting as a financial intermediary who received and then paid out money to Anthony Shaw, for the purpose of concealing that the monies were income of Shaw, concealing the true source of the monies, David Buckner owned D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories.
Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, pleaded guilty to a five-count Information. Shaw, formerly a civilian employee at TACOM, was a Deputy Project Manager responsible for directing development of and managing government contracts for combat vehicle systems such as Humvees. Shaw pleaded guilty to demanding and receiving a total of $1,055,500 of illegal gratuities paid by checks, cash and wire transfers by Thomas Buckner to and through D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories for Shaw. Shaw also pleaded guilty to income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting payments from Thomas and John Buckner totaling in excess of $1,000,000. Finally, Shaw pleaded guilty to making false statements when he denied that he had socialized with Thomas Buckner and John Buckner, and denied that he had traveled in a car, boat and an airplane owned by Thomas Buckner or John Buckner.
“These guilty pleas demonstrate the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) ongoing commitment to ensuring the integrity of the U.S. Defense Department’s procurement process,” said Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent in Charge, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “Fraudulent schemes, such as those identified in this successful investigation, endanger U.S. military forces, waste valuable resources and erode public confidence. DCIS will continue to work with its law enforcement partners and federal prosecutors to protect the American taxpayer and Warfighter.”
Acting IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Greg Floyd added, “The guilty pleas entered in this case should serve as a strong reminder to all of those who engage in deliberate acts to defraud the U.S. Government and the taxpaying citizens of our country, that they will be held accountable for their actions. We will partner with other agencies to ferret out and unravel the schemes that these individuals concoct, and they will face justice.”
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled the sentencings for Thomas and John Buckner for October 10, 2017; for Anthony Shaw on October 12, 2017; for David Buckner on October 17, 2017, and for Kramer on October 18, 2017. For Thomas and John Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For Kramer, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 16 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For David Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 3 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For Shaw, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 19 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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 Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigation Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of these defendants.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Ronald Broadus, 43, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The government received authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications over Broadus’s phone for a period of thirty days. During that timeframe, Broadus was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Broadus.
Two Pittsburgh Men Charged with Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on May 23, named the defendants as:
• Leonard Rushin-Felder, age 21; and
• Mark Ridley, age 25.According to the indictment, on April 25, 2017, Rushin-Felder and Ridley conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin. Both defendants are also charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. Additionally, Rushin-Felder is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on April 25, 2017.
The law provides for a maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison to up to life in prison, and fines ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McKees Rocks Teen Indicted on Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County teen has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on May 23, named Dushawn Griffey, 18, formerly of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on March 28, 2017, Griffey possessed with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl. On the same date, Griffey is also charged with possessing three firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Judge Sentenced Duquesne Man to 4 Years in Prison for Possessing Heroin for DistributionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years of imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Carloto Neal, Jr., 22, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the Pennsylvania State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Neal, and a search of that vehicle revealed 110 grams of heroin, and 3,000 empty stamp bags used in the distribution of heroin.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that heroin has become the scourge of our society. She cited Center for Disease Control and Prevention statistics showing that heroin overdose death quadrupled between 2002 and 2012.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Neal.
Deported Alien Charged with Returning to U.S. without PermissionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A citizen of Mexico living in Braddock, Pennsylvania, 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 May 23, named Guillermo Justo, a/k/a Rolando Velez-Latorre, a/k/a Guillermo Justo-Manuel, 41, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Justo, having previously been deported from the United States pursuant to law on August 7, 2015, was present in the Western District of Pennsylvania on May 2, 2017, without having applied for and received permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for re-application for admission into the United States.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh-area Sex Offender Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Failing to RegisterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on a charge of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Arthur Linsenbigler, 46, whose last known address was in Pitcairn, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from February 3, 2015, to June 20, 2016, Linsenbigler, who had been convicted of the felony sex offense of Rape By Forcible Compulsion in 1991, failed, as required, to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the United States Marshals Service for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Linsenbigler.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment to be served concurrently, followed by a lifetime supervised release, on two charges of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Robert James Grace, Jr., age 49, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about February 23, 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Grace, Jr. knowingly possessed images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age. Grace, Jr. also possessed child pornography, from a date unknown and continuing until May 12, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grace.
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.
First National Bank Employee Stole More Than $270,000 from Customers’ AccountsRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of misapplication of funds by a bank employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Anna Wilson, 34, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Nov. 15, 2015, to Aug. 15, 2016, Wilson, while employed as a branch manager at First National Bank in Johnstown, Pa, removed approximately $270,434.70 from customers’ accounts and thereafter converted those funds to her personal use.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 2, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wilson.
Washington, Pa., Man Pleads Guilty in Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Richard Lassic, II, 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the defendant was one of 17 individuals indicted as a result of an investigation from June to November of 2015, using various investigative techniques including court authorized Title III wiretaps. Lassic was intercepted over a co-conspirator’s phone between August and October of 2015 purchasing multiple ounces of powder cocaine and crack cocaine.
On various dates, Lassic purchased cocaine and crack cocaine, which he referred to as various types of Adidas shoes. On October 6, 2015, Lassic purchased approximately 4.5 ounces of cocaine and crack cocaine for $5,900. He was subsequently pulled over on I-70 by a State Trooper for vehicle code violations. Lassic consented to a search of his car, during which the trooper located three plastic baggies containing approximately 124 grams (almost 4.5 ounces) of cocaine.
Based on intercepted calls, Lassic obtained well over 500 grams of cocaine from a co-conspirator during the interception period.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2017. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than five years and not more than 40 years, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Judge Bissoon ordered that the defendant remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Lassic. 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.
Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Pornography in ErieRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ashland, Virginia 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.
Kerry Eccles, 62, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Eccles traveled to Erie from Virginia for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with a minor. While in Erie, Eccles took sexually explicit photos of a ten-year-old victim and sexually assaulted the victim. Eccles then transported the child pornography images of the victim back to Virginia where they were discovered during a search of his residence.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of ninety years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie County Detectives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eccles.
Judge Sentences Ohio Man to Prison for Running Cocaine from Texas to PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Akron, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Oscar Mata Garcia, 28.
According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Mata Garcia engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia’s specific role in the conspiracy was to assist in driving vehicles to the Houston, Texas area to pick up loads of cocaine and then to transport the cocaine to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, with the cocaine concealed in hidden compartments. According to information provided to the Court, on November 1, 2014, Mata Garcia was in one of the load vehicles with another co-conspirator when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia and his co-conspirator had just traveled to the Houston, Texas area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than 5 kilograms of cocaine.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Arkansas State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Garcia.
Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Two Minor VictimsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of sex trafficking of a child and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Devonte Lamonte Lucas, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2015 to October 2015, Lucas and a co-defendant knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, advertised and maintained two minor victims who engaged in commercial sex acts at the behest of Lucas and his co-defendant. Lucas’ illegal activity was ultimately stopped when members of the Millcreek Police Department observed Lucas transport a minor female to a Millcreek motel after the Millcreek officers, acting in an undercover capacity, had set up a meeting at the motel with the victim via an Internet advertisement that had been placed by Lucas’ co-defendant.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lucas.
Erie Man Admits Illegally Possessing Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Adam John Carlson, 34, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Carlson possessed a firearm and numerous rounds of ammunition which he was precluded from possessing because of an active protection from abuse order.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of twenty 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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Erie Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carlson.
Corry Area Schools Federal Credit Union Manager Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling $741,362Read the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bear Lake, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $696,273.72 on her conviction of embezzlement of credit union funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Karen Schenck, 50.
According to information presented to the court, from January 2008 through August 2015, while employed as the Office Manager/CEO for the federally insured Corry Area Schools Federal Credit Union in Corry, Ms. Schenck embezzled approximately $741,362.00. Ms. Schenck successfully embezzled the funds in a variety of ways. She made $268,402.25 in unauthorized or fictitious loans in the names of her family members, the proceeds of which she used for her personal benefit or to conceal out of balance conditions in various general ledger accounts. Ms. Schenck made over sixty fictitious deposits into her own account or the accounts of family members totaling approximately $317,897.00, which she used for her personal benefit. Ms. Schenck withdrew approximately $51,035.03 and $44,572.47 from two accounts without the authorization of the account holders. Ms. Schenk created approximately $42,118.07 in loans to herself and fabricated loan underwriting documentation to give the appearance that she would have qualified for the loans. Finally, Ms. Schenck used the embezzled credit union funds to pay off personal credit card balances and engaged in unauthorized credit card limits causing approximately $17.338.00 in losses to the credit union.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Schenck.
West Virginia Man Pleads Guilty in Two Western PA Pharmacy RobberiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Fairmont, West Virginia, 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.
Dana Lee Shipley, 51, pleaded guilty to four 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. After locating and interviewing one suspect, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, Dana Shipley, was identified and arrested. When he was arrested, Shipley had a backpack containing a large amount of pills, money from the New Alexandria robbery and both masks used in the New Alexandria robbery. Shipley also had a .32 caliber firearm used in the commission of the crime concealed in his pocket. Shipley has an extensive criminal history and had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 2, 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 Shipley.
Mexican Citizen Removed Four Times from U.S. is Sentenced for Illegally Re-entering AgainRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of Illegal Re-Entry After Deportation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Enrique Carmona-Bernardo, age 37, of Mexico.
According to the information presented to the court, Enrique Carmona-Bernardo, an illegal alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on November 5, 2009, December 7, 2012, January 17, 2013 and March 3, 2013. Enrique Carmona-Bernardo was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 17, 2017, when he was arrested by City of Pittsburgh Police for driving under the influence under the name Enrique Cardona.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the University of Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Enrique Carmona-Bernardo.
Postal Carrier Charged with Stealing Toys R Us Gift Card from MailRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail by a postal employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Julie L. Bowser, 47, of Tarentum, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Julie L. Bowser was an employee of the United States Postal Service at the time she stole a $75.00 Toys R Us gift card from an item that was to be conveyed by mail.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States 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.
New Bethlehem Man Indicted on Charges Relating to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 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 three-count indictment named David Lee Claypool, 48, of New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, between January 2012 and January 2015, Claypool, having filed an application for Social Security disability insurance benefits on behalf of a minor child, received and converted $16,474.00 in benefits to his own use. Additionally, on March 11, 2013, and again on March 15, 2014, Claypool falsely represented on Social Security Administration Representative Payee Reports that the benefits he received on behalf of the minor child were spent on behalf of the minor child, when in fact the benefits were converted to Claypool’s own use.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 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 Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Pittsburgh-area BanksRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Philadelphia, PA, has pleaded guilty in federal court on a charge of fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Darein Clark, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
According to the indictment, Clark and others agreed to defraud Pittsburgh area banks by depositing counterfeit checks by remote mobile deposit, and then making a series of withdrawals against funds credited from the deposited checks.
Judge Cercone scheduled the sentence for sentencing for October 6, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of this defendant. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment named Jacob Palaski, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about July 9, 2016, Palaski distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Peters Township Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Dance Moms Star Sentenced to Prison, Fined for Hiding Assets and Illegally Transporting Foreign Currency into the U.S.Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Reality television performer Abigale Lee Miller has been sentenced in federal court to one year and a day incarceration on her conviction of concealing assets from the bankruptcy court, and one count of failing to report an international currency transaction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. In addition, the court imposed two years’ supervised release, a $120,000 money judgement and a $40,000 fine.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Miller, 51.
According to the information presented to the court, in 2010 Miller filed a Petition in bankruptcy seeking to reorganize debts from the operation of the Abby Lee Miller Dance Studio. The court was advised that during the bankruptcy case, Miller failed to disclose to the bankruptcy court revenue she earned from the sale of merchandise and ticket sales at Master Class dance sessions she hosted in cities in the U.S. in 2012 and 2013. Additionally, Miller failed to report to customs officials that she transported in excess of $10,000 in foreign currency from Australia into the United States in the summer of 2014, totaling approximately $120,000.
“This defendant secreted and structured profits that she derived outside the United States from performances by children,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “Failing to disclose profits both in federal court and upon entry into the United States undermines our justice system and the integrity of our borders.”
"Federal bankruptcy proceedings can be a lifesaver for honest individuals overwhelmed by debt resulting from any number of legitimate reasons. Those who abuse the bankruptcy process by committing fraud threaten the integrity of the entire system. Bankruptcy fraud not only impacts creditors like businesses and financial institutions, it can also result in higher loan fees and higher taxes for everyone," said Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Pittsburgh Division. "That is why we continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to thoroughly investigate allegations of bankruptcy fraud and hold those who commit it accountable."
“As part of a bankruptcy fraud task force, the US Postal Inspection Service will continue to pursue those who defraud creditors and attempt to shield assets from the bankruptcy court,” stated Tommy D. Coke, US Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division.
“Today’s sentence demonstrates that our judicial system truly is ‘Justice for All.’ Those who manipulate the bankruptcy process, the tax system, and laws of our country, regardless of their social status, will be pursued and held accountable for their actions,” said Greg Floyd, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.
“HSI special agents remain vigilant against those who would knowingly attempt to circumvent United States law at and beyond our borders. When individuals lie on travel documents, our nation’s border controls and the integrity of our financial system are severely undermined, thus placing the security of our nation at risk,” said Marlon V. Miller, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “We are proud to have contributed to this investigation along with our other federal law enforcement partners.”
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Trustee, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Abigale Lee Miller.