Middle District of Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that James Larnerd, age 47, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was convicted yesterday by a federal jury for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine; for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm; and maintaining a drug involved premises, after a three-day trial held before United States District Court Judge Jennifer Wilson. Larnerd faces a potential 15 year mandatory minimum sentence as a result of three prior convictions for serious drug offenses.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the jury returned the guilty verdict after approximately two hours of deliberation.  The evidence at trial showed that during May of 2019, the North Cornwall Township Police received information that Larnerd was selling drugs and possessed firearms at his residence in Lebanon County. Based on that information, the North Cornwall Police applied for and obtained a search warrant for Larnerd’s residence in June 2019.

During execution of the warrant, the police found a Highpoint 9mm C9 Luger handgun in Larnerd’s second floor bedroom, and a Highpoint Model CF380 ACP handgun in a downstairs closet. There were also small amounts of marijuana and methamphetamine scattered about the house. Witnesses testified that Larnerd sold them methamphetamine from the residence and possessed the firearms.

The case was investigated by the North Cornwall Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Johnny Baer and Christian Haugsby are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a term of life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant. Larnerd’s conviction for illegal firearm possession carries a 15-year mandatory sentence.

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SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Lee Crawford, age 59, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and John Williams, age 41, of Kingston, Pennsylvania, were indicted on March 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury for conspiring to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl in Luzerne County.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Crawford and Williams conspired to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl in the Luzerne County area between July 2020 and February 2021. The indictment also charges Crawford with nine counts of distributing fentanyl and charges Williams with one count of distributing fentanyl.

The case was investigated by the Kingston Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force.  Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.

Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Under federal law, Crawford faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison,  up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Williams faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison,  up to a maximum sentence of forty years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Benjamin Butler, age 33, of Williamsport, Pennsylvania,  pled guilty on March 17, 2021, before U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann to wire fraud.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Butler engaged in a kiting scheme in September and October of 2015, whereby he used multiple credit accounts to fraudulently pay off $18,850 of credit card charges by using the temporary credit on one card to pay off another account even though he did not have the funds to ultimately cover such a payment. 

The charges stem from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General.  Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the court after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Butler is facing a maximum of thirty years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the court is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Hugo Reynosa, age 25, an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Lewisburg (USP Lewisburg) was indicted on March 16, 2021, by a federal grand jury for being in possession of a weapon in prison.  

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that during a search conducted on May 12, 2020, Reynosa was found in possession of a homemade sharpened piece of metal, commonly referred to as a “shank,” that was designed and intended to be used as a weapon. 

The charges stem from an investigation by USP Lewisburg and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Reynosa is facing a maximum of five years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine.   Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced Yilber Rosario, age 32, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment followed by a four-year term of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for heroin and fentanyl trafficking offenses.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from approximately February 2018 through approximately July 2019, Rosario conspired with others to distribute approximately 200 grams of heroin (which is equivalent to approximately 2,000 individual doses) and approximately 350 grams of fentanyl.          

The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its state and local partners, including the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 12, 2021, Eliseo Sierra, age 43, of Stuart, Florida, was sentenced to five years of probation, by U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson, for federal program theft.  Judge Wilson also ordered Sierra to pay $61,337.09 in restitution.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in 2014, while employed as an operations manager at Lincoln Charter School, in York, Pennsylvania, Sierra embezzled over $78,000 from the school.  He previously repaid the school approximately $16,000.  At the time of Sierra’s crime, the school received grants funded by the U.S. Department of Education.   

In imposing the probationary sentence, Judge Wilson highlighted Sierra’s medical conditions and the pandemic as a reason for the non-custodial sentence.  She also pointed to the age of Sierra’s conduct. 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 10, 2021, Justin Rashaad Brown, age 31, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment to be followed by six years of supervised release, by U.S. District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, for distributing crack cocaine and possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Brown sold crack cocaine in York on multiple occasions in 2016.  Law enforcement executed search warrants at Brown’s residence in July 2016 and November 2016, and found crack cocaine during each search and a stolen revolver during the second search.     

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the York County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 9, 2021, Marien Torres-Acevedo, age 38, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 75 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for conspiring to defraud the government and for committing aggravated identity theft.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Torres-Acevedo pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the government between January 2015 to July 2016.  Torres-Acevedo and her conspirators obtained fraudulent U.S. Treasury checks by stealing victims’ identities and using those stolen identities to file false tax returns that generated significant refunds.  Torres-Acevedo and her conspirators then secured the fraudulent U.S. Treasury checks and cashed them at various check cashing businesses, including several in Pennsylvania.  Torres-Acevedo admitted that between $550, 000 and $1.5 million in losses occurred as a result of the criminal activity.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Mariani highlighted the losses caused to the United States government by the scheme, and the number of victims whose identities were stolen to file false tax returns.  Acevedo also was held accountable for fabricating social media communications that threatened her and her family and providing them to investigators, who were able to trace the communications back to Acevedo.

Judge Mariani also ordered Torres-Acevedo to pay $857,729.65 in restitution.  Torres-Acevedo is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and faces deportation at the conclusion of her sentence of imprisonment.

Torres-Acevedo codefendant, Francisco Rodriguez-Polanco, and another coconspirator, Julio Polanco Suarez, both pleaded guilty to similar offenses.  Rodriguez-Polanco was sentenced to 54 months of imprisonment, while Suarez awaits sentencing.   Another third coconspirator, Alfred LiPuma, age 81, was previously sentenced to three years of probation and paid $2.1 million in restitution and fines.

The matter was investigated by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspectors, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies.  Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.

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SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 5, 2021, United States Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Christopher Jones, age 54, of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, to three years of probation for tax evasion.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Jones failed to report over $500,000 in taxable income between 2014 and 2019 to avoid paying federal income taxes.  Jones failed to report income he gained from illegal bookmaking activities and made false statements to federal agents in February 2019 during the investigation.  Judge Mannion sentenced Jones to serve six months of his three-year term of probation on home confinement, and to pay $117,370 in restitution for taxes due and owing.

Judge Mannion noted that but for COVID, Jones would have had to serve prison time, but his medical conditions placed him at high risk. 

The case was investigated by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.

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SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 4, 2021, Vincent Carter, age 36, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for drug trafficking offenses.

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Carter distributed fentanyl on multiple occasions in March 2019, in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania. After a search of his residence and vehicle, additional amounts of fentanyl and narcotics packaging were recovered.

The case was investigated by the Kingston Police Department, the Nanticoke Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.  Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime. This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. 

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 5, 2021, Jimmy Carter, age 56, of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 216 months’ imprisonment followed by a three-year term of supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Carter, along with two others,  robbed a Unimart convenience store in Ferguson Township, Pennsylvania, in January 2017.  During the course of this robbery, Carter fired a handgun at the proprietor of the store (who was not injured).

The case was investigated by the Ferguson Township Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.

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SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Richol Griner, age 44, of Washington, DC, was sentenced on March 4, 2021, to 18 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for possessing Suboxone while serving a prior prison term as an inmate at a federal correctional institution.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on or about March 1, 2019, while incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution, Schuylkill (FCI-Schuylkill), located in Minersville, Pennsylvania, Griner possessed 49 units of Suboxone, a narcotic drug that contains the opioid, buprenorphine.  Judge Mariani ordered that the 18-month sentence was to run consecutively to the federal sentence that Griner was already serving.

The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.

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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Matthew Forney, age 41, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day imprisonment followed by one year supervised release and a $40,000 fine by U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson on four counts of tax evasion.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on September 23, 2018, police were called to the residence of Matthew and Kim Forney for reports of a shooting.  Upon arrival, police discovered that their daughter’s boyfriend had shot both Matthew and Kim Forney.  While securing the residence, officers observed bloody footprints leading through the house to an outside pool house.  Inside the pool house, the police located a garbage bag, which contained a large amount of bundled United States currency.  Police obtained and executed a search warrant.  Inside a large gun safe located in the residence, police found additional amounts of bundled cash attached to business receipts.  The officers seized the cash and receipts. 

The Forney’s daughter’s boyfriend was charged with two counts of aggravated assault in connection with the shooting, but charges were ultimately dismissed on June 19, 2019.

An investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation determined that this currency was income that Matthew and Kim Forney earned through their business, but omitted on their federal income tax returns for the years 2014 through 2017.  The Forneys deposited checks from their business sales into the business bank account, which was reported as taxable income on their tax returns, along with credit card sales.  However, the Forneys retained any cash from their business sales at their residence.  The Forneys did not report this cash as taxable income on their tax returns or pay taxes on these monies.  The unreported income for these years totaled $817,713, which resulted in $292,066 in unpaid taxes.    

Kim Forney was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment by Judge Wilson on March 4, 2021.  

“The license to run a business is not a license to evade taxes,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso. “Mr. and Mrs. Forney thought they could hoard all of their cash earnings and fly under the radar of the IRS, but they couldn’t be more wrong. Anyone contemplating similar criminal conduct should beware; IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents are uniquely qualified to trace all sources of income.”

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom is prosecuting the case.

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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kim Forney, age 48, of Windsor, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 12 months’ imprisonment followed by one year supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson on four counts of aiding and abetting the preparation and filing of false tax returns.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on September 23, 2018, police were called to the residence of Matthew and Kim Forney for reports of a shooting.  Upon arrival, police discovered that their daughter’s boyfriend had shot both Matthew and Kim Forney.  While securing the residence, officers observed bloody footprints leading through the house to an outside pool house.  Inside the pool house, the police located a garbage bag, which contained a large amount of bundled United States currency.  Police obtained and executed a search warrant.  Inside a large gun safe located in the residence, police found additional amounts of bundled cash attached to business receipts.  The officers seized the cash and receipts. 

The Forney’s daughter’s boyfriend was charged with two counts of aggravated assault in connection with the shooting, but charges were ultimately dismissed on June 19, 2019.

An investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation determined that this currency was income that Matthew and Kim Forney earned through their business, but omitted on their federal income tax returns for the years 2014 through 2017.  The Forneys deposited checks from their business sales into the business bank account, which was reported as taxable income on their tax returns, along with credit card sales.  However, the Forneys retained any cash from their business sales at their residence.  The Forneys did not report this cash as taxable income on their tax returns or pay taxes on these monies.  The unreported income for these years totaled $817,713, which resulted in $292,066 in unpaid taxes.    

Matthew Forney’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 5, 2021 before Judge Wilson.

“The license to run a business is not a license to evade taxes,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso. “Mr. and Mrs. Forney thought they could hoard all of their cash earnings and fly under the radar of the IRS, but they couldn’t be more wrong. Anyone contemplating similar criminal conduct should beware; IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents are uniquely qualified to trace all sources of income.”

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom is prosecuting the case.           

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WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Wayne Davidson, age 27, of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment followed by a four-year term of supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy.

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Davidson pled guilty in October 2020 to conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin (which is approximately 2,000 individual doses) and a mixture of heroin and carfentanil. During a three-day period in June 2017, there was a rash of drug overdoses in Williamsport.  At the time, UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport and Wellsboro reported treating 51 such cases within a 48-hour period.  

Two of Davidson’s co-conspirators, Markeese Askew and Nathan Crowder also pled guilty in October 2020 to the same charge.  They both face minimum sentences of 11 years’ imprisonment.  Raymond Howard was convicted after a five-day jury trial and awaits sentencing.

In total, Davidson and the three co-conspirators were charged with delivering a mixture of heroin and carfentanil that resulted in serious bodily injury to eight individuals.

The case was investigated by the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Unit, Montoursville Police Department, Old Lycoming Township Police Department, South Williamsport Police Department, Williamsport Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorneys Alisan V. Martin and Geoffrey W. MacArthur are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime. This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. 

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 2, 2021, Costel Aparaschivei, age 38, of Romania, was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for bank fraud and identity theft offenses.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Aparaschivei was convicted of conspiring to commit bank fraud between October 6, 2018 and October 21, 2018, and of aggravated identity theft.  Aparaschivei pled guilty to obtaining counterfeit debit cards bearing stolen account numbers and PINs in New York, and transporting them to South Abington Township, Pennsylvania.  In Pennsylvania, Aparaschivei and his coconspirator, Daniel Gologan, used the counterfeit debit cards at Penn East Federal Credit Union and attempted to withdraw approximately $144,620.  The conspirators successfully withdrew $66,510, which Judge Mariani ordered to be paid as restitution.

In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Mariani highlighted the fact that Aparaschivei began committing his offense within approximately one month of entering the United States illegally.  Aparaschivei will be deported to Romania following the conclusion of his sentence.

Aparaschivei’s coconspirator, Gologan, also pled guilty to bank fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft, and was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment.  Gologan will be deported following the conclusion of his sentence.

The matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service and by the South Abington Township Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eric Garman, age 32, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on March 1, 2021, to 210 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for distribution of sexually explicit images of minors.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Garman pled guilty in June 2020 to distributing images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct between June and August 2019.  At sentencing, in addition to the term of imprisonment, Judge Mannion ordered that Garman serve a ten-year term of supervised release and comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.

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.usdoj.gov/psc for more information about internet safety education, please visit  www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

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SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 24, 2021, Miguel Dotel, age 43, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment followed by a four-year term of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for drug trafficking offenses.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from approximately March 2018 through July 2019, Dotel conspired with others to distribute approximately 200 grams of heroin (which is equivalent to approximately 2,000 individual doses) and 250 grams of fentanyl.     

The matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and its state and local partners, including the Pennsylvania State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Dale Richard Estep II, age 34, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 24, 2021, for passing counterfeit currency.

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Estep with eleven counts of passing counterfeit United States currency in businesses in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and York Counties between May 12, 2019 and May 14, 2019.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian T. Haugsby is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law on each count of passing counterfeit currency is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that William Battle, age 29, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment today by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for participating in a conspiracy that forced or coerced women to engage in prostitution in northeastern Pennsylvania.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Battle, who used the street name “Buck,” previously pled guilty to conspiring with others to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion between 2011 and 2015.

Battle’s conviction and sentence resulted from an investigation into the activities of a street gang known as the “Black P-Stones.” The fourth superseding indictment alleged that females were “sexed-in” to the gang by being forced to engage in sex with male gang members; recruited and coerced to engage in prostitution; advertised as adult escorts on a website; provided with heroin and other drugs; and placed in various are hotels/motels to work as prostitutes. Gang members, including Battle, used threats, force, drugs, and intimidation to coerce females to engage in prostitution.

Judge Mannion also ordered the defendant to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Battle must also comply with sex offender registration and notification requirements.

The leader of the Black P-Stones, Sirvonn Taylor, was previously sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment. Other high-level gang members that have been sentenced in the case include: Jose Velasquez—17 ½ years’ imprisonment; Jamiell Sims—12 ½ years’ imprisonment; Arthur Taylor—7 years’ imprisonment; and Jordan Capone—7 years’ imprisonment. 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, Maine State Police, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, and local police in Monroe County.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.

This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).  OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Francheska Quinones, age 28, formerly of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 25, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to 63 months’ imprisonment for her role in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy which operated in Luzerne, Lackawanna and Schuylkill Counties.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Quinones previously pled guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in Luzerne, Lackawanna and Schuylkill Counties between January 2017 and December 2018. 

Adam Holcomb and William Terron were indicted in December 2018 for the same methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy along with Amanda Boyle who was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment and Adam Holcomb who is awaiting sentencing.        

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Kingston Police Department, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.  Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Joan Perez, age 20, of Utica, New York, was indicted on February 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury for online enticement of a minor and interstate travel with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Perez used his cellphone to entice and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.  Additionally, the indictment alleges that Perez travelled to Pennsylvania in order to engage in a sexual act with said minor.

The charges stem from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Philadelphia Division, the Scranton Police Department, and the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalties under federal law for these offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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.usdoj.gov/psc.

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Zachary Watkins, age 20, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury for the receipt and distribution of child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney, Bruce D. Bandler, the indictment alleges that between January 1, 2020, and January 27, 2021, in Lackawanna County, Watkins received and distributed visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. 

The charges stem from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Scranton Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 20 years imprisonment imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The mandatory minimum for these offenses is 5 years imprisonment.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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.usdoj.gov/psc.         

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kenneth Persise, age 32, of Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury for distribution of child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on February 26, 2020, March 4, 2020 and June 14, 2020, in Carbon County, Persise distributed visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.

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.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit  www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Caleb Guerrier, age 39, of Hanover Township, pled guilty on February 24, 2021, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and being in possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the charge of felon in possession of firearms and ammunition stems from an incident in March 2014, in which investigators served a search warrant at Guerrier’s residence and seized a cache of weapons and ammunition, including five semi-automatic pistols, three of which had obliterated serial numbers, one sawed-off shotgun, multiple boxes of assorted ammunition, drug paraphernalia and $195 in United States currency.  Guerrier is a convicted felon and is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition. The charge of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine stems from a separate incident in June 2016, in which investigators searched a storage unit which Guerrier rented in Wilkes-Barre Township and seized crack cocaine and additional amounts of ammunition.

Judge Mannion ordered that a presentence investigation take place. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Hanover Township Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.       

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

Guerrier faces a maximum possible penalty of up to thirty years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $1,250,000 fine

Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

# # #

SCRANTON: The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that James Williams III, also known as “Dilly,” age 40, of Stroud Township, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on March 29, 2018 and April 18, 2018, Williams distributed and possessed with intent to distribute cocaine within 1,000 feet of Stroudsburg High School, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.  The indictment further charges Williams with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine on May 3, 2018.  The indictment also alleges that Williams, a convicted felon, illegally possessed two firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and one of the firearms was stolen.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations.  All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Bomboy, age 61, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 23, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to five years’ imprisonment for his role in a Lackawanna County-based methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Bomboy previously pled guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 350 and 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Scranton area between February and April 2019

The investigation was conducted by the Scranton Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Darasomalee Thach, age 36, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 23, 2021, to two years of probation, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for conspiring to defraud the United States by failing to pay employment taxes.  Thach was ordered to pay $360,897.86 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Thach previously admitted that while he co-owned and operated a temporary staffing company in Harrisburg, he failed to withhold and pay over employment taxes in order to maximize his personal profit.  The unlawful conduct occurred from 2011 through 2015. 

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Craig Killmeyer, age 56, of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to five years’ imprisonment to be followed by ten years of supervised release, by Chief U.S District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for receiving and distributing child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Killmeyer previously admitted to receiving and distributing images of child pornography between December 2017 and December 2018.  Killmeyer used Kik Messenger to send and receive the images.   

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.

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.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit  www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Michael Jay Jackson, age 61, formerly of Hershey, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to eleven years’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release, by U.S. District Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, on bankruptcy fraud, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering charges.  Jackson was also ordered to pay $1,567,275 in restitution.  Jackson was previously sentenced in March 2019.  In May 2020, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit vacated that sentence and remanded for resentencing.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Jackson pled guilty in November 2017 to an indictment charging him with twelve counts of wire fraud, five counts of bankruptcy fraud, nine counts of false bankruptcy declarations, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.  Jackson defrauded his creditors, the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and his wife by filing seven Chapter 13 and Chapter 11 bankruptcy petitions, five of which were under Jackson’s name, and two of which were under his wife’s name without her knowledge or consent.  The petitions contained false information regarding Jackson’s income, assets, and employment, and were filed in order to postpone multiple Sheriff’s sales of his Hershey residence.  Jackson filed the last two petitions under his wife’s name after the Bankruptcy Court barred Jackson from filing any further petitions for two years in May 2015.

Jackson also pled guilty in March 2018, to a two-count criminal information charging him with wire fraud and money laundering.  Jackson perpetrated a loan-fraud scheme involving a bogus business venture between 2007 and 2017 that defrauded 22 victims out of approximately $1.7 million.  Jackson registered a corporation by the name of INTEX Building Materials Group, Inc. (INTEX BMG) with the Pennsylvania Department of State in 2007, listing himself as the sole shareholder and Chief Executive Officer of the company.  Jackson defrauded his victims by convincing them he had the backing of Brookstone Partners, a New York City capital investment company, to lend him millions of dollars to acquire companies that manufactured building products.  Jackson induced his victims into giving him loans to pay for his personal expenses, including his children’s college tuition, while the victims awaited consummation of the deal with Brookstone.  Jackson promised his victims huge returns on what were supposed to be short-term loans.  Jackson also provided copies of what he claimed to be e-mails from Brookstone principals that falsely represented the INTEX BMG deal was real.

In reality, INTEX BMG was a “paper” company that did not hold any significant assets, did not have any paid employees, and never generated any income.  Jackson provided his victims a variety of explanations as to why INTEX BMG did not go “live” in order to lull them into not taking action against him.  Jackson would repeatedly blame the protracted delays upon the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), various state regulators, and the Canadian government.  Many of the victims of Jackson’s loan-fraud scheme were from central Pennsylvania.

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel prosecuted the case.

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 19, 2021, Corey Treadwell, age 49, previously of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for assault with intent to commit murder.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, in November 2015, while Treadwell was an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Lewisburg, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Treadwell repeatedly stabbed his cellmate causing serious injury to that individual.  The victim was treated and recovered from his wounds.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.

# # #

SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Justin Petty, age 44, of Charleston, South Carolina, was sentenced on February 18, 2021, to 18 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for assaulting another inmate in retaliation for that individual’s past cooperation with law enforcement as a witness or informant.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, on or about February 28, 2019, while incarcerated at the United States Penitentiary, Canaan (USP Canaan), located in Waymart, Pennsylvania, Petty, along with a co-defendant, conspired to assault and did assault the victim, also an inmate at USP Canaan, by repeatedly striking the victim several times about the head and body with closed fists.  The motivation for this assault was Petty’s belief that the victim had been a government witness or informant. 

The 18-month sentence that Petty received was ordered to run consecutively to the federal sentence that Petty was serving at the time of the assault.

The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.

# # #

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on January 25, 2021, Caron Pitter, age 44, Rohan Lyttle, age 45, and Rohan Lyttle, Jr., age 23, all residents of Queens, New York, were indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, with additional mail fraud charges against Pitter and Lyttle and a wire fraud charge against Lyttle. The indictment follows the filing of a criminal complaint against the three defendants on January 28, 2020, when Pitter and Lyttle were also arrested.  Rohan Lyttle, Jr. remains at large. 

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that until December 2020, Pitter, Lyttle, and Lyttle, Jr., working with other coconspirators, defrauded victims using a common scheme known as a “sweepstakes scheme.” According to the indictment, a sweepstakes scheme typically starts with a fraudulent telemarketer telling a prospective victim that he or she has been selected as the winner of a large sweepstakes prize. The telemarketer informs the victim that he or she must first pay an “advance fee” to defray various expenses, such as taxes, before receiving the prize. Often these supposed advance fees continue until a victim has depleted his or her life savings, and no prize is ever furnished. Frequently, the advance-fee payments go to intermediaries or “money mules” before getting “flipped” to another member of the conspiracy, often located overseas.

Each of the known victims in this case either mailed cash or money orders or wired payments to someone in the United States, including the three defendants. One of the victims, known as “V1” in the indictment, is a 75-year-old man from Mechanicsburg, PA, in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. In May 2020, V1 was contacted by telephone by an individual who identified himself using the pseudonym “Andrew Goldberg” and was supposedly a representative of Publishers Clearing House (PCH). Goldberg told V1 that V1 was the recipient of a $2.5 million PCH cash prize. Goldberg told V1 that he had to prepay taxes to receive the cash prize. From May 2020 through November 2020, V1 continued to send additional payments for taxes, insurance, and transportation fees.

V1 ultimately sent more than $728,000 in cash to satisfy the advance-fee conditions. These mailings went to both Pitter and “Rocars Auto,” an automobile repair shop located in the borough of Queens, New York and affiliated with both Caron Pitter and Rohan Lyttle. Additionally, V1 was directed to purchase auto parts for a Land Rover from a car dealership in Cumberland County, PA and have them shipped to “Ro-Cars Auto,” resulting in over $15,000 in charges to two of V1’s credit card accounts. V1 never received any cash prize.

Similarly, four other victims identified in the indictment either mailed cash to addresses associated with “Rocars Auto” or made bank transfers to accounts and addresses associated with Caron Pitter, Rohan Lyttle, and Rohan Lyttle, Jr. At least one of these victims was likewise victimized by individuals posing as representatives of PCH.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The maximum penalty under federal law for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud is 20 years’ imprisonment. The maximum penalty under federal law for mail fraud and for wire fraud is likewise 20 years’ imprisonment. These charges may also carry a fine and a term of supervised release following imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Razeek Carwheel, age 39, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2021, with possession of a firearm as a felon.    

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on November 22, 2020, in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Carwheel was in possession of a Smith and Wesson, .45 caliber handgun, and 20 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition as a previously convicted felon.

The matter was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford is prosecuting the case.   

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty for this offense is up to life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

# # #

SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Omar Santiago-Muniz, age 30, of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 17, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 127 months’ imprisonment for production of child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Santiago-Muniz previously admitted that in June-July 2017, he enticed and persuaded two minors, ages 9 and 10, from Schuylkill County, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing images of such conduct, and that he used a cell phone and the internet to commit the crimes.

Judge Mariani also ordered Santiago-Muniz to serve 10 years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and pay a special assessment of $5,100. Santiago-Muniz will have to undergo sex offender treatment and must comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Schuylkill County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.

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.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit  www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that George Jones, age 40, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 17, 2021, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Jones with distribution of cocaine base, possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and marijuana, being in possession of a .44 magnum firearm as a convicted felon and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, between July 2020 and September 2020, in Harrisburg.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Harrisburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Consiglio is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Arthur Gibson, age 48, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 16, 2021, to 18 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for stealing government property.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Gibson previously pled guilty to purchasing thousands of dollars’ worth of postage stamps from post offices in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere in July 2019.  Gibson admitted that to purchase the stamps, he used personal checks, knowing that the funds in his bank account were insufficient to cover the cost of the stamps. Gibson agreed to pay restitution to the U.S. Postal Service in the amount of $22,990, which represents the value of the postage stamps that Gibson unlawfully obtained.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Northeastern Regional Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.

# # #

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on February 16, 2021, Aaron Johnson, age 30, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment followed by five years on supervised release by Chief U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for armed bank robbery.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Johnson committed four armed bank robberies in Cumberland County between February and September 2019:

• AmeriChoice Federal Credit Union on February 15, 2019, stole $6,300;
• Centric Bank on July 12, 2019, stole $8,450;
• BB&T Bank on July 31, 2019, stole $10,079; and
• PNC Bank on August 19, 2019, stole $2,734.

Chief Judge Jones also ordered Johnson to pay restitution to the banks in the amount of $27,563.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lower Allen Police Department, East Pennsboro Township Police Department, Camp Hill Borough Police Department, and the Hampden Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Baer is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

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SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brenda Cruise, age 50, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, a former contract employee with the Lackawanna County Prison, was sentenced today to one year in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for participating in a conspiracy to provide prohibited objects, including illegal drugs, to inmates at the Lackawanna County Prison.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Cruise previously pled guilty to conspiracy to provide contraband to inmates in prison. Cruise admitted that during 2018, while working at the prison, she provided suboxone, marijuana, synthetic marijuana, and tobacco to inmates on several occasions and received payments totaling $1,100 for helping to smuggle the drugs and tobacco into the prison.

Judge Mannion also ordered Cruise to serve two years on supervised release following her     prison sentence.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.          

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Derrell Manuel, age 32, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced on February 16, 2021, to 9 months’ imprisonment followed by one year of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner, for passing $1,700 in counterfeit United States currency. 

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Manuel previously pled guilty to passing and attempting to pass counterfeit currency and aiding and abetting the commission of this offense with three co-defendants.  The offenses occurred at retail stores in Dauphin and Cumberland Counties on September 4, 2019.  As part of his sentence, Manuel was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,700.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Lower Paxton Township Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian T. Haugsby prosecuted the case.

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Harrisburg –Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler recently honored 14 members of law enforcement for their outstanding contributions to public safety in 2020. These awards are made each year to a select group of individuals who perform in an exceptional manner and who make significant contributions to our Office’s efforts to promote public safety.

The following individuals received the United States Attorney’s Award For Distinguished Service for their exceptional work in significant criminal prosecutions:

• ATF Special Agent Jamie Markovchick
• Weatherly Police Department Sgt. Michael Bogart

These two awards recognized the recipients work in U.S. v. Robert Torner, et. al., a significant drug and firearm case where the defendants received lengthy periods of incarceration after a 13-day trial that involved over 20 witnesses and approximately 200 exhibits.

• FBI Special Agent Alan Jones
• FBI Task Force Officer George Carado
• FBI Task Force Officer Chris Keppel

These three awards recognize the recipients work in two cases. U.S. v. Rhashean Strange, et. al., and U.S. v. Anibal Rodriguez, et. al. The Strange case was a multi-defendant heroin trafficking conspiracy that involved distributing multi-kilogram quantities of heroin.  The Rodriguez case was a multi-defendant methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, whose members were particularly violent.  All the defendants received lengthy terms of imprisonment.

• Deputy U.S. Marshal (Anonymous)
• Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Lenahan
• FBI Special Agent Alan Jones
• U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Michael Armstrong

These four awards recognized the recipients for their work in U.S. v. Shawn Christy, a case dealing with an armed and dangerous fugitive who was ultimately sentenced to 20 years in prison.

• FBI Special Agent Joseph F. Noone

This award recognized Special Agent Noone’s exceptional work spearheading public corruption investigations in Northeastern Pennsylvania for more than a decade.  Agent Noone has achieved spectacular results in helping to obtain over thirty public corruption convictions during his tenure.    

• Luzerne County Detective Charles J. Balogh
• Luzerne County Detective Lieutenant Daniel G. Yursha

These two awards recognized the recipients for their exemplary work in U.S. v. Mark Icker, a sexual assault case involving a police officer who assaulted females in custody.  The defendant received a 15-year term of imprisonment.

Two individuals received the United States Attorney’s Award For Outstanding Contributions to Cooperative Law Enforcement:

• Bureau of Prisons Supervisory Attorney Jonathan Kerr

This award recognized Mr. Kerr’s exemplary work in the production of documentary evidence for prisoner litigation during the COVID-19 Pandemic.  Attorney Kerr’s immediate response to requests for medical, disciplinary, and other records on an expedited basis was of invaluable assistance to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in responding to the hundreds of inmate requests for release. 

• Pike County District Attorney Raymond J. Tonkin

This award recognized District Attorney Tonkin’s exceptional work in cooperative law enforcement activities over many years. District Attorney Tonkin vigorously works to maintain a strong working relationship with federal, state, county and local law enforcement to investigate and prosecute criminals who pose a danger to the citizens of Pike County, Pennsylvania.

“As we see in the newspapers every day, and most recently in the tragic events that occurred in Florida, law enforcement officers put their lives at risk every time they put on their uniforms,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brandler.  “All too often their tremendous sacrifices go unnoticed and unrecognized. I am therefore very pleased to recognize a few of these heroes who contributed so much to promoting public safety in 2020.  On behalf of the entire U.S. Attorney’s Office, I congratulate them and thank them for their service.”

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Barry Ritter, Jr., age 55, of Milton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 9, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 84 months of imprisonment and a 10-year term of supervised release, for distributing and possessing child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Ritter pled guilty to the receipt and distribution of child pornography between March 2018 to July 2018.  Ritter used online forums to obtain and re-distribute child pornography on at least several dozen occasions, and admitted to viewing child pornography for approximately 10 years.  A search warrant conducted at his residence yielded electronic devices containing dozens of photographs and videos of child pornography.  Ritter also was held accountable for possessing material involving prepubescent minors and the abuse of infants.

Judge Mariani also ordered Ritter to pay $3,000 in restitution to victims of child pornography and $5,100 in assessments.  Ritter has remained in custody since his February 5, 2019 arrest.

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.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit  www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.  Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.

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HARRISBURG, Pa., - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kenelm L. Shirk, age 71, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 3, 2021, by a federal grand jury for threatening to murder members of the United States Senate.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Shirk made threats to murder Democratic members of the United States Senate.  On January 21, 2021, Shirk was stopped by the Pennsylvania State Police in his vehicle en route to Washington D.C. A search of Shirk’s vehicle recovered several firearms and large amount of ammunition. Shirk was then taken into custody by the Pennsylvania State Police and charged with making terroristic threats.  

Shirk made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab on February 9, 2021, and pled not guilty to the federal charges.  He was detained pending a trial that was scheduled for April 5, 2021.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office, the Cornwall Police Department, and the Washington D.C. Capitol Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaime M. Keating is prosecuting the case.

Indictments, Criminal Informations and Criminal Complaints are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Aaron VanDaley, age 43, of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 3, 2021, for cyberstalking and making interstate threats.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges VanDaley with cyberstalking and making interstate threats to kidnap and injure the minor child of his former intimate partner’s current boyfriend.  The indictment further alleges that VanDaley, with the intent to harass his former intimate partner, made numerous false police reports against his former intimate partner’s friends and family.

The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Fort Stewart, Georgia, and the Pottsville Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is ten years imprisonment and a term of supervised release following imprisonment.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Capozza, age 39, of Newington, Connecticut, was indicted on February 3, 2021, by a federal grand jury for transportation with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and interstate travel with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor.

According to Acting United States Attorney, Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that between July and October of 2020, Capozza travelled to Pennsylvania in order to engage in a sexual act with a minor, and also transported the minor back to Connecticut and also Massachusetts in order to engage in criminal sexual activity.

The charges stem from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Omaha, Nebraska Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Connecticut and Nebraska.  Assistant United States Attorney James Buchanan is prosecuting the case.

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalties under federal law for these offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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 https://www.justice.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Virginia Hayden, age 69, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 3, 2021, by a federal grand jury on 14 counts of wire fraud related to the theft of social security funds.    

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Hayden failed to notify the Social Security Administration that her husband was missing and continued to receive his social security funds between 2011 and 2017.  The total amount of the funds she improperly collected was $113,471.  Hayden was charged with the murder of her husband in the York County Court of Common Pleas in April of 2019.  Those charges are still awaiting trial. 

The matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford is prosecuting the case.   

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The maximum penalty for this offense is up to 240 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.

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HARRISBURG – Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler today issued the 2020 Annual Report for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

“I have reviewed the events of 2020 and am proud to report that our office, along with our law enforcement partners, had significant accomplishments last year despite the challenges presented by the Coronavirus Pandemic,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Brandler.  “In 2020, we successfully prosecuted numerous individuals engaged in serious criminal activity, thereby improving the quality of life for the people of our District. We also successfully represented the interests of the federal government in civil litigation, including obtaining significant monetary recoveries on behalf of the taxpayer. Last, but not least, we participated in numerous community outreach programs designed to educate the public and reduce recidivism, violent crimes, and opioid dependence.” 

This report shows a highly effective and efficient operation. The accomplishments summarized in it are due to the hard work of numerous dedicated professionals, including former United States Attorney David J. Freed, who led the District with honor and distinction between 2017 and 2020. 

“I am proud to work alongside each member of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to pursue justice and make our communities safer,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brandler.  “I hope you find this Report informative and enlightening.”

Harrisburg –The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania joins with the Eastern District of Virginia and other United States Attorney’s Offices across the country to honor the contributions and history of the African American community during this year’s Black History Month.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, for over the last fifty years, the Department of Justice has established Special Emphasis Programs that try to develop a diverse and talented workforce in the Department and United States Attorney’s Offices nationwide.  Today, these programs include support for racial/ethnic minorities, women, persons and veterans with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender applicants and employees in various categories and occupations and in all organizational components throughout the Department. 

This month we celebrate African Americans contributions in history.  The annual tradition of Black History Month in February is commemorated by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, which establishes a national theme for each year.  The theme for 2021 is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.”  The theme acknowledges the rich tapestry of the African American family. 

We echo the sentiment of Raj Parekh, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia who stated, “we are deeply committed in EDVA to ensuring that all participants in the legal process—including victims, parties, and members of the Bench and Bar—are treated with respect and dignity as we seek equal justice under the law.  As part of that commitment, we are dedicated to furthering our collective efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in all forms through our hiring, advancement, and community outreach practices.”  His sentiments ring true.  “This February we renew our own commitment in Middle District of Pennsylvania of seeking to promote the goals of diversity and inclusion in both our criminal and civil practices,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brandler.  “We will work with the Department of Justice and the all United States Attorneys Offices across the United States to fulfill this mission.”  

More information about the Department of Justice’s Special Emphasis Programs and commitment to a diverse workforce can be found at https://www.justice.gov/jmd/affirmative-employment-special-emphasis-programs.

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Amanda Boyle, age 37, of Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 29, 2021, by  U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to nine years’ imprisonment for her role in a Luzerne County-based methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy.

According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Boyle previously pleaded guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in the Luzerne County area between January 2017 and December 2018.   Boyle was one of five individuals indicted by a grand jury in December 2018 for methamphetamine trafficking in Luzerne, Lackawanna and Schuylkill Counties

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Kingston Police Department, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.  Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.

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HARRISBURG– Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler announced today that his office has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Special Inspector General Brian D. Miller of the Office of the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR), regarding the investigation and prosecution of fraud relating to CARES Act funding.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler stated: “This partnership is part of our on-going efforts  to investigate and prosecute the fraudsters who have stolen millions of dollars from government backed relief programs during the pandemic. This is a high-priority area for our office and we look forward to working with SIGPR to hold accountable anyone who illegally profited at the expense of the American taxpayer.”

Special Inspector General Brian D. Miller stated: “This partnership is an important step in protecting taxpayer money. We will work together to hold accountable and bring to justice those who steal, or misuse, money meant to support the Nation’s economic health and recovery.”

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 created SIGPR to investigate the spending of government funds meant to provide economic relief to people and businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.  

The MOU will allow the U.S. Attorney’s Office and SIGPR to enhance their cooperative efforts in investigating and prosecuting matters involving loans, loan guarantees and other investments made by the Secretary of the Treasury under the CARES Act. 

The MOU outlines four objectives: 1) to provide a coordinated response to CARES Act funding fraud, with an emphasis on organized criminal activity, as well as criminal and civil fraud affecting federal money, vulnerable victims, and fraud recidivists; 2) to speed up legal process, case intake, and prosecution of CARES Act-related fraud; 3) to link and associate isolated CARES Act-related complaints with larger schemes and related, unlawful activity; and 4) to deter future CARES Act funding fraud by increasing awareness of successful criminal prosecutions and civil enforcement actions against individuals and companies involved in CARES-related financial fraud.

As part of the MOU, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will designate two Assistant United States Attorneys – one from the Criminal Division and one from the Civil Division – to serve as liaisons for the partnership between SIGPR and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.  These AUSAs will be direct points of contact for case-related inquiries from SIGPR.   

The MOU also calls for the U.S. Attorney’s Office to create a streamlined, accelerated process for SIGPR investigations to obtain needed preliminary legal process, including grand jury subpoenas and court orders, subpoenas, and civil investigative demands.

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