Middle District of Pennsylvania

WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania biofuel producer and two of its officers were indicted on May 3, 2017, on conspiracy and false statements charges for participating in a scheme that generated over $10 million in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) renewable fuels credits (RIN credits) at Keystone Biofuels, Inc., a company that purported to produce and sell biodiesel for use as transportation fuel.

 

Ben Wootton, age 52, of Enola, PA, Race Miner, age 48, of Buena Vista, Co., and Keystone Biofuels, Inc. were indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, announced Bruce D. Brandler, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Jeffrey H. Wood, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, Jennifer Lynn, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Philadelphia Office of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, and Steven L. McQueen, Acting Assistant Special Agent In Charge of the Philadelphia Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

 

According to the indictment, Wootton and Miner were co-owners of Keystone Biofuels, Inc. located in Shiremanstown, PA and later in Camp Hill, PA. Wootton, serving as President of Keystone Biofuels and Miner, serving as Chief Executive Officer, are alleged to have participated in a scheme with other coconspirators to fraudulently claim RIN credits on non-qualifying renewable fuel. Although the credits required that the fuel pass standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the fuel produced by Keystone did not meet this standard, the grand jury alleges, and was placed into commerce despite being “off-spec.” The conspirators also allegedly generated fraudulent documentation and manipulated samples to be sent to laboratories for testing as part of their scheme. Keystone, Wootton and Miner also allegedly made false entries into an EPA tracking system in violation of the Clean Air Act.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Department of Justice Environmental Crimes Section, Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart, Trial Attorney Adam Cullman, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur of the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting this 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 statues and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The crime of conspiracy is punishable by up to five years in prison. The crime of False Statements is punishable by up to five years in prison. A fine of up to $250,000 for an individual and $500,000 for a corporation may also be imposed.

 

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, among other factors.

 

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HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dyckman Martinez, age 34, previously of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 3, 2017, by a federal grand jury for failing to appear at a halfway house in Harrisburg for service of his sentence.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in July 2014, Martinez was furloughed from the Federal Correctional Institution in Ottisville, New York, and instructed to report to the Residential Re-Entry Center at Capitol Pavilion in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to complete his sentence. Martinez failed to appear at the residential center. As a result, federal authorities issued a warrant for his arrest.

 

In September 2014, Martinez was arrested in New York City on drug related charges. New York officials prosecuted Martinez and sentenced him for the crimes he committed while on escape. Martinez has remained in prison since serving a sentence.

 

In 2010, Martinez was convicted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for crack cocaine trafficking in York, Pennsylvania. He was sentenced U.S. District Court Judge H. Sylvia Rambo to 70 months’ imprisonment for that offense.

 

The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Consiglio is prosecuting the case.

 

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 five 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 today that Jackie Johnson, age 31, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed on April 25, 2017, following Johnson’s initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Johnson distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on two occasions in July and August 2016, and cocaine in December 2016, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.

 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.

 

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.

 

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 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 today that Carl R. Bonser, age 56, of Lehighton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a one count criminal information on May 2, 2017, with false, fictitious or fraudulent claims.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that from January 1, 2016 through October 31, 2016, Bonser, in his official capacity as Postmaster of the Orwigsburg Post Office, falsely requested monetary compensation for travel that never occurred, causing a loss of $6,500.

 

The United States also filed a plea agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that Bonser intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.

 

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.

 

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 5 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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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jeffrey Turns, age 33, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on May 1, 2017, before United States District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, to 132 months’ imprisonment for committing two bank robberies and federal firearms charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Turns robbed two banks in August 2015, a Fulton Bank in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, on August 12, 2015, and a Santander Bank in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, on August 27, 2015. During the Santander Bank robbery, Turns threatened the tellers by brandishing a firearm. Turns was apprehended just after the August 27, 2015, bank robbery through a cooperative effort by Upper Allen Township Police Department, Camp Hill Police Department, Lower Allen Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. When taken into custody, Turns was fleeing from the bank in a stolen car with the firearm in his waistband, and nine additional stolen firearms in the back of the car.

 

As a part of his sentence, Judge Jones ordered Turns to serve a term of three years of supervised release at the conclusion of his prison sentence. Turns must also pay restitution in the amount of $3,471 to Fulton Bank. Officers recovered the money that Turns had stolen from Santander Bank from Turns at the time of his arrest.

 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mechanicsburg Police Department, and the Carroll Township Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

 

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Anthony Johnson, age 49, a resident of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury on robbery and federal firearms charges. The indictment was unsealed today.

 

According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Johnson and his co-conspirator robbed and shot a victim on Girard Avenue, York, on January 9, 2016. During the investigation, the U.S. Marshals Task Force and York City officers recovered a stolen Smith and Wesson 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol and three Luger cartridges from Johnson’s co-conspirator during her arrest.

 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 is lifetime 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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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Anthony Corsa, age 31, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges. The indictment was unsealed on April 28, 2017.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that in October 2016, Corsa was in possession of an Iver Johnson .32 caliber revolver, acrylfentanyl, and drug packaging materials with intent to distribute. The drugs seized in this case tested positive for acrylfentanyl, which is a potent and dangerous derivative of fentanyl, and has already been responsible for several deaths in Pennsylvania. The indictment also alleges that Corsa is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm.

 

The case was investigated by the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the York County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 is lifetime 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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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that as a result of a joint ATF-York County Drug Task Force operation in York, Pennsylvania, nine individuals engaging in illegal firearms and drug trafficking have been federally indicted separately and detained since March 29, 2017. The final arraignment hearing occurred on April 25, 2017, before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab and these cases have now been unsealed. The indicted defendants are:

 

• Edward Harris, age 58, a resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • an UZI submachine gun with a partially obliterated serial number;

  • a magazine with thirty-one (31) Winchester 9mm cartridges;

  • fifty (50) PMC 9mm caliber full metal jacket ammunition;

  • forty-four (44) .38 caliber ammunition and

  • thirty-two (32) Winchester 9mm cartridges.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Harris on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable John E. Jones, III will preside over Harris’ case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

• Ernest Crosby, age 25, a resident of Manchester, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a .357 magnum Revolver, loaded with six .357 magnum Winchester caliber cartridges.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Crosby on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable John E. Jones, III will preside over Crosby’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 2, 2017.

     

• Jeremiah Ashford age 25, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a .22 caliber Ruger Revolver, and four .22 caliber cartridges.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Ashford on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. Chief Judge Conner will preside over Ashford’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

• Lykeem Bethune, age 20, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and on April 19, 2017 and charged with the sale and possession of:

  • a stolen Intratec 9mm pistol with twenty-two 9mm caliber cartridges loaded in the magazine and

  • a stolen Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol with nine .40 caliber Winchester Full Metal Jacket cartridges loaded in the magazine.

     

Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Bethune on April 4, 2017 and then on April 25, 2017, and determined that Bethune should be detained pending trial. Judge Jones will preside over Bethune’s cases, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

 

• Derek Jones, age 23, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a stolen Intratec 9mm pistol and twenty-two 9mm caliber cartridges loaded in the magazine.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Jones on April 4, 2017, and determined that Jones should be detained pending trial. Judge Jones will preside over Derek Jones’ cases, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

• Edward Lee McDowell, III, age 20, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol and nine .40 caliber Winchester Full Metal Jacket cartridges loaded in the magazine; and

  • a Ruger .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol with an integrated suppressor, and a 9mm Hi-Point rifle with five 9mm cartridges.

  • McDowell also faces felony heroin trafficking violations.

 

Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned McDowell on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Yvette Kane will preside over McDowell’s case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

 

• Quran Smallwood, age 22, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a 9mm Glock loaded with twenty 9mm caliber cartridges.

  • Smallwood also faces felony heroin, crack cocaine and marijuana trafficking violations.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned McDowell on April 4, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Yvette Kane will preside over McDowell’s case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

• Fred Crowder, III, age 32, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a .12 gauge Mossberg shotgun and two 12 gauge Remington Peters shotgun shells.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Crowder on April 18, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner will preside over Crowder’s case, and he has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

• Kenge Lewis, III, age 23, a resident of York, Pennsylvania was indicted by a grand jury in Harrisburg on March 29, 2017, and charged with possessing:

  • a .22 caliber I.J.A. & C.WKS revolver and eight Winchester .22 caliber Super X cartridges.

     

    Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Lewis on April 18, 2017, and determined he should be detained pending trial. The Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo will preside over Lewis’ case, and she has scheduled jury selection and trial for June 5, 2017.

     

U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler stated, “President Trump and Attorney General Sessions have both made clear that reducing violent crime in our inner cities is a high priority for the U.S. Department of Justice. The illegal sale and use of firearms by criminals, particularly in drug transactions, fuels violent crimes and this effort taking guns out of the hands of criminals is part of our effort to reduce violent crimes in York.”

 

The guns seized in this case ranged from semiautomatic pistols to machine guns and assault-style rifles. Many of the firearms had high-capacity magazines, lasers and one was equipped with a silencer. A number of these firearms were stolen, straw-purchased or had obliterated serial numbers.

 

“This indictment is a result of the collaborative efforts between ATF and the York County Drug Task Force,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “ATF is dedicated to investigating and pursuing violent criminals who pollute our communities with drugs and gun violence.”

 

“Unfortunately, we know all too well the devastation which often occurs due to the illegal trafficking of firearms,” said Chief Deputy Assistant District Attorney Dave Sunday. “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the York County Drug Task Force, United States Attorney’s Office, and ATF, we have not only removed eleven firearms off the streets of York but have taken nine individuals off those same streets who desire to illegally traffic firearms in our neighborhoods which place our citizens and law enforcement officers in potentially deadly situations. Our community is safer today because of these efforts and I applaud all involved.”

 

These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the York County Drug Task Force, the York City Police Department, York County Adult Probation Department and the York County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the cases.

 

These cases were brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 varies depending on the offense, and includes 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 – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dameon Lattimore, age 40, of New York, was sentenced to 29 years’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, for distributing heroin and crack cocaine that led to the death of a York City man.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lattimore was charged by a grand jury in Harrisburg in December 2015, with codefendants Yushonda Durant, age 41, of New York, and Frederick Gladfelter, age 47, of York.

 

Gladfelter pleaded guilty in December 2016, to allowing his home to be used as a site for the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine. He is awaiting sentencing. Durant remains a fugitive.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the York City Police Department and the York County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William A. Behe prosecuted the case.

 

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.

 

 

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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Joshua Aaron Shores, age 44, of Bel Air, Maryland and also of Ocean City, Maryland, was sentenced on April 27, 2017, by United States District Court Judge John E. Jones, III, to 60 months’ imprisonment for a $2.5 million dollar fraud scheme.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, between 2008 and 2013, Shores obtained money and property by dealing in counterfeit and fraudulent sports memorabilia. Shores created, owned, and operated internet businesses under the names of Dealakhan, LLC, Stadium Authentics, Autograph Showcase, Sunset Beach, End Game Sports, Authenticgraph, and others with facilities in York County, Pennsylvania and in Maryland, and used the businesses to traffic in counterfeit and fraudulent sports memorabilia.

 

In order to carry out his scheme to defraud, Shores used various mailbox receiving services as business addresses, created and registered dozens of PayPal and Amazon.com accounts in his name and in the names of others to receive payments from customers, purchased counterfeit sports jerseys in bulk from China and affixed fraudulent autographs to them representing them to be authentic autographs of well-known athletes and sports figures, and also using fake certificates of authenticity. He opened and maintained more than 80 different bank accounts in five different financial institutions, in his name and in the name of others without their knowledge.

 

The court also ordered Shores to pay restitution in the amount of $500,000, a fine of $5,000, and immediate forfeiture of assets including U.S. currency in the approximate amount of $140,000. His prison term will be followed by a 2-year term of supervised release.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.

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HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that five men were indicted on April 27, 2017, by a federal grand for illegal possession and transfer of machine gun parts and firearms, interstate travel in aid of racketeering activities, and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conduct money laundering transactions. The indictment was partially unsealed on April 27, 2017.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the redacted indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to transport methamphetamine, firearms, and machine gun parts to generate money to fund the activities of the Aryan Strike Force, including the acquisition of firearms. As stated in the indictment, in its on-line mission statement, the Aryan Strike Force describes itself as a “white nationalist organization” with the “goal to protect the honour of our women, children, and the future of our race and nation” using violence as a necessary tool to achieve its goals to the. The individuals charged in the indictment include:

 

• Joshua Michael Steever, Phillipsburg, NJ, age 37;

• Jacob Mark Robards, Bethlehem, PA, age 40;

• Henry Lambert Baird, Allentown, PA, age 40;

• Connor Drew Dykes, Silver Spring, MD, age 20;

• Justin Daniel Lough, Waynesboro, VA, age 26.

 

The indictment charges criminal violations involving the transfer of firearms to a convicted felon, possession of firearms by convicted felons, transfer of unregistered machine gun parts, distribution of methamphetamine, money laundering of drug proceeds, and conspiracy and interstate travel to facilitate drug distribution and money laundering.

 

On April 27, 2017, defendants Steever, Robards, Lough, and Dykes appeared in Williamsport for arraignment on the indictment before Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson, and they entered not guilty pleas. Trial and jury selection have been scheduled for July 10, 2017 before U.S. District Judge Matthew W. Brann in Williamsport. Magistrate Judge Carlson ordered that Steever, Lough, and Robards be detained pending trial and released Dykes on the condition of home confinement with electronic monitoring. Baird’s arraignment and a detention hearing are scheduled for May 4, 2017, in Williamsport.

 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, the Virginia State Police, Phillipsburg (New Jersey) Police Department, New York State Police, Waynesboro (Virginia) Police Department, and the Montgomery County (Maryland) Police Department . Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 included 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 today that Ignacio Beato, age 46, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a one count criminal information on April 26, 2017, with conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions through a financial institution, with funds that were the proceeds of wire fraud.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Beato, who was a licensed realtor, and his coconspirators, engaged in interstate wire communications and Beato falsely represented to potential purchasers that he was authorized to sell vacant conventional and Federal Housing Administration insured mortgaged properties in Hazleton, when in fact, he did not have such authority.

 

The information further alleges that Beato solicited and accepted money in the total amount of $751,082 from individuals who believed they were purchasing properties. Beato and his coconspirators fraudulently converted that money to their own personal use.

 

The United States also filed a plea agreement, which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that Beato intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.

 

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, the Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.

 

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 10 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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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Germaine D. Hill, age 39, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 5, 2017, by a federal grand jury on a firearms charge. The case was unsealed on April 26, 2017, following Hill’s arrest.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on January 11, 2017, in Harrisburg, Hill unlawfully possessed a 9mm Tauris pistol and ammunition as a previously convicted felon.

 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Harrisburg City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 ten 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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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four previously deported aliens were indicted separately on April 26, 2017, by a federal grand jury on illegal re-entry charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Humberto Vasquez-Mejia, age 29, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in December 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after December 2010, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania, after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In September 2010, he was convicted in the Adams County Court of Common Pleas of delivery or possession with the intent to deliver cocaine, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.

 

Because of Vasquez-Mejia’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of twenty years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

 

Bedmar Osielito Gonzalez-Ramirez, age 24, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on two occasions, March 2015 and September 2015. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after September 2015 and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.

 

Jose Carmen Hernandez-Marquez, age 39, of Honduras, was previously deported from the United States to Honduras in November 2010. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after November 2010, and was found in the United States in York County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.

 

Manuel Roblero-Ramirez, age 37, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on two occasions in April 2013. He is alleged to have illegally reentered the United States sometime after April 2013, and was found in the United States in Adams County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.

 

Gonzalez-Ramirez, Hernandez-Marquez, and Roblero-Ramirez face a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

 

The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the cases.

 

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 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 – U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania wants to encourage the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 29, 2017.

 

A news conference announcing this event was held on Thursday, April 27, 2017 at the State Capitol Media Center.

 

Speakers at the news conference included:

• SAC Gary Tuggle, Drug Enforcement Administration;
• Acting Secretary Jennifer Smith, Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs;
• U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Middle District of Pennsylvania;
• Executive Deputy Attorney General Robert K. Reed, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; and

• Captain Raymond S. Singley, Pennsylvania State Police.

United States Attorney Brandler stated, "The Department of Justice has a three part strategy dealing with the opioid crisis consisting of prevention, enforcement and treatment. The drug take back initiative is an important part of our efforts to prevent opioid addiction and we applaud our federal and state partners in joining us in this effort."
 

On October 22, 2016, the public turned in 731,269 pounds—almost 366 tons—of medication to DEA and more than 4,000 of its community partners at almost 5,200 collection sites nationwide. Over the life of the program, 7.1 million pounds (more than 3,500 tons) of prescription drugs have been removed from medicine cabinets, kitchen drawers, and nightstands by citizens around the country.

 

Unused medicines in the home are a problem because the majority of the 6.4 million Americans who abused CPDs in 2015, including the almost 4 million who abused prescription painkillers, say they obtained those drugs from friends and family, including from a home medicine cabinet, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health released last month. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers. Almost 30,000 people—78 a day—died from overdosing on these painkillers or heroin in 2014, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

 

Collection sites will be set up throughout communities nationwide. To locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Office of Diversion Control web site at https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback where you can search by zip code, city, or state. The service is free and anonymous.

 

 

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Espinosa, age 48, of New York, New York, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on heroin trafficking and firearms offenses.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Espinosa conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin (approximately 4,000 doses) in the Middle District of Pennsylvania from June 1, 2012 through August 31, 2015. Espinosa is also charged with aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin on August 31, 2015.

 

In addition to the heroin trafficking charges, Espinosa was indicted for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his trafficking activities, and with aiding and abetting the use and carrying of a firearm in relation to drug trafficking activities. Espinosa was further charged with aiding and abetting the transport of a stolen firearm from Pennsylvania to New York.

 

The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

This case also 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.

 

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 the charges are life imprisonment. The heroin conspiracy charge and firearms possession charge each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Shavonne Saxon, age 29, a Kingston, Pennsylvania resident, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on crack cocaine trafficking, cocaine trafficking, and firearms charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Saxon possessed with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base (crack), and possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine, in March and April 2017. The indictment also alleges that Saxon possessed a firearm in furtherance of her drug trafficking and with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and by the Kingston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 the charges are life imprisonment. The charge for possessing over 28 grams of crack cocaine, and the charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of narcotics trafficking each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Isaiah Moore-Brown, age 28, a Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania resident, was indicted on April 25, 2017, by a federal grand jury on crack cocaine trafficking, cocaine trafficking, and firearms charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Moore-Brown with conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base (crack), and with possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, from December 1, 2012 through January 11, 2017. Moore-Brown also is charged with possessing a firearm (Springfield Arms .45, Ruger LC .380, and Smith and Wesson .9mm) in furtherance of his narcotics trafficking and with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of the firearms and ammunition.

 

The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 the charges are life imprisonment. The charge for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 28 grams of crack cocaine, and the charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of narcotics trafficking each carry a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a California man was sentenced on April 25, 2017, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to serve 188 months (15 years and 8 months) in prison for large-scale methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin trafficking in Monroe County.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Fontaine Horton, age 37, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute in excess of nine kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as additional amounts of cocaine and heroin, after a four-day jury trial before Judge Mannon in May 2016. Horton was also convicted of two counts of distributing methamphetamine. Another individual, Reginald Braddy, age 33, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin.

 

Horton and Braddy were charged with obtaining high-quality methamphetamine from sources in California, along with heroin and cocaine, which they then distributed for profit in the Monroe County area between 2012 and 2014. Previously, Judge Mannion sentenced Reginald Braddy to serve 235 months (19 years and 7 months) for his role in this drug-trafficking conspiracy.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Officers from the Orange County, California Sheriff’s Office, the Scranton Police Department, and Plainfield Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert J. O’Hara and Francis P. Sempa.

 

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 Jahkel Lamar, age 29, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on April 24, 2017, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to possession with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lamar admitted to possessing approximately 127 grams of crack cocaine on September 1, 2016, at a bus terminal on Lackawanna Avenue in Scranton after Lamar had returned to Scranton by bus from New York City.

 

Judge Mannion ordered that a pre-sentence investigation be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

 

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Scranton Police Department, Special Investigations Division. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.

 

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 is up to 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.

 

# # #

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Perry County couple were indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury in Harrisburg on production of child pornography charges.

 

The indictment was unsealed on April 21, 2017. Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab arraigned Betty Jo Eckenberger on April 20, 2017, and James David Eckenberger on April 24, 2017. Both Defendants were detained.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Betty Jo Eckenberger, age 32, and James David Eckenberger, age 43, both of Perry County, Pennsylvania, are alleged to have sexually assaulted a minor between 2008 and 2011, and taken photographs of that assault. The four-count indictment charges the Eckenbergers with conspiracy to use a minor to produce child pornography, production of child pornography, receipt and ditribution of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of all electronic equipment used to take those images.

 

This case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy 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 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 the production of child pornography offenses is 50 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Those charges carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 25 years. The possession of child pornography charge is punishable by a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. That charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years. 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 Derrel Wilson, age 32, of Mount Vernon, New York, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on sex trafficking charges.

 

The indictment was unsealed on April 14, 2017, and Wilson’s initial appearance was held April 18, 2017, before United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Wilson trafficked three women as prostitutes through force, threat, and coercion and that Wilson provided his victims with controlled substances, including heroin. The indictment further charges Wilson with transporting women in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution.

 

The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Monroe County Detectives Office, Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.

 

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.

 

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 a life term 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 today that a Luzerne County woman pleaded guilty on April 17, 2017, before United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani to misappropriating postal funds from the U.S. Post Office in Dallas, Pennsylvania.

 

According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Carol Sosik, age 55, of Shavertown, Luzerne County, admitted to embezzling approximately $4,600 from the Dallas Post Office between June 2014 and May 2016. Sosik was employed at the Dallas Post Office as a distribution window clerk, with responsibility for sales of postage stamps.

 

Sosik will appear for sentencing before Judge Mariani in Scranton on a date which has not yet been scheduled.

 

This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.

 

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 is 10 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 Rodney Whiting, age 24, of Scranton, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to serve seven years in prison for the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge in Scranton on February 13, 2016.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Whiting previously pleaded guilty to the charge of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Rodney Whiting was one of four individuals, including Kwa’shon Roane, age 24, of Gloucester, Virginia, Tracy Whiting, age 24, of Newport News, Virginia, and Kelvin Robinson, age 24, also of Newport News, Virginia, who were indicted by a grand jury in March 2016, for the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge.

 

Previously, Kwa’shon Roane was sentenced to serve 111 months (9 years and 3 months) in prison by Judge Mannion for charges related to the incident. Kelvin Robinson and Tracy Whiting were each previously sentenced to serve seven years in prison.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Scranton Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office and numerous local law enforcement agencies, including the Taylor Borough and Moosic Borough Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

# # #

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed the conviction and sentence of Richard J. Harley, age 73, of Shawnee on the Delaware, who was previously sentenced to serve 12 years in prison by United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo in November 2015. Harley was convicted after a two-week jury trial in December 2014, on multiple counts of wire fraud, bank fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and making false statements on bankruptcy schedules relating to an elaborate investment fraud scheme.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Harley defrauded investors and attempted to defraud the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and several financial institutions by soliciting money based on false claims that his company, RJH and Co. Inc., owned 10 million barrels of oil in Texas worth over $1 billion and had “unrestricted bond power” over billions of dollars of federal reserve bank instruments supposedly held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. As a result of the fraud, investors lost approximately $323,800.

 

The bank fraud charge relate to Harley’s attempt to deposit two phony $500 million checks purportedly issued by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York into several financial institutions. Harley also filed three fraudulent bankruptcy petitions in 2010, 2011 and 2012 where he attempted to discharge the debt he owed to one of the primary victims of the oil scheme.

 

Harley was previously convicted of mail and wire fraud and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment in 2001 for a scheme that defrauded AIDS patients and investors relating to a fraudulent ozone-enema treatment he claimed cured AIDS.

 

The prosecution was handled by United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler and the appeal was handled by Stephen A. Cerutti, II, Chief of Criminal Appeals.

 

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Reginald Braddy, age 33, formerly of San Bernardino, California, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to serve 235 months’ imprisonment (19 years and 7 months) for large-scale methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin trafficking in Monroe County.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Braddy was convicted of conspiracy to distribute in excess of nine kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as additional amounts of cocaine and heroin, after a four-day jury trial before Judge Mannion in May 2016. Another individual, Fontaine Horton, age 37, also of San Bernardino, was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin, as well as two counts of distributing methamphetamine.

 

Braddy and Horton were charged with obtaining high-quality methamphetamine from sources in California, along with heroin and cocaine, which they then distributed for profit in the Monroe County area between 2012 and 2014. Fontaine Horton is currently awaiting sentencing.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department. Officers from the Orange County, California Sheriff’s Office, the Scranton Police Department, and Plainfield Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert J. O’Hara and Francis P. Sempa.

 

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.

###

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Criminal Information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Harrisburg charging a York man with bank robbery.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Ryan Warnick, age 37, assisted Derek Bowman, age 34, of York in an armed robbery of the PNC Bank located in York, Pennsylvania on January 9, 2016, by acting as the get-away driver. Bowman was sentenced to serve 141 months’ imprisonment on February 16, 2017.

 

This matter was investigated by the Springettsbury Township Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea Schinnour.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 is up to twenty-five 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.

 

# # #

HARRISBURG - With the deadline for filing income tax returns rapidly approaching, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and the Philadelphia Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation Division, jointly announced a warning to those who are thinking about breaking the law by committing tax crimes including a listing of recent tax fraud prosecutions and sentences.

 

“During this time of the year, IRS will receive millions of tax returns from honest taxpayers who file their returns on time and pay all the taxes they owe,” said U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler. “Today’s warning is not for them; it is for tax cheats who break tax laws and abuse our tax system. If you belong in this category, pay close attention. My office will hold accountable anyone who participates in a tax fraud scheme that puts an added tax burden on honest taxpayers and drains our public finances.”

 

“With the 2017 tax deadline looming, it is important for people to have confidence that when they pay their taxes, their neighbors and co-workers are doing the same,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Gregory Floyd. "IRS Criminal Investigation will vigorously investigate those individuals who knowingly and willfully evade their tax obligation."

 

FILING FALSE TAX RETURNS AND EVASION

 

Over the last year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted and convicted numerous individuals for filing false federal tax returns and committing tax evasion. Defendants have received substantial sentences for tax fraud, ranging from several years in prison to home confinement. Restitution is mandatory and often includes substantial interest and penalties. For example, the following individuals were charged and/or sentenced for tax fraud recently:

 

Angel P. Oliva, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on April 14, 2017, for aiding in filing a false tax return related to payroll taxes. Oliva was part owner of the Middlesex Diner in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. It is alleged that Oliva evaded the payment of all employment taxes from 2011 through 2014, by reporting only a portion of the wages paid to the diner employees. The total tax loss alleged is approximately $809,000.

 

Michael Runco, of Olyphant, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on April 3, 2017, for failing to pay the IRS employment taxes withheld from his employees’ paychecks and filing a false personal income tax return omitting substantial personal income in 2010. Runco operated Runco Transportation, Inc., a business that provided school bus transportation services under contract with Mid Valley School District, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. During 2006 through 2010, Runco Transportation, Inc. employed as many as 12 individuals. While federal employee employment taxes were withheld from employee paychecks, Runco allegedly failed to account for and pay these tax monies over to the IRS on behalf of his employees. Runco also received compensation from his company but failed to report this income on his 2010 personal income tax return. The total tax loss to the IRS is alleged to be approximately $78,578. Runco is scheduled to enter a plea of guilty on April 19, 2017.

 

Joseph Andershonis, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 20, 2017, for failing to pay employment taxes. Andershonis owned and operated Just Very Affordable, Inc., a Stroudsburg home renovation business, and failed to pay employment taxes from the first quarter of 2010 to the last quarter of 2012, resulting in a tax loss of more than $212,000. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, 2017.

 

Diego Rojas, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 7, 2017, to making false claims against the government. Rojas deposited more than 350 United States tax refund treasury checks, at least 250 which were identified as fraudulent, into the check cashing company he owned and operated, Dunmore Check Cashing. The value of the checks was more than $1.6 million. Rojas agreed to make full restitution in the amount of $1,669,864 to the Internal Revenue Service. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2017.

 

Theodore Martin and his wife, Arminda Martin, of Ravenna, Ohio (formerly resided in York County), were both sentenced to one year and one day imprisonment on October 18, 2016. The Martins operated three cemetery businesses, including Suburban Memorial Gardens in Dover, Pennsylvania, and Grandview Memorial Park and Fairview Memorial Park in Ohio. The Martins failed to report to the Internal Revenue Service $786,533 they received from the operations of the cemeteries located in Ohio during the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The Martins were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $304,837.

 

Jeffrey Miller, of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on October 12, 2016, for failing to pay his companies employment taxes and failing to pay his personal taxes. From the first quarter of 2010 to the last quarter of 2012, Miller failed to pay the employment taxes for JMSI Environmental Corporation which he owned and operated. Additionally, Miller failed to file his own personal income tax returns from 2008 through 2011. These actions resulted in a tax loss of more than $473,000. Sentencing is scheduled for June 15, 2017.

 

Paul Biko, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on September 21, 2016, to 18 months’ imprisonment for federal tax fraud in relation to his three Harrisburg businesses: Clearview of Harrisburg, Clearview Landscaping and Clearview Builders. As owner, Biko controlled the financial affairs of the three companies including all business bank accounts. For the fourth quarter of 2008, Biko’s companies withheld employment taxes from employees but failed to pay to the IRS the federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes due to the United States. Biko was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $437,336.

 

Joel Fuller, formerly of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a Criminal Information on September 9, 2016, with failing to remit federal payroll taxes to the IRS. Fuller owned and operated two Hazleton, Pennsylvania-based marketing businesses that sold time shares to prospective clients on behalf of vacation companies, from 2010 through 2013. The Information alleges that Fuller withheld federal payroll taxes from his employees’ paychecks, but failed to then remit those taxes, totaling approximately $180,000 to the Internal Revenue Service. Fuller is scheduled to plead guilty and be sentenced on June 14, 2017.

 

 

STOLEN IDENTITY REFUND FRAUD

 

In addition to prosecuting tax evaders and fraudulent tax return preparers, the IRS and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are conducting a continuing major effort to investigate and prosecute individuals who steal the identities of taxpayers and file fraudulent tax returns.

 

Federal penalties for each count of conviction of tax crimes range from a maximum of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine for failure to file a tax return, false withholding exemptions, and delivering or disclosing false tax documents, to a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to defraud with respect to false refund claims. Other penalties include a mandatory term of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine for aggravated identity theft charges, three years in prison and a $250,000 fine for obstructing or impeding an investigation and filing or preparing a false tax return, and a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for tax evasion, failure to pay taxes, conspiracy to commit a tax offense or conspiracy to defraud.

 

TAX SCAM WARNING

 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the IRS remind tax payers to exercise caution during tax season to protect themselves against tax schemes ranging from identity theft to return preparer fraud. Illegal scams can lead to significant penalties and interest and possible criminal prosecution. IRS Criminal Investigation works closely with the Department of Justice to shutdown scams and to prosecute the criminals behind them.

 

The IRS has issued its annual “Dirty Dozen” which lists common tax scams that taxpayers may encounter, particularly during filing season. Taxpayers are urged look out for, and to avoid, the following common schemes:

 

• Identity Theft

• Phone Scams

• Phishing

• Return Preparer Fraud

• Offshore Tax Avoidance

• Inflated Refund Claims

• Fake Charities

• Falsely Padding Deductions on Returns

• Excessive Claims for Business Credits

• Falsifying Income To Claim Credits

• Abusive Tax Shelters

• Frivolous Tax Arguments

 

Education is the best way to avoid these common schemes. To learn more about the Dirty Dozen scams and for help with recognizing and avoiding abusive tax schemes, the IRS offers educational material at www.irs.gov. Suspected tax fraud can be reported to the IRS using Form 3949-A found on the IRS.gov website.

 

 

# # #

SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ernest Schaeffer, age 41, of Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Schaeffer admitted to committing the offense between June and October 2016. Schaeffer was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2017.

 

Judge Mannion ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

 

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Schaeffer agreed to forfeit to the government a residence and property in Schuylkill Haven that was connected to the drug trafficking operation, and four firearms.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police in Schuylkill County. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.

 

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. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. 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.

 

# # #

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Sharif Layton, age 38, and Jamal Cooper, age 29, both of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on April 12, 2017, by a federal grand jury for conspiracy, bank robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

 

According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Layton and Cooper robbed the Juniata Valley Bank located in Burnham, Pennsylvania, on March 27, 2017, in which over $20,000 in cash was taken. The indictment also alleges that Layton and Cooper were in possession of a .40 caliber, Sig Sauer handgun during a crime of violence. Layton and Cooper are convicted felons, making it illegal for them to possess a firearm.

 

It is further alleged that following the robbery, Layton and Cooper led officers of the Mifflin County Regional Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police on a high speed chase for several miles, until their vehicle was disabled using spike strips.

 

The matter was investigated by the Mifflin County Regional Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the FBI Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force. Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force consists of representatives from the FBI’s Harrisburg Field Office and the Harrisburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Juan Roman-Polanco, age 31, of Avoca, Pennsylvania, Myrna Echevarria-Jiminez, age 44, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Luis Enrique Martinez Ortiz, age 25, Nathaniel Murphy, age 41, both of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and two others were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 28, 2017, on drug trafficking charges. Roman-Polanco was also charged with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On April 10, 2017, the indictment was unsealed following the arrests of the defendants.

 

Two of the individuals charged remain at large and are considered fugitives. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Drug Enforcement Administration at 570-496-1020.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, powder cocaine, and cocaine base, or “crack.” Specifically, the indictment alleges that Roman-Polanco is responsible for over one kilogram of heroin, 500 grams of cocaine, and 28 grams of crack; Davalos is responsible for more than 500 grams of cocaine; Echecarria-Jiminez is responsible for over 500 grams of cocaine; Martinez-Ortiz is responsible for more than 100 grams of heroin, 500 grams of cocaine, and 28 grams of crack; and Murphy is responsible for more than one kilogram of heroin. One hundred grams of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 4,000 individual doses of heroin.

 

The Indictment further charges Roman-Polanco with possession of an AR-15 rifle after a prior felony conviction.

 

This indictment was the result of a year-long investigation, in part driven by multiple wiretaps, conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Wilkes-Barre Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni.

 

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.

 

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, depending on the weight of the drugs charged, is 40 years or 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jose Ramon De Leon-Pineda, age 33, of West Hazelton, Pennsylvania, Joel Contreras, age 25, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, Alhagie Samba, age 49, Adrian Rivera, age 40, Jerrod Curtis, age 33, Nelson Soto, age 42, all of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and one other person were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 28, 2017, on drug trafficking charges. The indictment was unsealed following the arrests of the defendants.

 

One of the individuals charged remains at large and is considered a fugitive. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Drug Enforcement Administration at 570-496-1020.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, powder cocaine, and cocaine base, or “crack.” The indictment also alleges that De Leon-Pineda is responsible for over 100 grams of heroin and 28 grams of crack. One hundred grams of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 4,000 individual doses of heroin.

 

This indictment was the result of a year-long investigation, in part driven by multiple wiretaps, conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.

 

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.

 

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 40 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 today that Marcos Osorio Villalba, age 38, of Mexico, was sentenced on April 12, 2017, by United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann, to time served of nine months for illegal re-entry into the United States. Osorio Villalba now faces deportation.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Osorio Villalba was charged with unlawfully returning to the United States after having been deported to Mexico in 2014. Osorio Villalba was removed from the country after a conviction in federal court in Ohio for his involvement in a heroin conspiracy.

 

The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni prosecuted the case.

 

# # #

HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Evan Matthew Lawbaugh, age 33, of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Sylvia H. Rambo to production of child pornography.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Lawbaugh admitted that he sexually assaulted an infant boy and a four-year-old girl and recorded and distributed the videos depicting such assaults. Lawbaugh also possessed thousands of images and hundreds of videos of suspected or previously identified child pornography. Lawbaugh was previously convicted of possession of child pornography on April 8, 2015, in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.

 

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.”

 

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Assistant United States Attorney Daryl Bloom is prosecuting the case.

 

The maximum penalty under federal law for each offense is 50 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. Each count carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of 25 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Edirso De Leon Frias, age 25, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, and Nathaniel Murphy, age 41, Roy Seabrook, age 43, and Ruth Reyes-Maldonado, age 32, all of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, were indicted by a federal grand jury in a superseding indictment on March 28, 2017, on drug trafficking and firearms offenses. On April 10, 2017, the superseding indictment was unsealed following the arrests of the defendants.

 

The original indictment alleged that De Leon Frias, Murphy, and Seabrook conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the superseding indictment alleges that De Leon Frias, Murphy, Seabrook, and Reyes-Maldonado conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. De Leon Frias was responsible for over one kilogram of heroin and over 500 grams of cocaine. Murphy was responsible for over 100 grams of heroin. One kilogram of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 40,000 individual doses. De Leon Frias is further charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

 

This indictment was the result of a year-long investigation, in part driven by multiple wiretaps, conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.

 

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.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 the drug trafficking offenses charged, depending on the drug weights charged, is 40 years or life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for the firearms offense charged 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 today that two previously deported aliens were indicted separately by a federal grand jury on illegal re-entry charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Juan Carlos Quintanilla-Pineda, age 31, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico in March 2007 and November 2012. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after November 2012, and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers. In October 2012, he was convicted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania of illegal re-entry, an offense which subjects him to enhanced penalties in the current case.

 

Because of Quintanilla-Pineda’s previous conviction, under federal law he faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

 

Rolando Mendez-Velasquez, age 26, of Mexico, was previously deported from the United States to Mexico on June 2008 and February 2009. He is alleged to have illegally re-entered the United States sometime after February 2009, and was found in the United States in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.

 

Under federal law, Mendez-Velasquez faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

 

The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the cases.

 

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 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 Omar Loya, age 29, and Guillermo Macedo-Cruz, age 37, inmates at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan (USP Canaan), were indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on assault and weapons charges.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on February 8, 2017, the defendants conspired to assault another inmate at USP Canaan with a dangerous weapon.

 

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

 

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 penalties under federal law for these offenses are 10 years of imprisonment for assault with a dangerous weapon, five years of imprisonment for conspiracy to assault and five years of imprisonment for possession of a weapon by an inmate. Each sentence can include a term of supervised release 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 today that Ellis Hawkins, age 46, an inmate at United States Penitentiary Canaan, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury on a charge of aggravated assault of a federal employee.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Hawkins struck a corrections officer in the face with his head during an altercation at the prison in December. The officer suffered substantial injuries.

 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers at USP Canaan. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni 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 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 today that Caleb Guerrier, age 35, of Hanover Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 11, 2017, by a federal grand jury in a six-count superseding indictment charging multiple counts of crack cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Guerrier was originally indicted by a grand jury in February 2016, for selling crack cocaine to a police informant on two separate occasions. A subsequent search of Guerrier’s residence revealed a cache of weapons and ammunition that included 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 was charged with counts of distributing crack cocaine, being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possessing firearms with obliterated serial numbers.

 

The superseding indictment charges Guerrier with additional offenses, including additional counts of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition. The additional charges stem from a search of a storage unit which Guerrier rented in Wilkes-Barre Township in which investigators found more crack cocaine and additional amounts of ammunition.

 

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

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 80 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $3,750,000 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.

 

# # #

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Colleen A. McQueeney, age 56, of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, was charged on April 11, 2017, in a criminal information with embezzlement from the Women’s Consortium of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

 

According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that McQueeney, while serving as the statewide Treasurer of the Women’s Consortium, stole approximately $40,000 of the Consortium’s funds through ATM withdrawals and checks between October 2015 and January 2016. McQueeney took steps to conceal her theft by making false reports to the Consortium’s Board.

 

The United States also filed a plea agreement which is subject to the approval of the Court, wherein it is indicated that McQueeney intends to plead guilty to the charges and make full restitution.

 

The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania Department of State Bureau of Charitable Organizations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy is prosecuting the case.

 

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 the embezzlement charge is 10 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.

 

# # #

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that the United States reached a civil settlement on April 10, 2017, with Peter Novajosky, age 68, and Kathy Novajosky, age 67, doing business as P&K Realty, of Dickson City, PA. The agreement resolves civil claims under the False Claims Act that the Novajoskys made false statements to obtain federal funds through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) housing assistance program. To resolve the government’s civil claims against them, the Novajoskys have agreed to pay the United States $34,495.50 pursuant to the settlement agreement.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, this settlement agreement resolves allegations that the Novajoskys submitted a form to the Lackawanna County Housing Authority for an approval of tenancy. The housing authority administered federal funds for HUD’s Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) program. Based on the representations made by the Novajoskys, the housing authority approved monthly HAP payments from October 1, 2008 through June 30, 2014. HUD requirements contained in the HAP contract entered into by the Novajoskys expressly precluded renting to a child of a landlord/owner. The Novajoskys did not disclose to the Lackawanna County Housing Authority or to HUD that the tenant was their daughter.

 

The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Judge handled the case.

 

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

 

# # #

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that the Third Circuit Court of Appeals today affirmed the 70-month prison sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion on Treiu Thuy Duong, age 38, who supplied approximately 10 kilograms of alpha-pvp—commonly known as “bath salts”—to customers in northeastern Pennsylvania and elsewhere during 2013-2014.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Duong, who resided in Texas at the time of the offense and later moved to Florida, claimed on appeal that her 70-month prison sentence was unreasonable.

 

Duong previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with others from Luzerne County and elsewhere, to distribute alpha-pvp. Duong in her plea acknowledged distributing approximately 10 kilograms of bath salts. Some of Duong’s customers and sub-distributors resided in Luzerne County.

 

In upholding the sentence, the appeals court reasoned that Judge Mannion appropriately considered the defendant’s personal circumstances and engaged in a “thorough analysis” of all other relevant factors in imposing the sentence.

 

As part of her sentence, the defendant forfeited to the government her interest in a residence in Texas valued at approximately $300,000, coins valued at more than $260,000, four bank accounts containing over $200,000, two vehicles, over $7,000 in cash, more than $17,000 in uncashed money orders, and two firearms.

 

More than 12 persons connected to the bath salts distribution operation have pleaded guilty and been sentenced to federal prison.

 

The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the West Pittston Police. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case and handled the appeal.

 

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HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Julio Aviles, Sr., age 48, Michael Millan-Miranda, age 30, both from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and Israel Nazario, age 61 of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, all members of a Lebanon County Drug Trafficking Organization, were convicted today of various drug trafficking and firearms offenses. All three defendants were convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram and more of heroin. Julio Aviles Sr. was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine and cocaine powder, possession with intent to distribute 100 grams and more of heroin, 28 grams and more of crack cocaine and a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, three counts of distribution of heroin, distribution of crack and cocaine powder, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and maintaining a premise for the purpose of drug trafficking. Michael Millan-Miranda was also convicted of possession with the intent to distribute heroin and the distribution of heroin. Israel Nazario was also convicted of simple possession of heroin. The six-day trial was held in federal court in Harrisburg before United States District Judge John E. Jones, III. Prior to today, nine other individuals associated with this drug operation were charged and are awaiting sentencing for their roles in the drug trafficking operation.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the two-year investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lebanon County Drug Task Force culminated with the execution of search warrants at 513 Arnold Street and 443 North 6th Street, in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, on May 14, 2015. During the search at 513 Arnold Street, law enforcement agents discovered a “heroin mill” where kilogram amounts of heroin were being processed on a weekly basis. The evidence at trial revealed that Julio Aviles, Sr., a previously convicted drug dealer, owned and operated the heroin mill and employed a network of sellers, packagers, brokers and testers to conduct this illegal enterprise. Packagers were paid approximately $500 a week like factory workers to process and package the heroin for later distribution. The testers operated as quality assurance inspectors to ensure the heroin was of sufficient quality. At the time of the searches, law enforcement agents found over 400 grams of heroin, over 85 grams of cocaine powder, and over 71 grams of crack cocaine. A kilogram of heroin, which weighs approximately 2.2 pounds is equivalent to approximately 40,000 to 50,000 individual doses of heroin, any one of which can be fatal depending on its purity and the nature of its other ingredients. In this case the evidence established that the drug trafficking organization was mixing the heroin with Fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone and Lidocaine. Law enforcement agents estimated that this drug operation was distributing heroin, crack cocaine, and cocaine for a two-year period and during the last few months was distributing kilogram quantities of heroin, crack cocaine and cocaine powder. The value of the drugs distributed has a conservative street value of between $3 million and $5 million.

 

Located in the processing room were over 52,000 small Ziploc style bags, 37,000 small glassine bags and over 28,000 rubber bands that are used to package controlled substances. Each rubber band was used to package ten individual bags of heroin, called a bundle.

 

Law enforcement also located three handguns, ten rifles, six shotguns and paraphernalia consistent with a large-scale drug trafficking operation. During the search at 443 North 6th Street, law enforcement officers located additional quantities of heroin, cocaine powder, and crack cocaine along with drug packaging materials.

 

Thirteen individuals, all together were charged and are pending sentencing as part of this operation:

• Julio Aviles, Sr., age 48;

• Michael Millan-Miranda, age 30;

• Isrrael Nazario, age 61;

• Julio Aviles, Jr., age 23;

• Leandro Nazario, age 29;

• Carlos Nazario, age 70;

• Suheidy Soto-Concepcion, age 34;

• Eliezer Soto-Concepcion, age 35;

• Brenda Soto, age 34;

• Geidy Arroyo, age 36;

• Kengie Millan-Miranda, age 26;

• Brittany Rivera, age 23;

• Brent Moyer, age 21.

Julio Aviles, Jr., age 23, Brittany Rivera, age 23, Brent Moyer, age 21, Carlos Nazario, Brenda Soto and Geidy Arroyo all pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 1,000 grams and more of heroin. On the day of trial, Leandro Nazario, Eliezer Soto-Concepcion and Suheidy Soto-Concepcion all pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 1,000 grams and more of heroin, 280 grams and more of cocaine base, or crack cocaine and an unspecified quantity of cocaine hydrochloride or powder cocaine. One charged individual, Kengie Millan-Miranda, remains a fugitive. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Kengie Millan-Miranda, please contact Crime Stoppers at 717-270-9800.

 

District Attorney David Arnold stated, “I’d like to congratulate the United States Attorney’s Office, First Assistant District Attorney Nichole Eisenhart, DEA, Lebanon County Drug Task Force and all law enforcement for their outstanding work in prosecuting all of these defendants who distributed heroin in Lebanon County. Their efforts to stop the spread of this poison that continues to kill our citizens have been outstanding and I look forward to the continued interagency cooperation to combat drug dealers.”

 

“No one ever wants a massive, well-structured drug distribution organization in your City. Heroin is killing too many people in Pennsylvania and across this nation. However, I know having a dedicated team from so many law enforcement bodies working together with one common goal, is huge in the effort to combat this crisis. I want to congratulate all those involved in this investigation. This is a good day for law enforcement and a win in the battle against Heroin,” said Chief Todd H. Breiner, Lebanon City Police Department.

 

“The joint investigation, prosecution, and subsequent conviction of these individuals involved in high-level drug trafficking underscores the importance of cooperative efforts among the law enforcement agencies involved in the case,” said Chief Bruce D. Harris, Cornwall Borough Police Department.

 

“The dismantling of the Aviles poly-drug trafficking organization was the result of an enormously successful, jointly-conducted criminal investigation and prosecution that once again illuminated the great work being done together by local and federal officials on behalf of the citizens of Central Pennsylvania,” said Jeffrey A. Bielski, Resident Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Lebanon County Drug Task Force, Lebanon County Detective Bureau, Lebanon City Police Department, Cornwall Borough Police Department, and assisted by the Lebanon County Probation Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Nichole Eisenhart who also serves as the First Assistant District Attorney in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania and Assistant United States Attorney Daryl F. Bloom, Chief of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force prosecuted the case.

 

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.

 

Julio Aviles, Sr. is subject to an enhanced penalty due to his prior drug trafficking conviction and is subject to a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment. The maximum penalty under federal law for the remaining defendants is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine. The conspiracy count also requires a mandatory term of imprisonment of ten years and the possession with intent to distribute count carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of five years. 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 today that Luis Antonio Zayas, age 47, of Hazleton, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on April 10, 2017, before United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to drug distribution resulting in death.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Zayas pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally possessing with intent to distribute and distributing fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, resulting in the death of another. Zayas was indicted by a grand jury in Scranton in August 2016.

 

Zayas admitted in court that he sold what he believed to be heroin to the victim on July 6, 2016. In reality, the drug was 100 percent fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid painkiller. The victim, who was 33 weeks pregnant at the time, overdosed and died. Toxicology results showed that both the mother and unborn fetus died from lethal levels of fentanyl in their systems. Zayas arranged the drug deal with the victim via text messages and proclaimed at one point that he had “damm good shit…….good enough to get way higher than intended lol.”

 

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in Scranton, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.

 

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.

 

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 drug delivery charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum of life. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature 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 Grant Harris, age 38, formerly of Albrightsville, was sentenced on April 10, 2017, by Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley to 16 ½ years in prison for producing child pornography.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Harris previously pleaded guilty to persuading and enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual image of that conduct. Harris committed the crime between 2008 and 2009, when the victim was eight-years-old. Harris was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2015, shortly after agents and police discovered the child pornography on a computer used by the defendant.

 

Judge Munley also ordered Harris to serve 15 years on supervised release following his prison sentence. Harris will also be subject to the restrictions and requirements of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

 

In imposing a sentence above the 15-year mandatory minimum sentence required by law, Judge Munley characterized Harris’ conduct as “monstrous,” and noted the harm inflicted on the victim and the victim’s family.

 

The investigation was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’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."

 

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SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on April 10, 2017, United States District Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Aaron L. Vanderpool, age 35, of Wysox, Pennsylvania, to 77 months’ imprisonment, for stealing 48 firearms and for distributing heroin.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Vanderpool pleaded guilty to burglarizing Fulmer’s Sporting Goods, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Wysox, Pennsylvania, on or about May 24, 2015. Vanderpool admitted to stealing 48 firearms and to conspiring to transport 47 of them to New York, where they were sold and traded for heroin. Only three of the 48 firearms have been recovered by law enforcement. Vanderpool also admitted to distributing heroin on May 8, 2015.

 

Judge Caputo also ordered Vanderpool to pay $27,383.75 to the victims of his crimes.

 

Two other individuals have been charged in relation to the Fulmer’s Sporting Goods burglary. Jared Miller was charged in August 2016 and has entered a plea agreement to firearms and heroin trafficking offenses. Luis Mercado was charged in April 2017 and also has entered a plea agreement to firearms and heroin trafficking offenses.

 

The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and by the Pennsylvania State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 today that Luis Mercado, age 46, of Queens, New York, was charged on April 6, 2017, in a criminal information with firearms and controlled substance offenses associated with a May 2015, gun store burglary in Bradford County, Pennsylvania.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the information alleges that Mercado aided and abetted the transport of 47 stolen firearms from Pennsylvania to New York. The firearms were stolen from Fulmer’s Sporting Goods, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Wysox, Pennsylvania, on or about May 24, 2015. The information also charges Mercado with conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 to 400 grams of heroin, which is equivalent to approximately 4,000 to 16,000 doses of heroin, during a three-year period from June 1, 2012 through June 17, 2015.

 

The government simultaneously filed a plea agreement with Mercado to the alleged charges, which is subject to approval of the court. A date for his arraignment has not been set.

 

Mercado is the third individual to be charged in relation to the Fulmer’s Sporting Goods burglary. Jared Miller and Aaron Vanderpool were charged in August 2016, with firearms and heroin trafficking offenses. Miller and Vanderpool have pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Richard Caputo and are awaiting sentencing.

 

The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

This case also 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.

 

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 penalties under federal law for the charges are 50 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The heroin conspiracy charge carries a five-year mandatory minimum sentence of 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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WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on April 5, 2017, United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Christina Woodring, age 35, of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, to two years of probation, including an eight-month term of home confinement, for conspiring to manufacture and distribute explosives.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Christina Woodring pleaded guilty to conspiring with her husband, James Woodring, to purchase and transport commercial grade fireworks, to increase the fireworks’ power and volatility, and to sell them, all without a license to do so. The conspiracy lasted from May 1 through 18, 2016, when an explosion occurred at the couple’s Centre Hall residence.

 

James Woodring, who is awaiting sentencing, pleaded guilty to one count of manufacturing explosives, and to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. James Woodring was charged with possessing a stolen semi-automatic pistol, a shotgun, a semiautomatic, large-capacity rifle and a rifle. As a previously convicted felon, Woodring is prohibited from possessing the firearms.

 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Centre Hall Police Department, and the Springettsbury Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo is prosecuting the case.

 

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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dehaven Pollard, age 36, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for robbing a local restaurant and using a firearm in furtherance of robbery.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Pollard and two unidentified accomplices drove from Philadelphia to Harrisburg to rob the Lancaster Brewing Company on November 12, 2016. The indictment also alleges that Pollard and his accomplices possessed a 32-caliber revolver and a Yugoslavian SKS rifle during, and in relation to, the robbery.

 

The case was investigated by the Swatara Township Police Department and the FBI Violent Crime Joint Taskforce. Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour is prosecuting the case.

 

This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.

 

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 is up to life 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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HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Curtis Waldron, age 41, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on March 30, 2017, by United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo, to 151 months’ imprisonment for drug trafficking.

 

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Waldron distributed heroin, cocaine and marijuana on October 2, 2015, and possessed with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine since at least January 2015. Waldron was found to be responsible for possessing 143 grams of heroin for distribution. One hundred forty-three grams of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 6,000 individual doses of heroin.

 

The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Harrisburg Police Department, Dauphin County Drug Task Force and the Dauphin County Probation Office. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe prosecuted the case.

 

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.

 

 

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