Western District of Pennsylvania

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment named Christopher D. Rarick, 37.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on February 16, 2017, Rarick possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Rarick.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Union City, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in jail, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $203,174.25 on her conviction of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Cheryl R. Capela 60.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2013 through July 2016, while employed as the Borough Secretary for the Borough of Union City, Capela took advantage of her access to the Borough’s checks to write Borough checks to pay her ballooning personal credit card bills. She also used the Borough credit card for numerous unauthorized personal expenses and cash withdrawals. Capela manipulated internal Borough of Union City paperwork to hide her unauthorized personal expenditures that she made with Borough of Union City funds. As a result of Capela’s scheme, the Borough of Union City suffered an overall total loss of $203,174.25

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Capela.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $2,500 on his conviction of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ian Matthew Ahenger, 43.

According to information presented to the court, Ahenger possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ahenger.

ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Port Allegany, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months in jail, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on James William McMichael, 72.

According to information presented to the court,McMichael possessed a machinegun not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. McMichael, who was a former federally licensed firearms dealer, ordered various firearm parts which were then fully assembled into a functioning machinegun. The machinegun was then hidden in the ceiling of McMichael’s Port Allegany home.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Port Allegany Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McMichael.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Houston, Texas, entered pleas of guilty in Pittsburgh to charges of Intentional Damage to a Protected Computer and Wire Fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Brandon A. Coughlin, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Coughlin intentionally hacked and damaged 13 servers operated by a local healthcare facility and engaged in a scheme to defraud that healthcare facility by using its purchase card to order merchandise from Staples. On January 16, 2013, Coughlin was hired by the healthcare facility as an in-house computer systems administrator.

On February 4, 2013, he resigned from that position at the request of the management of the local healthcare facility. Using the administrative passwords he knew from his employment, Coughlin on September 18, 2013 hacked the computer network of the healthcare facility. He disabled all administrative accounts needed to control any and all of the computer servers of the healthcare facility, and deleted users’ network shares, business data, and patient health information and data, including patient medical records. He caused a financial loss of approximately $60,000.00. He caused the local healthcare facility to cease its medical treatment of patients until its system was restored.

Coughlin also admitted committing wire fraud when he attempted fraudulently to purchase online iPad Air tablets on the Staples account of the local healthcare facility. As part of the fraud, Coughlin breached the email server of the healthcare facility. He directed that email server to delete email from Staples before it was routed to the purchasing supervisor who handled the Staples account for the healthcare facility. He then monitored email communications between officials of the healthcare facility and others including the FBI through 2014. Coughlin admitted that he listened in on phone conferences between the FBI and the officials of the healthcare facility without their knowledge.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Brandon A. Coughlin.

PITTSBURGH - Five defendants have pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense, tax violations and illegal gratuities, Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Thomas G. Buckner, 66, of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and his brother, John P. Buckner, 68, of Lyndora, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of defrauding U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM), and two counts of income tax evasion.

In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was informed that the Buckner brothers were 50/50 owners of Ibis Tek, LLC (hereinafter Ibis Tek). Ibis Tek’s main office was located at 912 Pittsburgh Street, Butler, Pennsylvania 16002, and it had an office at Ibis Tek Victory Road facility, 220 South Noah Drive, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Ibis Tek manufactured both military and commercial products but specialized in the development of transparent armor and accessory products for tactical and military combat vehicles. Ibis Tek itself was not charged with any violations.

TACOM, located in Warren, Michigan, was responsible for letting and overseeing contracts on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense, including contracts concerning High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (hereinafter Humvees). Ibis Tek had a subcontract to produce Vehicle Emergency Escape Window (VEE Window) Kits for Humvees. The Buckners inflated Ibis Tek’s costs to manufacture the VEE Window kits by creating Alloy America, LLC, (Alloy) a company that was co-located at Ibis Tek that the Buckner brothers controlled, by using Alloy to purchase the frames in China for $20 per frame, and by using false invoices from Alloy to make it appear that Ibis Tek paid $70 per frame. In addition, the Buckner brothers sold scrap aluminum collected in the manufacturing process but failed to credit that money to TACOM. The losses to TACOM were $6,085,709. Both Buckner brothers pleaded guilty to income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting the cash from sales of scrap aluminum, and for taking unallowable business deductions described below.

Harry H. Kramer, 52, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud for his role as CFO of Ibis Tek in the above described scheme against TACOM, and to filing false returns for Ibis Tek for 2009 and 2010.

David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with impeding the IRS by acting as a financial intermediary who received and then paid out money to Anthony Shaw, for the purpose of concealing that the monies were income of Shaw, concealing the true source of the monies, David Buckner owned D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories.

Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, pleaded guilty to a five-count Information. Shaw, formerly a civilian employee at TACOM, was a Deputy Project Manager responsible for directing development of and managing government contracts for combat vehicle systems such as Humvees. Shaw pleaded guilty to demanding and receiving a total of $1,055,500 of illegal gratuities paid by checks, cash and wire transfers by Thomas Buckner to and through D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories for Shaw. Shaw also pleaded guilty to income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting payments from Thomas and John Buckner totaling in excess of $1,000,000. Finally, Shaw pleaded guilty to making false statements when he denied that he had socialized with Thomas Buckner and John Buckner, and denied that he had traveled in a car, boat and an airplane owned by Thomas Buckner or John Buckner.

“These guilty pleas demonstrate the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) ongoing commitment to ensuring the integrity of the U.S. Defense Department’s procurement process,” said Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent in Charge, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “Fraudulent schemes, such as those identified in this successful investigation, endanger U.S. military forces, waste valuable resources and erode public confidence. DCIS will continue to work with its law enforcement partners and federal prosecutors to protect the American taxpayer and Warfighter.”

Acting IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Greg Floyd added, “The guilty pleas entered in this case should serve as a strong reminder to all of those who engage in deliberate acts to defraud the U.S. Government and the taxpaying citizens of our country, that they will be held accountable for their actions. We will partner with other agencies to ferret out and unravel the schemes that these individuals concoct, and they will face justice.”

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled the sentencings for Thomas and John Buckner for October 10, 2017; for Anthony Shaw on October 12, 2017; for David Buckner on October 17, 2017, and for Kramer on October 18, 2017. For Thomas and John Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For Kramer, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 16 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. For David Buckner, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 3 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For Shaw, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 19 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigation Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of these defendants.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Ronald Broadus, 43, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The government received authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications over Broadus’s phone for a period of thirty days. During that timeframe, Broadus was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the goals of sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Broadus.

PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on May 23, named the defendants as:

• Leonard Rushin-Felder, age 21; and
• Mark Ridley, age 25.

According to the indictment, on April 25, 2017, Rushin-Felder and Ridley conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin. Both defendants are also charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. Additionally, Rushin-Felder is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on April 25, 2017.

The law provides for a maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison to up to life in prison, and fines ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County teen has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on May 23, named Dushawn Griffey, 18, formerly of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on March 28, 2017, Griffey possessed with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl. On the same date, Griffey is also charged with possessing three firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years of imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Carloto Neal, Jr., 22, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, the Pennsylvania State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Neal, and a search of that vehicle revealed 110 grams of heroin, and 3,000 empty stamp bags used in the distribution of heroin.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that heroin has become the scourge of our society. She cited Center for Disease Control and Prevention statistics showing that heroin overdose death quadrupled between 2002 and 2012.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Neal.

PITTSBURGH – A citizen of Mexico living in Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on May 23, named Guillermo Justo, a/k/a Rolando Velez-Latorre, a/k/a Guillermo Justo-Manuel, 41, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Justo, having previously been deported from the United States pursuant to law on August 7, 2015, was present in the Western District of Pennsylvania on May 2, 2017, without having applied for and received permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for re-application for admission into the United States.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on a charge of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Arthur Linsenbigler, 46, whose last known address was in Pitcairn, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from February 3, 2015, to June 20, 2016, Linsenbigler, who had been convicted of the felony sex offense of Rape By Forcible Compulsion in 1991, failed, as required, to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the United States Marshals Service for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Linsenbigler.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment to be served concurrently, followed by a lifetime supervised release, on two charges of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Robert James Grace, Jr., age 49, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about February 23, 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Grace, Jr. knowingly possessed images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age. Grace, Jr. also possessed child pornography, from a date unknown and continuing until May 12, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona.

Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grace.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of misapplication of funds by a bank employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Anna Wilson, 34, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Nov. 15, 2015, to Aug. 15, 2016, Wilson, while employed as a branch manager at First National Bank in Johnstown, Pa, removed approximately $270,434.70 from customers’ accounts and thereafter converted those funds to her personal use.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 2, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wilson.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Richard Lassic, II, 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the defendant was one of 17 individuals indicted as a result of an investigation from June to November of 2015, using various investigative techniques including court authorized Title III wiretaps. Lassic was intercepted over a co-conspirator’s phone between August and October of 2015 purchasing multiple ounces of powder cocaine and crack cocaine.

On various dates, Lassic purchased cocaine and crack cocaine, which he referred to as various types of Adidas shoes. On October 6, 2015, Lassic purchased approximately 4.5 ounces of cocaine and crack cocaine for $5,900. He was subsequently pulled over on I-70 by a State Trooper for vehicle code violations. Lassic consented to a search of his car, during which the trooper located three plastic baggies containing approximately 124 grams (almost 4.5 ounces) of cocaine.

Based on intercepted calls, Lassic obtained well over 500 grams of cocaine from a co-conspirator during the interception period.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2017. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than five years and not more than 40 years, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Judge Bissoon ordered that the defendant remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Lassic. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ashland, Virginia pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Kerry Eccles, 62, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Eccles traveled to Erie from Virginia for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with a minor. While in Erie, Eccles took sexually explicit photos of a ten-year-old victim and sexually assaulted the victim. Eccles then transported the child pornography images of the victim back to Virginia where they were discovered during a search of his residence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of ninety years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie County Detectives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eccles.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Akron, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Oscar Mata Garcia, 28.

According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Mata Garcia engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia’s specific role in the conspiracy was to assist in driving vehicles to the Houston, Texas area to pick up loads of cocaine and then to transport the cocaine to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, with the cocaine concealed in hidden compartments. According to information provided to the Court, on November 1, 2014, Mata Garcia was in one of the load vehicles with another co-conspirator when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia and his co-conspirator had just traveled to the Houston, Texas area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than 5 kilograms of cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Arkansas State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Garcia.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of sex trafficking of a child and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Devonte Lamonte Lucas, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2015 to October 2015, Lucas and a co-defendant knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, advertised and maintained two minor victims who engaged in commercial sex acts at the behest of Lucas and his co-defendant. Lucas’ illegal activity was ultimately stopped when members of the Millcreek Police Department observed Lucas transport a minor female to a Millcreek motel after the Millcreek officers, acting in an undercover capacity, had set up a meeting at the motel with the victim via an Internet advertisement that had been placed by Lucas’ co-defendant.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lucas.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Adam John Carlson, 34, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Carlson possessed a firearm and numerous rounds of ammunition which he was precluded from possessing because of an active protection from abuse order.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Erie Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carlson.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bear Lake, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to make restitution in the amount of $696,273.72 on her conviction of embezzlement of credit union funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Karen Schenck, 50.

According to information presented to the court, from January 2008 through August 2015, while employed as the Office Manager/CEO for the federally insured Corry Area Schools Federal Credit Union in Corry, Ms. Schenck embezzled approximately $741,362.00. Ms. Schenck successfully embezzled the funds in a variety of ways. She made $268,402.25 in unauthorized or fictitious loans in the names of her family members, the proceeds of which she used for her personal benefit or to conceal out of balance conditions in various general ledger accounts. Ms. Schenck made over sixty fictitious deposits into her own account or the accounts of family members totaling approximately $317,897.00, which she used for her personal benefit. Ms. Schenck withdrew approximately $51,035.03 and $44,572.47 from two accounts without the authorization of the account holders. Ms. Schenk created approximately $42,118.07 in loans to herself and fabricated loan underwriting documentation to give the appearance that she would have qualified for the loans. Finally, Ms. Schenck used the embezzled credit union funds to pay off personal credit card balances and engaged in unauthorized credit card limits causing approximately $17.338.00 in losses to the credit union.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Schenck.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Fairmont, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit robbery of a pharmacy, robbery of a pharmacy, brandishment of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Dana Lee Shipley, 51, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 11, 2016, Palmer's Pharmacy located in Russellton, (Allegheny County) Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals armed with firearms and wearing masks. The suspects stole approximately 10,000 dosage units of prescription drugs, including Oxycodone and Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of approximately $235,000. As a result of their comprehensive and extensive investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and West Deer Police Department developed a general description of at least one suspect.

On April 28, 2016, Keystone Pharmacy located in New Alexandria Boro, (Westmoreland County) Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals wearing masks. One suspect had a gun and the other had pepper spray. The assailants placed employees on the ground and handcuffed them. Investigators determined that between 15,000 - 20,000 dosage units were stolen. Noting the similarities between both robberies, DEA then coordinated its investigation with that of the Pennsylvania State Police to identify and arrest the individuals in question. After locating and interviewing one suspect, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, Dana Shipley, was identified and arrested. When he was arrested, Shipley had a backpack containing a large amount of pills, money from the New Alexandria robbery and both masks used in the New Alexandria robbery. Shipley also had a .32 caliber firearm used in the commission of the crime concealed in his pocket. Shipley has an extensive criminal history and had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 2, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Judge Ambrose ordered that the defendant remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the West Deer Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Shipley.

PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of Illegal Re-Entry After Deportation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Enrique Carmona-Bernardo, age 37, of Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, Enrique Carmona-Bernardo, an illegal alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on November 5, 2009, December 7, 2012, January 17, 2013 and March 3, 2013. Enrique Carmona-Bernardo was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 17, 2017, when he was arrested by City of Pittsburgh Police for driving under the influence under the name Enrique Cardona.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the University of Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Enrique Carmona-Bernardo.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail by a postal employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Julie L. Bowser, 47, of Tarentum, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Julie L. Bowser was an employee of the United States Postal Service at the time she stole a $75.00 Toys R Us gift card from an item that was to be conveyed by mail.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges relating to Social Security fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment named David Lee Claypool, 48, of New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, between January 2012 and January 2015, Claypool, having filed an application for Social Security disability insurance benefits on behalf of a minor child, received and converted $16,474.00 in benefits to his own use. Additionally, on March 11, 2013, and again on March 15, 2014, Claypool falsely represented on Social Security Administration Representative Payee Reports that the benefits he received on behalf of the minor child were spent on behalf of the minor child, when in fact the benefits were converted to Claypool’s own use.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Philadelphia, PA, has pleaded guilty in federal court on a charge of fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Darein Clark, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

According to the indictment, Clark and others agreed to defraud Pittsburgh area banks by depositing counterfeit checks by remote mobile deposit, and then making a series of withdrawals against funds credited from the deposited checks.

Judge Cercone scheduled the sentence for sentencing for October 6, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of this defendant. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Jacob Palaski, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about July 9, 2016, Palaski distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Katherine A. King is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Peters Township Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH - Reality television performer Abigale Lee Miller has been sentenced in federal court to one year and a day incarceration on her conviction of concealing assets from the bankruptcy court, and one count of failing to report an international currency transaction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. In addition, the court imposed two years’ supervised release, a $120,000 money judgement and a $40,000 fine.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Miller, 51.

According to the information presented to the court, in 2010 Miller filed a Petition in bankruptcy seeking to reorganize debts from the operation of the Abby Lee Miller Dance Studio. The court was advised that during the bankruptcy case, Miller failed to disclose to the bankruptcy court revenue she earned from the sale of merchandise and ticket sales at Master Class dance sessions she hosted in cities in the U.S. in 2012 and 2013. Additionally, Miller failed to report to customs officials that she transported in excess of $10,000 in foreign currency from Australia into the United States in the summer of 2014, totaling approximately $120,000.

“This defendant secreted and structured profits that she derived outside the United States from performances by children,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “Failing to disclose profits both in federal court and upon entry into the United States undermines our justice system and the integrity of our borders.”

"Federal bankruptcy proceedings can be a lifesaver for honest individuals overwhelmed by debt resulting from any number of legitimate reasons. Those who abuse the bankruptcy process by committing fraud threaten the integrity of the entire system. Bankruptcy fraud not only impacts creditors like businesses and financial institutions, it can also result in higher loan fees and higher taxes for everyone," said Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Pittsburgh Division. "That is why we continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to thoroughly investigate allegations of bankruptcy fraud and hold those who commit it accountable."

“As part of a bankruptcy fraud task force, the US Postal Inspection Service will continue to pursue those who defraud creditors and attempt to shield assets from the bankruptcy court,” stated Tommy D. Coke, US Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division.

“Today’s sentence demonstrates that our judicial system truly is ‘Justice for All.’ Those who manipulate the bankruptcy process, the tax system, and laws of our country, regardless of their social status, will be pursued and held accountable for their actions,” said Greg Floyd, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.

“HSI special agents remain vigilant against those who would knowingly attempt to circumvent United States law at and beyond our borders. When individuals lie on travel documents, our nation’s border controls and the integrity of our financial system are severely undermined, thus placing the security of our nation at risk,” said Marlon V. Miller, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “We are proud to have contributed to this investigation along with our other federal law enforcement partners.”

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Trustee, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Abigale Lee Miller.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Tiesha Lasha Henderson, 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on March 15, 2017, Henderson possessed with intent to distribute forty grams or more of fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Erie County Detective Bureau, the Erie Police Department and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of wire fraud and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The seven-count indictment named Henry James Corder, 63, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Corder stole from a victim that he met online, falsely stating that he was a U.S. Marshal that could help her with an advance fee scheme that she was a victim of. He also falsely claimed he needed money for cancer treatments, funeral services for relatives, business partnerships in which he promised to include the victim and items for a security business.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 100 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – On Thursday, May 4, 2017, a resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Edward Hicks, age 31, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around October 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around November 2012, Hicks and others conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. In addition, on November 6, 2012, and again on November 15, 2012, Hicks sold multiple ounces of crack cocaine to a confidential informant who was working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hicks has a prior state court felony drug-trafficking conviction.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2017, at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and not more than forty (40) years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hicks.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 11 years’ imprisonment on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak took the guilty plea and imposed the sentence on 42-year-old Jason Hunter.

According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. Jason Hunter was the California-based source of supply for kilogram quantities of cocaine, which were shipped via the United States Postal Service from California to Pittsburgh. During the FBI’s wiretap investigation, Hunter was also being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in Los Angeles. In that investigation, the DEA seized a substantial quantity of cocaine, heroin, cash, and jewelry from Hunter’s car and residence.

Hunter was the final defendant in this multi-defendant case to plead guilty. In total, 38 defendants were indicted and pleaded guilty in this case.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Caitlin Loughran prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Drug Enforcement Administration, Los Angeles Police Department and the Long Beach Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hunter.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges involving the unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession of stolen firearms, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The six-count indictment, returned on May 2, named Dalton Douglas Duschl, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, in January and February of 2017, Duschl unlawfully possessed four firearms, which he was prohibited from possessing under federal law due to prior criminal convictions. Duschl also was charged with violating federal firearms laws by selling two of those firearms, which were stolen.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and detectives from the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Dubois, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Filing False Tax Returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on May 2, named Gary E. Mills as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on April 15, 2015, April 15, 2014, and August 1, 2014, Mills filed false joint tax returns by intentionally under reporting his and his wife’s income to the IRS.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of harboring illegal aliens, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Xing Zheng Lin, aka Steve Lin, age 44, of McKees Rocks, PA pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around 2009, until on or about January 10, 2014, Lin harbored illegal aliens who were employed at Saga Restaurant in Monroeville, Robinson, and Bethel Park, all of which were owned by Lin.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2017, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lin.

PITTSBURGH A citizen of Mexico who was found by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) pled guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served subject to deportation on his conviction of Illegal Reentry After Deportation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jose Antonio Medina Melendez, 29, a citizen of Mexico.

According to information presented to the court, Melendez, an alien, who was removed from the United States by ERO on May 20, 2014, was taken into custody on March 12, 2017, by ERO.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended ERO for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Melendez.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Golan Barak, 49, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of 18 U.S.C. Section 1343 before the Senior U.S. District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

According to the information presented to the court, between 2013 and 2016, Barak falsely induced foreign nationals, mostly of Israeli descent, to invest with him in real estate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but fraudulently dissipated investors’ money for personal and business expenses, or to buy other properties, or to pay other investors. In particular, Barak admitted to defrauding one investor out of approximately $1,400,000 connected with the purchase of 12 pieces of real estate throughout the Pittsburgh area. The purchase money was used instead to buy other properties, or for Barak’s expenses in his management company, Ergo Management.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both at each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The FBI conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, pled guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 13 years’ imprisonment on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute heroin Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak took the guilty pleas and imposed the sentence on Lionel Cannon, 52, of Cleveland, OH.

According to information presented to the court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The government had wiretaps on three of Lionel Cannon’s phones, and Cannon was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine, which was shipped from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier. He also possessed with intent to distribute heroin, which he obtained in Ohio and transported to the Western District of Pennsylvania for further distribution.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Caitlin Loughran prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Long Beach Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cannon.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Chambersburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to one year plus one day in prison, three years’ supervised release, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,538,345 to numerous victims, on his conviction of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Douglas A. Stahl, age 54, of Chambersburg, Pa.

According to information the United States presented to the Court, it was established that between January 2008 and December 2013, Stahl devised and executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $2 million dollars from various investors.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stahl.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Spanaway, Washington, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of False Claims against the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Justin A. Tollefson, age 26, of Spanaway, Washington, and an enlisted Staff Sergeant in the Army at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Washington, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, Tollefson used stolen identities of employees at UPMC to file four 2014 false federal income tax returns in which he made claims for tax refunds, which collectively totaled approximately $56,333.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August, 30, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Justin A. Tollefson.

PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Lasean Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to launder heroin trafficking proceeds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Gardenhire, age 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that Gardenhire used thousands of dollars of the proceeds she obtained from the interstate heroin distribution business of her husband, Lance Gardenhire, to purchase and renovate certain residential properties in the Pittsburgh area and to purchase multiple luxury vehicles. She also converted the heroin proceeds into what appeared to be legitimate wealth that she could deposit into bank accounts with federally insured financial institutions.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Lasean Gardenhire to occur on August 30, 2017, at 11:30 a.m.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Corey Cheatom was convicted of conspiring to engage in large-scale heroin trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Cheatom, age 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Cheatom and co-defendant Lance Gardenhire led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Cheatom admitted as part of his guilty plea to being responsible for the distribution of between 10 and 30 kilograms of heroin and for the possession of a dangerous weapon. Also as part of his guilty plea, Cheatom agreed to forfeit his interest in two vehicles, a Mercedes and a Jaguar.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Corey Cheatom to occur on August 31, 2017, at 1:30 p.m.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Lance Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to engage in large-scale heroin trafficking and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Gardenhire, age 41, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Gardenhire led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Gardenhire admitted as part of his guilty plea to being responsible for the distribution of between 30 and 90 kilograms of heroin and for the possession of a dangerous weapon. Also as part of his guilty plea, Gardenhire agreed to forfeit his interest in several Mercedes, Infinity, and Nissan vehicles.

In support of the money laundering conviction, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that Lance Gardenhire, along with his wife, Lasean Gardenhire, filtered thousands of dollars of Lance Gardenhire’s heroin trafficking proceeds through Lasean Gardenhire’s bank accounts at federally insured banks that were engaged in interstate commerce. The heroin trafficking proceeds were thereby converted into bank funds and ultimately real and personal property possessed by Lance and Lasean Gardenhire.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Lance Gardenhire to occur on Aug. 30, 2017, at 9:30 a.m.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pittsburgh Police Bureau of Police, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – On April 24, 2017, Khyree Gardenhire was convicted of conspiring to engage in heroin trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Gardenhire, age 20, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pled guilty on the first day of trial in the courtroom of United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In support of the guilty plea, the prosecution informed Judge Fischer that, for several years leading up to May 2015, Lance Gardenhire, Khyree Gardenhire’s father, led a heroin trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania. The organization was centered in and around the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh. Khyree Gardenhire admitted as part of his guilty plea to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin, and to being responsible for the distribution of more than 700 grams of heroin.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Khyree Gardenhire to occur on August 30, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to forty years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

ERIE, Pa. – A resident of New York, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $73,720 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Funmilayo Aliyu, 55, of New York, New York.

According to information presented to the court, Aliyu allowed his bank accounts to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Aliyu would then withdraw the refunds in cash, keep a portion for himself and provide the remainder of the funds to his co-conspirators.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Aliyu.

ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Brooklyn, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 4 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $38,656 on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Festus Owusu, 44, of Brooklyn, New York.

According to information presented to the court, Owusu allowed his bank accounts to be used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Owusu would then withdraw the refunds in cash, keep a portion for himself and provide the remainder of the funds to his co-conspirators.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Owusu.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Alpharetta, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Willie Hugh Joy, 47, of Alpharetta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2009, to in and around January 2013, Joy and his co-defendants engaged in a fraudulent loan program in which a hierarchy of brokers, managers, processors and straw borrowers falsified bank loan documents and supporting documentation in order to obtain various auto and consumer loans and lines of credit from banks and credit unions.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Joy on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Joy.

ERIE, Pa. - Two residents of Warren, Pennsylvania, have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of violating federal tax and currency transaction laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone sentenced John Branch, 45, of Warren, Pennsylvania, to 12 months and 1 day in jail, a $25,000 fine, and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $377,643.74. Judge Cercone sentenced Randall Branch, 65, of Warren, Pennsylvania to 24 months in jail, a $25,000 fine and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $420,117.40.

According to information presented to the court, the father and son defendants owned a business through which they sold oil and natural gas through various brokers. Between 2006 and 2012, the defendants received combined gross income from their oil and natural gas business in excess of $6,900,000.00. Despite their business income, the defendants stopped filing tax returns with the IRS after 1997. John Branch was sentenced for failing to file income tax returns. Randall Branch was sentenced for failing to file a tax return and of conspiring to defraud the United States for the purpose of impairing, impeding and defeating the functions of the IRS in the computation, assessment and collection of income taxes. According to the facts supporting the conviction of Randall Branch, while failing to file tax returns, he also began to dispute his obligation to pay taxes, and he challenged the authority of the IRS to assess and collect taxes. As part of the conspiracy conviction for Randall Branch, the evidence presented to the court disclosed that he avoided the financial threshold reporting requirements on the FinCEN Form 104, Currency Transaction Report (CTR) and impeded the function of the IRS to assess and collect taxes by structuring financial transactions in amounts less than $10,000.00. He then cashed those checks, regularly doing so with multiple checks, at different bank branches, on the same day.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Branches.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Daniel Warren Talley, 32, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 21, 2016, Talley knowingly possessed a stolen firearm which he unlawfully possessed while being a convicted felon. The firearm was seized by investigators after a search warrant was executed at Talley’s residence in Erie, Pennsylvania. The firearm had been stolen from a residence in Millcreek Township, Pennsylvania in September 2016.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Millcreek Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Talley.

PITTSBURGH - An Information has been filed in federal court charging an Allegheny County resident with one count of embezzlement and theft of Labor Union assets and five counts of income tax evasion, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Raymond C. Ventrone, 59, of Pittsburgh, Pa. was the Business Manager of Local 154 of the International Association of Boilermakers from January 2010 to June 2015. According to the Information filed, during that time, Ventrone embezzled approximately $1,499,000 of union funds for his own use. In addition, Ventrone evaded payment of his income taxes on the embezzled monies.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Department of Labor-OIG and the Office of Labor Management Standards conducted the investigation leading to the information in this case.

A criminal Information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The filing of an Information generally indicates that the defendant intends to enter a guilty plea.

PITTSBUGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, and Amphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, outside the usual course of professional practice, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The 15-count indictment named Brent E. Clark, 55, a family care physician who practices in Pittsburgh, and Carl T. Wilson, age 49, an office employee of Clark, as the defendants.

According to the indictment, from February 26, 2015 through March 27, 2017, Clark distributed Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, on 13 occasions, and Amphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, on three occasions, outside the usual course of professional practice. The indictment also alleges that on March 27, 2017, Wilson knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute and distributed oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. The indictment further alleges that from February 2015 to February 2017, Clark knowingly and willfully executed, and attempted to execute, the above-described scheme to defraud and to obtain, by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, money and property owned by and under the custody and control of United Health Care and Medicare, health care benefit programs, in connection with the payment for health care benefits, items and services.

For Brent E. Clark, the law provides for a maximum total sentence on all counts of incarceration of up to 270 months, a fine of $13,250,000, or both. For Carl T. Wilson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brent E. Clark and Carl T. Wilson.

An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.