Western District of Pennsylvania

Erie, Pa. – A former resident of Springfield Garden, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $517,168.67 on her 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 Bola Peters, 44.

According to information presented at her trial, Peters maintained multiple bank accounts which were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. After the fraudulently obtained refunds were deposited into accounts under her control, Peters would remove the funds, keep a portion for herself and remit the remainder of the refunds back to her co-conspirators. In addition, she was also in possession of numerous false identification documents. These documents matched the stolen identities listed on the fraudulent federal tax returns that generated the tax refunds deposited into the accounts Peters controlled. Other stolen identity documents found in Peters’ house matched the names on bank accounts Peters opened using stolen identities. Peters was also in possession of handwritten ledgers and lists containing hundreds of stolen identities that were used during the course of the conspiracy to file false federal tax returns.

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 Peters.

PITTSBURGH - A foreign national residing outside of the United States pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of money laundering and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Yoandy Perez Llanes, 33 pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that early in 2014, tens of thousands of present and former employees of UPMC had their personal information compromised by hackers, who intruded into a UPMC computerized database and stole names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and other personal identifying information. This data was then used to file over 900 false 2013 federal tax returns, which contained requests for tax refunds onto Amazon.com gift cards. Llanes and other conspirators laundered the Amazon.com gift cards to purchase electronic merchandise, which was shipped through reshipping services to Venezuela, and retrieved by Llanes and others. While the perpetrators claimed approximately $2.2 million in unlawful refunds, $1,475,000 million was actually disbursed in unlawful refunds.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yoandy Perez Llanes.

PITTSBURGH - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations announced today recent actions to deter violations of the federal income tax laws. As the April 18th deadline approaches for the timely filing of income tax returns, citizens are reminded to fulfill their obligations and to rest assured those who chose not to do so will be prosecuted.

Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song stated, “Most people voluntarily pay their fair share of taxes in a timely manner. Criminal penalties are reserved for the most flagrant and egregious violators. Those who consider committing tax fraud should recognize that their actions negatively impact all of us and personally expose them to stringent monetary penalties and potential prison time.”

“Tax fraud exists in many forms, from unscrupulous tax preparers filing false and fraudulent returns, to identity thieves, to those who devise complex schemes to hide their income and evade paying the taxes they owe,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Greg Floyd. “IRS-Criminal Investigation pursues tax cheats year round. As the filing deadline quickly approaches, those who are contemplating engaging in tax fraud should know that they will be pursued.”

The offices continue to uncover the fraudulent refund schemes that occur in Western Pennsylvania and to bring those who perpetrate them to justice. Some of the recent cases being prosecuted by the district follow.

Man Admits Guilt in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme Using Hacked UPMC Employee Information

A foreign national residing outside of the United States pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of money laundering and aggravated identity theft.

Yoandy Perez Llanes, 33, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that early in 2014, tens of thousands of present and former employees of UPMC had their personal information compromised by hackers, who intruded into a UPMC computerized database and stole names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and other personal identifying information. This data was then used to file over 900 false 2013 federal tax returns, which contained requests for tax refunds onto Amazon.com gift cards. Llanes and other conspirators laundered the Amazon.com gift cards to purchase electronic merchandise, which was shipped through reshipping services to Venezuela, and retrieved by Llanes and others. While the perpetrators claimed approximately $2.2 million in unlawful refunds, $1,475,000 million was actually disbursed in unlawful refunds.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yoandy Perez Llanes.

New York State Man Sentenced for Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud Scheme

A resident of Rosedale, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months in jail on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Adetunji Gbadegeshi, 60, of Rosedale, New York.

According to information presented to the court, Gbadegeshi used the hundreds of stolen identities found in his house to open bank accounts that were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Gbadegeshi would then remove the money from the accounts and distribute it to his co-conspirators.

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

Monument Company Worker Embezzled $12.9 Million from Employer

An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering.

Cynthia A. Mills, 56, of McKees Rocks, Pa., pleaded guilty to six counts (one count of mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, one count of tax evasion, and one count of engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property) before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from February 1999 to May 2015, Mills embezzled $12,969,774.42 from Matthews International Corporation where she was employed as a Cashier and Treasury Specialist.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 28, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 95 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

$6 million DOD Fraud, $1 million paid in illegal gratuities, 5 charged with tax violations

Five Informations have been filed in federal court in Pittsburgh charging three local residents and two residents of the greater Detroit area with crimes of major fraud against the U.S. Department of Defense, tax violations and illegal gratuities.

Thomas G. Buckner, 65, of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and his brother, John P. Buckner, 67, of Lyndora, Pennsylvania, were each named in three count Informations charging them in one count with defrauding U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM), and two counts of income tax evasion.

According to the Informations filed with the court, 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 the Buckners 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 Buckners 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 were charged with 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, was named in a three count Information charging him in Count One for his role as CFO of Ibis Tek in the above described major fraud against TACOM. Counts Two and Three charge him with filing false returns for Ibis Tek for 2009 and 2010.

David S. Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, (no relation to Thomas or John Buckner) was named in 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, and concealing the purpose for the monies. David Buckner owned D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories.

Anthony A. Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, was named in a five count Information. Shaw, then 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 is charged in Counts One and Two with demanding and receiving a total of $1,055,500 of illegal gratuities paid by checks and wire transfers by Thomas Buckner to and through D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories for Shaw. Counts Three and Four charge Shaw with income tax evasion for 2009 and 2010 for not reporting payments from Thomas and John Buckner totaling in excess of $1,000,000. In Count Five Shaw is charged with 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.

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.

Physician Charged with Willfully Failing to File Income Tax Returns

A medical doctor has been charged by Information in federal court in Pittsburgh with three counts of willfully failing to file income tax returns.

According to the Information filed yesterday, Rodney J. Williams of Washington County failed to file tax returns from 2009 to 2011. During those three years he had gross income of $790,385.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine of $300,000, 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 Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Five Indicted Separately in Fraudulent Tax Return Scheme

Five residents of Western Pennsylvania have been separately indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud, bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States.

A two-count indictment returned by the federal grand jury, charging bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Sean Brooks, 27, currently incarcerated. Three two-count indictments returned by the federal grand jury, charging mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Amber Eubanks, 27, of Pittsburgh, Brandon Prater 29, currently incarcerated, and Simone Prater, 29, of Pittsburgh, as sole defendants in each indictment. A one-count indictment charging bank fraud named Tyrone Gossett, 63, of Pittsburgh as the sole defendant.

According to the indictments, Sean Brooks, who was, at all material times, incarcerated, prepared and arranged for the filing of more than one hundred fraudulent tax returns on behalf of fellow inmates and other individuals and generated more than $200,000 in fraudulent refunds. The fraudulent refunds were sent to a number of different addresses, and, after forging the endorsement of the payees, the checks were cashed through federally insured financial institutions and through check-cashing establishments. Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater, Simone Prater, and Tyrone Gossett assisted the conspiracy in a variety of ways, including sending the Internal Revenue Service the fraudulent tax returns, receiving forging, depositing and cashing the fraudulently obtained refund checks, disbursing the proceeds of the fraud amongst the conspirators, and proving personal identification information to Brooks for use in the fraudulent tax returns.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 35 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both for the charges pending against Sean Brooks. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both for the charges pending against Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater and Simone Prater. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both for the charge pending against Tyrone Gossett. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

Most tax return preparers provide professional tax service. However, a few set out to use the personal and financial information provided to them to perpetrate fraud or other scams that can hurt their customers. Earlier this year, the IRS warned taxpayers that they are legally responsible for what is on the tax return even if someone else prepared the tax return. Taxpayers should be vigilant and ensure that their chosen return preparer reports accurate information. The IRS also warned the public about various schemes deployed by dishonest return preparers in its Dirty Dozen Tax Scams https://www.irs.gov/uac/newsroom/irs-summarizes-dirty-dozen-list-of-tax-scams-for-2017.

PITTSBURGH - A South Carolina resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate stalking and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on April 11 and unsealed today, named Nathaniel Earl Dunlap, 28, formerly of Shaler Township and now of Clover, South Carolina as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Dunlap placed false and fraudulent food delivery orders online, using the identity of another individual, which placed the victim L.W. under substantial emotional distress.

Dunlap will make his initial appearance in Federal Court today at 12:15 p.m.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 17 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 United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Shaler 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.

PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and filing a false tax return, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Pamela A. Vivirito, 47, of Valencia pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud charged in a second superseding indictment and one count of filing a false tax return charged in an information before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Vivirito operated a not-for-profit charity called Equine Angels Rescue, Inc. (EAR) which solicited contributions to rescue and rehabilitate horses. Vivirito fraudulently solicited donations and used them for personal expenses. Additionally, Vivirito caused the filing of a fraudulent and false Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax wherein it was reported her compensation was $46,877, when in actuality, Vivirito received compensation in the amount of $93,606.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 20, 2017 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 23 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vivirito.

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

The two-count indictment named Julian Patton, age 26, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Marcus Smith, age 22, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the Indictment, on or about February 2, 2017, Patton, an individual with a prior felony conviction for burglary, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Smith & Wesson, M&P Shield 9mm firearm and ammunition, and Smith, an individual with several prior felony convictions for assault, trespass, and firearms crimes, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Glock 9mm pistol and ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

For Patton’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. For Smith’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the respective defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Amy L. Johnston are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

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

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on April 11, named Derek Hanner, age 28, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, Hanner robbed four banks in December 2016 and January 2017, including two Citizens Banks located in Pittsburgh, as well as the Brentwood Bank, located in Bethel Park.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence at each count of 25 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 Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Bethel Park 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. - Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song issued the following statement today:

"Today, we announce that no federal civil rights charges will be brought related to the arrest of Montrice Bolden.”

"We met with Montrice Bolden’s family to inform them of our decision. We have also communicated our decision to the Erie Bureau of Police and to Mayor Sinnott. While the public, understandably, may have questions regarding the facts of what occurred, the Department of Justice considered only the narrow question of whether there is sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime was committed.

"Senior members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Pittsburgh, prosecutors from the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice and FBI special agents have conducted a thorough and independent review of this matter.

"After this review, we determined that the evidence does not warrant federal criminal civil rights charges against the Erie Bureau of Police officers who were involved in the arrest of Mr. Bolden on June 28, 2016.

“Under the applicable federal criminal civil rights laws, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a law enforcement officer’s actions were objectively unreasonable and that the law enforcement officer willfully deprived an individual of a constitutional right. To act ‘willfully,’ for purposes of the federal statute, means to act with deliberate and specific intent to defy or disregard the law. Neither negligence, accident, mistake, fear nor bad judgment is sufficient to establish such a criminal violation.

“Legal restrictions relating to the confidentiality of criminal investigations prohibit us from further discussing the specifics of this case.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to working with the Erie community to improve trust between the community and the police. The City of Erie and the Erie Bureau of Police have coordinated with our office and the U.S. Department of Justice to commence civil rights training with all members of the Erie Bureau of Police beginning Thursday, April 13, 2017. The Erie Bureau of Police has actively engaged with community members in an effort to improve relations and trust since August 2016. We commend the Erie Bureau of Police for its willingness to seek additional civil rights training and to enhance mutual trust between law enforcement and the citizens they serve. Due to the high interest in this investigation, we have engaged a federal mediator from the Department of Justice, Community Relations Service, who has traveled to Erie on multiple occasions and will continue to meet with Erie community members and officials.

“The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to assure that all allegations of civil rights violations are fully and completely investigated.”

PITTSBURGH - A resident of western Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of filing false income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment named Tina Gordon as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, for the calendar years 2010 and 2011, Gordon failed to report “other income” of more than $195,000.

At each of the two counts, defendant faces a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release. 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.

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

Maleake Clark, 26 of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

According to the indictment, Maleake 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 August 21, 2017 at 10 a.m. 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 the 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 medical doctor has been charged by Information in federal court in Pittsburgh with three counts of Willfully Failing to File Income Tax Returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

According to the Information filed yesterday, Rodney J. Williams of Washington County failed to file tax returns from 2009 to 2011. During those three years he had gross income of $790,385.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine of $300,000, 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 Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the filing of an Information in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Tonia Vaughn, 41, of Portage, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customers” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Seymore.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Cresson, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Melissa R. Seymore, 41, of Cresson, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. Ms. Seymore was an employee/clerk at the business. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customer” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Seymore.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Newark, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court to 180 months in jail and 10 years supervised release 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 Zavia L. Johnson, 48. The sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to a 14 year sentence Johnson is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, on November 2, 2012, Johnson, who was from Newark, New Jersey, was traveling South on Interstate 79 after leaving Rochester, New York, and was pulled over by a Trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police after a traffic violation was observed. A certified drug detection canine alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle, and a search warrant was executed. During the search of the vehicle, law enforcement officers discovered 175 wrapped “bricks” containing 8,700 stamp bags, or dosage units, of heroin. In addition, $7,000.00 in cash was located in a duffle bag in the trunk of the vehicle.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini 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 Johnson.

Erie, Pa. – A resident of Rosedale, New York has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months in jail 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 Adetunji Gbadegeshi, 60, of Rosedale, New York.

According to information presented to the court, Gbadegeshi used the hundreds of stolen identities found in his house to open bank accounts that were used as repositories for fraudulently obtained federal tax refunds. Gbadegeshi would then remove the money from the accounts and distribute it 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 Gbadegeshi.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 15 months in prison, consecutive to a sentence he is presently serving on a case prosecuted in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and three years’ supervised release, on his conviction of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Gary E. Vaughn, 43, of Portage, Pa.

Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, PA, that dealt in new and used merchandise. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customer” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Franklin, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 92 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Raheem Hasan Carney, 40.

According to information presented to the court, Carney possessed with intent to distribute more than an ounce heroin at a residence in Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, Carney unlawfully possessed a stolen .40 caliber Glock pistol, a .12 gauge shotgun, and ammunition while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini 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 Carney.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Elkhart, Indiana, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Ancelmo Ayala, 42, 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 June 2013 through February 2015, Ayala engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The cocaine that was coming from Texas was being transported to Erie and Ohio for further distribution. According to information disclosed to the court, Ayala was one of the conspirators who transported the drug trafficking organization’s cocaine to Erie in a vehicle equipped with hidden compartments.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2017 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $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 Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ayala.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years imprisonment followed by 5 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Clifford Wood, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on February 18, 2016, a West Homestead police officer on patrol near the High Rollers Bar in Homestead, PA, observed Clifford Wood, who was previously convicted of felony drug offenses, carrying, and shooting, what appeared to be a firearm. The officer demanded that Wood drop his gun. Wood refused, and started to flee, dropping the firearm during his flight. Wood was arrested shortly thereafter, and the firearm, a Ruger Security Six .357 revolver, was recovered in the place where the officer had seen Wood discard it.

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Stephen S. Gilson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Homestead Police Department, and the Homestead Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wood.

PITTSBURGH - A former United States postmaster and resident of Glassport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years imprisonment and five years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute kilograms of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur Schwab imposed the sentence on Joseph Borrelli, age 49, of Glassport, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, between 2011 and 2015, Dante Lozano of Brownsville, Texas shipped dozens of cocaine packages, totaling approximately 8 kilograms (about 18 pounds), via the U.S. Postal Service to Jeffrey Turner and April Racan, who were living in the Elizabeth/McKeesport, Pennsylvania area. Borrelli, who was Postmaster in West Newton, Pennsylvania at the time, aided the conspiracy by advising Turner how to minimize the chances of their drug packages being detected by law enforcement.

The addresses of vacant homes were provided to Turner by Borrelli, and Turner then emailed these to Lozano, so that the packages could bear valid addresses. Borrelli also opened an untraceable post office box for Turner, and intercepted drug packages when they arrived at the post office, delivering them to Turner. These packages were usually intercepted by Borrelli before they went out for delivery by the mail carrier.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that Borrelli abused his position of trust as postmaster to aid the drug conspiracy.

Eight individuals were named in this indictment. Three others were previously sentenced, and four defendants – including Lozano, Turner, and Racan – will be sentenced in April and June.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Postal Service in Pittsburgh, the Drug Enforcement Administration in Brownsville, Texas, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Borrelli.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on a charge of Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking of Children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr., age 45, of Wilmerding, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, in and around April of 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr., and another person knowingly entered into an agreement to conspire to recruit for sex trafficking a female minor who had not attained the age of 18 years.

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

Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police Department and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Joseph T. Clemenic, Jr.

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., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of filing a false U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment named Anthony A. Masciantonio.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about April 15, 2011, Masciantonio, on his U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Form 1040, stated his taxable income for calendar year 2010 was $206,575, when he then and there well knew and believed his taxable income for calendar year 2010 was $297,147.63. Likewise, on or about April 15, 2012, on his U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Form 1040, Masciantonio stated his taxable income for calendar year 2011 was $397,099, when he then and there well knew and believed his taxable income for calendar year 2011 was $470,350.02.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 6 years in prison and 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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.

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 John D. Barnett, Jr., 41.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 24, 2016, Barnett possessed a quantity of Suboxone.

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 Barnett.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Raeford, North Carolina, has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day on his conviction of conspiracy and transferring counterfeit currency, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Robert T. Dent, a/k/a Bullionaire, 31, of Raeford, NC.

According to information presented to the court, Dent was a reshipper in the United States for the distribution of Ugandan manufactured counterfeit currency that was being sold online by an individual using the moniker Willy Clock.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Secret Service, assisted by U.S. Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dent.

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

The one-count indictment named Samuel Quib-Chub, age 28, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about January 24, 2017, Quib-Chub was found in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on four previous occasions.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two (2) 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.

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Three Canadian residents and their company have been charged by Information in Pittsburgh with conspiring to distribute wholesale quantities of misbranded prescription drugs made for the foreign market and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

According to the Information, Tony Lee, Billy Lee and Tarn Uppal, all Vancouver, B.C. residents, operated Quantum Solutions, SRL (hereafter, Quantum), a company registered in Barbados with offices in the Vancouver, British Columbia area. Quantum purchased prescription drugs made for foreign markets and sold wholesale quantities to three pharmacists in Western Pennsylvania. Quantum purchased the drugs from suppliers located in Turkey, Great Britain and other countries. The defendants arranged for these misbranded drugs to be sent to a re-shipper in the United Kingdom (UK). The UK re-shipper was instructed to unpack the drugs, repack them in several small packages, put misleading labeling and shipping documentation on them and understate the dollar value of the contents in order to create the appearance to U.S. Customs and Border Protection that the drugs were health care products for the personal use of the addressee. The small packages were sent to Washington State and New York State re-shippers known to the U.S. Attorney, where they were once again unpacked and repacked for delivery in the United States. Wholesale quantities of these misbranded drugs intended for use in foreign markets were purchased by three pharmacists in Western Pennsylvania. The wire transfers, checks and credit card payments from the pharmacists traveled from Western Pennsylvania to Canada and Barbados. None of the re-shippers were licensed in the United States to conduct this business. None of the prescription drugs met FDA approval because they were made and labeled for use outside of the United States. The information against Quantum seeks forfeiture of $4,235,000.

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

The United States Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the filing of these Informations.

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.

PITTSBURGH – A corporation based out of New Castle, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court on a charge of Failure to Report Loss of Explosive Material, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company, Inc. pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, Zambelli was licensed by the federal government as an importer and manufacturer of explosive fireworks. Federal regulations require such licensees to make and keep accurate records relating to their inventories of explosive materials. Licensees must also subject themselves to inspections by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). In 2014, ATF conducted inspections of Zambelli’s business premises and inventories of explosives, at which time they found discrepancies between the actual inventories and Zambelli’s inventory records. In particular, ATF found that Zambelli had approximately 63,000 less units of explosives than was reflected in their inventories.

Consequently, Zambelli was charged with, and pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly failing to notify the United States Government of lost or missing explosive materials.

Pursuant to the terms of a plea agreement, Zambelli will pay a fine of $5,000 and, in addition, will forfeit $195,000 to the United States Government as part of the sentence for this violation. Those plea terms were approved by Judge Cercone, who imposed that sentence at the conclusion of the hearing.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zambelli Fireworks Manufacturing Company, Inc.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Cresson, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Jason A. Seymore, 41, of Cresson, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

Gary and Tonia Vaughn were the owners and operators of Gary’s Steals and Deals, a business located in Portage, Pennsylvania, that dealt in new and used merchandise. Mr. Seymore was an employee/clerk at the business. The way the business operated was for “customers” to come to the store with new stolen items of merchandise (the great majority of which were still in the package from local stores) and present it for purchase by Gary’s. The store clerks, knowing the merchandise was stolen, would then give a percentage of the value for the new stolen items to the “customer.” The great majority of this business involved the same “customers” bringing in dozens of identical, “new in package” stolen items (i.e., razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets, etc.) on the same day or subsequent days, which were purchased by Gary’s Steals and Deals. The stolen new merchandise was then listed for sale on Ebay or Amazon. Once purchased, the stolen merchandise was then shipped to the purchaser via use of the mail. The money received from the sale of the stolen merchandise over the internet was used to either purchase new stolen items from “customers” coming into the store, or was received by the employees as proceeds of this conduct.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 1, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Seymore.

PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on March 21 and unsealed Wednesday, named Walter B. Williams, 45, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Williams distributed videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that Williams knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphics and digital 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.

“HSI special agents will relentlessly pursue predators who deal in the exploitation of images our children,” said Marlon V. Miller, special agent in charge of HSI Philadelphia. “Thanks to the ceaseless efforts of our highly skilled HSI special agents another sexual predator will face justice.”

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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Blair County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Timothy Hufford, 56, of Altoona, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on August 18, 2015, Hufford knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 6, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

“HSI special agents will relentlessly pursue predators who deal in the exploitation of images our children,” said Marlon V. Miller, special agent in charge of HSI Philadelphia. “Thanks to the ceaseless efforts of our highly skilled HSI special agents another sexual predator will face justice.”

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hufford.

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 better 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 Blair County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Timothy Hufford, 56, of Altoona, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on August 18, 2015, Hufford knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for July 6, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hufford.

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 better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

The three-count indictment named Reginald Davis, age 29.

According to the indictment, on December 17, 2016, Davis possessed with intent to distribute and distributed carfentanil that caused the death of one person and the serious bodily injury of another. Davis is also charged with possessing with the intent to distribute, and distributing, additional quantities of carfentanil.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya S. Goodman and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Agency and the New Brighton Area Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count superseding indictment named Anthony Wayne Canady, age 43, of Jeannette, PA.

According to the superseding indictment, Canady conspired with others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 United States Attorney Stephen S. Gilson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Westmoreland County Drug Task Force, the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, the Greensburg Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Walter Cody Tribble has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for escaping from federal custody following a prior federal felony conviction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment charges Tribble, age 42 and formerly of Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, with committing the crime on December 3, 2016, by escaping from federal custody at Renewal, Inc., a community corrections center located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The United States Marshals Service and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A former Butler County resident has been sentenced in federal court to six months imprisonment and six months of home detention, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on her conviction of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The defendant was also ordered to pay $62,842.57 in restitution.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Jennifer Colamarino, 35.

According to information presented to the court, from October 2014 through March 2015, Colamarino defrauded Allegheny Valley Bank by using a closed PNC Bank account to make approximately 94 fraudulent online payments towards her husband’s Allegheny Valley Bank credit card account. Colamarino then used the Allegheny Valley Bank credit card at various locations to make numerous purchases. During the relevant time period, Colamarino made no legitimate payments towards the Allegheny Valley Bank credit card account, and Allegheny Valley Bank suffered a loss of approximately $62,842.57 as a result of the fraud.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl 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 Colamarino.

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Aliquippa, 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 Corey Bargerstock, age 42.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on July 7, 2016, Bargerstock possessed with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl that caused the serious bodily injury and death of a person.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya S. Goodman and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hopewell 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.

PITTSBURGH – A Texas resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Intentional Damage to a Protected Computer and Wire Fraud, United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on Feb. 28, 2017, named Brandon A. Coughlin, 29, of Houston, Texas, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, 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 management. Using the administrative passwords he knew from his employment, on September 18, 2013, Coughlin hacked the computer network of the healthcare facility, 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 data, including patient medical records, causing a loss of more than $5,000.00. Coughlin also is accused of committing wire fraud when he attempted to fraudulently purchase online iPad Air tablets on the Staples account of the healthcare facility.

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.

Coughlin waived his appearance at today’s arraignment hearing before Chief Magistrate Judge Maureen Kelly. The case has been assigned to Chief U.S. District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

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 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, was sentenced in federal court to 216 months imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, on his conviction of production material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Travis Glies, 38, of Allison Park, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that from January of 2016 to February of 2016, Glies produced visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of a minor.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Glies.

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.

WASHINGTON - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of violating the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Tom Wheeler of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Jeffrey Allen Burgess, 54, was charged in a one-count indictment. According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 22, 2016, Burgess is alleged to have violated the Matthew Shepard and James Bryd Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act by willfully causing bodily injury to A.M. because of A.M.’s perceived race, color, and national origin.

If convicted, Burgess faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.

The FBI and the Bethel Park Police Department are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Rachael L. Dizard and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Tona Boyd are prosecuting this case.

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

A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of violating the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Tom Wheeler of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

 

Jeffrey Allen Burgess, 54, was charged in a one-count indictment. According to the indictment, on or about Nov. 22, 2016, Burgess is alleged to have violated the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act by willfully causing bodily injury to A.M. because of A.M.’s perceived race, color, and national origin.

 

If convicted, Burgess faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.

 

The FBI and the Bethel Park Police Department are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Rachael L. Dizard and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Tona Boyd are prosecuting this case.

 

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Meadville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment named Dennis Michael Kerr, 27, of Meadville, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Kerr received, transported and possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The five-count superseding indictment, returned yesterday, named Eric Clancy, age 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the superseding indictment, on May 13, 2015, Eric Clancy possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and fentanyl. Clancy, a convicted felon, is also charged with illegally possessing a firearm on March 26, 2016. The superseding indictment further charges that on August 25, 2016, Clancy possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, possessed a firearm as a convicted felon, and possessed that firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Mount Oliver Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Cynthia A. Mills, 56, of McKees Rocks, Pa., pleaded guilty to six counts (one count of mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, one count of tax evasion, and one count of engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property) before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from February 1999 to May 2015, Mills embezzled $12,969,774.42 from Matthews International Corporation where she was employed as a Cashier and Treasury Specialist.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 28, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 95 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mills.

PITTSBURGH – Three residents of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and a resident of New Jersey, have been indicted separately by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of criminal contempt of court, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictments, returned yesterday, named Khayri Battle, 36, of Newark, New Jersey, Shane Brooks, 30, Victoria Morgan, 32, and Bobby Rodgers, 48, all of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictments, Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers refused to testify at the trial of Anthony Pryor and Lance Yarbough, for charges that included conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, despite a written order compelling them to testify pursuant to a grant of immunity from United States District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton.

The law provides for an indeterminate prison sentence, an indeterminate fine, 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 defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment.

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

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on violations of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on March 14, named Patrick Snyder, age 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, between December 2016 and January 2017, Snyder illegally possessed three different firearms. Snyder has previously been convicted of a felony and is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten (10) years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bellevue Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH – Theodore Elliott was sentenced to 48 months in prison for possessing a firearm in September 2014 after a prior felony conviction, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Elliott, age 26 of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was also sentenced to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence to run consecutively to Elliott’s state prison sentence for possession with intent to deliver cocaine. Elliott was on bond in that state case when he illegally possessed the firearm in September 2014.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the convictions in this case. 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 Oil City, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count superseding indictment named Brent Lockwood, 59, ofOil City, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, Lockwood traveled to the Philippines for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. In addition, he also received and 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.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Leevaughn Walls was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin while on bond in another federal heroin and cocaine trafficking case, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Walls, age 38, formerly of Pittsburgh and Bulger, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the 63-month prison sentence Walls received in his other federal case. Judge Fischer also ordered that Walls serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 – Five residents of Western Pennsylvania have been separately indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud, bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

A two-count indictment returned by the federal grand jury, charging bank and mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Sean Brooks, 27, currently incarcerated. Three two-count indictments returned by the federal grand jury, charging mail fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to defraud the United States named Amber Eubanks, 27, of Pittsburgh, Brandon Prater 29, currently incarcerated, and Simone Prater, 29, of Pittsburgh, as sole defendants in each indictment. A one-count indictment charging bank fraud named Tyrone Gossett, 63, of Pittsburgh as the sole defendant.

According to the indictments, Sean Brooks, who was, at all material times, incarcerated, prepared and arranged for the filing of more than one hundred fraudulent tax returns on behalf of fellow inmates and other individuals and generated more than $200,000 in fraudulent refunds. The fraudulent refunds were sent to a number of different addresses, and, after forging the endorsement of the payees, the checks were cashed through federally insured financial institutions and through check-cashing establishments. Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater, Simone Prater, and Tyrone Gossett assisted the conspiracy in a variety of ways, including sending the Internal Revenue Service the fraudulent tax returns, receiving forging, depositing and cashing the fraudulently obtained refund checks, disbursing the proceeds of the fraud amongst the conspirators, and proving personal identification information to Brooks for use in the fraudulent tax returns.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 35 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both for the charges pending against Sean Brooks. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both for the charges pending against Amber Eubanks, Brandon Prater and Simone Prater. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both for the charge pending against Tyrone Gossett. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in these cases.

An indictment is an accusation. All the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of malicious destruction of property by fire, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Tony Crawford, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Crawford set fire to the Fred’s Beds and Furniture building located at 117 East 12th Street in Erie on February 5, 2016.

"Any person who intentionally sets a fire is a danger to our community," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. "ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those responsible for committing arsons are held accountable."

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Erie Police Department and the Erie Fire 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.