Western District of Pennsylvania

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

The one-count indictment named Ravone Robert Deberry, 24, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on September 10, 2016, Deberry possessed a Smith & Wesson, model SW9F, 9mm handgun while being a convicted felon.

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

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

This case was 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 EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one count indictment named Oscar Gabriel Rojas Urquieta, 24, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Urquieta sent threatening emails and social media messages to an individual in Erie whom Urquieta had met in Chile.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gannon University Office of Campus Police and Safety conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Columbia, South Carolina, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jose A. Romero, 35, of Columbia, South Carolina.

According to information presented to the court, Romero conspired with two co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine. According to information presented in court, in March 2014, investigators seized packaging material from a kilogram of cocaine in Erie, Pennsylvania. On March 20, 2014, investigators seized two ounces of cocaine after it had been sold by one of Romero’s co-conspirators.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Romero.

PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 2 years of probation and $500 fine on his conviction of Fraudulent Official Seals, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Christopher Diiorio, 53, of Greensburg, PA.

According to the information presented to the court, Christopher Diiorio conspired with others to produce false United States Secret Service identification cards. He also misrepresented that he was an agent of the United States Secret Service, possessed, and displayed an imitation United States Secret Service badge to a hotel manager in order to obtain the government rate for a hotel stay. Finally, he misrepresented that he was an agent of the United States Secret Service and displayed the false United States Secret Service identification card during an encounter with a local police officer.

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

Acting United States Attorney commended the United States Secret Service for the successful investigation of Christopher Diiorio.

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

Andres Prieto, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2009, to in and around January 2013, Prieto and his co-defendants engaged in a “loan program” in which a hierarchy of “brokers”, “managers”, “processors” and “straw borrowers” falsified bank loan documents and supporting documentation in order to obtain various auto and consumer loans and lines of credit from 21 banks and credit unions.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Prieto on bond.

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

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

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

Kevin Dimitri Tate, 24, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Tate unlawfully possessed a .380 ACP firearm while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

This case was 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 Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force, Erie Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tate.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on his conviction of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Larry Christopher Roberts, age 48, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about June 4, 2015, Roberts possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime -- that being his distribution and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine.

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

Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Roberts.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crimes.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A Cambria County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conversion of government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Bernard M. Dospoy, 66, of Northern Cambria, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around June 2005, to in or around October 2015, Dospoy did receive and convert falsely to his own use, a total of $207,592, which represents 176 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to him to which he was not entitled. He also agreed to pay restitution of $207,592 pursuant to a related Civil Settlement Agreement entered into by him and the United States.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 3, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government and Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin J. Callahan is litigating the case on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.

The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dospoy.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., entered a guilty plea in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Eric P. Williams, 35, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on December 8, 2015, Williams, who had been convicted in 2001 in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, of the felony offense of robbery, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did possess in and affecting interstate commerce a Stevens, Model 350, 12 gauge shotgun, and a Mossberg, Model 715T, .22 LR caliber, semi-automatic rifle. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 3, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history 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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Williams.

According to Ms. Song, Williams 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two residents of Johnstown and Philadelphia, Pa., were indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The six-count indictment named as defendants Ava Blackwell, 24, of Solomon Homes, Johnstown, Pa. and Kareem Jamal Jones, 27, of Philadelphia, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from Aug. 25, 2016, through Sept. 14, 2016, Blackwell and Jones conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin. On each of the dates of Aug. 25, Aug. 29 and Sept. 14, 2016, Blackwell distributed less than 100 grams of heroin; on Sept. 7, 2016, Jones distributed less than 100 grams of heroin; and on Sept. 14, 2016, Blackwell and Jones possessed with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Ava Blackwell of 100 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both, and for Kareem Jamal Jones, of 60 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, 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 defendants.

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 Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Blackwell and Jones.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Somerset, Pa. was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of misappropriation of postal funds by a postal service employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment named Michael Reich, 57, of Somerset, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from May 18, 2016 to November 1, 2016, while an employee of the United States Postal Service, he unlawfully converted to his own use approximately $19,180, which had come into his possession or control as an employee of the United States Postal Service.

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

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

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment named Arvell D. Brandon, 38, of Johnstown, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on May 10, 2016, Brandon distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and 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 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 Cambria County Drug Task Force, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brandon.

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

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

The four-count indictment named Robert Stiver, age 42, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on November 2, 2016, Stiver used a firearm to rob the Allegheny Valley Bank in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, of $2,063 Stiver also used a firearm to rob the First Commonwealth in Harmarville, Pennsylvania, of $5,372.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both for each armed robbery count, and a maximum sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both for each robbery count. . 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 Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Shaler Township Police Department, and the Harmar Townsip 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Sidman, Pa. was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment named Jesse Edward Lester, 35, of Sidman, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Sept. 10, 2016, in connection with the purchase of a firearm, Lester knowingly made a false statement in an effort to deceive Sporting Goods Discounters, a federally licensed firearms dealer. The indictment alleges Lester represented to Sporting Goods Discounters that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, when, in fact, he was purchasing the firearm on behalf of someone else.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, 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 resident of Saxton, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of conversion of government funds, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Connie Williams, 59, of Saxton, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from Sept. 11, 2013, to Jan. 14, 2015, Williams did receive and convert falsely to her own use a total of $26,118, which represents approximately 17 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to her to which she was not entitled.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song and Bishop Mark L. Bartchak of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown announced today reforms by the Diocese to protect the children of the Diocese from sexual abuse, ensure that all allegations of sexual abuse are immediately reported to law enforcement and provide victims with access to a full range of counseling and support services.

The reforms are summarized in a memorandum of understanding. The memorandum is the product of extensive collaboration between the Diocese and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Among other core reforms, the memorandum provides for:

• The creation of an independent, multidisciplinary oversight board;
• The retention of an outside expert to develop a new, comprehensive child abuse prevention program;
• A reporting protocol that requires the Diocese to report allegations of child sexual abuse to law enforcement within twelve hours after receipt; and
• Counseling and support services for victims by qualified and independent mental health professionals chosen by the victims.
   

“These unprecedented reforms put victims first, providing them with access to needed support and counseling,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “Through this agreement, allegations of sexual abuse will be immediately reported to law enforcement and suspected offenders removed from contact with children.”

“Since the release of the Grand Jury report last year, I have focused on strengthening our commitment to children and youth protection and providing continued support to survivors of sexual abuse,” said Bishop Bartchak. “The framework announced today represents the culmination of those efforts. As we look to the future, I believe these comprehensive and unprecedented reforms will make the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown a leader in the safety and protection of young people.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Michael A. Comber, Philip P. O’Connor, and Colin J. Callahan handled this matter on behalf of the United States.

PITTSBURGH - Three residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges including conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, possession with intent to distribute and distribute Oxycodone, obtaining a controlled substance through fraud, health care fraud, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute Oxycodone and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The seven-count indictment named Barry Lee Dorsey, II, 26, Tyesha Renee Dorsey, 25, and Zachary Edward Rathke, 26, as defendants.

According to the indictment, the defendants operated a forged prescription ring. Prescriptions were forged with the names, DEA numbers, medical license numbers, and signatures of real medical doctors. The prescriptions, most of which were forged for Oxycodone and Percocet, were filled at a large number of Western Pennsylvania pharmacies and primarily paid for with Medicaid funds. The fraudulently obtained prescription pills were then sold on the street for substantial profit.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 61 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000 or both for the charges pending against Barry Lee Dorsey, II. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000 or both for the charges pending against Tyesha Renee Dorsey and Zachary Edward Rathke. 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 Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Brentwood Police Department, Mt. Pleasant Police Department and Bellevue 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 - Two residents of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Qamar Zaman, 67, and Aliya Zaman, 48, both of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Zamans owned and operated Ninja Babcock, a pawn/resale shop in Ross Township, Pennsylvania. They are husband and wife. The Zamans knowingly and willfully purchased health and beauty aids (HBAs), stolen by opioid-dependent individuals from various commercial retailers, such as Rite-Aid, Wal-Mart and Giant Eagle, for pennies on the dollar. The stolen HBAs were then resold through Amazon.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aliya Zaman for June 29, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. and for Qamar Zaman for June 29, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both for each defendant. 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 Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Shaler Township Police Department and Ross Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the Zamans.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Ramon Coca, 27, of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Coca distributed videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, 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.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 5, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Coca.

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

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident was sentenced in federal court to 5 years’ probation with one year of home detention on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on John Phillips, 36, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the Court, in 2013, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking and violence in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, John Phillips was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine, which was shipped from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania through the United States Postal Service or commercial carrier.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today that five Informations have been filed in federal court in Pittsburgh charging three local residents and two residents of the greater Detroit area with crimes ofmajor 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.

Special Agents of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigation Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case.

A criminal Information is an accusation.

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

PITTSBURGH – One Pennsylvania resident and one New York resident have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of federal narcotics trafficking violations, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on February 28, named Raymontell Cooper, 42, of West Mifflin, Pa., and Derek Williams, 46, of the Bronx, NY, as the defendants.

According to the indictment, from in or around the beginning of February 2017, and continuing until February 16, 2017, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Raymontell Cooper and Derek Williams conspired to distribute and attempted to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, 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 Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Theft of Mail by Postal Employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on February 28, named Gregory M. Schur, 36, of Duquesne, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Gregory M. Schur was an employee of the United States Postal Service. From in and around May 2016 to on or about August 15, 2016, Schur stole packages containing prescription medication addressed to customers of the Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System and first-class mail containing U.S. currency.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The one-count indictment, returned on February 28, named LoreLei Lantz, 51, of Elrama, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, LoreLei Lantz was an employee of the United States Postal Service at the time she stole $60.00 in U.S. currency from a greeting card that was to be conveyed by mail.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The three-count indictment named Mackenzie Cole Roberts, age 24, of McDonald, PA, as the sole defendant.

Federal law makes it illegal for a fugitive, or an unlawful user of a controlled substance, to possess a firearm or ammunition. The indictment alleges that Roberts was both on March 13, 2016, when he possessed a loaded derringer firearm. Specifically, the indictment alleges that he was wanted by Tennessee and North Carolina and was an unlawful user and/or addicted to heroin. The indictment further alleges that on March 13, 2016, Roberts possessed heroin.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 21 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000.00, and the forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition. 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.

During a detention hearing in this matter, evidence was presented that Roberts had his young child in the car along with heroin, a gun and ammunition on March 13, 2016. A DEA Task Force Officer explained in court that Roberts potentially faces additional drug charges for allegedly selling heroin that resulted in the death of the user. Roberts remains in federal custody pending trial.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Canonsburg Police Department, the McDonald Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force 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 merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Cuidad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, was arrested on Monday, February 27, 2017, by Mexican and U.S. immigration officials in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, following an Indictment by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of fraud conspiracy, mail fraud and access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The 37-count indictment, returned on August 2013, named Nicolas Frank Sucich, aka Francisco Javier Alavarez-Johnson, age 47, of Cuidad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, as a defendant.

According to the Indictment, between November 2007 and February 2011, Sucich conspired to defraud Liberty Travel and Scotiabank through the purchase of airline tickets and travel with an unauthorized Scotiabank MasterCard. The charged fraud counts in the Indictment total approximately $267,000 in loss.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 for each count of wire fraud, and five years in prison and $250,000 for each of the access device fraud counts. 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.

Sucich was scheduled to make an initial appearance today in federal court in the Southern District of Florida.

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

The U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, 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 resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months in prison and five years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Warren Charles Green, IV, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on Apr. 5, 2013, Green possessed with the intent to distribute 1 kilogram or more of heroin.

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

Ms. Song commended the Pennsylvania State Police, Somerset Turnpike Barracks, and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Green.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Vantroy Godboat, 45.

According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 27, Feb. 2, and Feb. 4, 2016, Godboat distributed less than 100 grams of heroin on each of those dates, and on Feb. 5, 2016, Godboat possessed with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

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

Ms. Song commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Godboat.

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

The two-count indictment, returned on Feb.21 and unsealed today, named Sidney Pack, 18, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about December 31, 2016, Pack possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Additionally, Pack possessed a .40 caliber Glock pistol, in furtherance of said drug trafficking crime.

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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is 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 - Ryan Kyle pled guilty and has been sentenced in Pittsburgh to 36 months imprisonment, to run concurrently with the term of imprisonment imposed at Criminal No. 9241 of 2015, with credit for time served in state custody from February 16, 2016, to April 20, 2016, followed by three years supervised release, on a charge of violating the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. 

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ryan Kyle, age 23, of Baldwin Borough, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on May 30, 2015, Kyle violated the Hate Crimes Prevention Act by willfully causing bodily injury to K.L. because of K.L.’s perceived race, color, and national origin. 

The government informed the Court that if the case were to proceed to trial, the evidence would establish that Kyle assaulted K.L., a then 53-year-old African-American man, because of K.L.’s actual and perceived color and race.  The assault took place at the Wood Street T Station in downtown Pittsburgh on May 30, 2015.  The assault was captured on Port Authority video and occurred following a Kenny Chesney concert at Heinz Field.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Port Authority Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kyle.

PITTSBURGH - A former Lawrence County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment, followed by 12 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Sean J. Barner, 38, formerly of New Bedford, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Barner unlawfully possessed thousands of photographs and videos depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Barner obtained the files through a peer-to-peer file sharing network, where he also made files available for others to download.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Barner.

PITTSBURGH – The south Texas supplier of a Pittsburgh cocaine ring pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Dante Ivan Lozano, age 41, of Brownsville, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between 2011 and 2015, Lozano mailed 100 or more packages of cocaine to Jeffrey Turner and April Racan in Elizabeth and McKeesport, in Allegheny County. Approximately eight kilograms (about 18 pounds) of cocaine were sent in this fashion.

Turner and Racan then sold the cocaine to Brian Kettering and others. Although drug proceeds in the form of cash were generally sent back to Lozano, during a six-month period of time in 2012, postal money orders were purchased by Kettering and William Coulson, at the direction of Turner and Racan. The money orders totaled at least $116,700, and were purchased in 11 Mon Valley-area post offices. Turner and Racan sent the money orders back to Texas to a Dairy Queen managed by Daniel Cosme. Cosme turned the money orders over to Lozano, who used Hugo Balboa and other straw parties to launder the money orders by cashing some and depositing others into various bank accounts.

Joseph Borrelli, at that time Postmaster in West Newton, PA, aided the drug conspiracy by providing addresses for vacant homes where the cocaine packages could be sent. When they arrived at the post office, the packages would be diverted to Turner and Racan.

Turner, Racan, Borrelli and Kettering were convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Turner, Racan, Cosme, Balboa, Kettering and Coulson were convicted of money laundering conspiracy.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both on the drug conspiracy count, and a sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both on the money laundering conspiracy count.

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 J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Service in Pittsburgh, the Drug Enforcement Administration in Brownsville, Texas, the Cameron County (TX) Sheriff’s Office, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

The one-count indictment named Jason Porter, Jr., 21, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about October 20, 2016, Porter, Jr., being a convicted felon, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Smith & Wesson, Model SD40VE, .40 caliber pistol and .40 caliber ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm and ammunition.

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. 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 Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Violent Crimes, Narcotics, and Firearms Task Force, the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, 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 – A resident of Fairfield, Ohio, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Richard Jay Sharp, 54.

According to the Indictment, on or about November 22, 2016, Sharp possessed child pornography on various electronic devices he owns, including laptop computers and thumb drives.

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 any prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran 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 – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of federal firearms law, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Julian Crosby, age 33, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on December 8, 2016, Crosby illegally possessed a firearm. Crosby has previously been convicted of a felony and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense 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 Pittsburgh 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 - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of embezzling from a federally insured bank, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on February 14, 2017, named Keith A. Simpson, 59, of Butler, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Simpson, while serving as Chief Accounting Officer of West View Savings Bank, embezzled approximately $41,806.90 from West View Savings Bank during the period from April 2014 to April 2016.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of thirty 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 Attorneys David Lew and Lee J. Karl are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Bradford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of embezzling and theft of labor union assets, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one count indictment named Daniel R. Guthrie, 55, of Bradford, Pennsylvania, as sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, while serving as the president of the United Steelworkers, local Union 10-0583, Guthrie did embezzle and convert to his own use approximately $8,189.51 by making unauthorized personal charges to the labor organization credit card, and making unauthorized electronic bill payments from the union bank account to pay personal bills.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 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. - Four residents of Erie, Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and food stamp fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The six count indictment named Nureden Jibul, 33; Jibul R. Jibul, 28; Samia R. Jibul, 24; and John L. McDowell, 67 as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Nureden Jibul, Jibul, Jibul and Samia Jibul were all engaged in food stamp fraud primarily involving exchanging food stamps for cash. Nureden Jibul also enlisted Johnnie McDowell to submit a fraudulent application for a food stamp license so that the food stamp terminals in use at the convenience stores owned and operated by Nuerden Jibul and Jibul Jibul would not be in their names. The defendants then used the food stamp terminals at locations where they were not authorized.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $270,000, or both for Nureden Jibul, Jibul R. Jibul and Samia R. Jibul and 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for John L. McDowell. 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, and the Erie 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. - Four residents of Erie, Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and food stamp fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four count indictment named Abdul Alquraishi, 50; Hussain K. Al-Maliki, 50; Dhia Almaleki, 46; and Muntather Alquraishi, 24, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Abdul Alquraishi, Hussain K. Al-Maliki, Dhia Almaleki and Muntather Alquraishi were engaged in exchanging food stamps for cash on a regular basis at The Lotto World, also known as Samir’s and Lotto World Convenience, a convenience store located at 832 State Street in Erie. The four defendants also allowed customers to pay off store credit with food stamps. Alquraishi was also using customers’ food stamp cards to buy items at various stores in the area.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both for Abdul Alquraishi, Hussain K. Al-Maliki and Dhia Almaleki and 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for Muntather Alquraishi. 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one count indictment named Robert Earl Noble, 38, Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Noble possessed with the intent to distribute twenty-eight grams or more of crack cocaine on two occasions.

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

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

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail and 7 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Bruce Johnson, 61, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

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

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

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

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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 32 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Mark Anthony Gnacinski, Jr., 30.

According to information presented to the court, Gnacinski unlawfully possessed a 12 gauge shotgun and ammunition while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon. Gnacinski unlawfully possessed the shotgun and ammunition at approximately 2:30 a.m. while in Erie, Pennsylvania.

This case was 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.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Erie Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gnacinski.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Ian Matthew Ahenger, 43, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ahenger possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Ahenger on bond.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ahenger.

ERIE, Pa. - Residents of Indiana, New York and Georgia have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the following sentences:

Michael Idowu Olugbade, 45, of Brownsburg, Indiana – 30 months in jail and 3 years supervised release.

Alaire Sanya, 49, of Corona, New York – 30 months in jail and 3 years supervised release.

Olanrewaju Ajetunmobi, 45, of Austell, Georgia - 1 day in jail followed by 6 months community confinement, 6 months home detention and 3 years supervised release.

According to information presented to the court, Olugbade’s luggage, found in a co-defendant’s residence, contained stolen identities and tax return information. The ledgers in Olugbade’s luggage listed tax refund amounts and bank accounts in which the refunds were to be placed. IRS records show the data listed in the ledgers was correct, in that the exact same refund amounts listed were deposited in the same bank accounts listed. Also found in the luggage were debit cards for fraudulent bank accounts opened using stolen identities. Bank accounts opened by Olugbade received fraudulently obtained tax refunds. Those refunds were then withdrawn from ATM machines around the country.

A search of Sanya’s residence resulted in the discovery of hundreds of different stolen identities many of which were used by multiple co-conspirators in furtherance of their conspiracy. Sanya was also found in possession of numerous credit cards obtained using stolen identities.

Ajetunmobi, an accountant, used stolen identities supplied by co-defendants to file fraudulent federal tax returns, which falsely claimed farm income and a fuel tax credit in order to generate a tax refund on taxes that were never paid. The fraudulently obtained refunds were then deposited, via wire, into bank accounts which were opened using stolen identities.

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 prosecutions of Olugbade, Sanya and Ajetunmobi.

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

The three-count indictment, returned on February 7, named John Michael Boden, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the indictment, Boden robbed Dollar Bank, located at 400 Mount Lebanon Boulevard, Castle Shannon, Pa., on October 13, 2016, November 10, 2016, and November 16, 2016.

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 offenses 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 Allegheny County Police Department, the Castle Shannon 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.

PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident, 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, returned yesterday, named Eric Clancy, 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 13, 2015, Eric Clancy possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and fentanyl.

On the sole count of the indictment, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. 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 and the Mount Oliver 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 Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The 31-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Jamar White as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, for the calendar years 2010 through 2014, Jamar White willfully aided and assisted seven different taxpayers in the preparation of 31 IRS Forms 1040 which were false due to fraudulent Schedule A deductions for items such as medical and dental expenses, charitable contributions, various unreimbursed business expenses and tax preparation fees.

At each of the 31 counts, defendant faces a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 1 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 - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery and bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The six-count indictment, returned on February 7, named Gregory Magee, age 47.

According to the indictment, Magee robbed the following banks:

• On January 20, 2016, First Niagara Bank, 20111 Route 19, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania 16066, of $5,526.00;
• On February 29, 2016, First Merit Bank, 2090 West State Street, New Castle, Pennsylvania 16101, of $10,126.00;
• On March 31, 2016, First Niagara Bank, 4073 Washington Road, McMurray, Pennsylvania 15317, of $9,133.00;
• On June 8, 2016, First Commonwealth Bank, 5847 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15217, of $3,709.00;
• On August 11, 2016, Citizens Bank, 2537 Constitution Boulevard, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania 15010, of $12,559.00; and,
• On November 8, 2016, S&T Bank, 4580 Broadway Boulevard, Monroeville, Pennsylvania 15146, of $78,643.00.

With respect to armed bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. With respect to bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroeville Police Department, the Chippewa Township Police Department, and the Peters 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 – An Ohio resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on February 7, named Atticus Sliter-Matias, 27, of South Euclid, Ohio.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from around June 2015 to on or about July 5, 2016, Sliter-Matias advertised electronic devices or other items for sale on numerous eBay accounts. However, Sliter-Matias mailed empty packages through the United States Postal Service to the purchasers instead of the purchased merchandise. Sliter-Matias often used the proceeds from these fraudulent sales to purchase gold or silver bars and coins.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Moldova pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and damaging a computer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Andrey Ghinkul a/k/a “Andrei Ghincul” a/k/a “Smilex”, 31, of Moldova pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the defendant was part of a criminal conspiracy that disseminated the Bugat malware, used malware to steal banking credentials, and then used the stolen credentials to initiate fraudulent electronic funds transfers of millions of dollars from the victims’ bank accounts.

This case involves a sophisticated international conspiracy that infects computers with the malware known as Bugat. Bugat, which is also referred to as Cridex and Dridex, is a multifunction malware package. It is specifically designed to automate the theft of confidential personal and financial information, such as online banking credentials, from infected computers through the use of keystroke logging and web injects.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 13, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Mary McKeen Houghton and Shardul S. Desai are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ghinkul.