Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of stealing and possessing stolen goods from an interstate shipment, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Anthony Bailey, age 37, of Pittsburgh.

According to the indictment, on April 13, 2016, Bailey stole a Sears delivery truck worth approximately $20,000.00. He also stole the merchandise inside of the truck, which was worth approximately $30,000.00. At the time, the truck and the merchandise were moving in interstate commerce.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 offenses 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. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Andre Charles Hall, 20, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, on or about October 5, 2016, Hall, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm.

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 Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police 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 Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 57 months’ incarceration, followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal drug trafficking and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Hasan Sharif Reed, age 37, of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from October 2013, and continuing to in and around April 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Reed conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 300 grams but less than 400 grams of cocaine. In addition, during that time frame, Reed and several of his co-conspirators conspired to possess firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak noted that Reed had a “significant criminal history,” including three prior convictions involving firearms. Judge Hornak rejected a request by counsel for Reed to impose a more lenient sentence (i.e., to vary downward from the advisory sentencing guidelines range).

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

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.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI 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 Reed.

PITTSBURGH – Para-Plus Translations, Inc., a New Jersey corporation that contracts with federal and state agencies for interpretation, transcription and translation services, together with its owners, Robert Santiago, III and Sonia Santiago (collectively “Para-Plus”), will pay the United States, Delaware and New Jersey a total of $1.5 million (“Settlement Amount”) to settle False Claims Act allegations, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The settlement resolves allegations in a whistleblower lawsuit that was filed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and handled on behalf of the United States by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The settled claims contended that Para-Plus violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims for payment to various federal and state agencies, including components of the United States Department of Justice. Specifically, the Complaint alleged that Para-Plus submitted invoices to federal and state governmental clients that purposefully overstated the travel time and mileage incurred by its interpreters.

“As this settlement demonstrates, we will continue to enforce the law to ensure that federal monies are used to benefit the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song.

This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Justice. Assistant United States Attorney Colin J. Callahan handled this matter on behalf of the United States. Deputy Attorney Generals Edward K. Black and Kent D. Anderson handled this matter on behalf of, respectively, Delaware and New Jersey.

This case is captioned United States ex rel. Kimberly Martin v. Para-Plus Translations, Inc. and Robert Santiago, III, Civil No. 14-3952 (EDPA). The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, with 300 hours of community service and computer monitoring, on his conviction of attempting and conspiring to cause damage to others’ computers, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Morgan Culbertson, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Culbertson, known as “Android” on the online computer hacking forum known as Darkode, developed and sold malware known as Dendroid, which was used to infect victims’ Google Android phones. Once infected, Dendroid would allow Culbertson and his conspirators to steal information stored on the cell phones and to remotely use features on the phones.

Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of three years probation on his conviction of conspiracy and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Michael F. Schoedel, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about March 1, 2014 to March 17, 2014, Schoedel falsely represented that he had tickets to entertainment events to potential purchasers on Craigslists. He would then have potential purchasers wire money for these tickets, but Schoedel did not provide any tickets.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai 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 Schoedel.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of three years probation, of which two months will be on home detention, for his conviction of conspiracy and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Jamie McNamara, 32, of Washington, PA.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about March 1, 2014 to March 17, 2014, McNamara falsely represented that he had tickets to entertainment events to potential purchasers on Craigslists. He would then have potential purchasers wire money for these tickets, but McNamara did not provide any tickets.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai 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 McNamara.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Clayton Mitchell, 32, of Washington, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from October 23, 2015 to February 16, 2016, Mitchell, who had been convicted of the felony sex offense of Rape in 2010, failed, as required, to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act while he was residing in Washington County.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clayton Mitchell.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to four years’ probation with nine months of house arrest on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Mark Spearman, 35, 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, Mark Spearman was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was shipped from California in powder form 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 Spearman.

PITTSBURGH - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal robbery and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Herbert Lee Pope, 28, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 12, 2016, Herbert Pope walked into the WesBanco Bank located in Ambridge, Pa., and asked a teller if the bank was able to make an overseas wire transfer. The teller instructed Pope that they do not, and Pope exited the bank. Shortly thereafter, the bank was robbed by a lone male in a gray sweat suit, who utilized a small black semi-automatic firearm with a silver barrel. The loss to the bank was $11,128.09. On February 16, 2016, Pope entered the Sewickley Savings Bank in Sewickley, Pa., and asked if the bank was able to do an international wire transfer. The teller informed Pope that the bank did not, and directed Pope to a nearby bank that did do that type of transaction. Pope left the bank, and appropriately 10 minutes later, Pope and another male entered the bank, both utilizing black semi-automatic handguns, vaulted the teller counter, and robbed the bank. The loss to the bank was $3,543.25.

Tyler Bridges, 31, is charged as the other individual involved in the armed bank robberies. Charges against Bridges remain pending.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Pope on May 19, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 7 years and up to life 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Pope remain in custody.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sewickley Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Ambridge Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Herbert Lee Pope.

PITTSBURGH - Three residents of Pittsburgh have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Richard Stuart Wright, 74, and his wife, Michele Lynn Connell, 47, and Walter John Amman, III, 66, as defendants.

According to information presented to the court, several controlled purchases of cocaine were made from persons involved in the conspiracy which permitted federal agents to acquire search warrants for the residences of Wright, Connell and Amman, as well as a storage garage near Wright’s house, bank accounts and safety deposit boxes. A total of more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, some converted to crack, was located, along with over $600,000 in cash, numerous firearms, multiple vehicles and Harley Davidson motorcycles and drug packaging materials. Prepackaged amounts of cocaine were located in a fireman’s jacket with Amman’s name on it in his residence, and additional packaged amounts were located in his truck. These prepackaged quantities were color coded by their weight and also by their contents (i.e. crack cocaine or powder cocaine). This coding system was consistent with the prepackaged drugs in Wright’s residence and nearby garage. Federal authorities have also filed court documents to forfeit Wright’s Daytona Beach, Florida, residence, alleging that it was purchased with laundered money from Wright’s drug trafficking.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $40,000,000, or both, for the drug charges faced by Wright and Amman, while Connell and Wright also face a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both, for the money laundering charge. 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 Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count indictment named Anthony Calaiaro, age 33, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from June 2014 through approximately April 2016, Calaiaro, who was employed as an Office Manager for a law firm, wrote checks to himself by forging the signature of a partner from the firm. Calaiaro then cashed the forged checks at various locations and used the funds for his own personal use. The total loss is approximately $827,020.39.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Imperial, Pennsylvania, 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 five-count indictment, returned on January 24 and unsealed today, named Kaitlin Plascjak, 29, of Imperial, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about May 5, 2016, May 8, 2016 and June 28, 2016, Plascjak distributed images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about August 18, 2016, Plascjak knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office and the Allegheny County Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

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

Oscar Mata Garcia, 28, pleaded guilty on Tuesday 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, Mata Garcia engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia’s specific role in the conspiracy was to assist in driving vehicles to the Houston, Texas area to pick up loads of cocaine and then to transport the cocaine to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere, with the cocaine concealed in hidden compartments. According to information provided to the Court, on November 1, 2014, Mata Garcia was in one of the load vehicles with another co-conspirator when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. The Court was advised that Mata Garcia and his co-conspirator had just traveled to the Houston area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than five kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 22, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 Mata Garcia.

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

James William McMichael, 72, pleaded guilty on January 24, 2016, to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

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

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2017. 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.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Port Allegany Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McMichael.

ERIE, Pa. -A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on Tuesday to serve 21 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release on her conviction of concealing a person from arrest, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Damonique Shakara Henderson, 24.

According to information presented to the court, between February 26, 2015 and May 20, 2015, Henderson harbored and concealed Ricky Rashad Pullium, fully knowing that he was wanted on a federal charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Henderson transported Pullium out of the Erie area and attempted to conceal him from arrest. The U.S. Marshals Service, Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force arrested Pullium and Henderson on May 20, 2015, in Erie, Pa., where they were found hiding in a crawl space in the attic.

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to serve 12 months in federal prison followed by three years of 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 Tuesday on Nathanael Ortiz Andino, 30, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Andino engaged in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine which he obtained from other co-conspirators. The court was advised that the cocaine was distributed in Erie as part of a large network transporting cocaine from Mexico into Texas, and from Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania concealed in hidden compartments in vehicles. Andino was responsible for conspiring to distribute multiple ounces of cocaine in the Erie area.

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Union City, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Cheryl R. Capela, 60, Union City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from July 2013 through July 2016, while employed as the Borough Secretary for the Borough of Union City, Capela took advantage of her access to the Borough’s checks to write Borough checks to pay her ballooning personal credit card bills. She also used the Borough credit card for numerous personal expenses.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 80 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 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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Capela.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months’ imprisonment 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 Sidney Pinnix, 50, 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, Sidney Pinnix 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 Street 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 Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pinnix.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Georgetown, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzlement in connection with health care, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Ronald Larry Locy, 48, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Locy was the Senior Director of claims for the UPMC Health Plan Claims Department. According to the government, Locy caused UPMC to pay two “ghost employees” of UPMC Health Plan, for work and bonuses to which those ghost employees were not entitled. The loss to UPMC Health Plan was approximately $846,819.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 24, 2016, at 11 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.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - Two companies located in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, have each been sentenced in federal court to 36 months’ probation and have each been ordered to forfeit to the United States $500,000 on the companies’ convictions relating to their introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentences on Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC.

According to information presented to the court, the defendants packaged and sold cheese under various labels at the Castle Cheese facility in Slippery Rock, PA. The cheese was distributed through retail, food service, and wholesale customers throughout the United States. The defendants had knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration’s (“FDA”) regulations and standards of identity for Parmesan and Romano cheese products and were aware that the products did not conform with FDA standards of identity for real Parmesan and Romano cheese, but represented to customers that the products contained one hundred percent real Parmesan and Romano cheese. The defendants also knew that the cheese products were misbranded because they did not bear labels that accurately reflected the products’ ingredients. The defendants likewise knew that the cheese products were also adulterated in that certain ingredients had been substituted or omitted and other ingredients had been added. The defendants used proceeds from the sale of the misbranded and adulterated cheese products to continue the operation of the cheese manufacturing and packaging at the Slippery Rock facility.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the sentences are appropriate under applicable provisions of the Sentencing Reform Act and fulfill the purposes of sentencing.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh doctor pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Dr. Kenneth M. Stanko, 67, pleaded guilty to the two felony counts before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.

According to information presented to the Court at the guilty plea, Stanko, a medical doctor, illegally distributed a controlled substance, Oxycodone, for cash. Further, Stanko submitted false claims to be submitted to UPMC Health Plan and AETNA for prescriptions which were outside the usual course of practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 24, 2016, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 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 and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Information in this case.

PITTSBURGH -A Butler County resident has been sentenced in federal court to one day in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, three years supervised release, the first six months of which are to be served at the Renewal Center, the second six months of which are to be served on home detention, and ordered to pay $124,965.86 on her conviction of embezzlement relating to health care, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Elizabeth A. Rotto, 69, of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Rotto embezzled funds in the amount of $124,965.86 that belonged to Askesis Development Group, a subsidiary of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar 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 Rotto.

PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and stealing firearms from a licensed firearms dealer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on Jan. 17, named Marquis Trammel, 19, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on December 20, 2016, Trammel stole five rifles and ammunition from the Dunham’s Discount Sports store located in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. Trammel, who has a prior felony robbery conviction, is precluded from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine not greater 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 Explosive and the West Mifflin 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 University Heights, Ohio, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of interfering with the duties of a flight crew, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Dwight D. Allen, 55, of University Heights, Ohio as the sole defendant. According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 17, 2016, a Delta flight out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was heading to Columbus, Ohio, and the defendant, Dwight D. Allen, interfered with the performance of duties of a flight crew member or flight attendant of the aircraft, and lessened the ability of the member or attendant to perform those duties, by assaulting and intimidating the flight attendant or flight crew member. The indictment alleges that the defendant disregarded instructions to remain in his seat, attempted to physically force his way to the front galley and cockpit area of the airplane, and had to be physically restrained by attendants and passengers as the plane was returned to the gate due to the defendant’s aggressive behavior.

Arraignment has been set for February 7, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. Magistrate Judge Cynthia Reed Eddy.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Allegheny County 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 Louisiana residents have been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, a forfeiture of $433,833.00 and $2,000 fine on their convictions of fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Anthony Rouse III, 40, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, and Troy Tapia, 46, of Morgan City, Louisiana.

According to the information presented to the court, the court was informed that Anthony Rouse III and Troy Tapia fulfilled US orders from Duangthip Chutivaraporn who operated a series of online pharmacy web sites that offered a wide variety of prescription drugs for sale to United States customers without the need of a prescription or a medical history. There was no physician monitoring drugs used by the customers or requirement of any diagnosis in order to purchase or receive these prescription drugs. The site defrauded customers with false representations as to the legality of obtaining prescription drugs without a prescription. Rouse and Tapia fulfilled orders for Nubain and Fioricet and received payment for their services by means of deposits of their portion of the sale proceeds to foreign bank accounts accessible to them by debit cards.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations; the U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations; the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation; for the investigation leading to a successful prosecution.

PITTSBURGH – Eric Wormsley was sentenced to 93 months in prison for heroin trafficking and firearms crimes, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Wormsley, age 38 of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was also sentenced to serve six years of supervised release following his prison term. He was convicted of possession of over 50 grams of heroin with intent to distribute and possession of a loaded and stolen .45 caliber pistol in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime on Feb. 6, 2015. On that date, probation officers found Wormsley’s loaded pistol and his heroin stored in his young children’s bedroom within feet of where the children slept. Wormsley was on probation at the time following a prior conviction for simple assault of a police officer. He was previously convicted in federal and state court of committing heroin trafficking and firearms crimes in several cases over the last 20 years.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Probation Office, 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.

WASHINGTON – A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 48 months in prison today in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania after being convicted of failing to collect, account for and pay over employment taxes following a jury trial in September 2016, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo, head of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.

According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, between 2004 and 2015, Steven Lynch, 61, a tax attorney, co-owned and operated the Iceoplex at Southpointe, a recreational sports facility located in Washington County, Pennsylvania. Iceoplex included a fitness center, ice rink, soccer court, restaurant and bar. Lynch controlled the finances for these businesses and was responsible for collecting, accounting for, and paying over tax withheld from employee wages, and timely filing quarterly employment tax returns. The jury found that between 2012 through 2015, Lynch failed to timely pay over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) more than $790,000 in taxes withheld from the wages of the employees for these businesses.

“Companies deserve to compete on a level playing field,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo. “Business owners and operators who choose not to pay over to the United States the taxes that they withheld from their employees’ wages are stealing from the U.S. Treasury and should plan on facing prosecution and incarceration.”

“As the person who controlled the finances on behalf of the different Iceoplex businesses, Steven Lynch, a tax attorney, was entrusted with the significant responsibility to collect and turn over all IRS withholding taxes,” said Special Agent in Charge Akeia Conner of IRS Criminal Investigation (CI). “His failure to pay over the withheld taxes is a violation that IRS Criminal Investigation takes very seriously. Today, justice is served and Mr. Lynch is being held accountable for his criminal actions.”

In addition to the prison term imposed by U.S. District Judge Arthur Schwab, Lynch was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $793,145 in restitution to the IRS and a $75,000 fine.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo commended the special agents of IRS-CI, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Jeffrey Bender and Brittney Campbell of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo also thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Pennsylvania for their substantial assistance.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, has been sentenced in federal court to 5 years of probation, to include eightmonths of home detention, 250 hours community service and fined $50,000 on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Dr. Alan Barnett, 69, of Pittsburgh.

According to information presented to the court, Dr. Barnett, a medical doctor, illegally distributed Oxycodone, a controlled substance. On December 1, 2015, Dr. Barnett was interviewed by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation and surrendered his Drug Enforcement Administration License.

Assistant United States AttorneyRobert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Barnett.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Chambersburg, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Douglas A. Stahl, age 54, of Chambersburg, Pa., pleaded guilty to seven counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the United States presented information to the Court which established that between January 2008 and December 2013, Stahl devised and executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $2 million dollars from various investors.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 27, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 140 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stahl.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Arlington, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Ray Wickliffe Howland, 57, of Arlington, Texas.

According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about June 25, 2015, Howland used facilities and means of interstate and foreign commerce, specifically a computer, an iPad, the internet and the telephone, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.

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

U.S. Attorney Song commended the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Howland.

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

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

The indictment named Robert G. Landsbach, 35, of Stoystown, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on October 5, 2016, he 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.

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 Department of Homeland Security, Child Exploitation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Pennsylvania State Police, Somerset, 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.

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 – Larry Malloy has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for distributing Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl, resulting in serious bodily injury and death, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment charges Malloy, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pa., with committing the following four crimes in Allegheny County between April 27, 2016, and June 2, 2016: (1) possession with intent to distribute and distribution of a Schedule I controlled substance and/or a Schedule II controlled substance on April 27, 2016, resulting in serious bodily injury or death, and (2) possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin and/or fentanyl on May 11, 2016, May 18, 2016, and June 2, 2016.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $4,000,000. 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Allegheny County Police Department, the Verona Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’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 resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 39 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release for the charge of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose imposed the sentence on Kevin O’Connor, 51, of South Park, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about April 27, 2016, O’Connor knowingly possessed images and videos in computer graphics 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.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of O’Connor.

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 violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The indictment named Daniel Culmer, 49, of Johnstown, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on June 7 and June 8, 2016, Culmer distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and 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 offenses 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 Culmer.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Jorge Ceballos-Ponce, 54, of Blair County, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Nov. 16, 2016 Ceballos-Ponce, an alien who had been deported from the United States on Apr. 24, 2007, was found in Blair County, Pa. He had unlawfully reentered this Country without receiving permission to do so from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty 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 Stephanie L. Haines, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Six Beaver County residents have 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:

• Samuel McCracken, 28, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania;
• Wayne McCracken, 31, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania;
• Jeffrey Rogers, 34, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania;
• Dorothy McCracken, 58, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania;
• Breanna Perdue, 23, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania; and
• Jazmine Sellers, 27, of Ambridge, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment, from in and around July 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around December 2016, the defendants conspired with each other, and others both known and unknown, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.

For Samuel and Wayne McCracken, the law provides for a minimum sentence of a term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, and a maximum total sentence of a term of imprisonment for life and a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. For Jeffrey Rogers, the law provides for a minimum sentence of a term of imprisonment of five (5) years, and a maximum total sentence of a term of imprisonment of not more than forty (40) years and a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. For the remaining defendants, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of a term of imprisonment of not more than twenty (20) years, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Conor Lamb and Katherine A. King are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. 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.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Hermitage, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $15,695, a $6,000 fine and to serve 150 hours of community service focused on the amelioration of the opioid epidemic, on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Tramadol, a Schedule IV controlled substance, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Dr. Anthony Rossi, 66, of Hermitage, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Rossi, a medical doctor, illegally distributed a controlled substance, Tramadol, for cash. Further, Dr. Rossi submitted false claims to Medicaid for health care services, including injections, which were never provided.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rossi.

PITTSBURGH – The owner of Sun Penang, Inc., a Pittsburgh restaurant, pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to charges of falsifying, concealing, or covering up by trick, scheme, or device a material fact, and on behalf of the business ofwillfully violating the Fair Labor Standard Act, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Hsiao Yen Wu, a/k/a Sophia Wu, age 40, of Pittsburgh, Pa and Sun Penang, Inc., located at 5829 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that after Sun Penang had agreed to pay back wage payments, Wu represented that Sun Penang had issued all back wage payments checks and provided faxed copies of these checks to the Department of Labor. However, Wu knew that the employees were not paid back wage payments because these employees were required either to deposit the checks into Wu's personal bank account or to work without pay until Sun Penang recouped the wages. Sun Penang failed to pay minimum wages and overtime pay to their employees from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for April 25, 2017 at 10 a.m.

With respect to Wu, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. With respect to Sun Penang, the law provides for a maximum fine of $20,000. 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 Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wu and Sun Penang, Inc.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, interstate transportation of a minor for purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, and sex trafficking of a child, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four-count Indictment named Ronald Kyle Hartman, 27, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and David Michael Monrean, 24, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, as the defendants.

According to the Indictment, on August 15, 2016, Hartman produced image files of the sexual exploitation of a minor. From August 14, 2016 to August 16, 2016, for the purpose of private financial gain, Hartman and Monrean did knowingly and willfully transport or arrange, induce, procure, or facilitate the travel of Minor A, who had not attained the age of 18 years, in interstate commerce, from Pennsylvania to Ohio, with the intent that Minor A would engage in prostitution and other sexual activity for which a person could be charged with a criminal offense, and aided and abetted such conduct. Also, from August 14, 2016 to August 16, 2016, Hartman and Monrean knowingly entered into a conspiracy to recruit for sex trafficking a female minor who had not attained the age of 18 years. The Indictment further alleges that from August 14, 2016, to August 16, 2016, Hartman and Monrean knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained by any means, in and affecting interstate commerce, a female minor under the age of 18 years, and did benefit financially or by receiving anything of value from participation in a venture engaged in commercial sexual acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact, and having had a reasonable opportunity to observe Minor A, that Minor A had not attained the age of 18 years and that Minor A would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act.

For Hartman, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $1,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life, or any or all. For Monrean, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $750,000.00, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life, or any or all. 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Grove City 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.

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

PITTSBURGH - One resident of New Waterford, Ohio, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of willfully injuring or committing depredation against any property of the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Thomas Ross, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on July 26, 2016, Thomas Ross drove his vehicle through the gate of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office, located at 3311 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ross proceeded to ram through the security barriers at a high rate of speed, causing his vehicle to become airborne while inflicting extensive damage to the security barrier. Upon hitting the ground, the vehicle struck a nearby light post in the interior parking lot of the FBI Pittsburgh, causing the light post to fall.

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

Assistant United States Attorney James T. Kitchen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of being an accessory after the fact, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count superseding indictment named Glenn Lee Thomas, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the superseding indictment, Thomas was an accessory after the fact in relation to offenses committed by Price Montgomery in August of 2014. The superseding indictment specifically alleges that Thomas assisted Montgomery, after Montgomery and another person killed Tina Crawford on August 22, 2014. The nature of that assistance, as alleged in the superseding indictment, was that Thomas caused the getaway vehicle used in that homicide to be transported, after the homicide, outside of Pennsylvania to Virginia.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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. Thomas has been detained pending trial.

Assistant United States Attorneys Gregory J. Nescott and Shaun E. Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Pittsburgh Police 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 - A citizen of Jamaica, 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 Victor Palmer, a/k/a Patrick Brown, age 33, of Jamaica, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about December 2, 2016, Palmer was found in Monroeville, Allegheny County, 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 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 James T. Kitchen 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of contraband in prison, and immediately was sentenced to two months in prison, consecutive to the current prison term he is serving, followed by three years’ supervised release, to run concurrent with his present sentence, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Charles Jones, 30, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on November 21, 2015, Jones was in possession of marijuana.

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 Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jones.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution in Loretto, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempting to obtain contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Douglas Vines, 45, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on July 20, 2015, Vines attempted to obtain a quantity of suboxone.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 18, 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 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 Vines.

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

Travis Glies, age 38, of Allison Park, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak .

In connection with the guilty plea, from January of 2016 to February of 2016, Glies produced visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of a minor.  Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for April 25, 2017.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years for the production of child pornography. 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 13 months imprisonment, restitution in the amount of $148,341.59 and five years supervised release on her conviction of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tara Lynn Petrucci, 36, of Gibsonia, PA.

According to the information presented to the court, Petrucci, a former branch manager at the Citizens Bank in Bellevue, Pa., unlawfully obtained Citizens Bank debit cards which were inadvertently left by customers who used the ATM, and then used the customer debit cards to make unauthorized purchases of merchandise at retailers such as the Walmart store in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, and at other retailers.  Petrucci also forged withdrawal slips of account holders to obtain cash.

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

The Acting United States Attorney commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for the successful investigation leading to the prosecution of Tara Lynn Petrucci.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day in prison, three years supervised release and $2,350.27 in restitution on his conviction of theft of mail, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Tyrone Mobley, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the information presented to the court, Mobley stole packages delivered from the United States Postal Service to residents in Shadyside between October and November, 2015.

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

Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Department of Homeland Security for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Tyrone Mobley.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tyron Harrison, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 7, 2012, Harrison was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of the offenses of receiving stolen property and firearms not to be carried without a license, which are both crimes punishable by imprisonment for terms exceeding one year. Following that conviction, on or about Jan. 21, 2016, Pittsburgh Police officers patrolling Zone 6 conducted a traffic stop of a car in which the defendant was a passenger. During the stop, officers recovered a loaded, .9 mm Ruger pistol from the defendant’s hoodie pocket.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Sidney Pinnix, 50, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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, Sidney Pinnix 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.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2017. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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

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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sidney Pinnix.