Western District of Pennsylvania

ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Raul Gerardo Ruiz Maldonado, 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Maldonado engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine. According to information provided to the Court, the investigation revealed that an Erie area drug trafficking organization was being sourced primarily cocaine from individuals in Texas associated with organizations in Mexico. The drugs were imported into the United States and were then brought into Houston, Texas. Once in Houston, co-conspirators coordinated the drug loads to be brought into Ohio and Pennsylvania. According to information provided to the Court, the cocaine was transported from Houston, Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere using vehicles rigged with hidden compartments. The Court was advised that Ruiz Maldonado, known as Nariz, became the coordinator of the shipments of cocaine out of Texas to the Erie, Pennsylvania based organization. Members of the conspiracy in Erie would contact Ruiz Maldonado in Texas and place orders for the cocaine. Ruiz Maldonado would then work closely with other co-conspirators to communicate with the organizations’ drug couriers as they traveled to Texas. Ruiz Maldonado and others then arranged for the drug courier vehicle to arrive at the distribution point, to receive the shipments of drug money, and to coordinate loading the kilograms of cocaine into the hidden compartment.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 10:45 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 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 Maldonado.

ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Akron, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

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

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Gobah engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. The Court was advised that Gobah’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, Gobah was driving one of the load vehicles with another co-conspirator as a passenger when they were stopped by the Arkansas State Police while traveling east near milepost 253 on Interstate 40. The Court was advised that Gobah and her co-conspirator had just traveled to the Houston, Texas area to pick up a load of cocaine destined for delivery to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The Court was further advised that a search warrant was executed on the vehicle and that individually wrapped packages of cocaine were located in a hidden compartment in the vehicle. The packages were discovered to contain more than 5 kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 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, and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gobah.

PITTSBURGH - A Michigan resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Carl McDaniel, age 52, of Helen, Michigan.

According to the indictment, on or about March 22, 2016, McDaniel possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Wilson Enrique-Reyes, 33, 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 July 2014 through January 2015, Enrique-Reyes engaged in a conspiracy with two other individuals to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 5 and 15 kilograms of cocaine. According to information provided to the Court, Enrique-Reyes worked with his associates to have kilograms of cocaine transported from Houston, Texas to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Further, the Court was advised that prior to his arrest in February 2015, law enforcement officers discovered that Enrique-Reyes and his associate in Erie, Pennsylvania, were working to modify an Audi vehicle with a hidden compartment large enough to conceal 10 kilograms of cocaine. When Enrique-Reyes was arrested in Lawrence, Massachusetts in February, 2015, the Audi vehicle, equipped with the electronically controlled hidden compartment, was found and was seized.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 15, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, 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 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, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Enrique-Reyes.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of health care fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Samirkumar J. Shah, 53 of Kittanning, PA, as a defendant.

According to the information presented to the court, Shah knowingly and willfully executed and attempted to execute a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, such as, Medicare, Medicaid, Highmark, UPMC and Gateway, in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits, items and services.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Edinboro, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to the 15½ months of time already served in jail and was ordered to forfeit $14,340.00 on her conviction of making her home available for drug activities, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Christian Urrutia Rojas, 30.

According to information presented to the court, from June 2013 through February 2015, Rojas engaged in a conspiracy with eighteen co-defendants to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, ounces of high purity methamphetamine, and ounces of heroin. Rojas facilitated the conspiracy by knowingly having her home in Edinboro used as the drop-off point for drugs and money.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 Rojas.

PITTSBURGH – A Washington County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on May 17, named Aaron Huey, age 39, of Donora, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Huey committed the unarmed robbery of the Frick Tri-County Federal Credit Union, located at 235 Pittsburgh Street, in Uniontown, PA, on Dec. 11, 2015, and the armed robbery of the PNC Bank at 101 South Vine Street, in Carmichaels, PA, on March 16, 2016. The indictment also alleges that Huey attempted to rob the PNC Bank at 141 Pennsylvania Avenue, in Charleroi, PA, on March 18, 2016.

For the unarmed and attempted bank robberies, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the armed bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 Pennsylvania State Police, the Charleroi Regional Police Department, and the Uniontown 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 resident of Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of making a false statement in connection with the acquisition of firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Michael Bassier, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bassier used straw purchasers to buy firearms for him in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The straw purchasers would state, at the time of purchase, that they were the actual buyers of the firearms, when in fact Bassier was the actual buyer. He provided money to the straw purchasers and told them what to buy, and then took possession of the firearms afterward. Overall, Bassier aided and abetted the purchase of 44 firearms between December 2014 and August 2015.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of ten 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 ordered that Bassier remain detained.

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, along with detectives from the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of structuring financial transactions, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Louis Lammana, 49, of Oakmont, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lamanna structured cash withdrawals in 2011 and 2013 in a manner designed to evade the reporting requirements of the various financial institutions. Lamanna structured over $157,000 during those two time periods with the bulk of the structuring occurring in 2013.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 3, 2016. Pending sentencing, the court continued Lamanna on bond.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway, Michael L. Ivory, and Michael A. Comber are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Montez Ricardo Holland, 54, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on Jan. 4, 2013, Holland possessed a Sturm, Ruger & Company, Model P95DC, 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. On Apr. 27, 1998, Holland was convicted in Lycoming County, Pa., of a drug trafficking crime, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 30, 2016, 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 of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. 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 Holland.

According to Mr. Hickton, Holland 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.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 66 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Aaron Atkins, 34, of West Mifflin, PA.

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, Aaron Atkins 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 goals of sentencing.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 Atkins.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Ellis Harris, 45, of McKees Rocks, 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. The interception of wire and electronic communications began in December 2013 and continued through the end of August 2014. During that timeframe, Ellis Harris 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 achieve the goals of sentencing.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 Ellis Harris.

PITTSBURGH - An illegal alien found in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to time served on his conviction of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Jamie Parra-Serrano, 38, formerly from Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, Jamie Parra-Serrano, an illegal alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Aug. 24, 2012. Jamie Parra-Serrano was located in Allegheny County on Oct. 20, 2015.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the successful prosecution of Jamie Parra-Serrano in this case.

PITTSBURGH – A Washington County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Kenneth Marcel Higgenbotham, age 50, formerly of Washington, PA, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around October 2013, and continuing until in and around April 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Higgenbotham conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams, but less than 112 grams, of crack cocaine.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for September 27, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI 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 conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Higgenbotham.

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment, followed by 4 years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Liban Dirie, 47, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information possessed by the Court, from in and around January, 2014, and continuing thereafter to on or about Feb. 11, 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Dirie conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET), and a task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dirie. The task force also was comprised of police officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Baldwin Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, Scott Township Police Department, Allegheny County Police, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Duquesne Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Blair County resident was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The indictment named Joseph A. Mattern, 21, of Tyrone, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 19, 2015, 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 Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona 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.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Florida resident has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $48,260.00 on his conviction concealment of bankruptcy assets, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Gregory M. Makozy, Sr., 55, of Port St. Lucie, FL.

According to the information presented to the court, the government represented to the court that Makozy concealed assets from the bankruptcy court in a Chapter 7 Petition in bankruptcy filed in 2013 by transferring assets he owned to others, including a 2005 Aston Martin automobile, and real estate located in Butler County, PA.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Office of the United States Trustee, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the successful prosecution of Gregory M. Makozy.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 72 months (6 years), to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Allen William Turner, 48, of East Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, from September 2013 to December 2013, Turner conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, and more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.

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

This prosecution is the result of a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Other participating agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Munhall Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police Department.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – On May 11, 2016, a Cambria County resident was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of making false statements on loan applications, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment named Justin M. Hickox, 28, of Cresson, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Sept. 4, Sept. 18 and Oct. 23, 2014, Hickox knowingly made false statements in applications for vehicle and personal loans from G.A.P. Federal Credit Union and Your Choice Federal Credit Union.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 90 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 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 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 sentenced in federal court to 12 years imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release, on a charge of Sex Trafficking of a Child, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Robert Allen Middlebrook, 41, of Clairton, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, the court was advised that in February 2015, Middlebrook knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided and obtained female minors to engage in commercial sex acts.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Katherine A. King prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Middlebrook.

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pa. was indicted on May 11, 2016, by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The indictment named Timothy Hufford, 55, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 18, 2015, 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 Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police and Altoona 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.

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.

ERIE, PA. – A former resident of Wickliffe, Ohio, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Zachary Price, 33.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on April 24, 2016, Price robbed the Kwik Fill located at 3620 Peach Street, Erie, Pennsylvania. On April 25, 2016 Price robbed $2,000 from the Huntington Bank, located at 5808 Peach Street, Erie, Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County resident has been has been sentenced in federal court to 144 months’ imprisonment, followed by five years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Kevin Witcher, 41, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania.

According to information possessed by the Court, on or about Feb. 3 and 4, 2015, Witcher, a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Ruger, .357 caliber revolver, and a Zastava Arms PAP, Model M85PV pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm. Additionally, Witcher possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and distributed and possessed with intent to distribute an additional quantity of heroin, while possessing the two firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Witcher.

PITTSBURGH. – A resident of Allegheny Count, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 240 months, followed by 10 years supervised release, on his conviction of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Rodney Howard, age 31, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about September 18, 2014, Howard possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance which contained heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Stephen Gilson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney David Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for conducting the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Howard.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal bankruptcy laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Douglas A. Grooms, 45, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Grooms concealed property from the United States Bankruptcy Trustee in connection with his bankruptcy case.

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

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

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Crawford County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count superseding indictment named Alan Thomas Rigby, 68, as the sole defendant.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Two Belarus citizens have been charged in Belarus for participating in an international criminal conspiracy that used the botnet known as “Bugat” to steal banking and other credentials from infected computers, David J. Hickton, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pittsburgh Division announced today.

Aleskey Semeonovich Yaroshevich, 34, and Egor Nikolayevich Pavlenko, 41, both of Minsk, Belarus, are being investigated by the FBI as part of an international crime group responsible for the theft of money on the Internet and the distribution of malware programs. Yaroshevich and Pavlenko are in police custody.

An indictment returned in the Western District of Pennsylvania in August 2015 alleged that conspirators used the Bugat malware to steal banking credentials and then, using the stolen credentials, to initiate fraudulent electronic funds transfers of millions of dollars from the victims’ bank accounts into the accounts of money mules, who further transferred the stolen funds to other members of the conspiracy. The indictment detailed two electronic fund transfers from bank accounts held by Penneco Oil, based in Westmoreland County. According to the indictment, the conspirators caused the international transfer on Sept. 4, 2012, of $1,350,000 from a Penneco Oil account at First Commonwealth Bank to an account in Minsk, Belarus. Yaroshevich and Pavlenko are believed to be the recipients of that $1.35 million wire transfer.

“Chasing cyber criminals requires innovation, determination and international cooperation,” stated U.S Attorney Hickton. “As these arrests demonstrate, we will pursue participants in criminal organizations over borders and around the world to ensure they are held accountable.”

“We recognize and appreciate the willingness and efforts of our Belarusian law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute this matter,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Smith. “It is only through extensive international cooperation such as this, that we can ensure there is no safe haven for Cyber criminals.”

The Investigative Committee of the Republic of Belarus, Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Belarus Attorney General’s Office have posted a release in Russian detailing the Belarusian charges. The link to the press release is: http://sk.gov.by/ru/news-ru/view/sledstvennyj-komitet-belarusi-osuschestvljaet-sovmetsnuju-operatsiju-s-fbr-2588/

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months’ probation with 12 months’ home detention on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Harold Neal, 54.

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, Harold Neal 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.

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 Neal.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violation federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Quenten Vaden, 33, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Feb. 11, 2016, Vaden distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Aug. 22, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Ross E. Lenhardt are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Washington County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, and numerous local police departments including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Donora Police Department, the Monessen Police Department, and the Charleroi Police Department, as well as the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Quenten Vaden.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on May 3, named Christopher Gregg, age 44, of Verona, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Feb. 22, 2016, Gregg robbed First Commonwealth Bank, located at 1105 S. Braddock Avenue, in Edgewood, PA 15218. The bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Edgewood 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 resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violation federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Paris Wilson, 24, pleaded guilty on Monday to three counts before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around October, 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around May, 2014, Wilson conspired with others known to the grand jury to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin; Wilson also pleaded guilty to one count of employing or using a person under 18 years of age in drug operations and one count of conspiracy to carry and possess a firearm in relation to and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Aug. 19, 2016 at 3 p.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, 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 Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Paris Wilson. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Second Superseding Indictment and Superseding Indictments in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A former Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, resulting in serious bodily injury and/or death; and distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The seven-count Superseding Indictment, which was returned yesterday, named Jocquinn Lamont Harris, 29, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about Nov. 29, 2015; Dec. 3, 2015; Dec. 4, 2015; and Dec. 5, 2015, Harris distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute fentanyl, resulting in serious bodily injury and/or the deaths of persons known to the grand jury. The Superseding Indictment further alleges that on or about Dec. 15, 2015, and Dec. 16, 2015, Harris distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 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 Cindy K. Chung is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of 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 – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violation federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Shelby Jeffries, Jr., 33, of Homestead, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2014, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2014, Jeffries, Jr. conspired with others known to the grand jury, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Aug. 19, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum of ten years and up to a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,0000 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 Amy L. Johnston is 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including 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, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shelby Jeffries, Jr.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Karen Bosnak, 52, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

The indictment alleges that, from Nov. 16, 2013 through Sept. 18, 2014, Bosnak converted to her own use $13,970 in Title II Social Security benefits deposited to the bank account of a deceased beneficiary, after his death.

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

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

The U.S. 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 - A resident of Westmoreland County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Robert Franzino, 60, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from Sept. 9, 2015 and continuing thereafter until March 13, 2016, Franzino used facilities and means of interstate and foreign commerce, specifically an Android cellular phone to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $750,000.00, 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 Greensburg 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.

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.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident of East Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Tracey Yancey, 53, pleaded guilty to two counts 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, Tracey Yancey 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. During the investigation, Yancey also obtained a firearm, which he was prohibited from possessing as a convicted felon.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for September 9, 2016. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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 Tracey Yancey.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

David Irwin, 43, of White Oak, Pa., pleaded guilty yesterday 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, David Irwin 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 Aug. 17, 2016, at 11 a.m. 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 David Irwin.

PITTSBURGH - A Fayette County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on charges of distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The six-count indictment, returned on April 27, named Matthew Robert Sible, 30, of Fairchance, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on July 13, 2015, July 23, 2015, August 4, 2015, and August 6, 2015, Sible distributed images 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. The indictment further alleges that on August 19, 2015 and September 10, 2015, Sible knowingly possessed and knowingly accessed with intent to view 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 120 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000.00 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and Office of Pennsylvania’s Attorney 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.

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 former Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on April 27, named Robert Paladino, Jr., 59, of Millvale, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Aug. 13, 2015, Paladino 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 minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar 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.

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 Beaver County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production and distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 12-count indictment, returned on April 27, named Randolph Guy Gum, 22, formerly of Rochester, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Jan. 19, 2014; Feb. 3, 2014; Feb. 4, 2014; Feb. 13, 2014; Feb. 14, 2014; Feb. 15, 2014; March 3, 2014; March 11, 2014; April 17, 2014; April 24, 2014; and May 5, 2014, Gum produced visual depictions, images and videos, of the sexual exploitation of a minor. The indictment further alleges that on or about July 23, 2015, Gum knowingly distributed images and videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

The law provides for a maximum sentence life imprisonment for the production of child pornography counts, and a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for distribution of child pornography, and a fine of $3,000,000.00. 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 Department of Homeland Security, Immigration & Customs Enforcement and the Rochester Pennsylvania 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.

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 Hollidaysburg, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to one day in prison, two years’ supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $7,132.03 to First National Bank on his conviction of misapplication of funds by a bank employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Timothy C. Nagle, 54, of Hollidaysburg, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, from Oct. 3, 2010, to Jan. 2014, Nagle, a Senior Vice President at First National Bank, Hollidaysburg, Pa., submitted approximately 24 false expense reports, thereby receiving money he was not entitled to.

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

Mr. Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nagle.

PITTSBURGH - A native of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of reentry of removed alien and was sentenced to time served, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jose Alfredo Mora-Aguilar, 34, of Coraopolis, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Mora-Aguilar was found in the United States despite having been removed on two prior occasions.

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

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jose Alfredo Mora-Aguilar.

PITTSBURGH - A Louisiana resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 11-count indictment named Rex Alan Harris, aka Michael Harris, Rex Rogan, Rex Alan, dba “Agents By City,” 40, of Covington, La., as a defendant. The indictment was returned on April 19, and unsealed yesterday following Harris’ arrest in Louisiana. His arraignment is scheduled for May 23, 2016, in U.S. District Court in Western Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, since 2008, Harris defrauded hundreds of realtors nationwide whom he promised television and internet advertising to generate home sales. Realtors were induced to pay thousands of dollars for advertising on major television networks based upon the realtors’ zip codes. However, the advertising never occurred, and Harris and others spent the money for their personal benefit including purchases of tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise through PayPal, Footlocker and Nike.com, and New Orleans Saints season tickets, totaling in excess of $2 million.

Realtors who paid money to any of the following entities - “Our Family First Realty,” “Better Realty Deals,” “Amazing Realty Deals,” “The Top Agent/Monolith Media Group,” “American Real Estate Idols” or “Agents by City” - may be victims and are encouraged to call the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or 1-800-2255-324.

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

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

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI 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.

A Louisiana resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton for the Western District of Pennsylvania announced today.

The 11-count indictment named Rex Alan Harris aka Michael Harris, Rex Rogan, Rex Alan, dba “Agents By City,” 40, of Covington, Louisiana.  The indictment was returned on April 19, and unsealed yesterday following Harris’ arrest in Louisiana.  His arraignment is scheduled for May 23, in U.S. District Court in Western Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, since 2008, Harris defrauded hundreds of realtors nationwide whom he promised television and internet advertising to generate home sales.  Realtors were induced to pay thousands of dollars for advertising on major television networks based upon the realtors’ zip codes.  However, the advertising never occurred and Harris and others spent the money for their personal benefit including purchases of tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise through PayPal, Footlocker and Nike.com and New Orleans Saints season tickets, totaling in excess of $2 million.

Realtors who paid money to any of the following entities - “Our Family First Realty,” “Better Realty Deals,” “Amazing Realty Deals,” “The Top Agent/Monolith Media Group,” “American Real Estate Idols” or “Agents by City” - may be victims and are encouraged to call the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or 1-800-2255-324.

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

Assistant U.S.  Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI 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., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dorian D. Stephens, 29, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Nov. 18, 2014, Stephens distributed less than 500 grams of cocaine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., 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 Stephens.

PITTSBURGH –A National Institute of Justice survey revealed that between 60 and 75 percent of ex-offenders are jobless up to a year after release yet many employers can’t find qualified employees to fill their jobs. (http://www.nij.gov/topics/corrections/reentry/pages/employment.aspx)

In light of this information a cluster of community organizations formed the Allegheny County Anchored Re-Entry Consortium (ACAR), which today is hosting an educational program for employers entitled Business Leaders’ Summit: Reentrants Work! at Community College of Allegheny County – Allegheny Campus. The Summit is designed to provide employers with valuable information they need to consider hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, also known as returning citizens or reentrants. Specifically, the Reentrants Work! Summit is designed to share best practices from leading employers along with a “How to Guide”; discuss the business case for hiring reentrants; and detail the cost-benefit analysis and tax credits for hiring reentrants. Nearly 200 business leaders, elected officials and heads of nonprofits were invited to attend.

U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, CCAC President Dr. Quintin B. Bullock and Michael J. Smith, President and CEO Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania welcomed participants. Ron Painter, President of the National Association of Workforce Investment Boards, provided the keynote address. Two 30-minute panels followed: the first - “Making the Business Case for Hiring Re-entrants” featured corrections and public policy officials and a second panel - “Models of Best Practice” – featured employers and reentrants. Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto and CCAC President Bullock provided closing remarks.

“We are committed to preparing those who have paid their debt to society for substantive opportunities beyond the prison gates and addressing obstacles to successful reentry that too many returning citizens encounter,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Supporting successful reentry is an essential part of our mission to promote public safety – because by helping individuals return to productive, law-abiding lives, we can reduce crime and make our neighborhoods better places to live.”

“In the county, we spend a great deal of time, effort and money providing those who are in the criminal justice system with the tools and resources they need to turn their lives around, but that effort is for naught if there are not organizations willing to look past their records to the individual they are and the skills and talents that they bring to the table,” said County Executive Fitzgerald. “We are trying to lead by example, which is why the county enacted a ‘Ban the Box’ policy last year. When permissible, we look at job applicants on a case by case basis with any criminal record just one piece of the overall process. This is an important conversation to have, and we’re proud to be part of it with our corporate partners.”

“CCAC is pleased to support the efforts of the Allegheny County Anchored Re-Entry Consortium and to host the ACAR Business Leaders’ Summit. With our shared commitment to providing innovative programming designed to transform lives, we look forward to our continued collaboration and to the positive outcomes that are sure to result for the individuals who are being reintegrated into their communities, as well as for the employers and for the region as a whole,” said CCAC President Bullock.

Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Secretary John Wetzel added, “Every American benefits when an individual who was incarcerated re-enters society and becomes a good citizen. Meaningful employment is a critical component in achieving that objective.”

Mayor Peduto said, “Ex-offenders are our returning Americans that deserve a second chance like anyone else. We are missing out on a huge potential source of our workforce if we aren't considering them in our hiring decisions.”

The ACAR began as an initiative led by CCAC to establish credit and non-credit programs for reentrants. The ACAR has since evolved into a consortium of members from local government, community service agencies, faith-based organizations, corrections, the justice system, training and education institutions partnering to reduce recidivism through training, educational and employment opportunities.

PITTSBURGH -A Squirrel Hill resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of contempt of court, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Dov Ratchkauskas, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ratchkauskas is a defendant in a mortgage fraud case, and in 2011 the Court released him on conditions of bond that limited his travel to the Western District of Pennsylvania, required him to turn in his passport, and prohibited him from obtaining a new passport. Shortly after his arraignment, the defendant sought permission of the Court to travel to Hawaii, but the Court denied the motion. After a Superseding Indictment and numerous continuances, the defendant agreed to plead guilty, and, on Feb. 20, 2015, the Court scheduled the change of plea hearing for Feb. 24, 2015. On Feb. 20, 2015, Ratchkauskas, while in Florida without the permission of the Court, applied for a U.S. passport on an expedited basis. Later investigation revealed that he had traveled back and forth from Florida several times between December 2014 and February 2015. He did not have permission to travel to Florida or anywhere else outside of the Western District of Pennsylvania. While on bond, the defendant also obtained an Israeli passport without the permission of the Court. Ratchkauskas is a citizen of both the United States and Israel, and he has bank accounts in Israel. Interviews of associates indicated that the defendant intended to flee the United States to Israel, but the defendant was arrested before he could flee. The defendant, however, while admitting to willfully violating the conditions of bond, denies that he intended to flee the Country.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison. 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ratchkauskas.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months probation, with the first four months to be served on home detention with electronic monitoring, on his conviction of possession of a stolen firearm. In addition, Nolder, Jr. will pay $15,421.23 in restitution, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Daniel Thomas Nolder, Jr., 26, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around Aug. 1, 2014, through Dec. 15, 2014, Nolder Jr., aided and abetted Timothy Brown, Jr., who possessed, bartered, and disposed of 53 stolen firearms. Federal law prohibits individuals from possessing, bartering, and disposing of stolen firearms.

This case involved the theft of firearms from a licensed gun store which were ultimately traded for heroin.

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

U.S. Attorney David Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Rochester Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and, Pennsylvania State Police – Beaver Barracks, for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nolder, Jr.

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.

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh woman and the local restaurant she owns have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on April 19 and unsealed today, charges Hsiao Yen Wu, aka Sophia Wu, age 40, of Pittsburgh, Pa, with falsifying, concealing, or covering up by trick, scheme, or device a material fact, and charges Sun Penang, Inc., located at 5829 Forbes Avenue, in Squirrel Hill with willfully violating the Fair Labor Standards Act.

“All employees working in Western Pennsylvania deserve to be treated fairly under the law,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Prosecutions like these demonstrate our commitment to stopping wage and hour abuses in the workforce.”

“An important mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate the alleged undermining of the enforcement responsibilities of Department of Labor agencies. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations,” stated John Spratley, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations.

According to the indictment presented to the court, 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’s Wage and Hour Office in Pittsburgh. 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. The indictment also alleges that Sun Penang failed to pay minimum wages and overtime pay to their employees from Jan. 1, 2013 to Dec. 31, 2013.

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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division and Office of Inspector General jointly 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 citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to 14 months in prison for violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Juan Rivera-Santos, 39, of Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, on or about Sept. 17, 2015, Rivera-Santos was found in North Versailles, Pa., after having unlawfully re-entered the United States following removal on several occasions.

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

United States Attorney Hickton commended the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the successful prosecution of Rivera-Santos.