Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 270 months, followed by lifetime supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Tyler Seevers, 25, formerly of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court at the time Seevers entered a plea of guilty, on July 20 and 21, 2014, Seevers produced sexually explicit photographs of a female child, 3 years of age, using an iPod Touch. The iPod Touch was turned over to law enforcement by Seever’s girlfriend, the victim’s mother, who had discovered the photographs of her daughter. Forensic analysis of the contents of the iPod Touch revealed images of both the 3-year-old and her older sister. One such sexually exploitive photograph depicted the ridges of the photographer’s fingertips. A fingerprint analyst with the Pennsylvania State Police was able to identify Seevers’ hand as that depicted in the photograph.

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.

Prior to imposing sentencing, Judge Ambrose stated that this case and other cases involving the sexual exploitation of children and the production of images depicting that exploitation are the most serious that come before the court.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Hopewell Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Seevers.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Homestead, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in to 24 years’ incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Thomas Hopes, 24.

According to information presented to the court, Hopes played a major role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, and possessed a firearm in the course of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Hopes also possessed with intent to distribute heroin.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon concluded that Thomas Hopes was responsible for between one and three kilograms of heroin, which she called a poison that he chose to sell on the street for profit.

Assistant United States Attorneys Conor Lamb and Ryan Hart prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas Hopes. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – Justin Thornton has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for acetylfentanyl and fentanyl trafficking resulting in the death of one person, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The indictment charges Thornton, 32, of Whitaker, Pa., with distributing acetylfentanyl and fentanyl on August 7 and 8, 2015, that killed one person. The indictment also charges Thornton with possession with intent to distribute heroin, acetylfentanyl, fentanyl, crack cocaine and cocaine on August 13, 2015.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $6,000,000, 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 Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Allegheny County Police Department, the West Mifflin Police Department 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of theft of government property and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment named Jasmin Omanovic, 35, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from October 2011 to February 2015, Omanovic, who is the owner and operator of International Market in Erie, committed food stamp fraud by exchanging food stamps for cash at fifty percent of face value and ineligible items. He also allowed customers to pay off store debt with food stamps and he took customers’ EBT cards and used them at Walmart to restock his shelves.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the Erie 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.

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

The one-count indictment named Otemeo Dupree Williams, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Williams unlawfully possessed a firearm while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon.

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

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

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.

The Erie Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of theft of government property and WIC fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named James Hunter, Jr., 37, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from July 2012 to June 2015, Hunter, who is the owner and operator of Melo’s Stop N Shops in Erie, committed WIC fraud by accepting food stamps and WIC checks for cash or ineligible items such as cigarettes.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 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 United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the Erie 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 individual found by the U.S. Marshals, with assistance from the Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Illegal Re-Entry into the United States after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Dwayne Lawrence Facey, aka Dwayne Brown; Kimarley Williams; Damien Weatherspoon; Dameon Weatherspoon; Euvin Hunter; Roy Facey; “Euvin,” 40, formerly of Jamaica.

According to the indictment, Facey, an alien, who was removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Sept. 22, 2000, and again on Sept. 21, 2006, was found on Aug. 5, 2015, by law enforcement authorities in Pittsburgh, Pa.

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 Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ imprisonment on his convictions of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on 20-year-old Raymear Jernigan.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Oct. 17, 2014, after having been convicted of a felony drug offense, Jernigan possessed a Taurus, .38 special revolver. Jernigan also possessed over 200 grams of heroin with the intent to distribute it.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ambrose stated that the term of imprisonment of five years underlines the seriousness of the offenses.

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’s Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jernigan.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ronald Broadus, 42, 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 government received authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications over Broadus’s phone for a period of 30 days. During that timeframe, Broadus was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for June 27, 2016. 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 of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Broadus on 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 Broadus.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington County, Pa., has pleaded guilty to charges of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Joseph Sabot, age 27, pleaded guilty to the felony count before United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.

According to information presented to the Court at the time of the guilty plea, in 2010, when Sabot was 22 years old, he met a 15-year old female from Wheeling, West Virginia, through an online website. He met her in person shortly thereafter, and traveled to and from his residence in Washington, Pa., to her residence in Wheeling on numerous occasions between 2010 and 2012, on which occasions he engaged in sexual acts with the girl. In July of 2012, after bringing her back to his residence for a sexual encounter, Sabot asked the girl to hide in his garage until his parents went to sleep. Sabot’s father, who did not know her, found her in the garage and demanded that she leave the property. The girl then called 911, as she did not have a way to get back to Wheeling. After the North Franklin Police responded to her call, the joint investigation involving the North Franklin Police and the FBI was initiated, leading to the charges in this case.

Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for June 8, 2016. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years imprisonment, 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 Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and North Franklin Township Police Department 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.

PITTSBURGH - Three Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on charges of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, tampering with a witness by threat of physical force, and brandishing, using, carrying, and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 13-count superseding indictment, returned on March 1, named: Joshua Bristo, 23, of Clairton, Pennsylvania; Richard Van Holt, Jr., 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
James Pamplin, Jr., 21, of Clairton, Pennsylvania.

According to the superseding indictment, from on or about Jan. 1, 2015, and continuing thereafter until on or about Oct. 28, 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Joshua Bristo, Richard Van Holt, Jr., and James Pamplin, Jr., conspired to commit offenses against the United States, that is, to falsify firearms purchase forms, and to possess firearms as convicted felons.

Additionally, Bristo, from on or about Jan. 7, 2015, through on or about Oct. 28, 2015, and Van Holt, from on or about and around May 5, 2015, through on or about Oct. 19, 2015, possessed firearms as convicted felons. Pamplin, Jr., is accused of aiding and abetting Bristo on May 28, 2015, in possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

The superseding indictment also charges that on or about March 6, 2015, through on or about March 10, 2015, Joshua Bristo tampered with a witness by threat of physical force by pointing a firearm and threatening to kill the witness.

The superseding indictment further charges that on or about March 6, 2015, Joshua Bristo knowingly brandished a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, thereby tampering with a witness by threat of physical force.

“Individuals who illegally sell guns end up arming violent criminals, who time and again pull the trigger on our streets and put the public’s safety at risk,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “ATF will continue to shutdown illegal gun running networks and put the traffickers behind bars to make our homes, streets, and communities a lot safer and more peaceful.”

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Bristo of not less than seven years and up to life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00, or both. Van Holt and Pamplin each face a potential sentence of incarceration of up to 15 years, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clairton Police Department, Homestead Police Department, and North Versailles Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding 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 crimes.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal bank robbery and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The five-count indictment, returned on March 1, named Leonard Gibbons, 55, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about July 17, 2015, Gibbons stole $7,828.00 from the Compass Federal Savings Bank located at 111 Westinghouse Avenue, in Wilmerding, Pa.; and on or about Nov. 19, 2015, Gibbons used a firearm to steal $3,971.00 from the First Commonwealth Bank located at 1527 Lincoln Way, in White Oak, Pa. It is unlawful for Gibbons, who has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, to possess a firearm. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than seven years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the McKeesport Police Department, the North Versailles Police Department, the White Oak Police Department, and the 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.

A priest of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 200 months in prison to be followed by lifetime supervised release for offenses related to his sexual abuse of two minor boys during trips to Honduras over a five-year period, announced Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Joseph D. Maurizio Jr., 70, of Central City, Pennsylvania, was convicted on Sept. 22, 2015, following an eight-day jury trial, of engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, possession of child pornography and international money laundering.  Maurizio was also ordered to pay a $50,000 fine and $10,000 in restitution to each victim.

According to the evidence introduced at trial, in 2001, Maurizio created a charitable organization, then known as Honduras Interfaith Ministries (HIM), which was funded by donations from community members, including parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Central City.  HIM became the largest donor for Pro Niño, a non-profit organization that provided shelter and rehabilitative services to poor, abandoned and at-risk children residing in a rural town near San Pedro Sula, Honduras.  Between 2004 and 2009, Maurizio used HIM moneys to fund 13 separate trips between the United States and Honduras, during which he sexually abused two minor boys living at Pro Niño shelters.

Evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Maurizio used his position with HIM, Pro Niño’s largest donor, to gain unfettered access to the minors, as well as to purchase them gifts, including clothes, shoes and jewelry, in order to build the boys’ trust and to ensure their compliance during his sexual abuse.  During his final trip to Honduras, Maurizio paid the boys to engage in sexual acts with him.

In addition, trial evidence showed that Maurizio kept digital media depicting the minors he sexually abused and other images of child sexual exploitation in the Our Lady Queen of Angels Church rectory.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation in Pittsburgh investigated the case.  Trial Attorney Amy E. Larson of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Haines of the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 – A priest of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by lifetime supervised release for offenses related to his sexual abuse of two minor boys during trips to Honduras over a five-year period, announced U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania.

U.S. District Judge Kim Gibson imposed the sentence on Joseph D. Maurizio Jr., 70, of Central City, Pennsylvania. He also ordered Maurizio to pay a $50,000 fine and $10,000 in restitution to each of the two minor victims. Maurizio was convicted on Sept. 22, 2015, following an eight-day jury trial, of engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, possession of child pornography and international money laundering.

“It is important to recognize the courage of the victims, the tenacity of the investigators and the resolve of the prosecutors to bring this child predator priest to justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “This sentence ensures that Joseph Maurizio will never again have the opportunity to travel beyond our nation’s borders to victimize children.”

“Child sex tourism is a scourge: adults preying on the young and vulnerable to satisfy dark desires,” said David Abbate, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, ICE Homeland Security Investigations. “As an agency, HSI is committed to the difficult but necessary task of ending this scourge--despite cost, distance, and international boundaries. There can be no place for the abuse of children here or abroad.”

“IRS Criminal Investigation will diligently work with our law enforcement partners to pursue those who violate the laws of the United States,” added IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Akeia Conner. “Our partnership with HSI in this investigation demonstrates that we will work together to address the full scope of an individual’s illegal activity, and we will follow that trail wherever it may lead us.”

According to the evidence introduced at trial, in 2001 Maurizio created a charitable organization, then known as Honduras Interfaith Ministries (HIM), which was funded by donations from community members, including parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Central City. HIM became the largest donor for Pro Niño, a non-profit organization that provided shelter and rehabilitative services to poor, abandoned and at-risk children residing in a rural town near San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Between 2004 and 2009, Maurizio used HIM moneys to fund 13 separate trips between the United States and Honduras, during which he sexually abused two minor boys living at Pro Niño shelters.

Evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Maurizio used his position with HIM, Pro Niño’s largest donor, to gain unfettered access to the minors, as well as to purchase them gifts, including clothes, shoes and jewelry, in order to build the boys’ trust and to ensure their compliance during his sexual abuse. During his final trip to Honduras, Maurizio paid two minor boys to engage in sexual acts with him.

In addition, trial evidence showed that Maurizio kept digital media depicting the minors he sexually abused and other images of child sexual exploitation in the Our Lady Queen of Angels Church rectory.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Pittsburgh investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Haines of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Amy E. Larson of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on March 1, named William C. Miller, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pa, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Miller was found in possession of a firearm on or about Sept. 29, 2015, following four felony convictions in 2014. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, 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 Ryan K. Hart is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

John Leonard Oleski, 66, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

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

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Oleski on bond.

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 that led to the prosecution of Oleski.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Edinboro, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Douglas A. Grooms, 44, 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 2008 to September 2013, while employed as the general manager of Community Chevrolet in Meadville, Pennsylvania, Grooms embezzled money from the dealership by writing dealership checks to a fictitious marketing company which he set up solely for the purpose of receiving the checks, resulting in a loss of $485,800 to Community Chevrolet.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2016 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Grooms on bond.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grooms.

PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh-area brothers have been sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

On Friday, United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed a sentence of imprisonment of 240 months, followed by five years of supervised release, on Keith Harris, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pa. She then imposed a sentence of imprisonment of 121 months, followed by five years of supervised release, on Gregory Harris, Jr., 27, of Homestead, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, both Keith and Gregory Harris conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, and used violence in the course of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Keith Harris played a major role in the conspiracy, and Gregory Harris, Jr. possessed a firearm.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon concluded that Keith Harris was responsible for between one and three kilograms of heroin, which she called an addictive and deadly poison that he chose to sell on the street for profit. Judge Bissoon concluded that Gregory Harris, Jr. was responsible for between 400 and 700 grams of heroin, and she noted that he turned his back on the opportunities given to him. Judge Bissoon also specifically credited the testimony of a victim who testified at trial that both Keith and Gregory Harris physically assaulted and injured him during the heroin conspiracy.

Assistant United States Attorneys Conor Lamb and Ryan Hart prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Harris brothers. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - Two cheese companies and a cheese company executive pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges relating to their introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to introduce misbranded and adulterated cheese products into interstate commerce and to commit money laundering before U.S. District Judge Mark R. Hornak for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Each company also agreed to forfeit to the United States $500,000. Castle Cheese Company executive Michelle Myrter, 44, of Harmony, Pennsylvania, also pleaded guilty as a responsible corporate officer to one misdemeanor count of aiding and abetting the introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, in violation of provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

“The Department of Justice prosecutes people and companies who introduce adulterated or misbranded food into interstate commerce,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “In this case, the fraud was perpetrated on consumers who purchased parmesan and romano cheeses that were inferior to what they believed they were buying.”

In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the corporate defendants packaged and sold cheese under various labels at the Castle Cheese facility in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. The cheese was distributed through retail, food service, and wholesale customers throughout the United States. The corporate 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 to FDA standards of identity for real parmesan and romano cheese, but represented to customers that the products contained 100 percent real parmesan and romano cheese. The corporate defendants also knew that the cheese products were misbranded because they did not bear labels that accurately reflected the products’ ingredients. The corporate 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.

The adulterated romano and parmesan products were sold under several brand names, the owners of which were unaware of the fraud. The adulterated products are no longer available for sale. At no time did the adulterated products pose a threat to the health or safety of consumers.

Judge Hornak will set sentencing date at a later time. For the corporate defendants, the law provides for a fine of $500,000 for each defendant. For the individual defendant, the law provides for a total sentence of one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, 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 released Myrter on a personal recognizance bond.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tonia Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

Federal agents with the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecutions of Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc., International Packing, LLC and Michelle Myrter.

Two cheese companies and a cheese company executive pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges relating to their introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc. and International Packing, LLC each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to introduce misbranded and adulterated cheese products into interstate commerce and to commit money laundering before U.S. District Judge Mark R. Hornak for the Western District of Pennsylvania.  Each company also agreed to forfeit to the United States $500,000.  Castle Cheese Company executive Michelle Myrter, 44, of Harmony, Pennsylvania, also pleaded guilty as a responsible corporate officer to one misdemeanor count of aiding and abetting the introduction of adulterated and misbranded cheese products into interstate commerce, in violation of provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

“The Department of Justice prosecutes people and companies who introduce adulterated or misbranded food into interstate commerce,” stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “In this case, the fraud was perpetrated on consumers who purchased parmesan and romano cheeses that were inferior to what they believed they were buying.”

In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the corporate defendants packaged and sold cheese under various labels at the Castle Cheese facility in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania.  The cheese was distributed through retail, food service, and wholesale customers throughout the United States.  The corporate 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 to FDA standards of identity for real parmesan and romano cheese, but represented to customers that the products contained 100 percent real parmesan and romano cheese.  The corporate defendants also knew that the cheese products were misbranded because they did not bear labels that accurately reflected the products’ ingredients.  The corporate 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.

The adulterated romano and parmesan products were sold under several brand names, the owners of which were unaware of the fraud.  The adulterated products are no longer available for sale.  At no time did the adulterated products pose a threat to the health or safety of consumers.

Judge Hornak will set sentencing date at a later time.  For the corporate defendants, the law provides for a fine of $500,000 for each defendant.  For the individual defendant, the law provides for a total sentence of one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, 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 released Myrter on a personal recognizance bond.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tonia Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

Federal agents with the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecutions of Universal Cheese & Drying, Inc., International Packing, LLC and Michelle Myrter.

PITTSBURGH - A Chinese national has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation and six months home detention on his conviction of Mail Fraud in relation to a scheme involving the fraudulent taking of college entrance exams, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Xi Fu, 27, of Portland, Oregon.

According to information presented to the court, Xi Fu was one of the individuals who was paid to take TOEFL exams for other Chinese students. Fu took approximately three tests and used counterfeit Chinese passports which were mailed to him from China as identification at the testing locations.

Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Conti stated that her sentence reflected the seriousness of the offense in that it allowed people who otherwise would not have been eligible to enter the U.S. to enter and also affected the integrity of the American college admissions process.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of State for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fu.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Brandon Bucinski, 36, of Brackenridge, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, Bucinski defrauded Gatto Cycle Shop of the proceeds from the sale of certain of its merchandise on eBay. Bucinski was employed by Gatto to sell certain Gatto merchandise on eBay and to have the buyer remit the proceeds of sale to Gatto’s Paypal accounts. Bucinski sold the Gatto merchandise using his personal eBay and Paypal accounts and kept the proceeds from the sales for himself.

Judge Hornak scheduled the sentencing for June 27, 2016, at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service along with the Tarentum and Shaler Police Departments and detectives from the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Portage, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown on a charge of conspiring to commit money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Gary E. Vaughn, 41, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from Jan. 1, 2012, to Jan. 22, 2014, Vaughn, along with co-defendants, conspired with one another, and with others, to commit certain offenses against the United States, that is, to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce, which involved property representing the proceeds of a specified unlawful activity, that is, mail fraud, with the intent to promote the carrying on of the specified unlawful activity, and that while conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transaction knew that that property involved in the financial transaction represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity.

It was part of the conspiracy that the direction of and business decisions at Gary’s Steals and Deals were made by Tonia Vaughn and/or Gary E. Vaughn. It was further part of the conspiracy that, on a daily basis, customers would bring stolen new merchandise [aka “new in package (NIP)” or “new in box (NIB)”] to Gary’s Steals and Deals for purchase by Gary’s Steals and Deals. It was further part of the conspiracy that, on a daily basis, employees of Gary’s Steals and Deals would purchase the stolen new merchandise, knowing it had been stolen. It was further part of the conspiracy that employees at Gary’s Steals and Deals would tender a monetary percentage of the retail value of the stolen new merchandise back to the customer. It was further part of the conspiracy that on frequent occasions, the same customer(s) would bring numerous identical stolen new items of merchandise to Gary’s Steals and Deals (including but not limited to razor blades, pet products, teeth whitening strips, ink cartridges, jackets, Lego sets), which were repetitively purchased from the customer(s) by employees at Gary’s Steals and Deals. It was further part of the conspiracy that the stolen merchandise that had been purchased from the customers by Gary’s Steals and Deals was thereafter sold by Gary’s Steals and Deals over the Internet on websites such as Ebay and Amazon. It was further part of the conspiracy that Gary’s Steals and Deals utilized the mail to deliver the stolen merchandise to persons who had purchased such merchandise over the Internet. It was further part of the conspiracy that Gary’s Steals and Deals would receive monetary payments for the stolen merchandise that had been sold over the Internet. It was further part of the conspiracy that, in connection with the above-described offense (mail fraud) the named defendants obtained proceeds of such conduct.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 9, 2016, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to five years (60 months) imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of violations of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Dwayne Allen, aka Dewayne Allen, 41.

According to information presented to the court, in 2013 and 2014, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies targeted Allen and other drug traffickers in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. On Dec. 5, 2013, the agents utilized a confidential informant to purchase one ounce of crack cocaine from Allen for $1,300. The informant made another slightly larger purchase of crack cocaine for $1,900 from Allen on Jan. 28, 2014. And on Feb. 14, 2014, the informant paid $4,000 to Allen and obtained 3 ounces of crack cocaine.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Allen.

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Glenn Davis, 63, of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty to 24 counts of the Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea to Counts one through 24, from June 4, 2012 to August 29, 2012, Dr. Davis prescribed and distributed thousands of Schedule II controlled substances (i.e., Oxycodone and Methadone) to “Patient A” outside the usual course of professional practice.

Immediately following his guilty plea, Dr. Davis was sentenced by Judge Gibson to 72 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $2,400 special assessment.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Davis.

PITTSBURGH – An Armstrong County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of making false statements to the Social Security Administration, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Sona Marie Murphy, 38, of Kittanning, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 30, 2012, in order to ensure continued receipt of disability insurance payments, Murphy submitted a signed statement to the Social Security Administration falsely reporting that she was not working, did not have wages or self-employment income, and had not worked since 2009. The Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General gathered evidence, however, establishing that Murphy had worked as a waitress at the Burrell Inn, located in Lower Burrell, Pa., as well as owned and was operating a catering business, most recently doing business as Sweet Pea's Catering and Sweets and "Every Day is an Occasion."

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for June 16, 2016, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five 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 allowed Murphy to remain on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A local resident has been sentenced in federal court to 8 years (96 months) imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of violations of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Natel Blessitt, 39, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2014, and again on Sept. 23, 2014, Blessitt distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton 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 that led to the prosecution of Blessitt.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Butler County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by ten years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence yesterday on Edward Wesley Bayne, III, 47, formerly of Seven Fields, Pa.

According to information presented to the court Bayne, III, the former Mayor of Seven Fields, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 17, 2013, unlawfully possessed in computer graphics files thousands of photographs and videos depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct that he had obtained via Internet file-sharing networks.

Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Cohill stated that he factored in the serious nature of Bayne's offense, his lack of criminal history and his personal characteristics, and harm perpetrated against the hundreds of child victims depicted in the videos and photographs. In addition to the terms of imprisonment and supervised release, the court ordered Bayne to pay $12,000 in restitution, to be divided among four child victims who had formally requested restitution in the case.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bayne, III.

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced today that three importers and their owners – Ameri-Source International Inc., Ameri-Source Specialty Products Inc., Ameri-Source Holdings Inc., Ajay Goel and Thomas Diener – and a related importer, SMC Machining LLC, incorporated at Goel’s direction and formerly owned by his wife, have agreed to pay $3 million to resolve a lawsuit brought by the United States under the False Claims Act. The lawsuit alleged that the defendants had engaged in a scheme to evade customs duties on imports of small-diameter graphite electrodes from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Small-diameter graphite electrodes are columns of synthetic graphite with diameters of around 16 inches or less that are used as fuel in electric arc and ladle furnaces, such as those used in steel manufacturing. The companies are all based in Pennsylvania.

“The nation’s customs laws are designed to protect domestic manufacturers from foreign products that enter the country at below-market prices due to unfair practices abroad,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement shows that the Department of Justice is committed to pursuing claims against anyone involved in a scheme to seek an unfair advantage in U.S. markets by evading duties on imported goods, including the individuals who run the companies and knowingly participate in such schemes.”

The Department of Commerce assesses and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects duties to protect U.S. manufacturers from unfair competition abroad by leveling the playing field for domestic products. The particular duties at issue in this case are antidumping duties, which protect domestic manufacturers against foreign companies’ “dumping” products on U.S. markets at prices below cost. Imports of PRC-manufactured small-diameter graphite electrodes have been subject to antidumping duties since Aug. 21, 2008.

The settlement announced today resolves claims that Ameri-Source International Inc. evaded antidumping duties on 15 shipments of small-diameter graphite electrodes from the PRC from December 2009 to March 2012. The United States contended that Ameri-Source International misclassified the size of the electrodes to avoid paying the duties. There are no antidumping duties on larger diameter graphite electrodes. The United States also alleged that Goel, Diener and the other companies caused and conspired in the misrepresentation to evade duties. Ameri-Source International also waived indictment and pleaded guilty today to two counts of smuggling goods into the United States. In U.S. District Court in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ameri-Source International admitted that on April 27, 2011 and June 9, 2011, the company falsely declared imported cargo from the PRC as being graphite rods greater than 16 inches in diameter. Chief Judge Joy Flowers Conti immediately sentenced the corporation to pay a $250,000 criminal fine within 10 days and applied the payment of the $3 million to the loss of antidumping duties of $2,137,420.00.

“We are committed to protecting U.S. jobs and industries from those who seek an unfair advantage in the U.S. marketplace,” said U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “This office’s aggressive criminal and civil enforcement efforts to combat and prosecute the evasive practices of both the corporations and individuals who perpetrated this scheme demonstrate our resolve to ensure a level playing field for all.”

“Antidumping duties level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers,” said CBP Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske. “This is a prime example of how U.S. Customs and Border Protection partners with the Department of Justice, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) and the U.S. Department of Commerce to enforce antidumping duty laws.”

“This settlement underscores one of HSI’s primary efforts, which is to ensure a level playing field for companies engaged in legitimate trade and commerce with the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge John Kelleghan of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Philadelphia. “HSI special agents will continue to protect the revenue of the United States and aggressively investigate individuals and companies who attempt to operate outside our laws and regulations.”

“The Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General is dedicated to supporting bureaus such as the International Trade Administration in protecting the U.S. economy from the type of criminal activity disclosed in this case,” said Special Agent in Charge Duane E. Townsend of the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General. “We greatly appreciate the cooperation and efforts of HSI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office that resulted in this agreement.”

The allegations resolved by the settlement were originally brought by whistleblower Graphite Electrode Sales Inc. under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. The act permits private parties to sue on behalf of the government those who falsely claim federal funds or, as in this case, those who avoid paying funds owed to the government or cause or conspire in such conduct. The United States may intervene in and take over the lawsuit, as it has done here. The act also allows the whistleblower to receive a share of any funds recovered through the lawsuit. Graphite Electrode Sales Inc. will receive approximately $480,000 as its share of today’s settlement.

The case was handled by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, CBP, ICE HSI and the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and Office of Inspector General.

The lawsuit is captioned United States ex rel. Graphite Electrode Sales, Inc. v. Ameri-Source Holdings, Inc., et al., Case No. 13-cv-0474 (W.D. Pa.). The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability except as admitted in the criminal proceedings.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire and bank fraud conspiracy and bank fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count superseding indictment, returned on Feb. 16, named Janna Nassida, 45, of West Mifflin, Pa., and James Nassida, 48, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the defendants in this case.

According to the indictment, from 2002 to 2008 James Nassida and his sister Janna Nassida knowingly conspired with other individuals known to the grand jury to defraud lenders and consumers. James and Janna Nassida worked at Century III Home Equity, a mortgage broker firm. The fraud scheme involved the submission of loan applications to lenders that contained material misrepresentations about the borrowers’ financial conditions, such as inflating borrowers’ incomes and assets. James and Janna Nassida, along with others who worked at Century III, also submitted bogus supporting documentation for the misrepresentations contained in the applications, as well as appraisals that overstated the values of the properties serving as collateral for the loans.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Mortgage Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The Mortgage Fraud Task Force is comprised of investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and others involved in the mortgage industry. Federal law enforcement agencies participating in the Mortgage Task Force include the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Postal Inspection Service; and the United States Secret Service. Other Mortgage Fraud Task Force members include the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office; the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection; the Pennsylvania Department of Banking; the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation; and the United States Trustee's Office.

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

PITTSBURGH -A local resident has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ probation with special conditions on his conviction of transporting poultry without inspection, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Xia Vue, 84, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, the defendant had been slaughtering poultry at a dilapidated residential home and was selling the poultry in commerce to retail markets and individual customers. The poultry products sold by the defendant had not been inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture, as required by law.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cohill emphasized the importance of food safety and said that the special conditions of Vue’s probation are necessary to prevent the defendant from continuing to slaughter poultry for commerce.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Vue.

PITTSBURGH, PA: An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bankruptcy fraud, money laundering, conspiracy and structuring financial transactions, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The five-count indictment, returned on Feb.16, named Louis Lamanna, 50, of Oakmont, Pa.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, Lamanna committed bankruptcy fraud when he filed for personal bankruptcy and failed to disclose numerous assets such as open and closed bank accounts, various transfers of funds, and his ownership of a luxury vehicle. The luxury vehicle was ultimately sold, and Lamanna laundered the approximately $32,000 obtained from the sale of the vehicle and hid those proceeds from the bankruptcy court and his creditors. Lamanna also conspired with others to structure more than $170,000 in cash withdrawals from accounts at PNC Bank and First Commonwealth Bank for the purpose of evading currency transaction reporting requirements in a further attempt to hide funds from the bankruptcy court and his creditors.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 45 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 offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and 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 14 months of incarceration; three years supervised release and was ordered to pay $204,252.16 in restitution on his conviction of fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Derek Holt, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the information presented to the court, Derek Holt and his conspirators agreed to defraud account holders at Pittsburgh area banks by a remote deposit, mobile-banking scheme in which Derek Holt and conspirators deposited fictitious checks into victim accounts, and later withdrew cash at the Rivers Casino and ATMs.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Mapleton, Utah has been sentenced in federal court to twelve months and one day imprisonment for interference with flight crew members and attendants, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Steven Douglas Pectol, 40, of Mapleton, Utah.

According to information presented to the court, on October 11, 2015, Pectol interfered with the flight crew of US Airways Flight 632 by assaulting and intimidating the flight attendants and crew by disregarding instructions to remain in his seat, making threatening statements, attempting to physically force his way to the front galley of the airplane while pushing one of the attendants, and needing to be physically restrained by attendants and passengers as the plane landed while the defendant attempted to kick and head-butt attendants as he was being restrained. As a result of the defendant’s actions, US Airways Flight 632, flying from Phoenix, AZ to New York, NY, had to be diverted to Pittsburgh International Airport.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the defendant’s recent criminal history had indicated a gradual elevation in degree and that his sentence needed to reflect the seriousness of the offense, the need to protect the public from further crimes of the defendant, and the need to promote respect for the law.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Air Marshals for the investigation leading to the prosecution of Pectol.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has sentenced in federal court to 18 months of incarceration; three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $204,252.16 in restitution on his conviction of fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Duane Jackson, 30, Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the information presented to the court, Jackson and his conspirators agreed to defraud account holders at Pittsburgh area banks by a remote deposit, mobile-banking scheme in which Jackson and conspirators deposited fictitious checks into victim accounts, and later withdrew cash at the Rivers Casino and ATMs.

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

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

PITTSBURGH -- A resident of Monongahela, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Gregory Kavalec, 68, of Monongahela, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about Oct. 3, 2013, to on or about Sept. 3, 2014, Kavalec unlawfully received property of the United States, that is Old Age, Survivor and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Social Security benefits in the amount of approximately $17,985.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kavalec.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Monongahela, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Gregory Kavalec, 68, of Monongahela, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about Oct. 3, 2013, to on or about Sept. 3, 2014, Kavalec unlawfully received property of the United States, that is Old Age, Survivor and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Social Security benefits in the amount of approximately $17,985.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kavalec.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Greene County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served (12 months) on his conviction of damaging of an energy facility, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Heath A. Rankin, 34, of Carmichaels, Pa.

According to the information presented to the court, Rankin along with a previously prosecuted defendant, Brian Harbarger, damaged the Burchianti Pad, a pad of five natural gas wells operated by Chevron North America Exploitation and Production Company, a division of Chevron USA, Inc. Rankin and Harbarger cut and stole copper grounding wire from the production tanks and impoundment area resulting in the pad being shut in until all of the damage was repaired. Chevron’s cost to repair the damage was $18,624.67. The court ordered Rankin and Harbarger to pay restitution in that amount.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Jamaica has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in prison and upon his release, after notice and hearing, deported to Jamaica, on his conviction of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Hubert E. Minott, 32, of North Miami Beach, FL.

According to information presented to the court, on Feb. 6, 2014, Minott, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 12, 2008, was found in Somerset County, PA. He had unlawfully re-entered this country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.

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

Mr. Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Minott.

PITTSBURGH – Ronald McMillian, of Washington, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of trafficking in heroin and fentanyl, which resulted in serious bodily injury, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on Feb. 9, charged McMillian with conspiring to distribute and distributing heroin and fentanyl, which resulted in serious bodily injury to at least two people, in August, 2015.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than twenty years, and up to life 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Ross E. Lenhardt and Katherine A. King, of the violent crime section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, 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 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 Mexico, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of reentry of removed alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Javier Morales-Bautista, 35, of Mexico as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, the defendant, who was previously removed from the United States on Nov. 27, 2013 and Sept. 20, 2014, was found in Butler County, Pennsylvania, on Dec. 26, 2015 without having applied for or received permission to reenter the United States from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security 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 individual found by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Illegal Reentry after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Marcial Machado-Orrellano, 29, a citizen of Honduras pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Machado-Orrellano, an alien, who was previously removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 21, 2003, Sept. 1, 2004, and July 2, 2009, was taken into custody on May 28, 2015, by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Homeland Security Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Machado-Orrellano.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County businessman was sentenced today in federal court to sixteen months imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release, restitution of $1,872,935 and a fine of $25,000, on his convictions of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and filing a false tax return, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed sentence upon Joseph Nocito, Jr. of Sewickley, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the Court, Nocito knowingly and willfully conspired with other individuals to commit an offense against the United States, that is, bank fraud, in connection with Nocito’s purchase of the real property located in Longboat Key, Florida. Nocito purchased the property on July 27, 2007, with a mortgage loan from Washington Mutual Bank in the amount of $2,377,000. In loan documents submitted by Nocito to the bank, Nocito falsely represented that the purchase price of the property was $3,000,000 and that a $600,000 cash deposit had been made by or on behalf of Nocito toward the purported $3,000,000 sales price. As part of the conspiracy, $458,350 of the mortgage loan monies were paid to Nocito as kickbacks, without the knowledge or approval of Washington Mutual Bank.

Nocito also filed a false tax return for calendar year 2007 in which Nocito reported that his total adjusted gross income was $88,269, whereas, as he knew and believed, his correct total adjusted gross income was $529,619.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nocito.

PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to four years’ probation on her 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 on Roxanne Thompson, 27.

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, Roxanne Thompson 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 Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

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, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Keith Beck, 23, 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, Keith Beck 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 June 10, 2016. 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 Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Keith Beck.

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

Sammar Aimee Melchor, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 2013 through February 2015, Melchor engaged in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between five and fifteen kilograms of cocaine which she obtained from other co-conspirators. The court was also advised that on or about October 28, 2014, Melchor distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 6 ounces of cocaine. 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.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2016. The law provides for a total sentence of years 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The 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 Melchor.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Vincent Andrew Feliciano, 25.

According to information presented to the court, Feliciano was found in possession of a Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol in his residence in Erie, at the time a federal search warrant was being executed. Feliciano is prohibited from possessing firearms because he is a convicted felon.

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

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone discussed the seriousness of the defendant’s unlawful possession of a firearm and the fact that Feliciano was on parole from an earlier firearm possession conviction in state court.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Feliciano. The OCDETF task force includes The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation 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.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Devonte White, 23, 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, Devonte White 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 June 3, 2016. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history 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 Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Devonte White.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Michael Lyons, 40, 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, Michael Lyons 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 June 3, 2016. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history 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 Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Michael Lyons.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months imprisonment to be followed by one year supervised release, on his conviction of violating the CAN-SPAM ACT, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. imposed the sentence on Phillip Fleitz, 31. Fleitz is one of 12 individuals charged in connection with a significant computer hacking forum known as Darkode, which has been dismantled.

According to information presented to the court, Fleitz knowingly used a protected computer to relay or retransmit multiple commercial electronic mail messages with the intent to deceive or mislead recipients.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Phillip Fleitz.