Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH – Five Pittsburgh-area residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. One of the counts in the indictment charges a defendant with distributing heroin that resulted in the death of a user of the heroin.

The five-count indictment charges Javon Jackson, 27; Hayley Bober, 25; Carrie Robinson, 45; Kevin Schultz, 31; and William Schultz, 33, with conspiring to distribute heroin during time periods between 2012 and 2014. The indictment also charges Jackson with possessing heroin with intent to distribute in 2013 and 2014 as well as with distributing heroin that resulted in the death of a user of the heroin on April 22, 2013.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Jackson of at least 20 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $9,000,000. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Kevin Schultz and William Schultz of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000,000. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Bober and Robinson of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal histories, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Allegheny County District Attorney’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 Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of criminal contempt of court, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Marquetta Lavelle Mitchell, 41, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Mitchell disobeyed and resisted the lawful process, order and command of a Court of the United States, that is, she refused to testify at the October 16-22, 2012, trial of her boyfriend, Andre Williams, for charges that included conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, at Case Number 11-116, despite: the subpoena that required her to do so; an instruction from Senior United States District Court Judge Alan N. Bloch that her Fifth Amendment rights had been extinguished; and a written order compelling her to testify pursuant to a grant of immunity from Senior United States District Court Judge Alan N. Bloch.

Judge Bloch scheduled sentencing for Jan. 8, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for an unlimited period of incarceration and/or a fine, at the discretion of the Court. 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 Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the 21st Judicial District Drug Task Force in Tennessee conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Marquetta Lavelle Mitchell.

PITTSBURGH – An Ohio man has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, including four months in a community confinement center followed by four months home confinement, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

On Aug. 12, 2014, Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Daniel P. Lucas, 50, of East Liverpool, Ohio.

According to information presented to the court, Lucas defrauded three investors by representing that he was a successful currency trader and obtaining $78,000 from them for this purpose, and thereafter retaining and spending more than $49,000 for his own purposes, while earning no profits for investors and incurring more than $28,000 in currency trading loses.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Conti stated that Lucas’ stated plan - to repay the victims by turning his $1,500 into hundreds of thousands of dollars via currency trading - would be “just short of a miracle.”

Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon 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 Lucas.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clarion County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of a minor for purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Joshua D. Baker, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2012, Baker was 31 years old, and resided in Clarion County. He became acquainted with 12-year old girl when they met at a family function in 2012. The juvenile girl’s mother was engaged to Baker's cousin, who lived with the juvenile girl and her mother.

On March 27, 2013, Baker and his wife had received a check for $5,000 from their auto insurance carrier to cover the damage that Baker's vehicle sustained in a recent accident. They cashed the check and went to a car dealership for the purpose of purchasing a new vehicle. Baker left his wife at the dealership and went home. After arriving at his home, Baker gathered some personal belongings and drove away in the family car. He took the $5,000 cash from the insurance check with him. His farewell note to his wife stated that he wanted a divorce and was going on a long trip.

On the night of March 27, 2013, the juvenile girl was at her residence, waiting for Baker to pick her up. At this time, Baker was 31 and the juvenile was 13. She waited until her mother went to bed at around 1 a.m., on March 28, 2013. The juvenile girl’s little brother thereafter saw her leave the residence at approximately 2 a.m., carrying a backpack. She said she was going for a walk with a friend. On March 28, 2013, the juvenile’s mother notified police that her daughter was missing.

On or about Wednesday, April 3, 2013, Clarion police interviewed one of Baker's friends. The friend advised that Baker had bragged to him about his sexual relationship with the juvenile female.

On Thursday, April 4, 2013, Baker and the juvenile were seen in Rapid City, South Dakota. They went into a store to purchase eyeglasses for the girl. They scheduled an eye exam appointment for her for the next day. Baker provided his real name to the sales clerk, and the juvenile falsely identified herself. They told the clerk that they were brother and sister, but because they were holding hands, the clerk became suspicious. The clerk got Baker's license plate number when they were driving away. She also did a web search for Joshua Baker and saw the missing persons information pertaining to Baker and the juvenile girl, and then called the police. Baker and the juvenile did not return to the store for the eye appointment.

After receiving the report from the sales clerk, an FBI Agent working out of the Pittsburgh field office sent a lead to the South Dakota FBI, asking them to look for Baker’s vehicle in Martin, South Dakota, where Baker had previously visited when he was approximately 18 years old. On Saturday, April 6, 2013, local police and FBI Agents located Baker and the juvenile girl in that area, at which time Baker was arrested and the girl was placed in the custody of a local CYS agency.

While she was in custody, the juvenile told FBI agents that, since meeting Baker in 2013, they had engaged in sexual intercourse on numerous occasions, and had done so on the trip after leaving Pennsylvania.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Clarion Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Baker.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Waynesboro, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation on his conviction of conspiracy to deliver cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kenneth Biser, 60.

According to information presented to the court, Biser conspired to possess and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine from Nov. 2011 to July 18, 2012.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Safe Streets Task Force initiative comprised of the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pa. Attorney General's Office, the Blair County Drug Task Force, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, the Somerset County Drug Task Force, the Roaring Spring Borough Police Dept. and the Paint Township Police Dept. for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Biser.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Saxton, Pa, has been sentenced in federal court to 144 months in prison, three years supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $20,250.42 on his conviction of theft of firearms and interstate transportation of stolen firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Garrett G. Sherlock, 27.

According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 28, 2013, Sherlock stole 31 firearms from Saxton Outdoor Supply, Inc., which is a business licensed to deal in firearms. On the same day he transported the stolen firearms from Pennsylvania to Maryland.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police-Bedford Barracks for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sherlock.

According to Mr. Hickton, Sherlock 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.

PITTSBURGH – An Armstrong County man was sentenced in federal court to eight months of imprisonment, to be followed by eight months of home detention and then 18 months of supervised release, on his conviction for wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Michael Fullard, 54, of Apollo, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Fullard was the President of Fullard Environmental Controls ("FEC") located in Ford City. FEC performed demolition services in 2007 for the United States Department of the Navy in Beaufort, South Carolina. The Information alleged that Fullard, along with Barry K. Peterson, who was a co-owner of FEC, defrauded the government by submitting false information to the Department of the Navy regarding the costs that were incurred by FEC to perform the demolition services. Fullard and Peterson, through FEC, defrauded the government in the amount of approximately $772,701.10. As part of the sentence, Judge McVerry ordered Fullard to pay a forfeiture judgment to the United States Government in the amount of $772,701.10.

Additionally, Fullard is required to fulfill his obligations pursuant to a civil Settlement Agreement. Fullard was instrumental in aiding the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit of the United States Attorneys’ Office in the recovery of $462,000.00 in federal contract payments earmarked for Fullard’s company, payments that otherwise would have been beyond the reach of the United States Government. As a result of this recovery, the government did not seek, and Judge McVerry did not order, any restitution over and above the forfeiture amount of $772,701.10.

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Skirtich secured the False Claims Act settlement.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service and Naval Criminal Investigative Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fullard.

PITTSBURGH – William Krszal, a resident of Allegheny County, was convicted of conspiring to distribute a mixture of methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, sometimes referred to as “molly”, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Krszal, 23, pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on Dec. 18, 2014, at 11 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Krszal agreed with his supplier to distribute the mixture of methamphetamine and molly in the Pittsburgh area, including at various concerts or music festivals.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – Kailen Young, a resident of Allegheny County, was convicted of conspiring to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Young, 29, pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on Dec. 18, 2014, at 10 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Young distributed heroin during August and September 2013 while he was on electronically monitored house arrest. Young, in fact, began distributing heroin within days of being released to house arrest in August 2013.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – The office manager for a South Hills car dealership has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Deborah Cassini, 61, of New Castle, Pa, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Cassini was employed by Three Rivers Volkswagen as the Office Manager. As the Office Manager, Cassini had access to the company’s bank accounts, payroll system, accounting system and cash. Over the course of several years, Cassini embezzled funds in numerous ways, including making approximately 163 online payments to her personal credit cards from the company bank account; by making approximately six online payments for her BMW from the company bank account; by issuing herself additional compensation through the payroll system approximately 98 times; by skimming cash hundreds of times; by writing checks to herself and to cash on company checks and by making cash withdrawals from the company bank account. Cassini concealed the theft by making false accounting entries into the company’s accounting system and by preparing false financial statements. The United States Attorney’s Office submitted to the Court that the loss to the victim was approximately $700,000. Cassini also pleaded guilty to filing false income tax returns for three of the years in which she embezzled funds.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Nov. 20, 2014, at 10 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 89 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted Cassini to remain on bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal

Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Deborah Cassini.

PITTSBURGH – Phillip Lacher, a resident of Beaver County, was convicted of conspiring to distribute a mixture of methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, sometimes referred to as “molly”, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Lacher, 26, pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on Dec. 18, 2014, at 10:30 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Lacher agreed with his supplier to distribute the mixture of methamphetamine and molly at various concerts or music festivals in the Pittsburgh area.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – A North Carolina woman has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months of probation, including six months of home detention with electronic monitoring and payment of restitution, on her conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Yorleidy Naranjo, 20, of Matthews, North Carolina.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Feb. 20, 2013 and March 5, 2013, Naranjo conspired with others both known and unknown to pass, or attempted to pass counterfeit currency in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Naranjo.

PITTSBURGH - After deliberating approximately three hours, a federal jury of five men and seven women found David Cunningham guilty of three counts of receipt, distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Cunningham, 42, of Eighty Four, Pa., was tried before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon in Pittsburgh.

According to Assistant United States Attorneys Soo C. Song and Jessica Lieber Smolar, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Cunningham knowingly received, distributed and possessed material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Nov. 12, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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 - Two Romanians residing in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been sentenced in federal court to time-served on their conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Florin Popescu, 31, and Ion Carligeriu, 30, both Romanian Nationals, who have been in custody since approximately Oct. 15, 2013, following their arrest. Both defendants will be immediately deported to Romania by Immigration and Customs Enforcement Operations.

According to the information presented to the court, the defendants conspired to produce ATM skimming equipment which they installed on APC kiosks at Postal Centers on McKnight Road and in Squirrel Hill, which were designed to steal customers’ bank account information.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of these defendants.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in prison and three years supervised release on her conviction of distribution of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Desalynn L. Coleman, 33.

According to information presented to the court, on Oct. 30, 2012, Coleman distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Coleman.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Saxton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 35 months in prison, three years supervised release and ordered to pay $6,399 in restitution on his conviction of interstate transportation of stolen firearms, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Joshua M. Faircloth, 27.

According to information presented to the court, on Jan. 28, 2013, Faircloth aided in transporting 31 firearms stolen from Saxton Outdoor Supply, Inc., from Pennsylvania to Maryland.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police-Bedford Barracks for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Faircloth.

According to Mr. Hickton, Faircloth 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.

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

The 11-count indictment, returned on July 29, named Steven J Lynch, 59, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, between 2004-2011, Lynch impeded collection of payroll taxes under the Internal Revenue Code in connection with the operation of the IceoPlex at Southpointe, located in Canonsburg, Washington County. The indictment alleges that payroll taxes were underpaid by various business entities controlled by Lynch in the total amount of approximately $1 million during the years 2008-2010.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 53 years in prison, a fine of $2,750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney James Y. Garrett is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Special Agent Paul Bauer 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 Georgia resident has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months incarceration and three years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to make and utter counterfeit securities, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Brandon Roseberry, 24, of Snellville.

According to the information presented to the court, Roseberry conspired with others to recruit persons to negotiate counterfeit checks at banks in Western Pennsylvania in October 2011, causing losses of nearly $130,000 to local banks.

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), conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Roseberry. The WPFCTF was established as a collaborative, multi agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Grove City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft concerning a program receiving federal funds, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Cecelia H. Yauger, age 56, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2012, to in and around December 2012, Yauger, being an agent of the Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV (“IU4”), did knowingly steal property worth at least $5,000, which was owned by and under the custody and control of IU4.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Nov. 14, 2014 at 3 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Department of Education, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cecelia H. Yauger.

PITTSBURGH – An Ambridge resident was indicted on July 29, 2014, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Elionardo Juarez-Escobar, 41, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Juarez-Escobar, having previously been deported from the United States pursuant to law on Dec. 5, 2005, was present in the Western District of Pennsylvania on April 17, 2014, without having applied for and received permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for re-application for admission into the United States.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations and the New Sewickley Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A Ross Township man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Michael C. Trembulak, 41, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Trembulak, while serving as the President of the Utility Workers Union of America AFL-CIO Local 475, embezzled approximately $31,528.65 from the union by making unauthorized debit card cash withdrawals, charges and purchases, and unauthorized teller cash withdrawals, from the union’s checking account during the period from April 19, 2012, to Sept. 19, 2012.

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

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

The Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Terrious Harper, of Pittsburgh, Pa., was sentenced to 84 months in prison for conspiring to distribute over 100 grams of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Harper, 30, was sentenced in Pittsburgh by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer also imposed a four-year term of supervised release to follow the prison sentence.

At the time Harper was conspiring to distribute heroin, he was on federal supervised release following a prior prison sentence for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Fischer ordered that the prison sentence run consecutively to the 24-month prison sentence Harper received for violating the terms of his federal supervised release.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration in Pittsburgh and New York, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, the Wilkins Township Police Department, the East Pittsburgh Police Department, the New York Police Department, the Blair County District Attorney's Office, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

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

Kenneth Irving Carter, 34, of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from the spring of 2011 to May 15, 2012, Carter, along with 14 co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin. In addition to his plea of guilty to the heroin trafficking charge, Carter also accepted responsibility for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute approximately 8,000 Opana pills.

Carter, as the leader of this multi-member drug trafficking organization, orchestrated and directed the movement of the heroin from Detroit to locations in Johnstown and Blairsville for ultimate sale by various members of his drug trafficking network. In addition to his leadership role in his drug organization, Carter employed threats of violence and the actual use of violence in managing his subordinate co-defendants.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Jan. 15, 2015, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison and a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Indiana Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Carter. Other agencies participating in this investigation included the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, the Cambria County Drug Task Force, the Cambria County Sheriff's Department, the Cambria County District Attorney's Office, the Indiana County Drug Task Force, and the Indiana County District Attorney's Office.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Kensington, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 97 months incarceration and 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating child exploitation laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Mark Salego, 54, of New Kensington, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, in early 2013, Salego possessed and distributed material depicting the sexual exploitation minors.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Texas resident has been sentenced in federal court to 135 months incarceration and five years supervised release on his conviction of violating the federal drug laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Dominique Jackson, 27, formerly of Denton, Texas, and currently incarcerated.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around July 2010 and continuing until Oct. 7, 2010, Jackson conspired with other individuals to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston 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 McKeesport Police Department, the Clairton Police Department, the Allegheny County Housing Authority Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Munhall Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dominique Jackson.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of smuggling goods from the United States, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Tarek Mohamed Chok pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 18, 2012, Chok shipped a Springfield, Model 1911, .45 caliber pistol via FedEx from Pittsburgh, Pa., to Lebanon. The package containing the firearm was intercepted in Dubai. On the shipping declaration, Chok declared the contents of the package to be a “car lock, keys, and student documents.” When approached by agents of the Department of Homeland Security about his shipment, Chok initially lied and stated that the firearm in question, which records indicate was purchased by him, was “stolen” from him. Eventually, Chok admitted that he had, in fact, sent the firearm via FedEx, that he had lied to agents about it, and he misrepresented the contents of the package because he believed that if he had listed the true contents of the package, FedEx would not have sent the package.

Judge Cohill scheduled sentencing for Oct. 28, 2014, at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Chok on bond.

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

The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Chok.

PITTSBURGH – Ralph Currington, a 43-year-old former state prison guard in Pittsburgh, was convicted at the conclusion of a federal jury trial for making false statements and representations to United States Marshals Service deputies who were trying to locate a fugitive who was wanted for heroin trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

On Sept. 23, 2013, Currington was interviewed by Deputy United States Marshals who were attempting to locate a fugitive for whom there was an outstanding federal arrest warrant for heroin trafficking. During the interview, Currington made false statements and representations regarding the last contact he had with the fugitive, the last time he saw the fugitive, and his knowledge of the location of the fugitive. It is unlawful to make such false statements to a federal law enforcement officer. As was explained by testimony during the trial, Currington’s false statements could have significantly misdirected the investigation into the location of the fugitive. Currington was a state prison guard at the time the false statements were made.

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

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

The United States Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the convictions in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A Georgia woman pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Monica Mason, 49, of Lilburn, Ga., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, Mason was involved in a Nigerian “Mystery Shopper” scam whereby her coconspirator Shawn Foote knowingly prepared and addressed fraudulent mail containing counterfeit instruments to victims, who believed they were acting as mystery shoppers. The victims unwittingly received the counterfeit commercial and Postal money orders and checks and cashed them to make small purchases for purposes of evaluating the commercial services provided. They then wire transferred excess funds back to Mason, Foote, and others. After these transactions, the money orders and checks were returned as counterfeit by the victims’ banks and they were left to repay the bank from their own funds.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Nov. 6, 2014 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Monica Mason.

PITTSBURGH – American International Biotechnology, LLC (“AIB”) has agreed to pay the United States $343,739.45 to settle False Claims Act allegations, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The settlement resolves allegations that AIB violated the False Claims Act by obtaining improper referrals for genetic tests billed to the Medicare program. The United States alleged that AIB, acting through a contract sales agent, falsely marketed its genetic tests to a Pennsylvania medical practice as part of a free clinical research study for which patients and insurers would not be billed, and later billed those tests to Medicare. The United States further alleged that AIB’s contract sales agent offered payments to an employee of the Pennsylvania medical practice in exchange for referrals of genetic tests, in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute, a law that prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and other federally funded programs. The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.

The settlement also resolves a civil lawsuit filed against AIB under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act. The lawsuit is captioned U.S. ex rel. Greentree Medical Center, PC v. American International Biotechnology, LLC et al., Civil Action No. 13-597 (W.D. Pa.).

This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Assistant United States Attorney David Lew handled this matter on behalf of the United States.

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

Brandon L. Johnson, 32, 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 November 2011, Johnson conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin.

Judge Hornak sentencing for Nov. 13, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH – A Beaver County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months imprisonment on his conviction for committing bank robbery, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Robert Cole, Sr., 45, of Aliquippa, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on or about June 12, 2013, Cole robbed the Huntington National Bank located at 700 Merchant Street in Ambridge, Pa. Cole entered the bank, stated to the bank teller that he had a gun and was not afraid to use it, and escaped with $1,425.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office and the Ambridge Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cole.

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named German Cardenas-Leon, 42, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, German Cardenas-Leon, a/k/a Eduardo Hurieta, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on July 1, 2013. German Cardenas-Leon was found by ICE agents to be illegally present in Pittsburgh on June 26, 2014.

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 Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A New Jersey man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to distribute heroin, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession with the intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count superseding indictment named Peter Woodley, 34, formerly of Plainfield, New Jersey.

According to the superseding indictment, Woodley conspired with others to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin between December 2011 and August 2012. The Superseding Indictment also alleges that Woodley possessed a firearm on Sept. 17, 2012, after having been convicted of seven different felony crimes. In addition, in the early morning hours of March 20, 2013, he was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police at the Greyhound bus station in downtown Pittsburgh after transporting heroin from New Jersey.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $11 million, 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 Brendan Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Pittsburgh Division and the Crafton Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the unknown male responsible for robbing the Dollar Bank, Crafton Office, located at 45 Walsh Road, Pittsburgh (Crafton), Pennsylvania, 15205, on Monday, July 14, 2014, at approximately 3:45 p.m.

The robber is described as follows:

• Sex: Male
• Race: Black
• Height: Approximately 5’6” to 6’ tall
• Build: Medium build

Bank surveillance photograph from the Dollar Bank, Crafton Office, 45 Walsh Road, Pittsburgh
(Crafton), Pennsylvania, taken on Monday, July 14, 2014:

Anyone with information regarding this robbery should contact the FBI at telephone number (412) 432-4000. To view other photographs of bank robbers law enforcement is seeking to identify please visit https://bankrobbers.fbi.gov.

PITTSBURGH – Marcus Battles, a resident of McKees Rocks, Pa., was sentenced to 20 months in prison for conspiring to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Battles, 27, was sentenced by United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone also imposed a six-year term of supervised release to follow the prison sentence.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on Thursday, July 10, 2014, to 180 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release on her conviction of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Tamika Somerville, 34.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 12, 2012, Somerville, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Glock, Model 27, .40 caliber pistol loaded with twelve rounds of ammunition. Attached to the pistol was a laser sight. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm. Somerville is a convicted felon as a result of six previous felony drug trafficking convictions from the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County. Somerville was also found in possession of 150 stamp bags of heroin which she possessed with the intent to distribute.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Somerville. This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH – Luis Colon, a resident of Brooklyn, New York, was convicted of conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Colon, 30, pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on Nov. 13, 2014, at 10:30 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Colon would make occasional heroin trafficking trips to Pittsburgh as well as to other locations in the mid-Atlantic region. He was the source of supply for hundreds of grams of heroin for drug traffickers in the Pittsburgh area and elsewhere. Colon was arrested in Richmond, Va., in October 2013, following his indictment in the Western District of Pennsylvania. At the time of his arrest in Richmond, Colon admitted that he had traveled there to collect $5,000.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – Dustin Petry, an Allegheny County resident, was convicted of conspiring to distribute heroin and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Petry, 27, pled guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing to occur on Nov. 13, 2014, at 11 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Petry would receive heroin from his source of supply, he would distribute it to his customers, and he would then pay his source of supply back for the heroin and wait to be supplied with more. Between July 2013 and October 2013, Petry possessed a pistol in furtherance of the heroin trafficking conspiracy. Petry possessed the pistol to, among other things, protect his person, his proceeds, and his heroin from robbery.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Moon Township Police Department, the North Fayette Police Department, the Pittsburgh Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Cranberry Township Police Department, the McKeesport Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Terry Robert Cousins, Jr., 34, of Natrona Heights, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in and around January of 2012, Cousins knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Nov. 7, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cousins.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Allen William Turner, 46, of East Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from September 2013 to December 2013, Turner conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Nov. 14, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each count, of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000, 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 Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Wilkinsburg resident has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years and 7 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence yesterday on Alfred Collier, 34.

According to information presented to the Court, on June 27, 2013, Collier possessed a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Further, Collier admitted that he possessed that firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Diamond accepted the Rule 11 sentence negotiated by the two parties, but stated that given Mr. Collier’s significant criminal history, the sentence negotiated by the Government and the defense was “borderline,” meaning that it was on the low-end of what the Court considered reasonable.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Probation, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Collier.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment, with three years of supervised release to follow, on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Daniel J. Isabella, Jr., 30.

According to information presented to the court, from January through September of 2012, Isabella advertised online the sale of tickets to entertainment events. Although Isabella had no tickets to these events, potential purchasers were instructed to send money for the advertised tickets. Isabella defrauded over 250 potential ticket purchasers of over $70,000.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai 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 Isabella.

PITTSBURGH – A Tennessee woman has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Pope, 49, of Loudon, TN, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

According to the information presented to the court, Pope was in business to assist trucking companies with compliance and testing of their commercial truck drivers pursuant to the Drug and Alcohol Testing Program of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The program includes pre-employment and random testing, testing for cause and post-accident testing. The Pittsburgh-based victim is InTransit, LLC, an administrative and service company for several national transport companies. InTransit used Pope d/b/a Eastgate Laboratory Testing as a third party administrator to handle the DOT drug and alcohol testing for them. DOT regulations require that a percentage of negative tests and all positive drug or alcohol tests must be reviewed by a licensed doctor, known under the DOT regulations as a Medical Review Officer (MRO), to oversee the program and determine if there were any innocent reasons why a test was positive. On all FMCSA and DOT required paperwork Pope, without authority or permission, used a computer generated signature of a doctor who had previously worked for her as an MRO for a short time predating the charges in the indictment to create the impression that he had done the necessary oversight and reviews when he had not. The fraud came to light when a commercial truck driver with 18 years of experience tried to contact the MRO after his pre-employment drug test reported as “diluted” for three consecutive tests. When he was unable to get the contact information from Pope for the MRO, he searched for the MRO on the internet. The MRO in turn contacted InTransit to report the unauthorized use of his name. InTransit conducted an internal investigation and referred the matter to the Inspector General for the Department of Transportation. Pope billed InTransit as though her company had actually performed the all required services, causing InTransit to send her checks totaling approximately $109,000.

Judge Ambrose scheduled the sentencing for Nov. 4, 2014. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Transportation-OIG conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Elizabeth Pope.

PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of receipt and possession of materials depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mark Beres, 54, formerly of Slippery Rock, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 1, 2008, Beres knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct by computer and the United States Mail. In addition, the indictment charges that on or about April 23, 2013, Beres knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 31, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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 – An Allegheny County man pled guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Daniel Lewis Dolde, 44, of Coraopolis, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 10, 2012, Dolde possessed visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dolde.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession of ammunition by an illegal alien and use of a false social security number, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Guillermo Manuel Justo, a/k/a Rolando Velez Latorre, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 28, 2014, the defendant, an illegal alien, unlawfully possessed 81 rounds of .40 caliber Smith and Wesson ammunition and a social security card which falsely identified him as Rolando Velez Latorre.

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 Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Mercer County resident pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ralph Samuels, Jr., 50, of Farrell, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in the early morning hours of Oct. 3, 2012, Samuels, who has a prior felony conviction in Ohio, engaged in a gunfight with Daniel Odem, Jr. Both Odem and Samuels fired shots at each other, and both were wounded in the shootout. The shootout stemmed from a bar fight earlier that evening between Deandre Chambers and Corey Odem at Rockabilly’s Bar.

Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Oct. 10, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Eric S. Rosen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Southwest Mercer County Regional police, and the Mercer County District Attorney conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ralph Samuels.

PITTSBURGH – An Etna resident pleaded guilty on July 3, 2014, in federal court to charges of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

David L. Roethlein, 26, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Roethlein, on June 1, 2012, distributed over a peer-to-peer network to an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New Haven, Connecticut, working in an undercover capacity, videos and photographs in computer graphics files which depicted the sexual exploitation of prepubescent minor females.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 17, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years nor more than 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.

Pending sentencing, the court detained Roethlein.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Roethlein.

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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months in prison and ordered to pay $5,000.70 in restitution on his conviction of robbery of a person in possession of property of the United States, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Elijah Devon Sherrod, 19.

According to information presented to the court, on or about July 16, 2013, the defendant, along with a co-defendant, displayed a handgun, threatened, and robbed an individual of money and property that was under the control of the United States.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone commented on the seriousness of the offense and determined that Sherrod and his co-defendant who planned the robbery, Latisha Marie Palochak, were equally culpable for the crime.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sherrod.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months in jail and 6 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Joshua Michael Falk, 22.

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

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

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

Launched in February 2006, Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.