Western District of Pennsylvania

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

The four-count indictment, returned on Jan. 8, named George Orbin, 58, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Dec. 10, 2011, June 10, 2013, and June 11, 2013, Orbin employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the sexual exploitation of the minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about Sept. 10, 2013, Orbin knowingly possessed videos and images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 100 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar 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 leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of New Castle, Pa., were sentenced in federal court today. Christopher Klingensmith was sentenced to 17 and ½ years incarceration and James Cracraft was sentenced to 37 months incarceration, to be followed by 3 years supervised release, on their convictions of violating the narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentences on Christopher Klingensmith, 39, and James Cracraft, 39.

According to information presented to the court, between September 2008 and June 2011, a drug ring operated in the New Castle area, selling highly-addictive narcotic pills containing oxycodone on the street to drug users. Larry Dorsey, a former New Castle resident who was living in Florida during the conspiracy, was the supplier for Klingensmith and Cracraft and others charged in this indictment. Klingensmith was the leader of the drug organization in New Castle, and Cracraft was a distributor. Eleven individuals were charged in the drug conspiracy, and all have pleaded guilty. Four of the co-conspirators were relatives of Christopher Klingensmith, including his father, a brother, and a sister.

Nearly 50,000 oxycodone pills were sold during the conspiracy. The evidence showed that the oxycodone purchased for $9 a pill in Florida was being resold in New Castle for up to $25 a pill.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory J. Nescott prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Christopher Klingensmith and James Cracraft.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Clarion, Pa., was sentenced today in federal court to one year and a day, and ordered to pay $215,033.00 in restitution, on her conviction of criminal conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Court Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed sentence upon Pearl Pastilock, 50.

According to information presented to the court, Pastilock worked as a fraudulent reference for the business, American Vending Systems, Inc. (AVS). AVS sold energy candy vending machine business opportunities. Potential purchasers were told that, for a minimum purchase price of approximately $10,000, they would receive candy vending machines, an initial supply of candy, and assistance in running their business opportunity. In reality, the business opportunity was not lucrative for purchasers. Pastilock made and received interstate phone calls wherein she told potential purchasers that she successfully operated an AVS business and made substantial income, when in fact she did not operate the business at all and was being paid to defraud potential purchasers.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton and Trial Attorney Patrick R. Runkle, Consumer Protection Branch, Department of Justice, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Inspectors of the United States Postal Inspection Service, who conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Pastilock.

PITTSBURGH – Fourteen people from Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for violating federal narcotics trafficking and firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The eight-count superseding indictment, returned on Jan. 8, charges Neil Thomas, 29, Marcus Battles, 27, Luis Colon, 30, Gabriel Garcia, 25, Christopher Greene, 30, Stephanie Goehring, 27, Ryan Hutchinson, 28, William Krszal, 23, Phillip Lacher, 26, Colin Mitchell, 28, Dustin Petry, 26, Kailen Young, 28, David Wallace, 32, and Marc Perkins, 33, as the defendants.

According to the superseding indictment, between January 2013 and October 2013, the defendants (except for Krszal, Lacher, Wallace, and Perkins) conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; Garcia, Petry, and Thomas possessed firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and distributed heroin or possessed heroin with intent to distribute it; and Thomas, Greene, Krszal, Lacher, Wallace, and Perkins conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (also known as MDMA or “molly”) and methamphetamine. The indictment seeks forfeiture of the proceeds of the crimes as well as property acquired with the proceeds and property used to commit the crimes.

The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years to up to life in prison as well as mandatory minimum sentences starting at five years in prison. Fines ranging from $1,000,000 to up to $10,000,000 may also be imposed. 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 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.

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

PITTSBURGH – An Illinois resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of mail fraud, distribution of human growth hormone and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ronald J. DeFranco, 54, pleaded guilty to 3 counts before United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, DeFranco maintained a web-site for the illegal distribution of peptides - chemical compounds which require a prescription for dispensation, but which are illegitimately sought by body builders for muscle enhancement. DeFranco deceived the Internet service provider and the FDA by falsely representing on the web-site that he was selling these substances "for research purposes only . . . not for human consumption." In addition to sales of peptides, DeFranco also sold human growth hormone (HGH) without the required physician's prescriptions. During the period from May 2010, until January 2011, DeFranco paid $94,777.40 in Western Union and bank wire transfers to acquire these substances from suppliers in the People’s Republic of China.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for 10 a.m. on May 13, 2014. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 on the mail fraud count; 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the HGH distribution count; and 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 on the money laundering count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court modified defendant’s bond to include home detention with electronic monitoring.

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

The prosecution arose from the combined efforts of agents with the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, IRS - Criminal Investigation and the DEA.

WASHINGTON – Alcoa World Alumina LLC, a majority-owned and controlled global alumina sales company of Alcoa Inc., has agreed to plead guilty later today and pay $223 million in criminal fines and forfeiture to resolve charges that it paid millions of dollars in bribes through an international middleman in London to officials of the Kingdom of Bahrain, in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).

Acting Assistant Attorney General Mythili Raman of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania, Chief Richard Weber of IRS—Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), and Assistant Director in Charge Valerie Parlave of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement.

“Alcoa World Alumina today admits to its involvement in a corrupt international underworld in which a middleman, secretly held offshore bank accounts, and shell companies were used to funnel bribes to government officials in order to secure business,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Raman.   “The law does not permit companies to avoid responsibility for foreign corruption by outsourcing bribery to their agents, and, as today’s prosecution demonstrates, neither will the Department of Justice.”

“Today’s case shows that multinational corporations cannot get away with using middlemen to structure sham business arrangements that funnel kickbacks to government officials,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton.

Alcoa World Alumina has agreed to plead guilty in the Western District of Pennsylvania to one count of violating the anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA in connection with a 2004 corrupt transaction, to pay a criminal fine of $209 million, and to administratively forfeit $14 million.  As part of the plea agreement, Alcoa Inc. (Alcoa) has agreed to maintain and implement an enhanced global anti-corruption compliance program.

In a parallel action, Alcoa settled with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and will pay an additional $161 million in disgorgement, bringing the total amount of U.S. criminal and regulatory penalties to be paid by Alcoa and Alcoa World Alumina to $384 million.

“This case is the result of unraveling complex financial transactions used by Alcoa World Alumina LLC’s agent to facilitate kickbacks to foreign government officials,” said Chief Richard Weber of IRS-CI.  “IRS-CI will not be deterred by the use of sophisticated international financial transactions as we continue our ongoing efforts to pursue corporations and executives who use hidden offshore assets and shell companies to circumvent the law.”

“Corrupt kickback payments to foreign government officials to obtain business diminish public confidence in global commerce,” said Assistant Director in Charge Parlave.  “There is no place for bribery in any business model or corporate culture.  Today’s plea demonstrates the FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to curbing corruption and will pursue all those who try to advance their businesses through bribery.”

Today’s court filings allege that Alcoa of Australia, another Alcoa-controlled entity, originally secured a long-term alumina supply agreement with Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), an aluminium smelter controlled by the government of Bahrain.  At the request of certain members of Bahrain’s Royal Family who controlled the tender process, Alcoa of Australia inserted a London-based middleman with close ties to certain Royal Family members as a sham sales agent and agreed to pay him a corrupt commission intended to conceal bribe payments, according to court papers.  Over time, Alcoa of Australia expanded the relationship with the middleman, identified as Consultant A in today’s court filings, to begin invoicing increasingly larger volumes of alumina sales through his shell companies, which permitted Consultant A to make larger bribe payments to certain government officials, according to today’s filings.  

As admitted in the charging documents, in 2004, Alcoa World Alumina corruptly secured a long-term alumina supply agreement with Alba by agreeing to purportedly sell over 1.5 million metric tons of alumina to Alba through offshore shell companies owned by Consultant A.  The sham distributorship permitted Consultant A to mark up the price of alumina by approximately $188 million from 2005 to 2009, the duration of the corrupt supply agreement.  Court filings allege that Consultant A used the mark-up to pay tens of millions in corrupt kickbacks to Bahraini government officials, including senior members of Bahrain’s Royal Family.  To conceal the illicit payments, Consultant A and the government officials used various offshore bank accounts, including accounts held under aliases, at several major financial institutions around the world, including in Guernsey, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.   

In addition to the monetary penalty, Alcoa and Alcoa World Alumina agreed to cooperate with the department in its continuing investigation of individuals and institutions involved in these matters.

The plea agreement and related court filings acknowledge Alcoa’s current financial condition as a factor relevant to the size of the criminal fine, as well as Alcoa’s and Alcoa World Alumina’s extensive cooperation with the department, including conducting an extensive internal investigation, making proffers to the government, voluntarily making current and former employees available for interviews, and providing relevant documents to the department.  Court filings also acknowledge subsequent anti-corruption remedial efforts undertaken by Alcoa. 

The department acknowledges and expresses its appreciation for the cooperation and assistance of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland, the Guernsey Financial Intelligence Service and Guernsey Police, the Australian Federal Police, the U.K.’s Serious Fraud Office, and other law enforcement authorities in the department’s investigation of this matter.  The department also acknowledges and expresses its appreciation for the significant assistance provided by the SEC’s Division of Enforcement. 

The investigation is being conducted by Special Agents and analysts with the IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Washington Field Office and the FBI’s Washington Field Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Chief Adam G. Safwat and Trial Attorneys Andrew Gentin, Allan J. Medina and Andrew H. Warren of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.  The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance during this investigation. 

Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.

PITTSBURGH – A Braddock woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of mail and destruction of letter/mail boxes, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 33-count indictment named Carolyne Korotko, aka Carolyne Elizabeth Golosky, 40, of Braddock, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from March 2013, through December 2013, Korotko forcibly opened multiple mail boxes and stole the mail from victims in the Shadyside and Southside sections of Pittsburgh.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 133 years in prison, a fine of $8,250,000, 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today that a Pittsburgh resident, Darnell Edge, 38, was sentenced today in connection with his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.

According to the evidence presented to the court at the time Edge entered a guilty plea on Sept. 10, 2012, Edge was responsible for receiving multi-kilo loads of cocaine on a monthly basis, which he in turn sold to a regular group of customers in whole kilogram amounts. He acknowledged his responsibility for conspiring to distribute up to 150 kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Maurice B. Cohill sentenced Edge to 96 months in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. Judge Cohill also ordered the forfeiture of more than $400,000 in cash, two handguns, a 2008 Infiniti M45 and a 2010 GMC Yukon.

Darnell Edge was one of 14 defendants charged in connection with a cocaine distribution group that was operating out of the eastern suburbs of Allegheny County. All 14 defendants have pleaded guilty.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by state and local law enforcement agencies, conducted the investigation which led to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today that a Pittsburgh resident, Marcus Edge, 26, was sentenced today in connection with his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.

According to the evidence presented to the court at the time Edge entered a guilty plea on Aug. 19, 2013, Edge was responsible for receiving and distributing cocaine which he purchased from his cousin, Darnell Edge, in whole kilogram amounts on a monthly basis. As a part of his plea he acknowledged his responsibility for conspiring to distribute up to five kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Maurice B. Cohill sentenced Marcus Edge to 48 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release.

Marcus Edge was one of 14 defendants charged in connection with a cocaine distribution group that was operating out of the eastern suburbs of Allegheny County. All 14 defendants have pled guilty.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by state and local law enforcement agencies, conducted the investigation which led to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to federal drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Brady Hall, 19, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Specifically, Hall pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more heroin, possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and employment of juveniles to distribute heroin. In total, Hall agreed to accept responsibility for between 700 and 1,000 grams of heroin.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from May 2012 to February 2013, Hall conspired together with his charged co-defendants, Jay Germany, Jaquan Washington, and others, to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute, heroin. In addition, Hall conspired with uncharged co-conspirator Andre Corbett and his associates to distribute heroin. Germany and Washington have both pled not guilty, while Corbett has pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The Court learned that during the timeframe of the heroin trafficking conspiracy, Germany was the leader of the conspiracy, in that he operated the "customer phone," whereby retail heroin customers would call Germany to arrange a heroin transaction. Once the transaction had been finalized, Germany, in turn, called either Washington or Hall to deliver the heroin to the customer. Hall operated a heroin "stash house," located in Homestead. From that stash house, Hall used runners, including juvenile runners, to deliver heroin to customers.

Finally, Count Five of the Superseding Indictment related to a heroin transaction that took place at the Giant Eagle on the Waterfront in Homestead. On Oct. 30, 2012, a heroin customer arranged to purchase 100 stamp bags of heroin from Germany at the Giant Eagle. Germany drove Hall to complete the deal at Giant Eagle. Hall met the customer in the Giant Eagle bathroom. In the bathroom, Hall provided the customer with the 100 stamp bags of heroin. Law enforcement, who had been intercepting the telephone conversations of Germany, monitored this transaction, and later conducted a traffic stop of the customer as he drove away. Law enforcement recovered the purchased heroin from the customer.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2014, at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 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 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, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brady Hall.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Homestead, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to federal drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jordan Murphy, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In total, Murphy agreed to accept responsibility for between 700 and 1,000 grams of heroin.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from May 2012 to February 2013, Murphy conspired together with his charged co-defendants Andre Corbett, Sterling Marshall, and others, to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute, heroin. Those named co-defendants have previously pleaded guilty.

Specifically, the Court learned that during the timeframe of the heroin trafficking conspiracy, Murphy was incarcerated on state charges at Allegheny County Jail and SCI-Camp Hill. However, Murphy still participated and coordinated heroin sales from those facilities. Specifically, Murphy, in recorded "jail calls," had Corbett and Marshall sell heroin through uncharged co-conspirator Brady Hall, who used "runners" to deliver this heroin to heroin customers in Homestead. This conspiracy was primarily supplied heroin by uncharged co-conspirator Brandon Thompson, amongst others. Murphy set pricing and coordinated drug payments over the telephone. Thompson has pleaded not guilty in a related indictment.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 24, 2014, at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 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 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, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jordan Murphy.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Newark, New York pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of providing contraband in a federal prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mirelis Lopez, 32, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 3, 2013, Lopez provided a quantity of marijuana to an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 28, 2014. The law provides for a total sentence of 5 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lopez.

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 2 months in jail on his conviction for escape after conviction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Locksley Brian Millwood, 37. The sentence was imposed to run consecutively to the sentence Millwood is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, on August 21, 2013, Millwood escaped from the McKean Federal Prison Camp. He was returned to the prison within a few hours after his escape, when he was found in a vehicle that was stopped for speeding by the Bradford Township Police Department.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution and the Bradford Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Millwood.

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 4 months in jail on his conviction for possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Pedro Kline, 25. The sentence was imposed to run consecutively to the sentence Kline is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about May 11, 2013 to on or about May 13, 2013, Kline was in possession of contraband, namely, marijuana.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kline.

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 3 months in jail on his conviction for possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ameet Kotak, 27. The sentence was imposed to run consecutively to the sentence Kotak is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, on or about June 28, 2013, Kotak was in possession of contraband, namely, a cell phone.

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

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 3 months in jail on his conviction for possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jason Cruz, 36. The sentence was imposed to run consecutively to the sentence Cruz is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, on February 3, 2013, a visitor provided a quantity of marijuana to Jason Cruz, an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cruz.

PITTSBURGH - A Fox Chapel woman was sentenced in federal court to two years’ probation on her conviction of smuggling and unlawfully importing prescription drugs, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentenced on Robin W. Simon, 45. She was also required to pay $600,000 to the United States government. The amount represents the profits from the resale of the unlawfully imported prescription drugs. Simon paid that amount prior to sentencing.

According to information presented in court, in July of 2007 Simon unlawfully imported the anti-cancer prescription drug known as "Xeloda" from Lisbon, Portugal. Simon had purchased the Xeloda from United Drug Wholesalers, which is based in Ireland, and directed United Drug to send those drugs to her in Portugal. In September of 2008, Simon unlawfully imported Xeloda from Heathrow Healthcare, Limited, which is based in Hounslow, Great Britain. The Xeloda tablets which Simon unlawfully imported from Portugal and Great Britain had been manufactured by Roche Laboratories in New Jersey. Simon then caused those medications to be dispensed to persons who presented prescriptions for Xeloda to the Stanton-Negley Pharmacy, which is located on North Negley Avenue in Pittsburgh.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.D. Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service for conducting the investigation that led to the prosecution of Simon.

PITTSBURGH - On Dec. 17, 2013, a former resident of Venetia, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud and filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The seven-count indictment, unsealed today, named Deborah Cassini, 61, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, 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 online payments to her personal credit cards from the company bank account; by making online payments for her BMW from the company bank account; by issuing herself additional compensation through the payroll system; by skimming cash; 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. The indictment further charges that she submitted false income tax returns for the years in which the embezzlement occurred.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 89 years in prison, a fine of $1,750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Carrolltown, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Matthew C. Bopp, 52.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2008 to May 9, 2011, Bopp conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute quantities of oxycodone and methadone. Evidence presented to the court at the time of Bopp's sentencing reflected that Bopp conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others in order to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.

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

A joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bopp. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and Paint Township Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – A Turtle Creek man was indicted on Dec. 10, 2013 by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of failing to register as a convicted sex offender, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Kevin McCree, 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, McCree was required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act after having been convicted in 2007 in Utah of the felony sex offenses of Enticing a Minor over the Internet and Dealing in Material Harmful to a Minor. The indictment states that between in and around March 2013, and Dec. 10, 2013, McCree traveled in interstate commerce and knowingly failed to register and update a registration, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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

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

The United States 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 resident of New Stanton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to eight months of home confinement and two years of probation on his conviction for aiding and abetting the making of false statements concerning matters within the jurisdiction of the Executive Branch of the United States, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Sergey Ozhiganov, 26.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Oct. 29, 2011, Ozhiganov aided and abetted the making of a false statement in connection with the "straw purchase" of a firearm from the Cloverleaf Gun and Sport Shop in Latrobe, Pa.

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 and the Greensburg Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sergey Ozhiganov.

PITTSBURGH - A New Kensington man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal armed bank robbery and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mario Lanair Robinson, a/k/a Donovan Noris, 24, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Oct. 17, 2012, Robinson committed an armed robbery of the Fidelity Bank located at 1009 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, Pa., and during that crime of violence, a Ruger firearm was used, carried, and brandished.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 17, 2014, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than seven years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Ross Township Police Department, West View Police Department, North Regional Police Department and Ohio Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mario Lanair Robinson.

PITTSBURGH - Felix Cruz was sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Cruz, 50, formerly of Houston, Pa., was sentenced by United States District Judge Gustave Diamond to serve 46 months in prison followed by three years supervised release for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm on Nov. 8, 2011. Cruz unlawfully possessed a pistol, two semi-automatic rifles with high-capacity magazines, another rifle, and a shotgun, along with 1,290 rounds of ammunition, at his place of employment in Washington County. By 2011, Cruz was prohibited from lawfully purchasing or possessing any firearms as a result of a prior felony conviction in New York for criminal possession of a loaded firearm. Some of the firearms Cruz possessed were unlawfully “straw purchased” for him by other people who could pass a background check. The straw purchasers have been prosecuted for doing so.

In addition to unlawfully possessing the firearms and ammunition at his place of employment, Cruz possessed several vials of synthetic drugs containing AM-2201, which has been designated as a Schedule I controlled substance as a result of its harmful health effects and the toll it has taken on many users, particularly adolescents and teenagers. Cruz was distributing the drugs, sometimes referred to as “K2” or “spice”, from his place of employment in addition to storing his firearms there.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated this case. 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.

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

James A. Volpe, 55, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Volpe distributed an imprint die on Aug. 20, 2012, which would facilitate the production of counterfeit Viagra tablets. In addition, on Nov. 1, 2012, Volpe possessed with the intent to distribute in excess of 50 marijuana plants and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and he also possessed a German Sports Gun pistol. He had been convicted in 2009 in United States District Court of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms. Unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is such a crime.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 29, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 58 years in prison, a fine of $5,510,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Volpe.

According to Mr. Hickton, Volpe is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH - An individual found in Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Milton Garcia-Lopez, 25, formerly from Guatemala.

According to the information presented to the court, Garcia-Lopez, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 12, 2007. Milton Garcia-Lopez was found on May 27, 2013, subsequent to his arrest in Pittsburgh, Pa.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Milton Garcia-Lopez.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Elmora, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Lori A. Weaver, 43.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2008 to May 9, 2011, Weaver conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute quantities of oxycodone and methadone. Evidence presented to the court at the time of Weaver's sentencing reflected that Weaver conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others in order to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.

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

A joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Weaver. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and Paint Township Police Department.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Charles Appel, 71, 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 Appel received by United States mail, on or about Feb. 21, 2011, a video which depicted the sexual exploitation of minor boys from a Canadian video production company known as “Azov”, which previously operated a website offering DVD’s and streaming videos depicting children being sexually exploited. Appel ordered and received the video, titled “Boy Fights XIX: Triple Threat (2009)”, in both electronic and DVD format for $29.95 on Feb. 21, 2011, which he paid for with a credit card. During the period May 15, 2009 through March 13, 2011, Appel ordered videos from Azov on 29 occasions for a total cost of $1,864.54.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 28, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years nor more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued defendant’s bond with the added condition that he register as a sex offender.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, PA. - Two brothers who owned a major defense contracting firm have been sentenced in federal court on charges of major fraud against the government and conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. U.S. District Judge Kim Gibson sentenced William Kuchera, 58, of Summerhill, Pa., and Ronald Kuchera, 52, of Johnstown, Pa., each to five years’ probation, the first 18 months on home detention with electronic monitoring, 1,000 hours of community service, and a fine of $500,000.

According to the information presented to the court, William and Ronald Kuchera owned and managed Kuchera Defense Systems, Inc. (KDS), a contractor for the Department of Defense. KDS submitted cost certifications to the government containing unallowable expenses that inflated costs for overhead and general and administrative expenses. These unallowable expenses included the leasing of a private airplane, vacations to Jamaica, personal car leases, improvements on a private residence and lobbying fees.

The Kuchera brothers also submitted a false invoice for $650,000 to Coherent Systems International, Inc. (Coherent), a defense contractor owned by Richard S. Ianieri. As the prime contractor, Coherent was responsible for an $8 million Department of Defense contract for the Ground Mobile Gateway Systems, which involved the development of a new prototype unmanned vehicle that was designed to prevent friendly-fire incidents. The invoice sought payment for a component that had never been manufactured or delivered to Coherent. After receiving the $650,000 payment from Coherent, the Kuchera brothers kicked back to Ianieri approximately $200,000.

The court was further advised that each of the Kuchera brothers filed false income tax returns for themselves and KDS. Their personal tax returns were false because they failed to disclose as income certain personal expenses paid for by their companies. The KDS tax returns were false because they included as business deductions certain expenses that were personal expenditures of the two brothers. The brothers also caused the submission of a false corporate tax return which illegally claimed the kickback to Ianieri as a legitimate business expense.

In July 2009, Ianieri waived indictment and pleaded guilty to a one-count criminal information charging him with soliciting kickbacks and filing false purchase orders related to an Air Force contract in Florida. In February 2010, he was sentenced to five years’ probation and was ordered to pay a $200,000 fine.

As part of their plea agreement, each brother agreed to pay a $50,000 criminal fine to the United States. Judge Gibson will apply this payment toward the $500,000 criminal fine imposed today, for a total additional fine of $450,000 for each of the brothers. Ronald Kuchera agreed to the civil forfeiture of an additional $450,000 and agreed to make payment to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $121,313, which represents taxes owed due to his filing of false personal tax returns and his share of the taxes owed by KDS. William Kuchera similarly agreed to the civil forfeiture of $450,000, and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $257,168.

The Kuchera brothers and KDS also paid $2.7 million to resolve their civil liabilities with the United States Department of Defense under the False Claims Act. Ronald Kuchera paid $950,000 and William Kuchera paid $829,566. KDS, now doing business as Currency, Inc., paid $920,434 as a result of an audit conducted by the Defense Contract Audit Agency, which uncovered inflated billings for overhead.

“The Kucheras cheated the government by claiming improper reimbursements, submitting a false invoice, and then kicking back monies to the prime contractor,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Such blatant and outrageous fraud against the United States cannot and will not be tolerated.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Nelson P. Cohen and Paul E. Skirtich prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Defense Contract Audit Agency, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of William Kuchera and Ronald Kuchera.

PITTSBURGH – A California man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two count superseding indictment named Gustavo Godinez, of Los Angeles, California.

According to the Superseding Indictment, from in and around April 2012, and continuing to in and around January 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the defendant conspired with other individuals to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The Superseding Indictment also alleges that during that same time frame, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the defendant conspired with other individuals to launder money.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Attorney General's Office, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the United States Postal Service conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hubbard, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Kelley S. Johns, 43.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2008 to May 9, 2011, Johns conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute quantities of oxycodone and methadone. Evidence presented to the court at the time of Johns' sentencing reflected that Johns conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others in order to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johns. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and Paint Township Police Department.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Kensington, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating the federal child exploitation laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Mark Randall Salego, 53, pleaded guilty to one count of possession and one count of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose. He possessed the materials on Feb. 28, 2013 and distributed them on Jan. 27, 2013.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2014. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Lower Burrell, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation on his conviction of possession of marijuana, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Anthony T. Digirolamo, 65.

According to information presented to the court, on May 2, 2011, Digirolamo possessed with the intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Digirolamo. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and Paint Township Police Department.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Windber, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 168 months in prison, five years supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to the victim, on his conviction of kidnapping, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Lawrence R. Horner, III, 37.

According to information presented to the court, on July 9, 2011, Horner kidnaped a person whose identity is known and referred to as "L.N.," and did willfully travel and transport L.N. in interstate commerce in commission of the kidnaping offense.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Richland Township Police Department and the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Horner.

PITTSBURGH – Duane Scott was sentenced in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Scott, a 23-year-old Pittsburgh resident, was sentenced to serve 63 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Throughout 2010 and into 2011, Scott conspired with Harold Bacon and others to distribute hundreds of bricks of heroin even though he was on adult probation at the time for an adult conviction for carrying a firearm without a license. Scott was, in fact, under house arrest for much of that time period, but he still stored bricks of heroin and distributed them at Bacon’s direction.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Ross Township Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the successful investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to nine months incarceration on his conviction of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark Hornak imposed the sentence on Pastor Gomez-Perez, 32, of Honduras.

According to the information presented to the court, Pastor Gomez-Perez, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on July 28, 2009. Pastor Gomez-Perez was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh on Sept. 20, 2013.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Custom Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gomez-Perez.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Claridge, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, the first 12 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, 500 hours of community service and a $5,000 fine on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Donald S. Swanger, 44.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2008 to May 10, 2011, Swanger conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

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

A joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Swanger. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and the Paint Township Police Department.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hastings, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation on his conviction of conspiracy to manufacture and possess marijuana plants, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Donald J. Weakland, 58.

According to information presented to the court, in the spring of 2011, Weakland conspired to manufacture and possess with the intent to distribute less than 100 marijuana plants. Evidence presented to the court at the time of Weakland's sentencing reflected that Weakland conspired with George M. Lowmaster and others to grow marijuana plants with the intent to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.

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

A joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Weakland. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, Cambria County District Attorney's Office, Carrolltown Police Department, Patton Police Department, Ebensburg Police Department, Portage Police Department and the Paint Township Police Department.

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

Mark Lawson, 39, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around December 2000, and continuing thereafter to in and around March 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Lawson conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 23, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $20,000,000, 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 Jonathan B. Ortiz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Attorney General's Office, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Narcotics Enforcement Team conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mark Lawson.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Tampa, Fla., was indicted on Dec. 3, 2013, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 13-count indictment named Fotios Geivelis, Jr., a/k/a Frank Geivelis, a/k/a Frank Anastasio, 34, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Geivelis, through operation of his Florida company, Worldwide Funding III, Ltd. (WWF), obtained in excess of $3.9 million in increments of $60,000 or $90,000 from more than three dozen investors, to each of whom he promised to obtain a $10 million “non-recourse” overseas loan for a “humanitarian” or “job-creating” project. The funds were wired into the escrow accounts of a Florida attorney Geivelis designated as the “Paymaster,” and thereafter paid out to that attorney, brokers who had referred the investors to WWF and to Geivelis, who spent his share on personal expenses such as hotels, casinos, restaurants, strip clubs, automobiles, clothing and jewelry. No loans were ever obtained for the investors, who Geivelis attempted to lull by repeated assurances that their deals would close within a short period of time.

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

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

The United States Secret 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Three residents of Johnstown, Pa., and a resident of Philadelphia, Pa., have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The six-count indictment named as defendants the following individuals:

George J. Lawrence, IV, 28, of Johnstown, Pa.
Paulette M. Alt, 52, of Johnstown, Pa.
Donna M. Hawk, 48, of Johnstown, Pa.
Paul A. Robinson, Jr., 31, of Philadelphia, Pa.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from Jan. 31, to April 23, 2013, the defendants conspired to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as "crack," and on separate occasions during that time period the defendants distributed less than 500 grams of cocaine and less than 28 grams of cocaine base. In addition, on April 23, 2013, Lawrence possessed more than 28 grams of cocaine base with the intent to distribute it.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for Lawrence of 140 years in prison, a fine of $13,000,000 or both; for Alt & Robinson of 80 years in prison, a fine of $7,000,000 or both; and for Hawk of 60 years in prison, a fine of $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 John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lawrence, Alt, Hawk and Robinson.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to one charge of violating federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Christopher Nugent, 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nugent conspired together with others, including Ryan Raithel and David Best, to obtain oxycodone by fraud, in that he passed a fraudulent oxycodone prescription at a pharmacy located in the Western District of Pennsylvania, thereby obtaining oxycodone pursuant to that fraudulent prescription. Ryan Raithel has pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone. David Best has pled not guilty to the charges against him.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than four (4) 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 Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Christopher Nugent.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hanoverton, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation, the first 12 months of which must be served by conditions of home confinement, on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess marijuana, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Bonnie L. Chapman, 63.

According to information presented to the court, from March 2009 to May 9, 2011, Chapman conspired with George M. Lowmaster to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana in order to facilitate and promote Lowmaster's drug distribution organization.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the joint task force, headed by the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Chapman. Other agencies participating on the task force include the Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigation; Pennsylvania State Police; the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office; the Cambria County District Attorney's Office; the Carrolltown Police Department; the Patton Police Department; the Ebensburg Police Department; the Portage Police Department and the Paint Township Police Department.

PITTSBURGH - A Monroeville man pleaded guilty in federal court to federal firearms and drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Antonio Hardin, 32, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from April 2012 to February 2013, Hardin conspired together with his charged co-defendants Brandon Thompson, James Walker, Richard Wood, Gregory Harris, Jr., Luther Harper and others to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute, heroin. Those co-defendants have pleaded not guilty and the charges are still pending against them.

Specifically, the Court learned, for example, that in April, 2012, Hardin received heroin from co-conspirator Brandon Thompson. Hardin then supplied this heroin to an uncharged co- conspirator who was later shot by Thompson and Edward Cook at Club Pink in Munhall, Pa., on or about August 12, 2012. Cook has pleaded guilty to this shooting, and he was sentenced to 12-years imprisonment. The Court also learned that Hardin, acting together with Brandon Thompson, James Walker, and Joseph Thompson, shared a heroin “stash house” with them in Pitcairn, Pa., at which these persons packaged raw heroin into stamp bags that would later be sold on to other dealers, and eventually to individual users. In addition, the Court learned that Hardin, over the course of the conspiracy, sold heroin to other charged distributors, including Richard Wood, Gregory Harris, Jr., and Luther Harper. The Court heard intercepts of a call in which Luther Harper and Bryce Harper discussed purchasing 25 brick quantities (40 gram quantities) of heroin from Hardin that the Harpers then planned to distribute to individual users.

Last, Hardin acknowledged that during his drug trafficking crimes he possessed a firearm, including a 9mm Glock, to protect himself and to protect his drugs. Specifically, Hardin carried a firearm during his drug trafficking crimes. As a result, Hardin possessed a firearm in furtherance of the abovementioned drug trafficking crimes.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $5,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, 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, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Antonio Hardin.

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

Andrew Brown, 23, of Eighty Four, 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 Brown conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. In that regard, the Court learned that Brown passed a number of fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions at pharmacies in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Brown then provided the obtained oxycodone to charged co-defendant David Best, who later resold this oxycodone. David Best has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2014, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 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, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh businessman pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Ronald A. Moog, 78, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and two counts of mail fraud before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the government’s evidence would establish that the defendant was the President of Moog Transfinancial Services, a Pittsburgh based corporation in the business of auditing freight bills for other companies who had a large volume of freight business. According to Moog’s contractual relationship with the victim companies, Moog would inform the victims of the payment necessary to pay off their freight charges. The victims would then send Moog money, which Moog would place into a trust account. For nearly 13 years, the defendant syphoned money out of the trust account for purposes other than paying the victims’ freight bills, leading to a shortfall within the account of over $2.8 million. This amount was passed onto the victim companies in the form of delinquent freight invoices which they had already sent money to Moog to pay for and which they believed had been already paid.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2014 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Moog on bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - An individual residing in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, food stamp fraud, theft of government funds and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 12-count indictment named Waqar A. Malik, 56, of Cheswick, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Malik, the owner of the Natrona Mart in Natrona, Pa., allowed federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food stamp beneficiaries to purchase non-eligible items such as cigarettes, tobacco products and soap with their EBT benefit card. Because of these transactions, Malik received funds from the United States government to which he was not entitled.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 125 years in prison, a fine of $23,250,000, 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - An alien found in Monaca, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Hugo Silva-Gavina, 37, of Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, Hugo Silva-Gavina, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 23, 2009. Hugo Silva-Gavina was found to be illegally present in Monaca on Sept. 13, 2013.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Custom Enforcement for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Silva-Gavina.

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

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Jose Mariano Perez-Flores, age 33, of Honduras

According to the information presented to the court, Jose Mariano Perez-Flores, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Aug. 17, 2007. Jose Mariano Perez-Flores was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh on Sept. 20, 2013.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Custom Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Perez-Flores.

PITTSBURGH - Owners of a Wilkinsburg convenience store have been sentenced to two years of probation, five months home detention and ordered to pay restitution of $119,871.00 on their conviction on a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Nicole Gordon, 34, of Turtle Creek, PA and Stanley Saxton, 44, of Verona, PA, siblings and co-owners and operators of Nicky's Corner, located on Montier Street in Wilkinsburg, PA, were sentenced by Senior District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. Gordon and Saxton also executed civil settlement agreements for violations of the False Claims Act, and agreed to pay to the United States the sum of $119,871.

According to the information presented to the court, Nicky's Corner participated in the United States Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as the Food Stamp Program. Food stamp recipients could purchase eligible food items using food stamp benefit cards at the store. As a condition of participation in the Food Stamp Program, the defendants certified that they would comply with all rules and regulations of the program and were aware that program rules strictly prohibited the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash and/or for ineligible items, such as cigarettes. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, the defendants exchanged food stamp benefits with customers in exchange for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving the customers only 50 cents on the dollar for their food stamp benefits. Gordon and Saxton also permitted customers to use food stamp benefits to pay for ineligible items, such as cigarettes.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office and Assistant United States Attorney Colin Callahan is litigating the case on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney's Office.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nicole Gordon and Stanley Saxton.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Export, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of misappropriation of postal funds, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Lawrence F. Stoken, III, 47, pleaded guilty to 1 count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that while employed as the Postmaster at the Rural Valley, Pennsylvania Post Office, Lawrence F. Stoken, III embezzled approximately $13,255.90 from the sale of stamps and postal money orders during the period from October 2011 to March 2013.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 17, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stoken.