Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area pharmacist pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotic laws and was also sentenced pursuant to that plea of guilty, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Charles Brian Griffin, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2011 until February 2012, Griffin conspired together with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Specifically, the Court was advised that during this time period, Griffin worked as a pharmacist at Walgreens, primarily in its Washington, Pa., store. As a pharmacist, Griffin had access to controlled substances, namely oxycodone. Griffin, working together with a co-conspirator, knowingly filled large fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions provided to him by this co-conspirator. In exchange for doing this, the co-conspirator provided Griffin with tens of thousands of dollars in cash, which Griffin used to support his gambling addiction. In total, Griffin, working together with his co-conspirator, fraudulently diverted more than 8,000 30mg oxycodone pills over the course of this conspiracy.

After entering his plea of guilty, Judge Diamond sentenced Griffin to a term of imprisonment of 40 months, to be followed by three years of supervised release. The Court did not impose a fine on Griffin. The law provided for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of no more than $1,000,000, or both.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Charles Brian Griffin.

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

Ryan Raithel, 33, of Wexford, Pa., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around July 2011, and continuing to in and around May 2013, Raithel conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone, Schedule II controlled substances. Additionally, on or about Aug. 10, 2012 Raithel possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 14, 2014. 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 offenses 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, acting together with the Economy Borough and Cranberry Township Police Departments, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ryan Raithel.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 14 years in prison to be followed by five years supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotic laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Richard Hayes, 33.

According to information presented to the court, on Feb. 23, 2011, U.S. postal inspectors in Pittsburgh executed a search warrant for a suspicious package mailed from Rialto, Calif., to Pittsburgh which contained in excess of 20 pounds of marijuana. When Hayes attempted to pick up the package, he was arrested. Inside his wallet, agents found two receipts for other packages mailed from Rialto to Pittsburgh one day earlier.

On Feb. 24, 2011, inspectors located one of the other packages, secured a search warrant, and found nearly nine pounds of cocaine inside. The wholesale value in Pittsburgh of nine pounds of cocaine would be between $160,000 - $180,000, with a retail or "street" value well exceeding a half million dollars.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Richard Hayes.

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

Hakeem Kirby, 21, 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 May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around March 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Kirby conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 24, 2014. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, 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 Hakeem Kirby.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lawrence, Pa., has been 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 named James Grimes, a resident of Lawrence, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Grimes embezzled funds belonging to clients of his brokerage firm. He also allegedly failed to report the income realized on his tax return for the years 2007-2009.

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 James Y. Garrett is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for less than an hour, a federal jury of four men and eight women found James H. Anthony guilty of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g), United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Anthony was tried before Senior United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose in Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that, on Sept. 25, 2011, Anthony possessed a Rossi .38 special revolver with an obliterated serial number. The firearm had been reported stolen years earlier by the Ligonier Township Police Department in Westmoreland County. Anthony was found to be in possession of the gun at his home in Fawn Township, Allegheny County, despite his inability to lawfully possess any firearm as a result of a prior felony conviction.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 27, 2014. Because the defendant has three previous convictions for a violent felony or a serious drug offense, or both, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison up to a maximum of life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant, but cannot be less than 15 years in this instance.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s house arrest.

The Fawn Township Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the ATF conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of James Anthony.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months imprisonment followed by eight years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Donald Lyles a/k/a Chief, 39.

According to information presented to the court, on or about April 25, 2013, Lyles possessed with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lyles.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Presto, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation, including 24 months of home detention, and a $10,000 fine plus 500 hours of community service, on his conviction of federal income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Donald J. DeBlasio, 69. According to information presented to the court, as the owner of DeBlasio's, defendant engaged in the practice of "skimming" cash from restaurant sales, resulting in a total tax loss of $341,128.62 from the filing of false personal, corporate and payroll tax returns during the years 2007-2009.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated that he has “long felt that under-payment of taxes is one of the most serious problems in our country, but [the defendant’s] age is a factor and not every case warrants incarceration.”

Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of DeBlasio.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $422,740.87 on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Stephen Kodba, 32, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Kodba was the President and owner/operator for JSK Computer Services and Asset Recovery. From in and around April 2006, to in and around June 2011, Kodba executed a scheme to defraud numerous customers out of approximately $422,740.87 by repeatedly shipping scrap metal and broken computer equipment to customers who ordered and paid for computer equipment that was represented by Kodba to be working and in good condition. When customers then requested refunds of the money they had wired to Kodba, he refused to return the victims’ money or send equipment which corresponded to the customers’ legitimate expectations.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone noted Kodba’s extensive criminal history and the significant impact on the victims.

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 Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kodba.

ERIE, PA. – An Erie resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws related to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

David Montgomery pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge David Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that while Montgomery was employed as a teacher at Collegiate Academy in Erie, Pa., he made numerous videos and images that depicted him engaged in sex acts with a minor male. Montgomery also took sexually explicit photos of the boy. Montgomery’s illegal sexual contact with the victim began when the boy was approximately eight and the criminal conduct concluded when the boy was approximately 14 years old. Montgomery gained access to the boy by paying for his travel to Erie from the victim’s residence outside of Pennsylvania. Montgomery and the victim also traveled together outside Pennsylvania on several occasions. Montgomery also took sexually explicit photos of another minor male who was approximately eight when the photos were taken. Montgomery also possessed numerous items of other child pornography.

Judge Cercone did not set a date for sentencing. The law provides for a total sentence of 80 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 offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Montgomery remained detained.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Erie County Detectives Bureau, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Montgomery.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Butler County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Duane Rill, 52, of Cranberry Township, Pa., pleaded guilty on Nov. 20, to one count before United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rill, a Secretary-Treasurer of the Berry Metal Employees’ Association, an independent union, stole approximately $13,496 from the union by writing and cashing unauthorized union checks and by making an unauthorized cash withdrawal during the period from March 23, 2007, to Nov. 20, 2009.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for March 27, 2014, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 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.

Pending sentence, the court released Rill on bond.

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 that lead to the prosecution of Rill.

PITTSBURGH – Edward Cook, 26, a Homestead resident, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years of imprisonment after pleading guilty to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by five years of federal supervised release. United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence.

According to information presented to the court, on or about Aug. 12, 2012, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Cook discharged a firearm in furtherance of a one kilogram or more heroin trafficking conspiracy. The shooting to which Cook pled guilty took place at Club Pink, a club in Munhall, Pa.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. U.S. Attorney Hickton commended 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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution and sentencing of Edward Cook.

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney David J. Hickton issued the following statement today:

“Today, we announce that no criminal charges will be brought in connection with our investigation related to the tragic illnesses and deaths of veterans from Legionnaires Disease at our local Veterans Administration health facilities.

“The investigation has been a high priority of my Office and federal law enforcement for the last nine months. We conducted the investigation jointly with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Veterans Administration - Office of Inspector General. It must be noted that our jurisdiction is limited to determining if any federal criminal statutes were violated. The focus of our work was not to determine exactly how patients contracted the disease, but rather whether there was evidence of any material false statements by VA officials or employees, and whether there was evidence justice had been obstructed in any way.

“Senior members of my staff and experienced FBI and VA-OIG agents conducted a thorough and independent review of this matter. Approximately 30 interviews were conducted. The interviews spanned high level hospital officials, maintenance workers and outside contractors. The investigative team analyzed and reviewed more than 250,000 internal VA emails. They studied volumes of records, including logbooks of maintenance performed on the systems used to combat the Legionella bacteria and purchase orders for parts related to such maintenance. Test results were examined, along with the detailed reports of the Centers for Disease Control and the Health Inspection Division of the OIG.

“Our investigation revealed no basis for charging any individual or any entity with a federal crime. Accordingly, no prosecution is warranted in this matter based upon our thorough review.

“While the federal criminal investigation has concluded, consideration of the many issues raised by this tragic event will surely continue in other forums. If any new or additional evidence emerges, today’s assessment does not prevent the U.S. Attorney’s Office from reviewing such evidence and reopening the investigation if the facts warrant.”

PITTSBURGH – An Upper St. Clair man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of obstruction of justice, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on Nov. 19, named Anthony V. Cugini, 54, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, in connection with a Department of Energy investigation regarding misuse of his position as Director of the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), Anthony V. Cugini attempted to conceal and destroy evidence by directing witnesses to delete and redesignate NETL computer files and records, to "protect him" during the investigation, and to provide false information in response to investigative inquiries.

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

The U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The two-count indictment, returned on Nov. 19, named Mark Philip Campbell, 49, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from on or about Feb. 27, 2013, to on or about Sept. 15, 2013, Campbell received images and a video containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that from on or about Feb. 27, 2013, to on or about Oct. 24, 2013, Campbell knowingly possessed 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 30 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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 Cranberry Township woman has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $632,613.75 in restitution on her conviction of bank fraud and mail fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence yesterday on Meredith Shuster, 36.

According to information presented to the court, Shuster fraudulently obtained $729,000 in private lender student loans through using the identities and financial information of her parents.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, as well as Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and the Department of Education for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shuster.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Patton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to four years probation, the first three months of which must be satisfied by conditions of home confinement with electronic monitoring, on his conviction of possession of marijuana plants, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Stephen D. Lamont, 36.

According to information presented to the court, on May 9, 2011, Lamont possessed with the intent to distribute at least 50, but less than 100, marijuana plants.

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 Lamont. 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Florala, Al., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Linda Reed, 69, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from June 9, 2007, to April 15, 2008, Reed conspired with others to defraud the United States by assisting a co-conspirator in concealing money from the Internal Revenue Service in order for the co-conspirator to avoid paying income tax.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 1, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 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 Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation, including one year of home detention, and ordered to file tax returns, including penalties and interest on her conviction of federal income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Jeanean C. Smith.

According to information presented to the court, as owner of Jioio's Restaurants in Latrobe and North Huntingdon, Smith engaged in the practice of "skimming" cash from restaurant sales, resulting in a total tax loss of $438,661 from the filing of false personal, corporate and payroll tax returns during the years 2006-2009.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Diamond stated that defendant's personal circumstances and the need to run her business in order to repay the IRS outweighed any need for a Sentencing Guidelines sentence of imprisonment.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Smith.

ERIE, Pa. - A former inmate of the Fayette State Correctional Institution in LaBelle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months in jail on his conviction of mailing a threatening communication, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. imposed the sentence on Gregory Garrett Brown, 49. The sentence was imposed to run consecutively to the sentence Brown is currently serving.

According to information presented to the court, Brown mailed a letter to a United States Magistrate Judge which contained a threat to kill the Magistrate Judge and a United States District Judge.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cohill noted Brown's lengthy history of violence and the fact that Brown was incarcerated for threatening an Erie Court of Common Pleas judge when he threatened the Magistrate Judge and District Judge.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Marshal's Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Brown.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Smethport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in jail and ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $36,000 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 Maurice B. Cohill, Jr. imposed the sentence on Peter Nollen Hergenrother, 63.

According to information presented to the court, Hergenrother received computer images 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 Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hergenrother.

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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lawrence County has been sentenced in federal court to 10 months imprisonment and three years supervised release on her conviction of embezzlement from a credit union, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Victoria Rozanski, 60, as the sole defendant.

According to information presented to the court, Rozanski, who was the manager of the Holy Redeemer Parish Federal Credit Union in Ellwood City embezzled approximately $110,000 from the credit union from in and around January 2003 until in or around May of 2009. Rozanski's sentence also ordered her to make full restitution.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl 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 Rozanski.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area physician was sentenced today in federal court to five years probation with nine months community confinement at Renewal, Inc., followed by nine months home detention, on his conviction of filing a false tax return, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Court Arthur J. Schwab imposed sentence upon Neil M. Niren, M.D. As part of his sentence, Niren was fined $40,000 and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $451,001.

According to information presented to the court, Niren, who operated his medical practice as a sole proprietorship, knowingly filed a false income tax return for 2005. Niren also accepted responsibility for filing false tax returns for years 2006 through 2008. Niren maintained two sets of accounting books and knowingly concealed payments received directly from patients. For each of the tax years, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, Niren falsely claimed thousands of dollars of personal expenses as business expenses of his medical practice, including a Bahamas vacation at the Atlantis Resort, apartment furniture, custom jewelry, fine art from the Adi Tobenhouse Gallery in Israel, cosmetic surgery, a gym membership, appliances for Niren's rental property in Pittsburgh and interior design work for Niren's New York apartment.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton and Department of Justice Tax Division Trial Attorney Jed Silversmith prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, leading to the successful prosecution of Niren.

PITTSBURGH - A Catholic priest 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.

David Dzermejko, 65, Braddock, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Jan. 11, 2013, Dzermejko, a Catholic priest, possessed photographs in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The child pornography was found on various computers and computer-related equipment taken from Dzermejko's former residence in Pittsburgh, Pa., following the execution of a search warrant.

The search warrant was issued on information provided, in part, from Microsoft Corp., that a "Skydrive" user identified by email address dawizard2@hotmail.com and screen name "Lord Winchester Cuthbert Thurston VII", had uploaded a sexual image of a prepubescent minor to his Skydrive account. Dzermejko admitted to law enforcement officers executing the warrant that he had been viewing child pornography for in excess of 10 years, had acquired the images on-line from various websites, and had traveled on numerous occasions to Thailand where he engaged in sexual encounters with teen boys, some of whom he thereafter maintained an on-line relationship.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2014, at 11:30 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued defendant on bond.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers of the Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dzermejko.

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

PITTSBURGH - Three Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on charges of theft of government money and making false statements to obtain unemployment compensation for federal service, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Each of the three defendants was indicted separately. A three-count indictment named Jennifer Lang, 39, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Sandra Delval, 39, of Carnegie, Pa.; and Sharday Thornhill, 27, of Turtle Creek, Pa.

According to the indictments presented to the court, each defendant converted to her own use unemployment compensation benefit payments, benefits of which she knew she was not entitled.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 12 years in prison, a fine of $450,000 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 Koleen Kirkwood is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Inspector General for Tax Administration, Debt Management Section 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, PA - An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served for his conviction of Re-Entry into the United States after Deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Luis Alberto Alvarez Arguello, a/k/a Rosalio Martinez Alvarez, a/k/a Rosalio Alvarez Martinez, a/k/a Mario Martinez Contreras, 28, a native of Mexico.

According to information presented to the court, Luis Alberto Alvarez-Arguello, an alien, was formally removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on January 14, 2011 and June 13, 2011. Luis Alberto Alvarez-Arguello was found to be illegally present in Pittsburgh on July 19, 2013, by the Port Authority Police.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Port Authority Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Luis Alberto Alvarez Arguello, a/k/a Rosalio Martinez Alvarez, a/k/a Rosalio Alvarez Martinez, a/k/a Mario Martinez Contreras.

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today that Corneil Jones, who has also used the aliases Robert Eric James, Eric Germaine James, Kornell Jones, Enrique Williams, Kevin Liles, Richard Nelson, Lewis Mitchell, Julian Robinson, and Germaine Jones, was sentenced on Nov. 4, 2013 for violating his federal supervised release.

According to information presented to the Court by Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, Jones was out of federal Bureau of Prisons custody 22 days before he violated the supervision of United States Probation Officer Terrell Lewis. On that occasion, the defendant tested positive for drug use. Twenty-three 23 days later, on Nov. 11, 2012, Jones was leaving the Serenity Night Club on Hamilton Avenue in Pittsburgh with two convicted felons and entered an SUV. The vehicle failed to stop for Pittsburgh Police officers who observed drugs and a loaded semiautomatic .40 caliber Glock handgun with an extended length magazine being thrown from the vehicle. Police located over 100 packages of drugs, including crack cocaine, powder cocaine and marijuana, along with a cellphone and large sums of cash, as a result of the incident.

Chief U.S. District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti found that Jones had violated several conditions of his supervision including possessing drugs, associating with felons and associating with individuals engaged in criminal activity. Judge Conti sentenced Jones to 21months of federal incarceration, six months of house arrest and additional supervision as a result of the violations. Jones faces a trial on the underlying drug charges on Feb. 10, 2014, in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.

The exhibits entered at the violation hearing included photographs of Jones' tattoos, which evidence his affiliation with the Manchester "OG", or "Original Gangster" street gang in the North Side of Pittsburgh. The tattoos included "Manchester" across his throat, including depictions of ammunition and firearms, "MOG" (Manchester OG), "1700" which represents his geographic area within Manchester and several references to "Killa County" and "CK" or "Crip Killer", referencing a rival gang.

Jones was originally sentenced to 69 months of imprisonment and three years supervision for illegally possessing a stolen .357 revolver on Dec. 16, 2006 and throwing a semiautomatic .40 caliber pistol during a high speed vehicle pursuit and subsequent foot chase on May 13, 2007.

The Court learned that the defendant's criminal career began at the age of 15 when he robbed a school student and continued with juvenile adjudications for giving a false name to police and dealing drugs on three different dates. Because Jones had lied about his age, he was prosecuted as an adult for felony drug charges that he committed as a juvenile. In addition to his two federal firearms convictions, his adult convictions include using a vehicle without permission, fleeing police, drug dealing, illegal firearms possession (on two different dates) and forging court documentation.

PITTSBURGH, PA - An illegal alien found in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and 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.

United States District Judge Gustave Diamond imposed the sentence on Josue Elias Calidonio-Castillo, 29, formerly from Honduras.

According to information presented to the court, Josue Elias Calidonio-Castillo, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on September 1, 2006. Josue Elias Calidonio-Castillo was found on July 16, 2013, in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Josue Elias Calidonio-Castillo.

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

William Kent Bricker, 56 pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 2, 2012, Bricker, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a .32 caliber revolver. Bricker was convicted of armed bank robbery in 1993 and illegal firearms possession in 2004. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Feb. 26, 2014 at 9:30 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William Kent Bricker. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

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

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Rigoberto Gonzalez- Pedro, 27, formerly from Mexico, as sole defendant.

According to information presented to the Court, Gonzalez-Pedro, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on December 2, 2008. Gonzalez-Pedro was found in Washington, Pennsylvania by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on February 5, 2013.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gonzalez-Pedro.

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

Monte Blair, 40, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about Sept. 28, 2012, Blair, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Ruger 9mm pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.

Judge Diamond scheduled sentencing for March 4, 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 criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Monte Blair. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court today on his conviction of recklessly damaging a computer and password trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Matthew James West, 22. West was sentenced to two years' probation; 250 hours community service; full restitution of $2,445.96; and computer monitoring; and he must notify any employer of this conviction.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 28, 2011, Alyson Cunningham had been fired from a Pittsburgh law firm referred to as "VG." In retaliation for the firing, Matthew West, acting at Alyson and Jonathan Cunningham's encouragement, logged into VG servers using an internal company password provided to him by Alyson Cunningham over Facebook. West utilized a VPN proxy server located in Germany to use the password to access VG servers, so as to shield his identity. Once West accessed the server, he installed software on the server which could be used to capture passwords of anyone on the firm's network.

On Nov. 29, 2011, West sent a partner at VG law firm an email from the account anonymous.pittsburgh.page@gmail.com that stated that the firm's web servers had been compromised, and that their backup files had been copied and deleted. This email, which was used to notify the victim company of the hack caused by the usage of the illegally trafficked password, electronically traveled from West's computer in Pennsylvania, to Google's servers in California, before arriving back at VG's server in Pennsylvania. The email further stated that "we are not interested in ruining your business, but routinely checking that business is fair and just. Our motive is to solely capture and record 100% of Pittsburgh business records and operations and protect it or use it against you as we could if Anonymous had a reason and needed to." Anonymous is a loosely connected network of computer hacker/activists who are known to intrude upon computer networks for political purposes.

According to the victim company, neither Alyson Cunningham, Jonathan Cunningham or Matthew West had authority to access their computer server, nor did they have authority to place malware onto VG's servers.

Internet chats indicate that Jonathan Cunningham was actively communicating with West during the hack into VG's servers, providing instruction and suggestions, including suggesting the use of specific VPN servers. When IM chatting with West on the night of the hack, Jonathan Cunningham and Alyson Cunningham alternated in their use of Alyson's Skype account when communicating with West about the hack.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six months imprisonment and three years supervised release on her conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Kathryn Joyce, 31.

According to information presented to the court, Joyce unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute 334 oxycodone 30 mg tablets on Jan. 11, 2012 when stopped by the Ross Township Police. She also sold 20 similar pills to a confidential informant.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ross Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Joyce.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate of FCI Loretto has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison, to be served consecutive to the 140-month sentence he is currently serving, on his conviction of possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Lonnie Johnston, 32. According to information presented to the court, on Oct. 31, 2012, Inmate Johnston possessed heroin and marijuana.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., 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 Special Investigative Staff at the Federal Correctional Institution at Loretto for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnston.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Waynesboro, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months in prison and five years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to possess and distribute cocaine, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Corey D. Harley, 39.

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

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 Harley.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of possession with the intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Anthony Coles, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about June 13, 2013, Coles was found to be in possession, with the intent to distribute, of a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, which is a Schedule I controlled substance.

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

The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Dept., Oakdale Police Dept, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A West Mifflin, Pa., woman was convicted of conspiring to launder money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Lori Page, 30, pled guilty before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing to occur on March 20, 2014, at 9 a.m.

In support of the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Page, from January 2012 through June 2012, rented, or arranged for the rental of, at least seven cars for a Pittsburgh-area heroin dealer. Page made payments to the rental car companies, either directly or through a female associate, totaling over $11,000. The funds Page used to cover the rentals were the proceeds of interstate heroin trafficking. Page was aware that the funds were from unlawful activity and that the rental transactions were designed to conceal those activities and the nature and source of the funds.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting 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 in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Oaklyn, New Jersey, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of access device fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Raymond Hasaan Matthews, 37, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

In connection with the guilty plea, it was represented to the court that Matthews used a counterfeit American Express credit card in November 2011 at Casa D'Oro Jewelers to purchase two watches totaling approximately $15,605.00, as well as at other stores such as Dicks Sporting Goods and Home Depot where he purchased additional merchandise.

Judge McVerry scheduled the sentencing for January 24, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 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 Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Suwanee, Ga., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of laundering of monetary instruments, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Steve Park, 56, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 10, 2010, Park, while the owner of The SunSet Health Spa, located on Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, Pa., conducted financial transactions which involved proceeds derived from the unlawful interstate transportation of individuals for illegal sexual activity. By conducting these financial transactions with the illicit proceeds, he intended to engage in conduct constituting a violation of Sections 7201 or 7206 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 24, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the 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 Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Park.

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today that Brandon Lee Price, 28, of East Liberty, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Terrence F. McVerry to eight months in prison to be followed by two years supervised release. Price was also ordered to pay $658 in restitution.

In sentencing Price on his plea to four counts of bank fraud Judge McVerry found that Price had attempted to cause a financial loss of greater than $15,000 to Citibank, N.A., by convincing Citibank N.A. to send account information of a Citibank customer, Paul Allen, the cofounder of Microsoft, to Price at his mother’s residence in East Liberty. Mr. Price then used the account information to pay off an outstanding loan and he attempted to access Mr. Allen’s accounts and funds through the use of a debit card that Price convinced the bank to send to him.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation which led to the indictment and guilty plea in this case.

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

The three-count indictment named James Stover, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about March 19, 2013, Stover received images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about May 29, 2013, Stover distributed images containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The indictment further alleges that on or about Aug. 15, 2013, Stover 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 50 years in prison, a fine of $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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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 Indiana County, Pa., has been sentenced to 27 months in prison and three years supervised release for his conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Daniel Pikel,57.

According to the information presented to the court, between 2009 and 2012, Pikel conspired with another person to launder through his business banking account approximately $2.9 million in funds embezzled by a former company officer from Falcon Drilling, LLC, a drilling contractor located in Indiana, Pa.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police in Indiana, Pennsylvania, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Daniel Pikel.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Suwanee, GA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of transportation for illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Yon Park, 60, of pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Feb. 14, 2011, Park, while the owner of The SunSet Health Spa, located on Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA, caused an individual to be transported in interstate or foreign commerce, with the intent that such individual engage in prostitution, or in any sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 24, 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the 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 Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Park.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Vintondale, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to probation and ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $2,500, on his conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson. imposed the sentence on Alvin Miller, 60.

According to information presented to the court, from June 9, 2007, to April 15, 2008, Miller conspired with others to defraud the United States by assisting a co-conspirator in concealing money from the Internal Revenue Service in order for the co-conspirator to avoid paying income tax.

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

Mr. Hickton commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and Ebensburg Borough Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Miller.

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh couple have been sentenced in federal court today on their conviction of recklessly damaging a computer and password trafficking, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jonathan Cunningham, 29, and Alyson Cunningham, 26. Each were sentenced to 3 years probation; each to pay restitution of $2,445.96 to the victim law firm; 300 hours community service; computer monitoring; and must notify any employer of this conviction.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 28, 2011, Alyson Cunningham had been fired from law firm located in Pittsburgh, PA referred to as "VG," In retaliation for the firing, Matthew West, acting at Alyson and Jonathan Cunningham's encouragement, logged into VG servers using an internal company password provided to him by Alyson Cunningham over Facebook. West utilized a VPN proxy server located in Germany to use the password to access VG servers, so as to shield his identity. Once West accessed the server, he installed software on the server which could be used to capture passwords of anyone on the firm=s network.

On Nov. 29, 2011, West sent a partner at VG law firm an email from the account anonymous.pittsburgh.page@gmail.com that stated that the firm's web servers had been compromised, and that their backup files had been copied and deleted. This email, which was used to notify the victim company of the hack caused by the usage of the illegally trafficked password, electronically traveled from West's computer in PA, to Google's servers in California, before arriving back at VG's server in PA. The email further stated that "we are not interested in ruining your business, but routinely checking that business is fair and just. Our motive is to solely capture and record 100% of Pittsburgh business records and operations and protect it or use it against you as we could if Anonymous had a reason and needed to." Anonymous is a loosely connected network of computer hacker/activists who are known to intrude upon computer networks for political purposes.

According to the victim company, neither Alyson Cunningham, Johnathan Cunningham, or Matthew West had authority to access their computer server, nor did they have authority to place malware onto VG's servers.

Internet chats indicate that Jonathan Cunningham was actively communicating with West during the hack into VG's servers, providing instruction and suggestions, including suggesting the use of specific VPN servers. When IM chatting with West on the night of the hack, Jonathan Cunningham and Alyson Cunningham alternated in their use of Alyson=s Skype account when communicating with West about the hack.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh man has been sentenced in federal court to 54 months in prison and five years of supervised release on his conviction of bank fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge David Cercone imposed the sentence on Peter Cicero, 41. The sentence also included a restitution order of approximately $3.6 million.

According to information presented to the court, Cicero participated in several fraud schemes. Cicero defrauded Community Bank in connection with the $1.8 million loan made to fund Cicero's $3.3 million purchase of certain companies associated with closing real estate transactions. Cicero defrauded Community Bank by overstating the true sales price of the companies, falsely representing that sources outside of the closing companies would make substantial payment toward the purchase of the companies, when, in fact, Cicero took money from the very companies that he was purchasing to fund the purchase thereby defrauding Community Bank and his business partner.

In separate schemes, Cicero caused the submission of fraudulent loan applications and other documents to lenders to obtain loan collateralized by real estate. The false representations to secure loans included overstating income, understating liabilities, and failing to pay liabilities associated with the collateral servicing the loan. He also directed an individual to remove a lien from a title report. Several of the loans were in the names of his elderly in-laws, and were obtained by Cicero without the authorization of the in-laws. Cicero committed money laundering by causing a wire transfer of some of the proceeds of the mortgage fraud scheme to an account at Mars National Bank.

Cicero also committed bankruptcy fraud by concealing money and jewelry in connection with his bankruptcy filings, and access device fraud by using a credit card of his employer without authorization. Cicero’s fraud scheme funded an extravagant lifestyle that included fancy cars, including a Bentley and Ferrari, private school for his children, and an upscale home.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated that Cicero’s crimes had a devastating impact on a number of individuals' lives.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Western Pennsylvania Mortgage Fraud Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cicero.

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

George M. Lowmaster, 43, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Sept. 30, 2010, to May 9, 2011, Lowmaster conspired to manufacture and distribute more than 1,000 marijuana plants. From March 2008, to May 9, 2011, he conspired to commit money laundering to hide the proceeds from the sale of his organization's drug distribution. Also, on July 23, 2008, and Aug. 21, 2010, he distributed less than 500 grams of cocaine on each occasion.

Following today's plea, U.S. Attorney Hickton said, "Almost two years ago, Cambria County District Attorney Kelly Callihan and I announced the Indictment of George Lowmaster and a number of other individuals. As you recall, Mr. Lowmaster led the largest and most extensive drug distribution organization ever dismantled in the Johnstown area.

"Today, I am pleased to announce the guilty plea of George Lowmaster. Mr. Lowmaster's plea brings to completion what has been a comprehensive and lengthy prosecution. Twenty-five other individuals have also pleaded guilty for their participation in Mr. Lowmaster’s organization.

"I want to commend the law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation for their cooperation, hard work and dedication. Even more, their efforts demonstrate the success that can be achieved when we work together. I pledge to continue to devote all available office resources to address the problems facing the Johnstown community."

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 19, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of twenty years to life in prison, a fine of $24,500,000, 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.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting 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 George Lowmaster. 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 – Former Pittsburgh Police Chief Nathan E. Harper pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and willful failure to file income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. Harper, 60 of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

"This case is about greed and the theft of taxpayer money for private gain," stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. "Public officials, especially those who serve in law enforcement, have a responsibility to make governmental decisions in the best interests of the citizens, not themselves."

FBI Special Agent in Charge Gary Douglas Perdue added, "Investigating public corruption remains one of the FBI’s highest priorities. We will continue to pursue public officials who violate Federal law."

"Each of us is responsible for filing correct and accurate tax returns," said Special Agent in Charge Akeia Conner. "No public official gets a free pass to ignore the tax laws, and IRS Criminal Investigation works diligently to ensure that everyone pays their fair share."

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Harper was the Chief of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. From 2009 to 2012, he caused at least $70,628.92 in checks and cash received by the Special Events Office of the Department to be diverted to two unofficial accounts at the Greater Pittsburgh Police Federal Credit Union. Using Visa Debit cards, Harper obtained more than $31,000 in ATM withdrawals and debit purchases, all for his personal benefit. Harper also failed to file federal tax returns for the years 2008 through 2011. The total tax loss for all four years was $22,427.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Feb. 25, 2014, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $650,000, 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 Mr. Harper on bond.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Lee J. Karl are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Apollo, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 42 months of incarceration and three years of supervised release on her conviction of mail and wire fraud conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Bonnie Gardner, 56.

According to information presented to the court, Gardner participated in a massive fraud scheme involving more than $15 million in losses to more than 100 victims. The investigation has subsequently determined that Gardner and Frank Guzik, Jr., through various investment and development groups, such as East Haven Investments, East Haven Development, East Haven Realty, etc., devised and implemented an elaborate Ponzi scheme through which they successfully solicited investors.

The purported business of East Haven was to purchase properties, make various improvements to the properties, and then to sell them. In order to secure the investments, Guzik and Gardner made a series of misrepresentations to the investors. As collateral for the investments, Guzik and Gardner provided the investors mortgages on various properties. The investors believed that East Haven would be unable to sell the properties on which they held mortgages unless the mortgages were satisfied. Many of these mortgages were never filed, which the investors later learned.

The investigation has also revealed that the satisfaction pieces on some of the mortgages were forgeries. Guzik and Gardner also provided multiple investors with mortgages on the same properties. Thus, the purported value to the mortgagees was well in excess of the property's value. The investors were, of course, unaware that other investors held mortgages on the same properties.

Some of the investors received, if requested, monthly interest payments on their investments. Others chose to roll their monthly interest over into the investment, having been erroneously told by Guzik and Gardner that no tax was due on the accrued interest if it was rolled over. The investment never really earned any interest, despite the investor statements indications to the contrary and despite the payment of interest payments. In other words, Guzik and Gardner used new investor funds to pay interest to individual who had invested earlier, and also to support the lifestyles Guzik and Gardner were living.

Beginning in April of 2005, Guzik and Gardner needed to sell some of the properties to generate cash flow and to show investors that East Haven was profitable, but they could not sell the properties. Thus, Guzik and Gardner convinced a number of individuals to act as straw purchases of the properties. The mortgage documents falsely reported that the purchasers made substantial down payments from their own funds to purchase the properties. In fact, Guzik and Gardner deposited investor funds into the straw purchasers' bank accounts and then the straw purchasers would withdraw the money in the form of a certified check that they would bring to the closings as if they had made the down payment from their own funds. In addition, Guzik and Gardner paid the straw purchasers, using investor funds, the mortgage and utility payments for those properties. Guzik and Gardner then prepared a glossy pamphlet reporting the sales of the properties for use in inducing further investors.

Beginning around November 2007 and continuing until in or around March 2008, Guzik began withdrawing funds from the East Haven accounts by cash and check. By the end of March 2008, East Haven's National City accounts, into which investor checks had been deposited and from which investor interest checks had been drawn, had minimal or zero balances. During the same time period, Guzik withdrew $200,000 to purchase untraceable gold coins from International Precious Metals in Texas. Guzik also received two- short term loans totaling $475,000 in early March 2008, promising to repay them at 20% interest by March 18, 2008.

On or about March 17, 2008, Guzik disappeared, and has not been heard from since. He did not repay the loans, stopped making interest payments on investments totaling approximately $15 million, and never accounted for the principle investments. His whereabouts are still unknown.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service, and the Monroeville Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gardner.

PITTSBURGH – Eleven Pennsylvania residents and a resident of Brooklyn, 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 five-count indictment, returned on Oct. 15, 2013, and unsealed today charges:

Neil Thomas, 29, of Imperial, Pa.; Marcus Battles, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Luis Colon, 30, of Brooklyn, NY; Gabriel Garcia, 24, of Carnegie, Pa.; Christopher Greene, 30, of Leetsdale, Pa.; Stephanie Goehring, 26, of Aliquippa, Pa.; Ryan Hutchinson, 28, of Coraopolis, Pa.; William Krszal, 22, of Coraopolis, Pa.; Phillip Lacher, 25, of Conway, Pa.; Colin Mitchell, 28, of Sewickley, Pa.; Dustin Petry, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and
Kailen Young, 28, of Coraopolis, Pa.

According to the indictment, between January 2013 and October 2013, the defendants (except for Krszal and Lacher) conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; Garcia and Petry possessed firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and distributed heroin or possessed heroin with intent to distribute it; and Thomas, Greene, Krszal, and Lacher conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 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, including Thomas’s 2008 Can Am motorcycle and Goehring's 2008 Pontiac car.

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 $8,000,000 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.

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