Western District of Pennsylvania

Fines and Penalties of $4M to be Paid Back to USA

JOHNSTOWN, PA. - Two brothers who owned a major defense contracting firm waived indictment and pleaded guilty today in federal court to charges of major fraud against the government and conspiracy, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced.

William Kuchera, 58, of Summerhill, Penn., and Ronald Kuchera, 51, of Johnstown, Penn., pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Kim Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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 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.

Each brother also agreed to pay a $50,000 criminal fine to the United States. 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 will also pay $2.7 million to resolve their civil liabilities with the United States Department of Defense under the False Claims Act. Ronald Kuchera will pay $950,000 and William Kuchera will pay $829,566. KDS, now doing business as Currency, Inc., will pay $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 $200,000 to the prime contractor,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton. “Such blatant and outrageous fraud against the United States cannot and will not be tolerated.”

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Oct. 7, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, 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 Attorneys Nelson P. Cohen and Paul E. Skirtich are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Defense Contract Audit Agency, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William Kuchera and Ronald Kuchera.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of distributing heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The indictment named Desalynn L. Coleman, 32, as the sole defendant.

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

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

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has 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 two-count indictment named Nieves Calderon, III, 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on Nov. 19, 2012, Calderon distributed a quantity of alprazolam, a controlled substance, and on Feb. 19, 2013, he possessed less than 100 grams of heroin with the intent to distribute it.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of distributing heroin, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The indictment named Damian C. Jeffers, Sr., 42, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on Jan. 7, 2013, Jeffers distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

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

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation 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 Clearfield, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jason Shaffer, 38, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between February 2010 and September 2011, a conspiracy to distribute thousands of oxycodone tablets existed in Jefferson County in Northwestern Pennsylvania, and surrounding counties. Jason Shaffer conspired to distribute these drugs, selling them on the street after purchasing them for $25-$30 apiece. Oxycodone is a highly-addictive narcotic drug that is frequently abused in Western Pennsylvania.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2013 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, 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 Gregory J. Nescott is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jason Shaffer. The Jefferson County District Attorney's Office also assisted in a related investigation targeting other oxycodone distributors.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Adrian Flores-Flores, 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on March 27, 2013, Flores-Flores, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 19, 2009, was found in Bedford, Pennsylvania. He had unlawfully re-entered this country without receiving permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to do so.

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

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

The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Charleroi, Pa., pleaded guilty on Monday to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jeffrey Cochenour, 41, was convicted of providing false information to a federal firearms licensee by indicating that he was the actual buyer of a particular firearm when he was actually acting on behalf of someone else. Cochenour purchased a RomArm/Cugir 7.62x39 caliber semi-automatic rifle with a high-capacity magazine capable of accepting over 15 rounds of ammunition. Cochenour bought the firearm for, and provided the firearm to, an acquaintance who was a convicted felon and who was addicted to a controlled substance and could not lawfully purchase or possess firearms.

Sentencing is scheduled to occur on Aug. 9, 2013, at 10:30 a.m., in the courtroom of United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania State Police investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - After deliberating for seven hours, a federal jury of four men and eight women found Catherine Slane guilty of four counts of conspiracy and wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Slane, 53, of Tarentum, Pa., was tried before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer in Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Slane was employed as the Senior Title Manager at First Olympic Settlement Services and specialized in closing residential real estate transactions.

Russell Goggin, who passed away prior to Indictment, operated a company called Triplex Properties, which was a company that purchased properties in distressed circumstances -- from estates or from people attempting to sell their homes themselves and not through a real estate broker. He would enter into contracts in which he agreed to purchase properties at certain prices. Normally, before the closing on that transaction, Goggin would then attempt to locate buyers for the properties. He would advertise the house as "rent-to-own" which attracted individuals who could not typically afford to buy home because of credit issues, lack of a down payment, or for some other reason.

Despite their economic circumstances, Goggin convinced the buyers to purchase the homes promising to make improvements on the homes and by claiming that they would not have to make any down payments associated with the purchases. Based on those misrepresentations, the buyers agreed to purchase the properties from Goggin for many times the values of the homes.

Goggin, working through a Peter Kamaras, a mortgage broker who operated Single Source Mortgage, obtained financing for the buyers the purchase the homes through a series of fraudulent representations and bogus document. In the loan application process, the misrepresentations included overstating the borrowers' incomes and assets. In addition, Goggin and Kamaras submitted fake documents to support those and other misrepresentations.

The closing documents reflected that the borrowers were making substantial down payments, and that Goggin was not getting any money from the transactions. The sales price reflected the price that the buyer agreed to pay Goggin for the home, and not the price that the seller agreed to sell the property to Goggin for. In addition, the closing documents reflected that the buyers were making substantial down payments associated with the purchase of the properties, when, in fact, they were not making any payments.

Catherine Slane was the co-conspirator who did the closings. In addition to the fraudulent closing documents, Slane also wired funds received from the lender to Goggin. Goggin would then use those funds to obtain a certified check that he would bring back to Slane after the closing falsely evidencing to the lender that the buyers made the down payments.

None of this fraud, however, was possible without fraudulent appraisals that supported the fraudulently elevated sales price shown to the lenders. Sam Shaheen was the appraiser who provided the fraudulent appraisals. Both Shaheen and Kamaras previously pleaded guilty based on their roles in the conspiracy and are awaiting sentencing.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Slane for Aug. 9, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Mercer County was indicted on Wednesday, April 3, 2013, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Joseph L. Bryer, 52, of Grove City, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Aug. 23, 2011, Bryer possessed visual depictions, namely, images and videos in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

Homeland Security Investigations - Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with assistance from 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.

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, Pa. - A resident of Butler, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Jeffrey Garbinski, 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Garbinski owned and operated the Closing Company of PA ("Closing Company"), which closed residential real estate transactions. Sabrina Spetz was an attorney who closed many of the transactions at issue. Garbinski also operated a mortgage broker business called Main Street Mortgage Services, which did business as Asset Mortgage and Financial Services, Inc., and he was a title insurance agent.

Closing companies have trust accounts. What is supposed to happen is that the money from the lenders funding the loans goes into the trust account. At or shortly after the closing, those funds are disbursed consistent with the lender's instructions and the settlement statements. Most significantly with regard to this case, is that liabilities associated with the collateral are supposed to be paid immediately. Thus, the liens related to the property are paid and the lender stands in first lien position.

Rather than immediately paying the liabilities, Garbinski, with Spetz's knowledge and assistance, siphoned money from the company for years to support his lifestyle and for other business ventures. He would then use the money from the next transactions to pay the liabilities from the previous transactions. He would pay the monthly mortgage payments on the outstanding mortgages that should have already been paid to avoid discovery of his fraud. Eventually, the liabilities grew so large that Garbinski was no longer able to pay the liabilities and he filed for bankruptcy.

Although Garbinski committed this scheme regarding customers of the Closing Company, he also committed this scheme with his own personal residence. Dollar Bank funded a $600,000 loan to Garbinski arranged through his mortgage broker business and closed by the Closing Company. Basically, the loan through Dollar Bank was a typical refinance transaction in which all of the liabilities associated with the collateral, which was Garbinski's personal residence, were supposed to be paid off. Garbinski submitted a loan application that failed to report two significant mortgages on the property, and he also arranged to submit fraudulent title search records that did not reveal the two mortgages. Long after the loan closed, Dollar Bank discovered that they were in third lien position rather than first lien position. Now that Garbinski has filed for bankruptcy, Dollar Bank expects to suffer a total loss on that loan because the sale of the collateral is unlikely to pay off the first two liens on the property.

Ultimately, the title insurance company will likely have to pay substantial claims because of this fraud. The Closing Company was a representative of Fidelity National Title Insurance Company ("Fidelity"). Fidelity conducted an audit of the Closing Company of PA pursuant to the title insurance contract between Fidelity and the Closing Company. As part of that audit, Fidelity requested and obtained from Spetz bank statements that did not show the fraudulent withdrawals because the statements had been altered by Spetz at Garbinski's direction.

In terms of the money laundering, a homeowner sought to refinance a loan through Northwest Savings Bank. Because of concerns that Northwest had with Garbinski, Northwest refused to let the Closing Company close the transaction, and demanded that Fidelity close the transaction. Fidelity, however, was unaware of the transaction and did not close the loan. In order to make it appear that Fidelity was involved in closing the loan, the settlement statement was fabricated and provided to Northwest. The settlement statement falsely represented that Fidelity closed the transaction. In addition, Garbinski created a letter with wiring information for what was represented to be the trust account for Fidelity. In fact, the account number is for the Closing Company. The loan closed on Feb. 24, 2010, and was funded through a wire transfer from Northwest Savings Bank to the Citizens Bank account of the Closing Company. That money was supposed to have been used to pay off a liability associated with the collateral.

On Feb. 25, 2010, Garbinski withdrew $38,316 in cash from that account. Bank surveillance pictures showed Garbinski making the withdrawal. On that same day, Garbinski deposited $37,500 of that cash into the Clearview Federal Credit Union account of JAG Management LP, which was basically a shell company that Garbinski owned.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2013. The law provides for a total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Braddock, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months imprisonment followed by five years supervised release following a guilty plea to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry imposed the sentence on Antoine Cortez-Dutrieville, 34.

According to information presented to the court, on or about June 13, 2012, Cortez-Dutrieville attempted to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the United States Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Cortez-Dutrieville.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Francisco Javier Abundes- Montiel, 32, of Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Abundes-Montiel, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 2, 2011. He was found on March 1, 2013, by the Center Township Police Department.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Margaret E. Picking is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 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. - A resident of Pittsburgh was sentenced on April 9, 2013, in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Andre Allen, 30, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison followed by eight years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From January 2010 to March 3, 2011, Allen conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 400 grams of heroin. On March 3, 2011, Mr. Allen was arrested in Pittsburgh. At that time, he possessed $3,698.00 in United States currency on his person and thirteen bricks of heroin inside his residence.

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 Police Department, 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, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of filing false tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Zenford A. Mitchell as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Mitchell, filed false tax returns on April 14, 2008, for calendar year 2006 and for 2007 by deliberately under reporting his income.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of three years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both for each count of conviction. 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.

The Internal Revenue 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, Pa. - A resident of Munhall, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal law, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Kim Winwood, 61.

According to the indictment, on or about March 14, 2013, Winwood assaulted, resisted, and impeded certain officers or employees of the United States during the performance of their official duties, and he caused bodily injury to a Federal Bureau of Investigation Task Force Officer.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Gang Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Munhall Police Department, West Homestead Police Department and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh was sentenced on April 9, 2013, in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking and firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Harold Bacon, 30, was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison followed by eight years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From at least Jan. 18, 2010, when 18 bricks of heroin were seized from his rental car by Pittsburgh police detectives to March 3, 2011, when he was arrested after being indicted in federal court, Bacon supplied brick after brick of heroin to other heroin dealers. Bacon used young runners to store and distribute heroin for him and he used a female to pick up and transport hundreds of bricks of heroin from outside Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh.

In addition, on June 17, 2010, Bacon possessed a Desert Eagle .40 caliber pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Bacon obtained the Desert Eagle pistol on that date in return for heroin. Bacon then attempted to transfer the Desert Eagle pistol to someone else shortly after he acquired it.

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

The three-count indictment, returned on April 9, 2013, named Charles Joseph Payson, 45.

According to the indictment presented to the court, in and around August 2010, Payson produced images of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. On or about Nov. 7-9, 2012, Payson distributed visual depictions of a minor. From August 2010 through Nov. 24, 2012, Payson possessed visual depictions, namely images and videos contained in computer, camera and cellular telephone graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 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 Soo C. Song is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Clarion County, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of interstate transportation of a minor for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Joshua D. Baker, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about March 28, 2013, Baker knowingly transported across state lines a minor female known to the grand jury as A.S., who had not attained the age of 18, with the intent of engaging in sexual activity with the minor.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, 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 Shaun E. Sweeney 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, Pa. - A Westmoreland County man pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Kevin Nicol, 57, of Harrison City, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nicol was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The parties stipulated that 279.2 grams of "ice," also known as pure methamphetamine, were attributable to Nicol for purposes of the Sentencing Guidelines.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for 2:00 p.m. on July 12, 2013. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nicol.

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

Timothy Eugene Shearer, 54, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around February of 2009 to on or about September of 2009, and in or around October of 2006, Shearer persuaded, induced, and coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that conduct, namely a digital video and other images. The indictment also charged that Shearer possessed visual depictions, namely, digital image files and a video file, depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aug. 7, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 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 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 that led to the prosecution of Shearer.

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

PITTSBURGH - An individual found by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Antonio Florentino-Facundo, a/k/a Frankic Mendoza-Sagal, 29, formerly from Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to indictment, Antonio Florentino-Facundo, a/k/a Frankic Mendoza-Sagal, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 16, 2008.

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

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count indictment named Wilson Baca-Ortiz, 33, formerly from Honduras, as the sole defendant.

According to indictment, Wilson Baca-Ortiz, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Nov. 21, 2005. Wilson Baca-Ortiz was found on March 21, 2013, pursuant to an on-going investigation into another immigration matter.

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

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of escape from custody, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Alfonso Evans, 23, of Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Evans escaped from federal custody on Sept. 29, 2012.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 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 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 and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Alfonso Evans.

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

PITTSBURGH - Two Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on March 27, 2013, named Mark Lawson, 39, and Dacosta Lomax, 50.

According to the indictment, from December 2000, and continuing to March 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the Lawson and Lomax conspired with one another and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

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 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 Investigation Division, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Narcotics Enforcement Team conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - An owner of a local retail food store has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Samson Dweh, owner and operator of Mariama African Store on Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, Pa., was indicted on March 27,2013, on six counts of wire fraud and 35 counts of food stamp fraud.

According to the indictment presented to the court, the defendant's retail store participates 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 defendant's retail stores. As a condition of participation in the Food Stamp Program, the defendant certified that he would comply with all rules and regulations of the program and was aware that program rules strictly prohibit the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash and/or ineligible items. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, the defendant exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving the customers only 50 cents on the dollar for their food stamp benefits. The defendant also permitted food stamp customers to purchase ineligible items with food stamp benefits and accepted food stamp benefits as payment on credit accounts and loans.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

The Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count indictment, returned on March 27, 2013, named Darrell Rhett, 51, of Yonkers, New York.

According to the indictment, on or about Oct. 3, 2012, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Rhett possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen 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.

PITTSBUGRH - A resident of New Stanton, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to three years probation, with five months home detention and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $4,914.91 on his conviction of union embezzlement, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Gary L. Lancaster imposed the sentence on Frank Rysz, 47.

According to information presented to the court, Rysz, a Secretary-Treasurer of the Letter Carriers, National Association, AFL-CIO, Branch 1124, stole approximately $12,514.19 from the union by writing and cashing 70 unauthorized union checks, by making 26 unauthorized cash withdrawals and by making unauthorized payments over the four-year period from Jan. 1, 2007 to Dec. 31, 2010.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Department of Labor, Office of Labor Management Standards for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rysz.

PITTSBURGH - An owner of a local retail food store has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud and food stamp fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Emile Bizimungu, owner and operator of Dollar Grocery, formerly located on Brownsville Road, Mt. Oliver Borough, was indicted on March 27, 2013, on six counts of wire fraud and 16 counts of food stamp fraud.

According to the indictment presented to the court, the defendant's retail store 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 defendant's retail store. As a condition of participation in the Food Stamp Program, the defendant certified that he would comply with all rules and regulations of the program and was aware that program rules strictly prohibit the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash and/or ineligible items. Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, the defendant exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving the customers only 50 cents on the dollar for their food stamp benefits. The defendant also permitted food stamp customers to purchase ineligible items with food stamp benefits and accepted food stamp benefits as payment on credit accounts and loans.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

The Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - Three Pittsburgh-area residents were indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on March 26, 2013, on charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The seven-count superseding indictment named Richard Bush, 49, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Willis Wheeler, 41, of Rankin, Pa.; and Mayank Mishra, 32, of Glenshaw, Pa., as defendants.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, from August of 2011 to March of 2012, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Bush, Mishra and Wheeler conspired with one another and with others to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Also, on March 14, 2012, Bush and Wheeler possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Bush also possessed firearms in furtherance of these offenses, as well as an unregistered firearm. Both Bush and Wheeler have previous felony convictions, and Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year from possessing a firearm. The superseding indictment alleges that both Bush and Wheeler possessed firearms after having been convicted of felony offenses.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less that 10 years and up to life in prison, for all three defendants. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Palatine, Ill., was indicted on March 26, 2013, by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, misbranding of drugs and money laundering, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The three-count indictment named Adam F. Higdon, 40, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Higdon maintained two websites 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. Higdon deceived the Internet service provider and the FDA by falsely representing on the websites that he was selling these substances "for research use only . . . not for human consumption." During the period from January 2010 until January 2011, Higdon allegedly paid $131,472.50 to acquire the substances from suppliers in the Peoples Republic of China; and he thereafter sold the peptides for $397,662.00.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 on the mail fraud count; three years in prison and a fine of $250,000 on the misbranding 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.

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.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Verona, Pennsylvania and three residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, bank fraud, filing false tax returns, and failing to file tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The 20-count superseding indictment, returned on March 26, 2013, named George Kubini, 48, of Verona, Pa.; Dov Ratchkauskas, 46, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Sandra Svaranovic, 52, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and Arthur Smith, 63, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the Court, Kubini, Ratchklauskas, Svaranovic, Smith, and a number of other individuals who have already pleaded guilty, participated in a multi-faceted mortgage fraud conspiracy involving hundreds of properties and tens of millions of dollars worth of fraudulent loans.

Kubini and Ratchkauskas operated businesses that purchased and sold real estate. The superseding indictment alleges that Kubini and Ratchkauskas sold properties financed through a complex mortgage fraud scheme and that they executed settlement statements that they then knew were fraudulent. The superseding indictment also alleged that Kubini and Ratchkauskas made false representations to borrowers about making improvements to the properties.

Other members of the alleged conspiracy who already pleaded guilty included Robert Arakelian, who operated a mortgage broker business called Pittsburgh Home Loans, and Rhonda and Rochelle Roscoe, who operated another mortgage broker business called Riverside Mortgage. The superseding indictment alleges that Arakelian and Rhonda and Rochelle Roscoe, in furtherance of the conspiracy, submitted loan applications to lenders that falsely represented that the borrowers were intending to make payments at the time of the closings related to the purchase of the properties and that they had sufficient assets to make those payments from their own funds. This false representation was corroborated by Verification of Deposits that falsely represented that the borrowers had sufficient money in their bank accounts to make the payments at the closings.

Other members of the conspiracy included Bartholomew Matto, Cynthia Pielin, and Crystal Spreng, who all worked at financial institutions and all pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy. Their role was to sign the fraudulent Verifications of Deposit that falsely represented that the borrowers had sufficient funds in their accounts to make the payments at the closings.

The conspiracy also involved fraudulent settlement statements that overstated the true sales prices of the properties and falsely represented that the purchases of the properties made substantial payments in connection with the purchase of the properties. Daniel Sporrer was and attorney who executed some of these fraudulent settlement statements and Karen Atkison was an assistant for Sporrer. Sporrer and Atkison all pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy. The superseding indictment alleges that Smith, who is an attorney specializing in closing real estate transactions, similarly participated in the conspiracy by executing fraudulent settlement statements, by fraudulent withdrawing money from his trust account, and by making misrepresentations to a title insurance company.

In addition, the conspiracy involved appraisers who made false representations about the properties serving as collateral for the loans. The superseding indictment alleges that Svaranovic, as part of the conspiracy, prepared fraudulent appraisals that falsely represented the conditions of the properties serving as collateral for the loans and overstated the fair market values of those properties.

The superseding indictment also alleges that Kubini filed false income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service that understated his Adjusted Gross Income, and that Smith failed to file his tax returns for the calender years 2007 through 2009 despite earning sufficient income to trigger his legal obligation to file his income tax returns.

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

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

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

ERIE, Pa - A former resident of Oil City, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin imposed the sentence on Joseph Martin Glass, 53.

According to information presented to the court, Glass possessed 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 Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Glass.

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, Pa. - Former Pittsburgh Police Chief Nathan E. Harper has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and willful failure to file income tax returns, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The five-count indictment named Harper, 60, of Pittsburgh, Penn.

According to the indictment, Harper was the Chief of the City of Pittsburgh Police Department. 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 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 law provides for a maximum total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $650,000, 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 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.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws and laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Douglas E. Melter, 32, pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill, Jr.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Melter attempted to induce a woman to procure a minor for Melter to sexually abuse and photograph naked. Melter also possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and possessed a firearm after having been convicted of multiple felonies.

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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.

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

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

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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Bradford, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 150 months in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of$2,887.42 on his conviction of violating federal arson laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin imposed the sentence on Damon Leroy Kayes, 43.

According to information presented to the court, Kayes damaged Players Downtown bar at 12 Mechanic Street, Bradford, Pennsylvania by throwing a lit Molotov cocktail at the front door of the establishment, which at the time was crowded with patrons.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge McLaughlin stated that Kayes had a serious criminal history involving multiple violent offenses. Judge McLaughlin also noted the serious risk of harm to the bar's patrons that Kayes entirely disregarded.

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

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Bradford Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kayes.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Jennifer M. Soltis of Smock, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of misappropriation of postal funds and theft of mail by a postal officer and employee, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The two-count indictment named Soltis, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from Oct. 8, 2012 to January 9, 2013, Soltis, while employed as the Acting Officer in Charge with the United States Postal Service at the Smock, Pa., post office, converted to her own use postal money orders, stamps and cash having a total value of $5,729.65. The indictment also charges that on or about Dec. 9, 2012, Soltis embezzled a Walmart gift card from an item of mail.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Service, 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, Pa. - A Westmoreland County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Timothy Kelly, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about Feb. 11, 2013, Kelly possessed visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphics files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roxanne Lamer, 46, 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, Lamer 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 Aug. 9, 2013, 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 Lamer.

PITTSBURGH - An individual found in Coraopolis, Pa., 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 Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Mauro Zerecero-Soto, 24, formerly from Mexico.

According to the information presented to the court, Mauro Zerecero-Soto, an alien, was removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 5, 2011. Mauro Zerecero-Soto was found in Coraopolis on Jan. 4, 2013.

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

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - An individual found in Adams Township, Butler County, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of re-entry into the United States after deportation, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The one-count indictment named Marcio Martinez-Bustamante, 31, formerly from Honduras, as the sole defendant.

According to indictment, Marcio Martinez-Bustamante, an alien, was removed from the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Feb. 26, 2010 and January 26, 2011. Marcio Martinez-Bustamante was found on March 9, 2013, by the Adams Township Police Department during a traffic stop.

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

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

Prosecution is Part of Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative

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

David Eugene Lamer, 47, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from June 9, 2007, to April 15, 2008, Lamer conspired with others to defraud the United States by concealing money from the Internal Revenue Service in an effort to avoid paying income taxes. Also, on Sept. 2, 2010, Lamer possessed a FIE, Model Standard .38 caliber pistol, and on Sept. 3, 2010, Lamer possessed a Remington, Model 760, .30-06 caliber rifle, a Marlin, Model 1894, .357 caliber rifle, and a Savage/Stevens (Western Field) Model 30, 16 gauge shotgun. On Jan. 8, 1986, Lamer was convicted in Cambria Co., Pa., of burglary, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 9, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 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 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 Lamer.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months incarceration, three years of supervised release, and $6,000 fine on his conviction of tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Terrance L. Szymanski, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Szymanski operated a number of businesses in the names of others in order to evade both the payment and assessment of federal income tax. Szymanski's evasion resulted in a total tax loss to the United States of $2,432,161 spanning from 1997 to the present.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael A. Comber 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 Terrance L. Szymanski.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 77 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Akeem Abdul Caldwell, 27. Caldwell was found guilty by a jury on December 5, 2012, of the crime of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on Jan. 24, 2012, Caldwell, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a Norinco, Model 1911A1, .45 caliber pistol. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm.

According to information presented to the Court at sentencing, Caldwell's involvement in criminal activities began at age 14 and progressed to the robbery of a pizza delivery driver at age 17. In January 2005, at age 18, Caldwell was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of violating Pennsylvania's firearms law when he was found in possession of a sawed-off shotgun despite being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm. In early December 2005, at age 19, Caldwell was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of the crime of possession with the intent to deliver 73 stamp bags of heroin found in his pocket by the Pittsburgh Police. Also in early December 2005, Caldwell was convicted in federal court of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, when on Sept. 14, 2005, the police found him in possession of a 9mm caliber handgun that was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition and one round in the gun's firing chamber. Caldwell was then convicted in federal court in 2008 for the crime of escape when, after being released from federal prison to a halfway house, he walked out of the halfway house and never returned.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Caldwell. 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 Derry, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Holly Thomas, 21, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from the spring of 2011 to May 15, 2012, Thomas, along with co-defendants, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 6, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Fontana, Calif., has been sentenced in federal court to 292 months imprisonment and five years supervised release on his conviction of federal drug and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Dwayne Thompson, a/k/a D, a/k/a White Chocolate, 47.

According to information presented to the court, from 2001 and continuing until July 2007, Thompson was responsible for distributing more than 500 kilograms of cocaine in Detroit, Michigan; Indianapolis, Indiana; Atlanta, Georgia; and in the Pittsburgh region. The organization was referred to locally as the "Cali Connect" because a number of its member came from California. Thompson used his drug proceeds to purchase high-end luxury automobiles; a failed night club venture; and a speed boat with an estimated value of $225,000. Thompson's boat and cars have been forfeited to the government.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Pasadena Police Department and the Texas State Highway Patrol for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Two residents of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on March 12 and unsealed today, named Michael Anthony Stokes, 26, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania, and Ryan John Konarski, 22, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, from November 2010 to March 12, 2011, Stokes and Konarski conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute the controlled substance analogue 3,4 methylenedioxymethcathinone, also commonly known as methylone,"bath salts" or "Molly". The indictment alleges that the pair maintained a drug involved premises for purposes of distributing and using the analogue, while Stokes imported "Molly" into the United States.

Since drug suppliers have tried in the past to avoid prosecution by making minor changes in the chemical structures of controlled substances, Congress created the Controlled Substance Analogue Enforcement Act of 1986. This Act makes these "designer" drugs illegal if they are intended for human consumption and resemble a controlled substance in molecular structure as well as actual or purported physiological effects.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison and a fine of $2,500,000 for Konarski, and 80 years in prison and a fine of $3,500,000 for Stokes. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Brighton Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to five years probation with six months home detention with electronic monitoring, and was ordered to pay $100,821.64 in restitution on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Bruce K. Gaito, 54.

According to information presented to the court, Bruce K. Gaito fraudulently obtained a Social Security number in the name of “David Gaito” and used the number to obtain Supplemental Security Income Benefits from the Social Security Administration.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court for violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Clarence Thompson, 56, was sentenced to serve 80 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. From January 2010 to March 3, 2011, Thompson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 400 grams of heroin. Thompson’s federal sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to any sentence imposed for his pending state drug charges that were filed while he was on bond in his federal case.

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 - After a nearly year-long federal, state and local law enforcement investigation into drug trafficking and violence in Homestead, Pa., 34 residents of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. These charges were contained in six related indictments, returned on March 6 and unsealed today.

"These prosecutions are a continuation of our community impact prosecution strategy where we are going community to community to aggressively eliminate violent criminals," said U.S. Attorney Hickton. "But every day we are also working with committed public-spirited citizens to increase opportunities for our youth; to replace despair with hope; and to give kids at risk and reformed offenders a fair shot to be productive citizens because we know that to best protect the public welfare, we need to work equally hard to prosecute and prevent crime.

"This investigation was a response to the increased violence and incidence of drug trafficking in the Homestead, Pa. area, much of which was attributed to a gang, or criminal enterprise, known as the Uptown Crew," said Gary Douglas Perdue, Special Agent in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division of the FBI. "These indictments are a clear example of the determination and collaborative spirit among area law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal enterprises that pose the most significant threat."

THE INDICTMENTS

The first indictment, containing seven counts, named:

• Brandon Thompson, 30, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Antonio Hardin, 32, of Monroeville, Pa.;
• James Walker, 44, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Joseph Thompson, II, 25, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Richard Wood, 33, of Swissvale, Pa.;
• Gregory Harris, Jr., 24, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Luther Harper, 27, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Edward Cook, 25, of Homestead, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in and around April 2012 to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Brandon Thompson, Hardin, Walker, Joseph Thompson, II, Wood, Harris and Harper conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment also charges that on or about Aug. 12, 2012, Brandon Thompson and Edward Cook used, carried, possessed in furtherance of, brandished and discharged firearms during and in relation to that heroin trafficking conspiracy. The indictment further charges Antonio Hardin with, on or about Feb. 11, 2013, possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Last, on or about Jan. 26, 2013, the indictment charges Richard Wood with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and charges Walker and Hardin with distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

The second indictment, containing one count, named:

• Troy Anderson, 24, of Braddock, Pa.;
• Mark Felder, 25, of Duquesne, Pa.; and
• Dorianne Harris, 20, of Wilkinsburg, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Troy Anderson, Mark Felder and Dorianne Harris conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The third indictment, containing two counts, named:

• Andre Corbett, 20, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Sterling Marshall, 18, of Munhall, Pa.;
• Tireal Wheeler, 19, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Jordan Murphy, 21, of Homestead, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Andre Corbett, Sterling Marshall, Tireal Wheeler and Jordan Murphy, conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Additionally, the indictment charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin.

The fourth indictment, containing five counts, named:

• Jay Germany, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Brady Hall, 19, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Jaquan Washington, 23, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Hector Guadalupe, Jr., 36, of Brooklyn, NY;
• Santino Drew, 34, of New Brunswick, NJ;
• Thomas Martinez, 34, of Edison, NJ; and
• Louis Spinnenweber, Jr., 34, of Canonsburg, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Jay Germany, Brady Hall, Jaquan Washington, Hector Guadalupe, Jr., Santino Drew and Thomas Martinez conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, Germany, Hall and Washington did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. Additionally, on or about Jan. 30, 2013 and Jan. 31, 2013, Drew and Martinez possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Also, on or about Nov. 21, 2012, Louis Spinnenweber, Jr., possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a heroin. Last, on or about Oct. 30, 2013, Germany and Hall possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of heroin.

The fifth indictment, containing three counts, named:

• Bryce Harper, 26, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Diamantia Serrano, 19, of McKeesport, Pa.;
• Lacie Harper, 24, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ryan Harper, 36, of Munhall, Pa.;
• Jamar Harper, 32, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ronnell Robinson, 19, of Duquesne, Pa.; and
• Seth Lindsey, 18, of Duquesne, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around July 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Bryce Harper, Diamantia Serrano, Lacie Harper, Ryan Harper, Jamar Harper, Ronnell Robinson and Seth Lindsey conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. Last, the indictment charges that on or about Sept. 19, 2012, Bryce, Ryan, and Jamar Harper, together with Diamantia Serrano, did possess with the intent to distribute less than 100 grams of heroin.

The sixth indictment, containing four counts, named:

• Thomas Hopes, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pa.;
• Keith Harris, 22, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Anthony Smith, 21, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Hakeem Kirby, 19, of Homestead, Pa.;
• William McDonald, 68, of Homestead, Pa.;
• Ronnell Robinson, 19, of Duquesne, Pa.;
• Gregory Harris, Jr., 24, of Homestead, Pa.; and
• Sterling Marshall, 18, of Munhall, Pa.

According to the indictment, from in an around May 2012, and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2013, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Thomas Hopes, Keith Harris, Anthony Smith, Hakeem Kirby and William McDonald conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment further charged that, during that same time period, those same defendants did knowingly conspire to employ and hire persons under 18 years of age to distribute heroin. The indictment also charges that on or about Dec. 18, 2012, Hopes and Kirby possessed with the intent to distribute and did distribute a quantity of heroin. Last, the indictment charges that on or about Jan. 3, 2013, Robinson, Keith and Gregory Harris, Marshall, and Hopes used, carried, possessed in furtherance of, brandished and discharged firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence.

THE PENALTIES

On the conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin count, 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, for a first-time drug trafficking conviction. For those with one prior felony drug trafficking conviction, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $20,000,000 or both, and for those with two prior felony drug trafficking convictions, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison.

On the firearms' counts charging possession, use, brandishing or discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years if the gun is possessed in furtherance of the crime, seven years if the gun is brandished in furtherance of the crime, and 10 years if the gun is discharged in furtherance of the crime. These sentences, by law, must run consecutively to any sentence imposed for the narcotics counts. In addition, the law imposes a fine of up to $250,000.

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 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, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Munhall Police Department, West Homestead Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of these individuals.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Aliquippa, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to time served of 19 months incarceration, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to use stolen credit cards, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence yesterday on Courtney McFeaters, 33.

According to the information presented to the court, McFeaters, along with co-conspirators Calvin Smith and Joseph Dees, conspired to use stolen American Express credit account information to purchase merchandise at retail stores in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio between December 2010 and June 2011.

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

Officers from the United States Postal Inspection Service and United States Secret Service, along with along with agents from the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McFeaters. The WPFCTF was established in February 1995 as a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.