Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. This prosecution is the result of a nine-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in and around the counties of Jefferson, Clearfield, and Allegheny.

United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Brenton Ryans, 36.

According to information presented to the Court, Ryans received parcels that were shipped from California containing a total of between five and 15 kilograms of methamphetamine. Investigators searched Ryans’ residence on August 31, 2021, pursuant to a federal search warrant and seized a small amount of methamphetamine and a firearm.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ryans. Also assisting were the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, and the Clarion Borough Police Department.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on February 6, 2024, to one count of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Jose Santiago Hernandez, 32, pleaded guilty to attempting to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Hernandez pleaded guilty before United States Senior District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on June 28, 2021, Hernandez attempted to take possession of two U.S. postal parcels containing powder cocaine, a controlled substance under federal law. Combined, the parcels contained a collective weight of over five kilograms of cocaine.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for June 6, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Hernandez.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Walter Eiseman, 58, pleaded guilty before United States Chief District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, Eiseman admitted that, as a building inspector for the City of Pittsburgh, he was responsible for performing inspections of properties that were the subject of applications for certificates of occupancy. In 2018, a developer was working on a project to redevelop a commercial building in downtown Pittsburgh as luxury apartments and hotel rooms. As part of the financing for the project, the developer sought a historical tax credit, which would only be granted after the developer obtained a temporary certificate of occupancy for one of the project’s floors by the end of December 2018. In support of his guilty plea, Eiseman admitted performing inspections on two floors of the project during the month of December, which resulted in a temporary certificate of occupancy being issued. In return for such official action, Eiseman accepted home appliances from the developer, which were delivered in early January 2019. Eiseman also admitted that he solicited a set of kitchen cabinets from the developer, which were ordered but ultimately not delivered to Eiseman’s residence.

“Walter Eiseman breached the trust placed in him by the public and the City of Pittsburgh when he sought out and accepted bribes in exchange for using his authority as a building inspector to prioritize the approval of a lucrative temporary certificate of occupancy,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “Whether it’s a bag of cash, a car, or a set of kitchen appliances, a bribe is a bribe all the same. This office and our partners at the FBI are committed to rooting out corruption at all levels of government. The public expects a level playing field, and it is our job to keep it that way.”

Chief Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for June 6, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eiseman.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Kendall McCoy, 21, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about June 27, 2022, McCoy is alleged to have possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 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 DeMarr W. Moulton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The three-count Superseding Indictment named Elijah Hanna, 25, as the sole defendant in this case.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on December 12, 2023, Hanna possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime, and possessed a firearm after having been convicted of a felony. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum possible sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $3,000,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug trafficking and federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The four-count Indictment named Lester Burrell Jackson III, 32, as the sole defendant in this case.

According to the Indictment, on or about November 14, 2023, December 7, 2023, and January 2, 2024, Jackson knowingly and unlawfully distributed quantities of methamphetamine. The Indictment further charges that, on or about January 27, 2024, Jackson possessed a firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a felony. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm or ammunition by an individual who has been convicted of a felony.

The law provides for a maximum possible sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr W. Moulton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to eight years of imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States Senior District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Tiryn Green, 27.

According to information presented to the Court, following two controlled buys of heroin and fentanyl from Green in February 2022, investigators from the PA Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation (BNI) Unit as well as the Monroeville Police Department executed a search warrant on Green’s Monroeville residence. During that search, investigators recovered drug evidence along with multiple firearms, high capacity magazines, and several hundred rounds of ammunition. Under federal law, Green is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon several prior felony convictions.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Monroeville Police Department, the PA Office of Attorney General BNI Unit, and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Green.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation and 50 hours of community service on his conviction of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Rodney Thomas, 51. Thomas also was ordered to pay a fine of $2,500 and restitution of $9,800 to the Pennsylvania Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Council.

According to information presented to the Court, Thomas shot and killed a mature bald eagle with an air rifle in Mount Pleasant Township in Washington County on May 12, 2023.

Prior to sentencing, testimony was offered from residents of Mount Pleasant Township.

Assistant United States Attorneys Gregory C. Melucci and Nicole A. Stockey prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Mount Pleasant Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Game Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Washington County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Seven Fields, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Durrell Fortson, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime before United States District Judge William S. Stickman.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 16, 2022, law enforcement initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Fortson. During that stop, a drug K-9 conducted an exterior sniff of the vehicle and alerted an officer to the presence of controlled substances. Law enforcement then applied for and obtained a search warrant for the vehicle. The subsequent search resulted in the seizure of an air mattress box in the trunk containing two gallon- sized bags of cocaine, a bag from the back seat area that contained two kilogram wrappers with cocaine residue, a digital scale from the back seat area, and a .40 caliber handgun loaded with thirteen rounds of ammunition from underneath the driver’s seat. Law enforcement searched the serial number located on the loaded handgun and learned that it was reported stolen.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for June 11, 2024. The maximum total penalty for the drug charge is a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. The maximum total penalty for the firearm charge is a term of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Fortson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possessing a loaded firearm as a previously convicted felon, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Dijuan Taylor, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of felony possession of a firearm under federal law before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, following a traffic stop in Hazelwood on November 21, 2022, Taylor dropped a loaded firearm with extended magazine from his body. Taylor, who was previously convicted of earlier felony offenses, is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

Judge Fischer scheduled Taylor’s sentencing for May 6, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, and up to three years of federal supervised release following incarceration. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

The Court continued to detain Taylor pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Taylor.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A Washington, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced to two years in prison followed by three years of supervised release, and a resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was ordered detained in separate cyberstalking cases this week, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Eric Scholl, 56, of Washington was sentenced on January 31, 2024, by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to two years in prison and three years of supervised release after his incarceration. Scholl was also ordered to pay restitution to the victim, his ex-wife, whom he admitted cyberstalking after she had obtained a Pennsylvania Protection from Abuse (PFA) order against him. Among other things, Scholl placed a GPS tracking device on the victim’s car to track her movements; directed harassing and intimidating emails, texts, and phone calls to her, including using a web-based service that allowed him to disguise his phone number; and posted lewd content about her on the internet.

On February 1, 2024, Daniel Marsico, 37, of Pittsburgh was ordered detained pretrial after a contested detention hearing before United States Magistrate Judge Patricia L. Dodge. Marsico was indicted and arrested last week on a charge of carrying out an extensive cyberstalking campaign against his ex-girlfriend over several years, despite her having obtained a PFA order against him. According to the Indictment and evidence presented at the detention hearing, over the course of three and a half years, Marsico harassed, threatened, and intimidated his ex-girlfriend by stalking her through text messages, phone calls, online activity, and in-person confrontations.

A third recent stalking case brought by the United States Attorney’s Office saw Daniel Larivee, 48, of Plainfield, Vermont, charged with cyberstalking in November 2023. According to the Indictment, Larivee continually cyberstalked, harassed, and threatened his ex-wife, who lives in Pittsburgh, for more than three years, also in violation of a PFA order, threatening to kill her multiple times. In his most recent string of threats, Larivee compared himself to the shooter in the recent mass-shooting tragedy in Maine. He is also currently detained pretrial.

“These recent prosecutions reflect our office’s unwavering commitment to combatting the rise in this devastating criminal behavior,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “Those who choose to engage in relentless cyberstalking campaigns against traumatized victims cannot hide behind their computers or cell phones. Working together with our dedicated partners in law enforcement, we will find them, bring them out from the shadows, and hold them accountable under federal law.”

“The victims in these cases did not let fear silence them,” said FBI Pittsburgh Division Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “While they suffered from fear and emotional distress, they courageously came forward and took legal action to file court orders of protection, but continued to be victimized by the defendants online. The FBI urges victims of online threats to report the crime. We are committed to investigating these cowardly acts.”

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting these three cyberstalking cases on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigations leading to the Indictments in these cases. Marsico and Larivee are presumed innocent of the charge against them unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

January 2024 marked the 20th annual National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM), an annual call to action to recognize and respond to this criminal, traumatic, and dangerous victimization. This year, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania joined with others to help spread awareness about stalking through the theme “Know It, Name It, Stop It.” If you believe you or someone you know is a victim of stalking, help is available. Contact your local service provider or a national hotline:

• Victim Connect: 1-855-4VICTIM (1-855-484-2846)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−7233
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Additional information and resources are available through the Stalking Prevention Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC), at www.StalkingAwareness.org, a project funded by the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of being in possession of a machine gun, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Luther Antwon Harper Jr., 19, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on April 5, 2023, Harper unlawfully possessed a machine gun, which, in this instance, was an automatic conversion kit/switch affixed to the rear slide of a Glock 22, .40 caliber pistol, or a “Glock switch.” This conversion kit/switch made the firearm capable of firing in a fully automatic capacity.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for May 6, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Court continued to detain Harper pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Allegheny County Police Department’s Violent Crimes and Firearms Unit conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Harper.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Debra Bailey, 60, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around February 2021 to July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Bailey conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Bailey was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that she distributed to others.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for May 23, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5 million, 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bailey. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 30, 2024, a resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Hobbs Act robbery and violating federal firearms law, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Anthony Kendrick, 37, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Kendrick had been one of three individuals involved in a string of robberies targeting gas stations, convenience stores, and fast-food restaurants in the Pittsburgh area between June and August of 2019. In particular, Kendrick pleaded guilty to armed robberies at two BP gas stations on the evening of August 4 and August 5, 2019. The Hobbs Act prohibits actual or attempted robbery or extortion affecting interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 27 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kendrick.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Demond Pinkett, 45, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the Court, on January 17, 2024, Pinkett possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on January 30, 2024, to a charge of conspiring to violate federal export laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Derby Clerfe, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge William S. Stickman.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Clerfe had purchased nine handguns and provided them to another individual who would arrange for their export to Haiti without filing the export information required by federal law.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for May 30, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Commerce and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Clerfe.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Connoquenessing, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on January 30, 2024, to 51 months in prison and three years of supervised release on her convictions for wire fraud and making false statements on her tax returns, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Constance Stobert, 58.

According to information presented to the court, Stobert worked as a controller for a company called Mechanical Operations Company (MOC) from 1994 until July 2021. Between January 2014 and July 2018, Stobert stole at least $1,678,893 in MOC’s assets to pay for her personal expenses. Among other things, Stobert wrote checks from MOC’s business banking accounts to make personal credit card payments and used MOC’s credit cards to withdraw cash at ATMs in casinos located in Pittsburgh and Las Vegas. Stobert also admitted that, during the tax years 2016 through and including 2019, she willfully and knowingly filed false tax returns, in which she failed to report the money she embezzled from MOC, resulting in a tax loss to the government of $545,990.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that Stobert caused substantial financial hardship to MOC and its owners and noted that Stobert’s crimes were intentional, serious, and occurred over a substantial period of time. Judge Schwab also stressed that efforts to portray the defendant as the victim were not convincing and that, given the seriousness of the offenses, defense counsel’s request for a sentence of home incarceration “is a bridge too far.”

“The victim entrusted Ms. Stobert with unfettered access to corporate funds, and, for years, she betrayed that trust by stealing more than $1.5 million and taking deliberate steps to cover up her theft,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “This type of deception will not be tolerated, and bringing the perpetrators of such financial crimes to justice will continue to be an important part of the work of this office and our partners in law enforcement.”

“Ms. Stobert used her position to fund her lavish lifestyle and while doing so not only defrauded her employer, but honest hardworking Americans who pay their tax obligations every year,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “This sentencing should serve as reminder to anyone willing to take advantage of their employment to steal funds - the FBI will ensure you are held accountable in the criminal justice system.”

“No matter the source of the income, all income is taxable, and accurate tax returns must be filed,” said Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “Constance Stobert embezzled from her employer for years and failed to report the stolen funds on her personal income tax returns. The prosecution of individuals who intentionally conceal income and evade taxes is always a priority for IRS-CI.”

Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stobert.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for his conviction on fentanyl and cocaine trafficking charges, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Ravon Crockett, 46, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. Judge Hornak also ordered Crockett to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. In September 2023, Crockett pleaded guilty in this case to (1) conspiring to distribute fentanyl and cocaine between March 2020 and August 2021, and (2) distributing fentanyl and cocaine on November 16, 2020.

At sentencing, the Court was informed that Crockett distributed fentanyl and cocaine in New Castle, Lawrence County, for several months in 2020. He was on probation at that time for a prior heroin trafficking conviction in Ohio.

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

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Crockett.

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Merrick B. Garland today announced the recipients of the 70th and 71st Attorney General’s Awards, honoring Justice Department employees and others for extraordinary contributions to the enforcement of our nation’s laws. Recipients from both 2022 and 2023 were selected from a group of more than 800 nominees.

“Each of today’s recipients has served with distinction, and in so doing, they have enabled the Justice Department to advance its work on behalf of the American people,” said Attorney General Garland. “Their exceptional leadership, heroism, and dedication have benefited people and communities across the country.”

Jessica Lieber Smolar, Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, was part of a group that received the Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service for the group’s outstanding work in U.S. v. Toebbe et al. Jonathan Toebbe and his wife, Diana Toebbe, of Annapolis, Maryland, were sentenced last year after pleading guilty to conspiracy to communicate restricted data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships to a foreign government. Read more about the case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/maryland-nuclear-engineer-and-his-wife-sentenced-espionage-related-offenses.

Along with Assistant United States Attorney Smolar, the Distinguished Award was presented to Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division; Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas for the Northern District of West Virginia; FBI Special Agents Jason Serone, Justin Van Tromp and Peter L. Olinits; FBI Supervisory Special Agent Andrew Bass Gray; FBI Unit Chief Andrew Thomas Mitchell; Special Agent John C. Nocella of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service; FBI Intelligence Analyst Brent Cronce; FBI Staff Operations Specialist Vicky Mineard; FBI Supervisory Special Agent David Brassini; FBI Supervisory Investigative Specialist Keith Smith; and FBI Intelligence Analyst Sean Cottington.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of computer fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Kevin N. Ukaegbu, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on December 5, 2022, Ukaegbu, formerly a graduate nurse at Allegheny General Hospital, criminally used the hospital credentials of a Highmark resident physician and attempted to modify prescription medications for two patients, putting one of the patients at risk of serious bodily harm. In neither case was the medicine administered to the patients.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 21, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense 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.

Homeland Security Investigations of the United States Department of Homeland Security, with the assistance of Highmark Health Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ukaegbu.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and heroin and for possessing fentanyl and heroin with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Jackie Bell, 32, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon, who also ordered Bell to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

According to information presented to the Court, Bell served as an interstate source of fentanyl and heroin for drug dealers in Mercer County in 2021. At that time, Bell had 2012 and 2018 fentanyl and heroin trafficking and possession convictions from two Ohio prosecutions that both involved fatal drug overdoses, and also was on probation in Ohio following a separate 2019 conviction for aggravated drug possession.

Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin C. Dobkin and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bell.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, and for distributing cocaine base within 1,000 feet of a school, while on federal supervised release for a prior cocaine base trafficking conviction, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Forrest Gilmore, 28, also ordering Gilmore to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

In pleading guilty in this case, Gilmore admitted responsibility for distributing 450 grams of cocaine and 25 grams of cocaine base/crack between June 2020 and June 2021 in the New Castle area. In a prior case, he previously was convicted and sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for trafficking cocaine base in the New Castle area. He was released from his prior federal prison sentence to supervised release in April 2020 and, within two months, started trafficking cocaine and cocaine base again in New Castle in violation of his release conditions and the United States Code.

Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin C. Dobkin and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gilmore.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 25, 2024, a Pittsburgh resident was sentenced in federal court to 15 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release in connection with his possession of a machine gun, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Dontrel Bentley, age 34.

According to information presented to the court, during a traffic stop on October 24, 2022, an officer with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police recovered a loaded AR-15 style rifle next to the driver, Dontrel Bentley. A search of Bentley’s person revealed that he had in his pocket a .223 caliber round and an auto sear device, which, when installed within the trigger group of a semiautomatic rifle, renders the rifle fully automatic. Bentley admitted that he personally modified the rifle at his home and that the auto sear device belonged to him. The investigation revealed that the seized rifle fired as a fully automatic weapon. Federal law prohibits the possession of machine guns.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bentley.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on January 25, 2024, to charges of robbery and firearms violations, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Richard James, 33, pleaded guilty to six counts before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, in April and May of 2021, James committed a series of armed robberies of cellular telephone stores in the Pittsburgh area. The Court was also informed that the defendant was found in illegal possession of a firearm in August 2021. As a convicted felon, under federal law, James is not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the Court ordered that the defendant remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of James, in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Swissvale Police Department.

PITTSBURGH, Pa.- A resident of Indiana County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in prison, five years of supervised release, restitution of $2,000, and an assessment pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of $5000 on his conviction of possession of material depicting the exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Allen Sink, 57, formerly of Commodore, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the Court, in February of 2018, as a result of an ongoing investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, HSI Pittsburgh was advised that Sink, who was a convicted sex offender, was obtaining child sexual abuse material from a mobile communication application. In March of 2018, investigators seized Sink’s electronic devices, including a cellphone, and located videos and images of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minor children.

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

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sink.

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 (CEOS), 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 Pittsburgh man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of illegally possessing a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Michael William Horvwalt, 37, a resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about May 26, 2023, Horvwalt, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a machine gun with a round in the chamber. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Brown is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on January 25, 2024, to federal drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Rashawn Ford, 28, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William S. Stickman to one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of heroin and fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

According to admissions made during Ford’s plea hearing, on March 13, 2021, a trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Ford in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. During the stop, the trooper recovered from Ford’s person packaged heroin and fentanyl, in addition to a loaded handgun. Subsequently, law enforcement learned that Ford was staying at a hotel in Westmoreland County and that additional controlled substances were located in Ford’s hotel room. On March 14, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant upon Ford’s hotel room, with the search resulting in the seizure of packaged heroin and fentanyl, a handgun loaded with 27 rounds of ammunition, and over $8,600.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2024. The maximum penalty for the drug charge is a term of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the firearm charge is a term of not less than five years and up to life imprisonment and a $8,000,000 fine. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A federal judge has found two Western Pennsylvania men guilty of three counts related to the unlawful killing of migratory birds, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Robert Yost, 52, of New Galilee, Pennsylvania, and Jacob Reese, 27, of Enon Valley, Pennsylvania, were tried before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy in Pittsburgh in late-October 2022.

The evidence presented at trial established that, in June 2020, Yost—as operator of Yost Farms in Beaver County, Pennsylvania—and one of his employees, Reese, conspired to kill migratory birds present on leased farmland operated by Yost Farms using carbofuran, a registered restricted-use pesticide. The Environmental Protection Agency concluded no later than 2009 that the dietary, worker, and ecological risks for all uses of carbofuran were unacceptable and that all products containing carbofuran generally caused unreasonable adverse effects on humans and the environment. As part of the conspiracy, Yost directed Reese to spread whole kernel corn coated in carbofuran in and around a leased field used for soybean cultivation to which children had access. The tainted corn attracted protected migratory birds that were killed within a short distance of where they ingested the corn. Yost and Reese thereafter took steps to conceal their efforts to poison and kill the migratory birds, including destroying the feed bag containing the carbofuran-laced whole corn kernel. When confronted by officials from the Pennsylvania Game Commission and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Reese and Yost also lied about their use of poisoned corn to kill the birds. In total, Yost and Reese were responsible for killing approximately 17 Canada geese, 10 red-winged blackbirds, and one mallard duck.

“Robert Yost and Jacob Reese used corn laced with an extremely toxic, banned pesticide to poison over two dozen migratory birds,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “The defendants’ indiscriminate criminal conduct also put the safety and health of the farm’s neighbors—including small children and a man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease—at risk. Protecting wildlife and the people who live in our communities from the illicit use of dangerous chemicals is, and will remain, a priority of this office and our dedicated partners in state and local law enforcement.”

“The deliberate application of a highly toxic pesticide, whose use is restricted due to the unreasonable risks to public health and the environment, threatened the health and well-being of the community and the children who played in the poison area, and resulted in the intentional killing of numerous migratory birds,” said Allison Landsman, EPA-CID Acting Special Agent in Charge. “The conviction of Robert Yost and Jacob Reese demonstrates EPA’s resolve to vigorously, with its federal and state partners, investigate, prosecute, and hold accountable those who criminally apply toxic pesticides and target species protected under federal law.”

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to holding accountable those who knowingly violate wildlife laws, which in this case resulted in the death of migratory birds and the potential serious harm of children and adults who live in the area,” said the Service’s Special Agent in Charge for the Northeast Region Ryan Noel. “We are grateful for strong relationships with partners, including the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division, Pennsylvania Game Commission, and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, that allow us to be successful in these investigations and ensure future generations can enjoy wildlife resources.”

Judge Hardy scheduled both sentencing hearings for May 29, 2024, with the defendants each facing a total maximum term of imprisonment of 13 months and a total fine of $31,000. The actual sentence imposed would be based upon a consideration of statutory sentencing factors and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

Assistant United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Brown and Special Assistant United States Attorney Perry D. McDaniel are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Office of Law Enforcement, Environmental Protection Agency - Criminal Investigation Division, and Pennsylvania Game Commission conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Yost and Reese, with assistance from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a cyberstalking charge, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan, announced today.

The Indictment named Daniel Marsico, 37, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, over the course of three and a half years, Marsico harassed, threatened, and intimidated his ex-girlfriend, Person 1, by stalking her through text messages, phone calls, online, and in person. The Indictment alleges: after their relationship ended in 2020, Marsico messaged Person 1 persistently, continuing even after Person 1 obtained a court order (a Pennsylvania Protection from Abuse Order, or PFA) against him and after he was arrested. Marsico’s messages threatened Person 1, threatened her employment, and threatened other people in her life. He produced surreptitious, lewd, and embarrassing images of Person 1 and used those images to create fake social media accounts in her name. Marsico also posted about Person 1 on other internet websites. During the course of his criminal conduct, Marsico physically assaulted Person 1’s ex-boyfriend. He came to Person 1’s home uninvited multiple times, placing her in fear and forcing her to seek safety elsewhere. Marsico kicked in Person 1’s door, caused other damage to her home, and threatened to dismantle her security cameras. He surveilled her home and messaged her the license plate numbers of cars he thought were visiting her. When Person 1 blocked Marsico’s phone number, he called and messaged her using anonymous means. When Person 1 sought the assistance of law enforcement, Marsico escalated his threats and asserted that he would never be convicted of stalking her. Marsico’s course of conduct placed Person 1 in reasonable fear of death and serious bodily injury and caused Person 1 substantial emotional distress.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than one but 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Scott Township 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Devan Nicholson, 30.

According to information presented to the court, from May 2022 to February 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Nicholson conspired to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Nicholson was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of fentanyl that he distributed to others.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Nicholson. Additional agencies participating in this investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Two residents of Santa Ana, California, have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentences on Thien Phuc Tran, 34, and Ton Huynh Bui, 30. Tran received a sentence of 87 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $4,247,987 in restitution, while Bui was sentenced to four months’ incarceration followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $194,278 in restitution.

According to information presented to the court, Tran and Bui were part of a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy which had two overall elements: a fraud scheme to deprive victims of money, and then a second scheme to launder the fraudulently obtained funds, with Tran and Bui involved in the latter scheme. Vulnerable victims across the United States, often elderly, were convinced through nefarious means, including computer pop-up messages followed by telephone calls from co-conspirators operating out of call centers in India, to send their money to bank accounts created with stolen Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Typically, a pop-up message would appear on their computer screen, falsely purporting to be from a reputable technology company, urging the user to call a number. When the victim called the number, the victim was told that his or her identity had been compromised and would be convinced to send their money to a particular bank account opened by Tran and Bui with stolen PII.

Conspirators also converted stolen victim funds to cryptocurrency, and moved money through multiple accounts, including accounts affiliated with the defendants, in an attempt to conceal their fraudulent activities. One victim in the Western District of Pennsylvania was caused to liquidate retirement accounts totaling $1,288,073. Tran was found to be responsible for the laundering of $4,247,973 in fraud proceeds, while Bui was responsible for a lesser amount of $194,278.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan stated that the crimes committed by the defendants went well beyond typical financial crimes and will seriously affect victims for a very long time.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Stephen R. Kaufman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tran and Bui.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 23, 2024, a resident of Reseda, California, was sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $117,525 in restitution on his conviction of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Roberto Gutierrez, 51. Two co-defendants, Roderick Feurtado and Tarek Bouanane, both of Las Vegas, Nevada, were sentenced by Judge Ranjan on Friday, January 19, for their roles in the case, with Feurtado receiving a sentence of ten years and Bouanane a sentence of 46 months, each followed by three years of supervised release, along with restitution totaling $258,520 to 16 victims. Additional information regarding those sentencing hearings and the larger investigation and prosecution of the alleged masterminds of the fraud scheme can be found here.

According to information presented to the court, the three were participants in a scheme to defraud elderly victims. Posing as attorneys, members of the conspiracy called numerous victims and falsely represented that one of the victim’s relatives, typically a grandchild, had been incarcerated and needed money for bail and legal fees. Gutierrez and others would then visit the victims at their homes, posing as a courier or bail bondsman to collect the fraudulently obtained money. At least $250,000 was obtained in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere through the conspiracy.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the harm it caused the victims.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey R. Bengel and Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, and Bethel Park Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the three individuals.

Anyone with information about allegations of elder fraud can report it by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 833–372–8311. More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative at https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/assistant?orgcode=USDOJEFH or at 877-FTC-HELP.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Morrisdale, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Shane Hoover, 32, pleaded guilty to Count Two of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, from about November 2019 to June 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Hoover conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Hoover was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for May 15, 2024. The law provides for a sentence of at least 10 years to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon 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 Hoover. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 23, 2024, a former resident of Munhall, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Benjamin Sabo, 35, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 4, 2023, Sabo possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Additionally, Sabo possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of Pittsburgh 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, Pa. - A former resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on January 23, 2024, on a charge of violating the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The one-count Indictment named John I. Park, 67, who formerly resided and practiced medicine in the Western District of Pennsylvania and currently resides in San Gabriel, California, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from an unknown date until July 10, 2019, Park—who was a licensed and practicing physician in the Western District of Pennsylvania at that time—sold and administered nerve block injections to patients at his medical practice in Scottdale, Pennsylvania, which he had mixed and placed into syringes under unsanitary conditions at his Monroeville residence.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to one year in prison, a fine of not more than $100,000, 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 Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration 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 Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking and firearm violations, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Dimetrius Morris, 39, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on February 20, 2020, Morris possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, as well as a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for May 22, 2024. For the drug trafficking charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. For the firearms offense, the maximum penalty is not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Sharon Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Farrell Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Morris. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Marianna Borough, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation, including 90 days of home detention, on her conviction for mail fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Erica Pinkney, 39. A hearing to determine the amount of restitution owed by Pinkney will be held in April.

According to information presented to the court, Pinkney previously served as the Secretary and Tax Collector for Marianna Borough. While employed in those roles, Pinkney used the Borough’s credit cards to pay for personal purchases. Then, to pay toward the balance of those credit cards, Pinkney used money that had been collected from Borough residents as payment for their tax, water, and garbage bills.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hardy stated that Pinkney had committed a serious offense that had eroded public trust in the Borough.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pinkney.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Two residents of Las Vegas, Nevada, were sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan sentenced Roderick Feurtado, 57, to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and Tarek Bouanane, 47, to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. The Court also ordered restitution totaling $258,520 to 16 victims.

Feurtado and Bouanane were convicted after a five-day trial in September 2023. Evidence at trial established that the defendants traveled to the Pittsburgh area in September 2021 to execute a scheme to defraud elderly victims of large amounts of cash. As part of the scheme, members of the conspiracy contacted numerous victims and falsely claimed that a family member of the victims, usually a grandchild, had been detained in connection with a legal proceeding and needed money for bail. The victims were directed to withdraw cash and provide it to a “courier” who would visit them at their homes. In reality, the victims’ family members had not been detained, and the “courier” was actually a member of the conspiracy. Tarek Bouanane acted as one of these “couriers,” while his co-conspirator Roderick Feurtado acted as the “safehouse,” providing directions to the couriers and collecting the money that had been obtained from the victims. During the trial, the jury heard recorded instructions from one of the defendants’ co-conspirators, directing that “couriers” park far away from the victims’ homes and wear masks to obscure their identities. The defendants kept a portion of the fraud proceeds for themselves, and they had plans to pass along the rest to other co-conspirators, including by converting it to cryptocurrency. During the investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police seized approximately $220,000 from the defendants.

Prior to imposing the sentences, Judge Ranjan emphasized that the harm caused to the victims by the offense was emotional, not just financial. As to Feurtado, the Court noted the defendant’s lack of remorse and his record of misrepresentations to the Court and the jury during his testimony at trial.

Separately, three residents of Panama have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their alleged roles in masterminding the fraud scheme involving Bouanane and Feurtado, among other co-conspirators, which spanned multiple locations throughout the United States in addition to the Western District of Pennsylvania. Stefano Zanetti, Samuel David Ferrer Avila, and Cesar Javier Chourio Morante were arrested and extradited to Pittsburgh in August 2023, and their cases remain pending before Judge Ranjan. They are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

“This office and our law enforcement partners remain committed to vigorously pursuing offenders who target elderly and other vulnerable citizens of Western Pennsylvania through sophisticated financial fraud schemes,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “The lengthy prison sentences imposed on Bouanane and Feurtado send a clear message that this conduct will not be tolerated and hopefully will provide some measure of justice and closure to the victims and their families.”

“Today’s sentencing of Roderick Feurtado and Tarek Bouanane is the culmination of an incredible partnership between HSI Pittsburgh, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Bethel Park Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia William S. Walker. “Investigations and prosecutions as complex as this one are only successful when teams are truly dedicated to protecting vulnerable members of our society. This type of interagency cooperation has proven to be law enforcement’s most effective tool in bringing these cases to prosecution. Holding accountable financial fraudsters while safeguarding our seniors from exploitation is a preeminent goal of our law enforcement professionals.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey R. Bengel and Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, and Bethel Park Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Feurtado and Bouanane.

Anyone with information about allegations of elder fraud can report it by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 833–372–8311. More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative at https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer- protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/assistant?orgcode=USDOJEFH or at 877-FTC-HELP.

ERIE, Pa. - On January 18, 2024, a resident of Franklin, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 40 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Phillip John Dechant, 40, of Franklin.

According to information presented to the court, on or about April 22, 2020, Dechant possessed numerous firearms while being a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

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

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dechant.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 17, 2024, two individuals were sentenced to lengthy terms of imprisonment by United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand on their convictions for violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws related to a nine-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in and around the counties of Jefferson, Clearfield, and Allegheny, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

George Charlan, 36, a former resident of Grants Pass, Oregon, was sentenced to 15 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release, and Derek Hillebrand, 27, a former resident of Troutville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release.

According to information presented to the court, Charlan and Hillebrand were key members of a cross-country narcotics distribution conspiracy. Charlan orchestrated a shipment of over 280 pounds of methamphetamine and over 100 kilograms of marijuana from California and Nevada to individuals in Jefferson County, Clearfield County, and Allegheny County. Of that amount, Hillebrand received and distributed at least 220 pounds of methamphetamine and 100 kilograms of marijuana to his customers, who subsequently distributed the narcotics to their customers throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania. Charlan then directed Hillebrand to mail large amounts of United States currency (representing drug proceeds that were used to purchase additional narcotics) from the Western District of Pennsylvania to California, and one of his co-conspirators to transport the remaining drug profits to Charlan. In total, Hillebrand mailed over one million dollars in United States currency to California during the course of the conspiracy.

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Services, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Charlan and Hillebrand, with additional assistance from the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, and the Clarion Borough Police Department. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Rockwood, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of tax evasion and filing a false income tax return, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Jason R. Svonavec, 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Svonavec evaded tax liability in 2017 by illegally expensing the construction of his home in Somerset, Pennsylvania, through entities he operates called Heritage Coal and Natural Resources LLC and Banshee Crane. In 2018, he filed a tax return reporting false tax deductions for Heritage Coal and Natural Resources LLC.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 26, 2024, in Johnstown, PA. The law provides for a maximum sentence of eight years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Svonavec.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 17, 2024, to 27 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

James West, 48, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In pleading guilty in this case last year, West admitted to conspiring to distribute at least four grams of fentanyl between 2020 and 2021 in Mercer County. Judge Bissoon ordered West to serve three years of supervised release upon release from prison.

Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin C. Dobkin and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of West.

This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 87 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Brittany Luzier, 30.

According to information presented to the court, from January to March 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Luzier conspired to distribute five grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Luzier was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that she distributed to others.

Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Luzier. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of New Paris, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a one-count Information charging conspiracy to deal and manufacture firearms without a license, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. His plea follows earlier guilty pleas from his two co-defendants in the case to charges of possession, manufacturing, and trafficking of firearms, among other offenses.

Wayne Farabaugh, 55, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines. In December and October of 2023, respectively, co-defendants Craig Zahradnik, 52, of Altoona, and Harry Miller, 47, of Martinsburg, Pennsylvania, each pleaded guilty to seven counts before Judge Haines, with Zahradnik’s sentencing scheduled for April 10, 2024, and Miller’s for March 11, 2024.

In connection with their guilty pleas, Farabaugh, Zahradnik, and Miller admitted that, between May 2022 and April 2023, they were part of a conspiracy to engage in the business of manufacturing and dealing in firearms without a license. Specifically, Miller and Zahradnik were partners in an illicit business operation engaged in the manufacturing and trafficking of privately made firearms—so-called ghost guns—with Miller purchasing the components and maintaining many of the weapons at a storage unit that Zahradnik, a retired police detective, controlled. Beginning in July of 2022, Zahradnik provided $5,000 payments to Miller that Miller then deposited into his bank account, totaling $30,000. Miller used these funds to purchase the firearm components from outside Pennsylvania and repaid Zahradnik with the proceeds from the gun sales, including from the sale of what Miller marketed as “hit kits,” consisting of a 9-millimeter Polymer80 handgun with no serial number, a threaded barrel to attach a silencer, a silencer, subsonic ammunition, and latex gloves.

Farabaugh admitted that he assisted Miller and permitted him to use machinery at Farabaugh’s place of employment to drill the components for ghost guns. Miller also used this equipment to manufacture untraceable weapons and weapon components that were required to be registered with the government under the National Firearms Act, including silencers, machineguns, and short-barrel rifles. Zahradnik transported the “hit kits” and other firearms to and from Miller for scheduled buys. On other occasions, Miller and Zahradnik transported firearms together.

Zahradnik further admitted that, in March 2023, he transferred a firearm and ammunition to Miller, knowing that Miller intended to sell, dispose of, or transfer the firearm and ammunition in furtherance of a felony, and unlawfully transferred firearms that were not registered to him. As part of their guilty pleas, Zahradnik and Farabaugh both admitted that they knew Miller was a convicted felon and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.

During their plea hearings, Zahradnik and Miller further pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a machinegun, illegal trafficking in firearms, and unlawfully engaging in the business of manufacturing and dealing in firearms.

“This case illustrates the extraordinary danger associated with the unlawful manufacturing and trafficking of ghost guns,” U.S. Attorney Olshan said. “These defendants admitted selling so-called ‘hit kits’ to anyone looking for an untraceable firearm packaged together with a silencer and even latex gloves. The potential for lethal consequences is staggering. As always, we will continue to work side by side with our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement to ensure that those who put profit over public safety are held accountable.”

“The unlawful sale of firearms is a primary focus of ATF,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “In this case, self-styled ‘hit kits’ pose a critical threat to the safety of our citizens. The result of this investigation is a testament to the longstanding collaboration with our local, state, and federal partners, including the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Altoona Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office. I would like to thank the dedicated work of the investigators and prosecutors for dismantling this illegal firearm distribution operation.”

Farabaugh is scheduled to be sentenced May 15, 2024, with the law providing for a maximum sentence of five years. Zahradnik and Miller each face a maximum total sentence of 70 years in prison, a total fine of $1.27 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecutions. This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Donald Snowden, 32, of New Castle, was sentenced by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab ordered Snowden to serve three years of supervised release following the prison sentence.

In August 2023, Snowden pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and cocaine between May 2021 and October 2022 and to distributing fentanyl in August 2022. In pleading guilty, Snowden acknowledged responsibility for the distribution of 100 grams of cocaine and 16 grams of fentanyl. He was on probation for a prior felony conviction when he committed the crimes in this case.

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

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Snowden.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Conestoga (Lancaster County), Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to nine months in prison followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal drug and identity theft laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Andrew Black, 37, formerly of Pittsburgh, now of Conestoga.

According to information presented to the court, on March 31, 2020, Black attempted to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine when he ordered two ounces of methamphetamine from a “dark web” site. The package was intercepted by United States Postal Inspectors. Further, from January 2018 through March 2020, Black used fraudulently obtained personal identifying information to open bank accounts and credit cards in the names of unknowing victims in an attempt to obtain money illicitly to purchase illegal drugs.

Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen R. Kaufman and William B. Guappone prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Black.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Johvian Everett, age 24, formerly of Mt. Oliver, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on November 27, 2022, Everett knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits a person who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The Indictment further alleges that, on the same date, Everett possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan following his conviction for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Deago Lee Eddings, formerly of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 27 months of imprisonment for his federal firearms conviction, with his federal sentence to be served consecutive to the term of incarceration for his state parole violation for the same conduct. In total, Eddings will be incarcerated for at least 45 months for his conduct. Judge Horan further sentenced Eddings to the maximum term of three years of federal supervised release following his incarceration.

Eddings’ violation of federal firearms law occurred on September 16, 2020. Eddings had just completed his state sentence and was on state parole when he incurred this federal firearm charge. Eddings, a convicted felon, pleaded guilty to illegally being in possession of a firearm and ammunition in May 2023. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Ann Stockey prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Brentwood Borough Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Eddings.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, PA - Two residents of Washington, PA, have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed a sentence of 3 years' probation on Julia Jolly, age 37, and a sentence of 3 years' probation on Ethan Gordon, age 30, both of Washington, PA, with joint restitution of $61,852.

According to information presented to the court, Gordon and Jolly agreed to submit false Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan applications (COVID-19 pandemic relief loans administered by the Small Business Administration). One false application was submitted in Gordon’s name, and one in Jolly’s name, resulting in a combined loss of over $60,000 to the government.

Assistant United States Attorneys Gregory C. Melucci and William B. Guappone prosecuted these cases on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jolly and Gordon.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Jamir Hughes was convicted of possessing trans-3-methylfentanyl, cis-3-methylfentanyl, and cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

Hughes, age 23, formerly of Delaware County (Pennsylvania), pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing to occur on May 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on May 27, 2020, Hughes possessed 17 grams of a mixture of trans-3-methylfentanyl and cis-3-methylfentanyl and 115 grams of cocaine in a car that was traveling on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Somerset County. 

Hughes was on his way from the Philadelphia area to Butler in Butler County. Hughes intended to distribute the controlled substances after arriving in Butler. Hughes, however, did not make it to Butler because the Pennsylvania State Police stopped the car in Somerset County and thereafter seized the controlled substances.

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

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

The Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force led the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.