Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Dubois, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of federal narcotics 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Morgan Gregory, age 33, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and one count of possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Gregory was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gregory was a methamphetamine distributor who obtained between 200 grams and 350 grams of methamphetamine as part of a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy and redistributed it to methamphetamine users. Additionally, officers seized approximately three ounces of methamphetamine from Gregory on Oct. 8, 2020.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Gregory on March 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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 former resident of Crafton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The three-count Second Superseding Indictment named Robert Allen, age 43, as the sole defendant.

According to the Second Superseding Indictment, from in and around April 2017, and continuing thereafter until in and around May 11, 2017, Allen conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Additionally, on May 11, 2017, Allen possessed with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Second Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Alexandria, Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, Transportation With Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity, and Obstruction of Justice – Hindering Communication Through Corrupt Persuasion, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Apipat Vutipawat, also known as “Viktor Vutipawat,” “Viktor Koi,” “Arty Freedom,” and “Victor Kim,” age 29, of Alexandria Virginia, pleaded guilty on Thursday to three counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from May 29, 2020 through June 2, 2020, Vutipawat traveled in interstate commerce with the purpose of engaging in any illicit sexual conduct with Minor A and transported Minor A, a person who had not yet attained the age of 18 years, from Pennsylvania to Virginia with the intent that Minor A engage in criminal sexual activity.  Vutipawat also knowingly corrupted and persuaded Minor A with the intent to hinder, delay, or prevent the communication to a law enforcement officer of information relating to the commission or possible commission of a Federal offense.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 16, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of not less than ten (10) years and not more than life in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Vutipawat remains detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh, Homeland Security Investigations-York, Homeland Security Investigations-DC, Pennsylvania State Police, North Strabane Township Police Department, and the Fairfax County Police (Virginia) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vutipawat.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Palestinian national has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 9, 2022, named Huthayfa Almassri, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, from June 14, 2022, until Oct. 16, 2022, Almassri used the Internet and a cellular telephone to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an individual who had not attained the age of 18 years to engage in sexual activity.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life 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 Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Woodland, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of federal narcotics and firearms 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Justin Zeruth, age 35, pleaded guilty on Thursday to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Zeruth was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Zeruth was a distributor who purchased at least a pound of methamphetamine from Hillebrand that he then redistributed. On March 24, 2021, Zeruth, a felon precluded from possessing a firearm, was stopped while driving a vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and seized a firearm.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Zeruth on March 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of forty in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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.

A Pennsylvania man was sentenced yesterday to 208 months, more than 17 years, in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, aka ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 24, of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty in the Western District of Pennsylvania on Sept. 16, 2021 to one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS in connection with his plan to attack a church in Pittsburgh.

“Alowemer admitted to planning a deadly bombing of a Pittsburgh church in the name of ISIS,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The National Security Division was created to protect the nation from terrorist threats and we remain vigilant against those who would plot violent attacks on U.S. soil in furtherance of an extreme ideology.”

“The defendant’s plan to bomb a Pittsburgh church and risk death or injury to residents in the area in the name of ISIS was thwarted by the extraordinary work of the Pittsburgh Joint Terrorism Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Cindy K. Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “Our office will continue to hold accountable individuals who threaten the safety of our communities.”

“I want to commend the great work of our Joint Terrorism Task Force, and that of their partners and sources, in successfully thwarting a planned terrorist attack in the name of ISIS,” said Assistant Director Robert R. Wells of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “Alowemer’s plan to conduct an attack at a church in Pittsburgh and inspire other ISIS supporters in the United States was unsuccessful thanks to the efforts of law enforcement officials at both the federal and state level. This sentencing demonstrates the commitment we share with our partners to pursuing justice against those who violate our laws and seek to harm innocents in our communities.”

According to court documents, Alowemer plotted to bomb a church located on the north side of Pittsburgh using an explosive device. His stated motivation to conduct such an attack was to support the cause of ISIS and to inspire other ISIS supporters in the United States to join together and commit similar acts in the name of ISIS. Alowemer also targeted the church, which he described as a “Nigerian Christian” church, to “take revenge for our [ISIS] brothers in Nigeria.” Alowemer was aware that numerous people in the proximity of the church could be killed by the explosion.

In furtherance of the plot to bomb the church, in May 2019, Alowemer distributed multiple instructional documents related to the construction and use of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to an individual Alowemer believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter, but who was in fact an FBI employee. Alowemer distributed these documents with the intent that the information be used in the assembly of a destructive device and in furtherance of conducting an attack in support of ISIS. In or around June 2019, Alowemer purchased several items, including nails and acetone (nail polish remover), with the belief that they were necessary to assemble a destructive device and with the intention they be used to construct the explosives that would be detonated in the vicinity of the church.

Between April 16 and June 11, Alowemer met four times in person with an FBI Undercover Employee (UCE) and/or an FBI Confidential Human Source (CHS). At the June 11 meeting with the UCE and CHS, Alowemer provided additional details about the bomb plot and provided the materials, including boxes of nails, he had purchased for construction of the device. Alowemer provided printed copies of detailed Google satellite maps, which included hand-written markings identifying the church and routes of arrival and escape. Alowemer also wrote and provided a 10-point handwritten plan outlining details related to his plot to personally deliver explosives in a backpack. Alowemer expressed a desire to meet one more time to conduct planning and coordination prior to carrying out the attempted bombing in July 2019. That meeting was later scheduled for June 19 in the Pittsburgh area, at which time Alowemer was arrested.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song for the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Brenda Sue Thornton and S. Elisa Poteat of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force members who were directly involved in this investigation include: FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), IRS – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Port Authority Police, Allegheny County Probation, University of Pittsburgh Police Department and UPMC Police Security.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh to 30 months’ probation, 150 hours of community service, and a $1,000 fine on her conviction of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Amy Lynn Snow, age 54.

According to information presented to the court at the time of the guilty plea, Snow, from August 2013 through September 2017, falsely reported to the Social Security Administration that her spouse was not a member of her household knowing that his status as a member of the household and his income would affect her entitlement to Social Security Income benefits. The amount of loss suffered by the Social Security Administration by reason of Snow’s theft was $45,422.61.

As part of the sentence imposed, Chief Judge Hornak ordered the defendant to pay full restitution in the amount of $45,422.61 to the Social Security Administration.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Snow.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has pled guilty on a charge of possessing 10 grams or more of a mixture containing fluorofentanyl and fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Gerry Lee Kendall, age 41, pleaded guilty before Senior District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 6, 2021, an officer with the Duquesne Police Department observed Gerry Lee Kendall exit Truman Towers, a known high-drug trafficking area. The officer observed Kendall enter the front passenger seat of a parked vehicle, which then committed several traffic violations. Subsequently, the officer conducted a traffic stop. While speaking with the driver, Kendall repeatedly asked why they were stopped and appeared to be shaking. When asked about where they were coming from, Kendall was unable to provide the last name of the person he met at Truman Towers or the apartment number. Subsequently, the officer asked the driver and Kendall to step out of the vehicle. When the officer asked Kendall whether he had any weapons on him, Kendall tried reaching for his pocket. When the officer instructed Kendall not to reach for his pocket, Kendall placed his hand into his pocket. For officer safety, the officer pulled Kendall’s hand from his pocket, and 4 “bricks” fell out of the pocket with Kendall’s hand. A “brick” is typically comprised of 50 glassine bags containing heroin and/or fentanyl. The officer arrested Kendall and searched him incident to arrest, which resulted in the seizure of an additional 16 bricks, $1,773.00, and a cellular phone. A search warrant executed upon the phone revealed texts that showed Kendall’s prior distributions of controlled substances.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for 9:30 am on March 1, 2023. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than five years and a maximum of 40 years, a $5,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of at least four years and/or a special assessment of $100. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Kendall on bond.

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

The Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gerry Lee Kendall.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Camden, NJ pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Beatrice Ortiz, age 34, pleaded guilty to a lesser-included offense at Count Two of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or around October 25, 2018, Ortiz possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for April 5, 2023. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses 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 the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Ortiz.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of food stamp fraud and identity theft, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

John Alan Vanhouwe, 60, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Vanhouwe, who owned and operated a mobile convenience store in Erie, allowed customers to pay credit accounts with food stamps and used a database he created to gain access to customers’ food stamp accounts so he could pay down their credit accounts at his store without their knowledge.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 10, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 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.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Vanhouwe on bond.

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

The United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vanhouwe.

PITTSBURGH – A suburban Pittsburgh man has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempted receipt of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Vikash Mishra, age 41, formerly of Ross Township, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about October 30, 2021, until on or about Feb. 25, 2022, Mishra used cellular telephone networks and the internet to knowingly attempt to receive material involving the sexual exploitation of minors.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2023. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, supervised release for any term of years not less than five and up to life. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Judge ordered the defendant remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The two-count Superseding Indictment, returned on Nov. 1, 2022, named Jonathan Young, 35, of the City’s Garfield neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, on or about Feb. 16, 2022, Young knowingly possessed, in and affecting interstate commerce, a firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment. The Superseding Indictment further alleges that on the same date, Young possessed a machinegun.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former physician pleaded guilty today in federal court to a health care fraud charge associated with the pain management practice, Jefferson Pain and Rehabilitation Center, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Dr. John Keun Sang Lee, age 79, of Venetia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between in and around May 2016 to in and around October 2020, Lee knowingly and willfully submitted claims for steroid injections to Medicare and Medicaid that were neither reasonable nor medically necessary. According to former patients and employees, Lee required patients to submit to steroid injections, even when patients reported that the injections were not helping but rather causing them more pain and other injuries. Lee also instructed employees to withhold patient medication if patients objected to the injections. In order to justify billing insurance companies for the medically unnecessary injections, Lee directed staff to use templates indicating that patients received 80% relief from prior pain injections.

Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

As part of his plea agreement, Lee has agreed to pay $264,730 in restitution to the United States Department of Health & Human Services and $153,230 to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services for losses associated with the fraudulent billings. Lee also has agreed to voluntarily surrender his medical license and DEA registration and not to maintain any ownership or management interest in any medical clinic or facility.

Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health & Human Services, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Randy Lee Eicher, 25, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from September 2018 to December 2018, Eicher received and distributed images and videos depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for March 1, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 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.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Eicher on bond.

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

Homeland Security Investigations and the Boone, North Carolina Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eicher.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced to 45 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release on charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Juan Santiago, 43, formerly of the City’s Homewood neighborhood.

According to information presented to the Court, on Jan. 28, 2021, members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a search warrant at a residence on Bennett Street, in the Homewood section of the City of Pittsburgh. While occupants inside of the residence were being hailed by officers, Santiago was observed exiting the rear of the residence carrying a large sum of money in one hand and a firearm tucked underneath his arm. Santiago fled back inside of the residence when he was confronted by officers. Santiago was pursued into the residence where he discarded the firearm inside of a kitchen cabinet. Santiago was ultimately detained inside of the dining room area of the residence where the money he was carrying was dropped onto the floor. From inside of the dining room area, officers discovered two partially constructed polymer ghost guns, an unloaded revolver, and 79 grams of cocaine and a digital scale consistent with drug trafficking. Santiago is precluded from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon a prior aggravated robbery conviction from Puerto Rico.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Juan Santiago.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Fort Worth, Texas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months’ incarceration and 15 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating the Mann Act by transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose having the minor engage in prostitution and conspiracy, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Oscar Carter, 38, formerly of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

On July 11, 2022, Carter pleaded guilty and admitted that he agreed and conspired with another individual, Shelby Summer Brown, to commit an offense against the United States, that is, to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an individual, Minor A (an individual who had not yet attained the age of 18 years) to travel in interstate commerce, from Ohio to Pennsylvania, to engage in prostitution and any sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense, and did so, from March 6, 2018 through March 14, 2018.

Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes members of the Cranberry Township Police Department and the City of Pittsburgh Bueau of Police, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Carter.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Indiana County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Possession of Material Depicting the Exploitation of Minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Jeffrey Allen Sink, 56, formerly Commodore, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

The Court was advised that in February of 2018, as a result of an ongoing investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, HSI Pittsburgh was advised that Mr. Sink, who was a convicted sex offender, was obtaining child sexual abuse material from a mobile communication application. On March 1, 2018, investigators spoke with Mr. Sink, who admitted that he utilized the internet to obtain child sexual abuse material. Mr. Sink gave agents permission to look at his electronic devices, including a cellphone, which were on his person or in the truck that he had been driving when he arrived at the residence that day. Investigators located videos and images of child sexual abuse material, which included toddlers and other prepubescent minors engaged in sexual acts with adults.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for Feb. 27, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations led investigation of this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Lawrence County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, in form commonly known as crack cocaine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Quantel Searcy, age 49, formerly of New Castle, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Friday to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

If this case would have proceeded to trial, the government would have proven that Searcy was part of a cocaine-distribution conspiracy focused on New Castle, Pennsylvania. The conspiracy involved cocaine imported from Mexico into California that the California conspirators mailed to the New Castle area and that Searcy and others then distributed. The evidence that government would have presented included intercepted communications obtained through court authorization, surveillance, controlled purchases from Searcy and other conspirators, search warrants of locations associated with Searcy and various other investigative techniques. The evidence would also have included a seizure of multiple kilograms of cocaine shipped from California to New Castle that law enforcement intercepted in Illinois.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for March 1, 2023 The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Maureen Sheehan-Balchon are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Searcy, along with the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the New Castle Police Department, and the Illinois State Police.

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 – Michel Cercone was sentenced to 151 months in prison for conspiring to distribute Schedule I and II controlled substances, and to launder drug trafficking proceeds, between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Cercone, age 48 of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Cercone was also ordered to serve four years of supervised release following her prison sentence.

Cercone was convicted at the conclusion of a jury trial in December 2021. She was responsible for the distribution of at least five kilograms of cocaine, 1,000 oxycodone pills, and synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances saturated into paper which was sent into prisons in 2017 and 2018.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the federal Bureau of Prisons, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General led the multi-agency investigation that also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Munhall Police Department, the Robinson Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Etna Police Department, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.

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 former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pled guilty on a charge of possessing a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Cameo Witherspoon, age 33, formerly of the City’s Larimer neighborhood, pleaded guilty before Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 6, 2021, an officer with the Monroeville Police Department initiated a traffic stop of a vehicle due to an expired registration in Monroeville, PA. The driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, failed to immediately stop, and when he did, he quickly exited the vehicle to dispute the stop.

While interacting with law enforcement, the driver lied about his identity, misrepresented where the vehicle’s registration was located, locked and unlocked the vehicle three times, and dumped the contents of the glovebox onto a fanny pack within the vehicle. The officer then requested a K-9 unit, and the drug dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. Subsequently, law enforcement had the vehicle towed and applied for a search warrant. During the resulting search, law enforcement recovered a loaded handgun from the fanny pack in the vehicle. 

Following the driver’s arrest, law enforcement determined that the driver was the defendant, Cameo Witherspoon, and that Witherspoon had an active warrant for a parole violation. As described in the Indictment, Witherspoon has multiple prior felony convictions in the Court of Common Pleas, County of Allegheny, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For example, on May 31, 2013, Witherspoon pled guilty to robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery. He was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 90-180 months. Under federal law, convicted felons are prohibited from the possession of firearms and ammunition.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for 10:00 am on March 2, 2023. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years and/or a special assessment of $100. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded Witherspoon to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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

The Monroeville Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cameo Witherspoon.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned on Oct. 25, named Maurice Mosely, Jr., age 41, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about July 21, 2021 and Sept. 10, 2021, Mosely, Jr., 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 and ammunition. On or about July 21, 2021, Mosely, Jr. possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base; 5 grams or more of methamphetamine; and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. On or about Aug. 13, 2021, Mosley, Jr. possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendant is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

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

The Drug Enforcement 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 - A resident of Clinton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment followed by 3 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Tyriese Green-Saunders, age 23.

According to information presented to the court, on April 20, 2021, Green-Saunders possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorney Christopher M. Cook prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monroeville Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Green-Saunders.

PITTSBURGH- A former resident of Blairsville, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty and been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment and one year of supervised release on his conviction of felony possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Justin McConnell, 37, currently incarcerated at Indiana County Jail.

According to information presented to the Court, McConnell, who had previously been convicted of incest, on or about March 30, 2007, at Docket Number 33-2007, in the Court of Common Pleas, Indiana County, unlawfully possessed a firearm on Oct. 2, 2019. The firearm, a GSG pistol, and ammunition were seized from McConnell’s residence after being located by agents with the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole during a search of McConnell’s residence. Due to his prior felony conviction, McConnell is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McConnell.

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 Clearfield, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of federal narcotics 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Amy Bortot, age 52, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and a quantity of marijuana before United States District Judge

Christy Criswell Wiegand. Bortot was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bortot used her position as a United States mail carrier to receive parcels on behalf of Derek Hillebrand, the leader of the drug trafficking organization, that were shipped from California to the Western District of Pennsylvania. In total, Bortot received parcels containing approximately 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine and 80 kilograms of marijuana.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Bortot on Feb. 28, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than ten years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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 former resident of Blandburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of federal narcotics 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Kenneth Gillam, age 52, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and a quantity of cocaine before United States District Judge

Christy Criswell Wiegand. Gillam was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gillam was a methamphetamine distributor who obtained between 350 grams and 500 grams of methamphetamine from Derek Hillebrand as part of a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy and redistributed it to methamphetamine users. Gillam also obtained a quantity of cocaine from Hillebrand that he unsuccessfully attempted to sell.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Gillam on March 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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 Brackenridge, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 180 days of home detention and three years’ probation on her conviction of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tamara A. Rounce, age 50.

According to information presented to the court, Rounce, as a representative payee for her children, embezzled approximately $74,575.67 SSI benefits which were designated for the care of her three minor children who were living in foster care.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Social Security Administration - OIG for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rounce.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of robbery and firearm violations, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The four-count Superseding Indictment named Deon Reese, age 47, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on March 23, 2017, Reese robbed an individual and conspired to rob him, and used a firearm to do so.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months’ imprisonment on his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Reco Hall, age 37, of Hays Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, on or about November 6, 2020, Hall was in possession of a Taurus .38 Special revolver, loaded with five rounds of ammunition. Because of a prior felony convictions, federal law prohibited Hall from possessing the weapon.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Brian W. Castello prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

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 former Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to 10-years of imprisonment and five years of supervised release related to his membership in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States Senior District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Romeon Alford, age 47, formerly of East Liverpool, OH 43290.

According to information presented to the court, under the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, federal, state, and local law enforcement investigated a drug trafficking organization in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. Multiple confidential sources established the identity of the main target of the investigation. Using controlled buy operations and surveillance, law enforcement also identified the members of the organization. The investigation revealed that the main target would supply his conspirators with multiple ounces of cocaine on a weekly basis, which would then be sold to end users. As evidenced by a multi-kilogram seizure from the main target, this drug trafficking organization dealt in kilogram quantities of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

During the investigation, law enforcement determined that the main target supplied Romean Alford and that Alford would then distribute cocaine to end users. Between November 2019 and January 2020, law enforcement conducted four controlled buy operations from Alford in the vicinity of his East Liverpool, Ohio, residence. Following these controlled buy operations, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant upon Alford’s residence. The search resulted in the seizure of multiple ounces of cocaine. An examination of Alford’s phone revealed that he frequently communicated with the main target of the investigation, confirming that the main target was Alford’s source of supply. The investigation further revealed that Alford would travel from Ohio to Beaver County in order to obtain multiple ounces of cocaine from his source of supply. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the main target had supplied Alford with multiple ounces of cocaine on a weekly basis since January 2019.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Alford.

PITTSBURGH - A Fayette County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, PA on charges involving the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The seven-count Superseding Indictment named Sean Ryan McKenzie, 37, formerly Perryopolis, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on June 5, 2020, Dec. 13, 2020, and June 8, 2021, McKenzie attempted to and did use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing any of such conduct. Further, the Superseding Indictment alleges that on March 1, 2022, McKenzie knowingly possessed visual depictions, namely, videos and images in computer graphic and digital files, the production of which involved the use of minors, including prepubescent minors who have not attained 12 years of age, engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The Superseding Indictment further alleges that on June 5, 2020, Dec. 13, 2020, and Feb. 21, 2021, McKenzie knowingly attempted to transport and transported material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations – Pittsburgh and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal fraud laws of embezzling funds, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Tracey Smith, 54, of the City’s Lincoln Park area, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between 2014 and 2018 Smith embezzled funds from two separate employers, Pro Towels and Moderne Glass, when she held executive positions with the companies.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Feb. 16, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Smith’s bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A New York resident has pleaded guilty and been sentenced in federal court to 72 months’ incarceration and 10 years of supervised release on his conviction of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today. The Court ordered Keppel to pay a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 and $2,000 under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Grant Keppel, age, 23, of Williamsville, NY.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 11, 2019, Keppel, while residing in New York, participated in an online group dedicated to discussing the sexual exploitation of minors and offered for sale a link containing hours of video depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Keppel then sold the link to an undercover Federal Bureau of Investigation-Pittsburgh Agent who was investigating the online sexual exploitation of minors. As part of its investigation, the FBI discovered that Keppel had amassed a very large collection of child sexual abuse material in online cloud accounts.

Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Pittsburgh, as well as FBI-Buffalo and its Child Exploitation Task Force, including the New York State Police, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Keppel.

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

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Yvonne Saadi will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Saadi has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

United States Attorney Chung said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

United States Attorney Chung said, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Saadi will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 412-894-7516.”

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 412-432-4000.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.

United States Attorney Chung added, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

David Anthony Madden, 36, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Madden conspired with two co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for February 9, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $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 Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Madden.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Dubois, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of federal narcotics 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Megan Pyne, age 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Pyne was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Pyne was a methamphetamine distributor who obtained between 350 grams and 500 grams of methamphetamine as part of a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy and redistributed it to methamphetamine users.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Pyne on Feb. 27, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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 Stockton, California, pleaded guilty in federal court to violation of 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 Cindy Chung announced today.

Lisandra Maldonado, age 32, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possesses with intent to distribute quantities of methamphetamine and marijuana as well as one count of conspiracy to launder money before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Maldonado was one of 47 defendants charged in six related indictments as part of the Return to Sender investigation.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Maldonado conspired with her husband, Christian, and others to launder drug proceeds obtained from the distribution of methamphetamine and marijuana that was shipped from California, Oregon, and Nevada to the Western District of Pennsylvania as part of a large-scale conspiracy.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Maldonado on Feb. 21, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a sentence of no more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain on bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan D. Lusty and Michael R. Ball are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the 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. 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 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 McKeesport Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day of imprisonment and three years of supervised release related to his possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl and possession of a stolen firearm, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States Senior District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Terrance Yarbrough, age 29.

According to information presented to the court, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant upon a McKeesport residence used by Yarbrough to distribute narcotics. Law enforcement recovered two digital scales, packaging material, rubber banded glassine bags containing controlled substances, and a 9mm caliber handgun, which was loaded with an extended magazine containing 16 rounds of ammunition. Following a waiver of his rights, Yarbrough admitted to distributing drugs from the residence, to possessing the firearm, and to knowing that the firearm was reported stolen.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the McKeesport Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Yarbrough.

PITTSBURGH – Khaled Miah, 29, a former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and former student at the University of Pittsburgh, was sentenced yesterday by Judge W. Scott Hardy to 72 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. Miah was found guilty by a federal jury in December, 2021 of five counts of making interstate threatening communications, one count of influencing, impeding or retaliating against a federal law enforcement officer, and one count of destruction of records in a federal investigation.

The federal jury found that from on or about Dec. 27, 2020, through on or about Dec. 31, 2020, Miah posted threats directed at individual FBI agents who were investigating him, as well as the FBI generally. In December 2020, FBI personnel identified a publicly visible Twitter account created by Miah. From the date of its creation to on or about Jan. 1, 2021, Miah used this Twitter account to threaten, intimidate and harass FBI Pittsburgh Special Agents and the FBI. In addition, after posting the threatening statements, and with full knowledge of the FBI investigation into his conduct, Miah subsequently deleted those posts which impeded, obstructed, and influenced the FBI investigation.

In imposing his sentence, Judge Hardy noted the seriousness of the offenses of conviction and stated that Miah “threatened the very people who sacrifice their lives and comfort to keep everyone in our community safe.” Judge Hardy also stressed deterrence, stating that “we live in a time where people are less able to control their impulses” and assuring that the law will impose very strict consequences on those who engage in threatening behavior online.

Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force who were directly involved in this investigation include the FBI and the University of Pittsburgh Police Department.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Lieber Smolar and Nicole Ann Stockey of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Daniel Dellich, Jr., age 47, formerly of Boyers, Pennsylvania 16020, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between March and August 2021, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted controlled buy operations from Dellich from the vicinity of his residence in Boyers, PA. The controlled buy operations revealed that Dellich used Facebook messenger to negotiate the sale of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As a result, the FBI obtained a search warrant for Dellich’s Facebook account, which contained Dellich’s communications regarding the distribution of methamphetamine. On Aug. 26, 2021, state and federal law enforcement executed search warrants upon Dellich and his residence. The search of Dellich’s residence resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine. Following the search, an agent advised Dellich of his rights in writing, which Dellich waived. Thereafter, Dellich admitted to recently selling methamphetamine and to his intention to “re-up” that day if he did not have a probation meeting.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Feb. 23, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Cassandra Wallace, age 37, of Woodland, PA, pleaded guilty to Counts Two and Eleven of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from July 2019 to June 2020, Wallace did conspire to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Further, on December 18, 2019, Wallace did distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 23, 2023. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both, for Count Two, and a minimum sentence of 5 years in a prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both, for Count Eleven. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 Brolin. 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 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 Pittsburgh PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal firearms and drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The seven-count Superseding Indictment named Torrell Jones, 34, of the City’s Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, Jones is alleged to have possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin on or about Aug. 15, 2019, and possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl on or about Jan. 31, 2020. Jones is also alleged to have possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about Aug. 15, 2019, and on or about Jan. 31, 2020. In addition, Jones is alleged to have possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon on or about Aug. 15, 2019, on or about Oct. 7, 2019, and on or about Jan. 31, 2020.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $11,125,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms law, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Taivon Cunningham, age 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about Aug. 18, 2022, Cunningham was found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Cunningham was on state parole for third degree murder at the time. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office 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 Sinaloa, Mexico, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Eduardo Rosario Acosta Montoya, age 21, formerly of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about Sept. 21, 2022, Acosta Montoya knowingly attempted to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pled guilty on a charge of making a false statement in connection with the acquisition of a firearm, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Jaylin Banks, age 34, of the City’s Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar neighborhood, pleaded guilty before Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between August 2020 and August 2021, Banks purchased four firearms. On Nov. 22, 2021, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police recovered two of those firearms at the scene of a shooting. Due to the brief period of time between the purchase of one of those firearms and its use in crime, in addition to the recovery of multiple firearms in the possession of others, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) opened a straw purchase investigation into Banks. As part of the investigation, the ATF flagged Banks’ identifiers so that in the event he attempted to purchase another firearm, the federal firearm licensee would notify the ATF.

On Nov. 23, 2021, a federal firearm licensee notified the ATF that Banks was attempting to purchase a firearm at its store in Monroeville, PA. Agents with the ATF and a Pittsburgh Police detective traveled to the federal firearm licensee in order to interview Banks. During the interview, Banks admitted to buying a firearm for another person. Banks recalled that the individual drove Banks to Dunham’s Sports in Monroeville, PA, provided Banks cash, and identified for Banks the specific handgun that he wanted. Banks admitted to falsely stating at the time of the purchase that Banks was the actual purchaser of the firearm.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Feb. 16, 2023. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years and/or a special assessment of $100. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Banks on bond.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jaylin Banks.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of refusing to make and keep adequate records related to prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Daniel Garner, 50, of the Monroe Heights area, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from July 2011 to August 2015, Garner failed and refused to make, keep, or furnish records required to substantiate the legitimate medical purpose for prescriptions he issued to his dental patients for Schedule II controlled substances, primarily Oxycodone in the form of Percocet. Dr. Garner’s treatment notes often did not contain any reference to the patient’s pain when he prescribed oxycodone, and did not state why a narcotic was needed rather than a non-controlled substance pain reliever.

Immediately after the entry of the guilty plea, Judge Bissoon sentenced Garner to a term of probation of 18 months; a fine of $1,000.00 and a special assessment of $25.

Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen R. Kaufman and Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The DEA, the FBI and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Garner.

PITTSBURGH – Eliot Gentry, Daivahn Brown, Donald Jeter, William McCree, Teqwan Scott, Donald Snowden, and Kailin Stewart have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The Indictment, returned on Oct. 11 and yesterday, charges the seven defendants with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute at least 100 grams of fluorofentanyl, 40 grams of fentanyl, five kilograms of cocaine, 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of methamphetamine, from May 2021 to October 2022.

Gentry, age 25; McCree, age 19; and Scott, age 28 are Youngstown, Ohio, residents. Jeter, age 32; Snowden, age 31; and Stewart, age 36; are New Castle, Pennsylvania, residents. Brown, age 26, is a resident of Boardman, Ohio.

“My office is committed to working in partnership with federal, state, and local law, to dismantle large-scale drug trafficking conspiracies which impact our communities, as here with the New Castle and Farrell communities,” said U.S. Attorney Chung.

“These arrests disrupted a violent drug trafficking organization; a top priority within our mission,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. "These arrests are a result of the continuing and relentless efforts of the FBI and our federal, state, and local partners to rid our streets of these criminals and make our communities safe.”

“The rise of fentanyl has ripped through Western Pennsylvania and our office is determined to hold those who profit from these narcotics accountable to the law. Close collaboration with our law enforcement partners has shut down this ring of drug traffickers and led to this indictment,” said Attorney General Josh Shapiro. “These substances ruin lives and destroy communities. We will not rest to turn the tide against this epidemic and to keep Pennsylvanians safe.”

The law provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal histories of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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 conducted the investigation resulting in the return of the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years (60 months) of imprisonment and four years of supervised release on his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Raymond Moon, age 33.

According to information presented to the court, on Aug. 30, 2019, Moon possessed with the intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of acetyl fentanyl, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and quantities of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and Carfentanil.

Assistant United States Attorney Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Pittsburgh Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Moon.

PITTSBURGH – U.S. Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today that the Department of Justice has awarded $157,614 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Funding will support ongoing community efforts to reduce gun crime and violence in the district. The grant, to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, is one of a number of awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, part of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.

Launched two decades ago as an evidence-based and community-oriented response to serious gun crime, Project Safe Neighborhoods, known as PSN, is a key component of the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, outlined by Deputy Attorney General Monaco in May 2021. The PSN approach is guided by four key 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 of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.

“Here in Western Pennsylvania, we are using these critical funds to strengthen our partnerships with all levels of law enforcement and community organizations, to increase public awareness of the violent crime problem, and to develop effective solutions for achieving our goal of creating safer communities throughout our district,” said U.S. Attorney Chung.

“Reducing violence and sustaining those reductions will require strong partnerships between criminal justice agencies and community stakeholders and a shared commitment to the safety and well-being of every community member,” said OJP Deputy Assistant Attorney General Maureen Henneberg. “The investments we are making through Project Safe Neighborhoods will enable every stakeholder to play a part in building safer and healthier communities.”

PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.

“Over its two-decade history, Project Safe Neighborhoods has evolved to meet the complex challenges of community violence by enlisting the insights and expertise of local partners and by relying on the latest evidence,” said BJA Director Karhlton F. Moore. “We are proud to support our U.S. Attorneys and their allies in their critical work to curb violent crime and build the mutual trust necessary to ensure lasting success.”

The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page. 

The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
 

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to federal hate crime charges, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Zachary Dinell, 28, formerly of Freedom, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, ten counts of violating the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, and one count of concealing material facts in a health care matter before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan

According to admissions made during Dinell’s plea hearing, he and co-defendant Tyler Smith were employees of an in-patient health care facility located in New Brighton, Pennsylvania. Residents of the facility suffered from a range of severe physical, intellectual, and emotional disabilities, and required assistance with all activities of daily life, including bathing, using the bathroom, oral hygiene, feeding, and dressing. As members of the facility’s Direct Care Staff, Dinell admitted that he and Smith were responsible for providing this daily assistance to residents.

From approximately June 2016 to September 2017, Dinell further admitted that he and Smith engaged in a conspiracy to commit hate crimes against residents of the facility because of the residents’ actual or perceived disabilities. Dinell and Smith carried out assaults in a variety of ways, including by punching and kicking residents, jumping on residents, rubbing liquid irritants in their eyes, spraying liquid irritants in their eyes and mouths, and in one instance removing a resident’s compression stocking in a manner intended to inflict pain. Several of these assaults were recorded on Dinell’s cell phone. As part of the conspiracy, Dinell acknowledged that he and Smith exchanged text messages in which they expressed their animus toward the disabled residents, shared pictures and videos of residents, described their assaults, and encouraged each other’s continued abuse of residents.

Dinell further admitted that he and Smith were able to avoid detection by, among other things, exploiting their one-on-one access to residents of the facility and the fact that the victims were non-verbal and could not report the defendant’s alleged abuse. Due to their physical disabilities, the residents also were not able to defend themselves against the alleged assaults.

The maximum penalty for the conspiracy charge is a term of imprisonment of five years and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for each of the ten hate crime charges is a term of imprisonment of ten years and a $250,000 fine. The scheme to conceal material facts likewise is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

As part of his plea agreement, and subject to the approval of Judge Ranjan, Dinell has agreed to a term of imprisonment of between 168 and 204 months.

The case against Smith remains pending, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the
Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal child exploitation laws United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Thomas A. Yocum, Jr., 34, of the City’s Summer Hill neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about Sept. 13, 2022, until on or about Sept. 18, 2022, Thomas A. Yocum, Jr. is alleged to have used cellular telephone networks and the internet to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce an individual who had not attained the age of 18, to engage in unlawful sexual activity.

The law provides for a minimum total sentence of 10 years in prison, up to a term of life, 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 Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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