Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA - A New Jersey resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months on his conviction of fraud conspiracy, plus three years supervised release, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Carlo Reginald Ramirez, Jr. age 40, of Newark, New Jersey.

According to information presented to the court, Ramirez and others used false identification cards of Sprint account holders to obtain cell phones and other accessories between April 2018 and August 2019.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Conti stated that she recognized the seriousness of the offense and the harm to victims of identity theft.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Homeland Security Investigations and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ramirez.

PITTSBURGH – A Superseding Indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh charging Sahire Walker with committing crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The Superseding Indictment charges Walker, age 44, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, with committing the following crimes on June 4, 2020: (1) possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute, (2) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and (3) possession of a firearm and ammunition after a felony conviction.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The New Castle Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKeesport, PA, has been sentenced to 21 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release on charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K Chung announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Khalil Brooks, 24.

According to information presented to the Court, on April 20, 2021, Brooks was the driver of a vehicle that was stopped by a Monroeville police officer for a vehicle registration violation. Based upon the overly nervous demeanor of Brooks and false information provided to the officer by a passenger in the vehicle, Brooks was asked to exit the vehicle. While interacting with the officer outside of the vehicle, Brooks displayed signs of an individual concealing a weapon. A struggle between the officer and Brooks ensued after Brooks placed his hand into his pocket. The officer was able to gain control of Brooks and retrieve a loaded semi-auto handgun from the pocket that Brooks had placed his hand into. Brook is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition based upon a prior robbery conviction.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former Florida resident has been sentenced in federal court to 138 months of incarceration on his conviction of Conspiracy to Distribute Five Kilograms of More of Cocaine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Hector Forbes, age 48, formerly of Sunrise, Florida.

According to information presented to the court, Forbes was one of the leaders of a large-scale cocaine distribution network that smuggled substantial quantities of cocaine from Mexico into California and then distributed that cocaine throughout the United States, including to the Western District of Pennsylvania. He was convicted of a drug trafficking offense in 2012 and deported in 2015, only to re-enter the United States illegally in 2016, where he quickly re-established himself as a drug trafficker. He arranged for shipment of cocaine, typically sent through the United States Mail to addresses in Florida, Ohio, Pittsburgh, and New Castle, among others. His customers typically sent cash back to Forbes, also through the United States mails.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police Department, the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Forbes.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKeesport, 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 Isaiah Pridgen, age 25, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about Aug. 17, 2022, Pridgen was found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Pridgen was previously convicted in the Western District of Pennsylvania of felony crimes including possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 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 and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, as part of the Safe Streets Task Force, 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 suburban Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearm laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Maurice White Jr., age 21, formerly of Baldwin, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about September 21, 2022, White Jr. knowingly, possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

For White Jr., the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 15 years in prison, a fine of no greater than $250,000, a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – The Justice Department announced this week the results of its efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, the Department and its law enforcement partners tackled matters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts were also made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. Today, the Department also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.

 “We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”

“My office is committed to ensuring that the elderly and other vulnerable citizens avoid falling victim to financial exploitation,” said U.S Attorney Cindy K. Chung.  “In addition to prosecution, prevention is an important component of our work.  I encourage citizens of all ages make use of the Department’s resources and educate themselves on how not to fall prey to a scammer.”

During the period from September 2021 to September 2022, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.

The Department also highlighted three other efforts: expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force, success in returning money to victims and efforts to combat grandparent scams. 

The Department announced that as part of its continuing efforts to protect older adults and bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice it is expanding the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat largest and most harmful fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.

In the past year, the Department has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. More than 150,000 of those victims cashed checks totaling $52 million, and thousands more are eligible to receive checks. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.

This year in the Western District of Pennsylvania, two residents of California were charged in a multi-million-dollar conspiracy to defraud elderly victims by deceiving them into believing their bank accounts had been compromised, and directing them to transfer funds into accounts that had been opened with stolen personally identifying information and were under the control of the defendants.  As part of the fraud, one victim in the Western District of Pennsylvania was caused to liquidate retirement accounts exceeding $1.2 million in value.  But, as part of the investigation, investigators seized more than $1 million in cryptocurrency that can be remitted to the victims. 

Over the past year, the Department also pursued cases against the perpetrators of “grandparent scams,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scams.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Call recipients are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money.   When recently sentencing one of eight perpetrators of a grandparent scam indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal judge described such scams “heartbreakingly evil.” The Department is working with government partners and others to raise awareness about these schemes.

Since November 2021, six individuals have been indicted for their role in executing grandparent scams in Pittsburgh and elsewhere.  Three of these individuals had targeted Pittsburgh in September 2021 with a grandparent scam that had also been active in New Hampshire.  The other three defendants targeted Pittsburgh in February 2022, as well as communities in Tennessee, Georgia, and other locations. 

Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professional who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.

Some of the cases that comprise today’s announcement are charges, which are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment and six years of supervised release on charges of violating federal firearms and drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K Chung announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Vaughn Parker, age 40, of the City’s Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar neighborhood.

According to information presented to the Court, on April 1, 2021, detectives with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a search warrant on a residence located on Pointview Street, in the Homewood section of the City of Pittsburgh. Parker was located inside of the residence and took ownership of anything found on the first floor. During the search of the first-floor detectives located quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl consistent to drug dealing. Additionally, detectives located drug packaging materials in the kitchen area along with a stolen loaded semi-auto handgun that was determined to be possessed by Parker in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 Vaughn Parker.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Big Run, 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.

Darren Douglas, age 37, 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 before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Douglas 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 Douglas was a methamphetamine distributor who obtained between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine as part of a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy and redistributed it to methamphetamine users.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Douglas on Feb. 8, 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 – A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on Oct. 4 and unsealed today, named Lashawn Norwood, 57, of the City’s Hill District neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about September 28, 2021, Norwood willfully and knowingly did embezzle, steal, purloin and convert to his own use property, in a value exceeding $1,000.00 belonging to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Le’Var Brown, formerly of Sharon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for committing firearm and ammunition crimes, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Brown, age 33, currently of Eastman, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Brown was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

On October 1, 2021, Brown possessed three guns, including a loaded Romarm/Cugir Mini Draco semi-automatic pistol, and corresponding ammunition at his residence in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and at his girlfriend’s residence in Sharon. Prior to that date, in 2018, Brown was convicted of a felony heroin and crack trafficking crime and had also been convicted of additional prior crimes.

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

The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation of 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, Distribution and Attempted Distribution of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Wayne Edward McNutt, age 57, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Feb. 25, 2021, until July 26, 2021, McNutt 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. Specifically, McNutt engaged online with law enforcement acting in an undercover capacity and purporting to be a parent and child. McNutt expressed interested in meeting the child for sexual conduct and sent the purported minor’s parent money to enable the parent and child to travel to Pittsburgh to meet McNutt for sexual conduct. McNutt planned to meet the purported minor and parent at a hotel in Pittsburgh that he booked. On July 26, 2021, law enforcement intercepted McNutt when he arrived at the Pittsburgh-area hotel to meet the minor.

During the course of this investigation, on March 11 and March 16, 2021, McNutt sent to the undercover agent image and video files that depicted minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. When agents encountered McNutt on July 26, 2021, he possessed a cell phone that contained additional videos of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. This child sexual abuse material included depictions of prepubescent minors.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Feb. 1, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years and not more than life in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, McNutt remains detained.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, the FBI Albany Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, and the FBI Albany Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McNutt.

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 Pennsylvania resident pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Romondo Oatis, 48, of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine from March of 2019 through September of 2020 before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Oatis is one of 13 defendants charged in the Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating a cocaine and fentanyl trafficking organization that operated throughout the United States, including Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico. Beginning in December of 2019 and continuing through August of 2020, the DEA received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Oatis, as a member of this multistate drug trafficking organization, was intercepted discussing acquiring and distributing cocaine throughout western Pennsylvania. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, ecstasy, marijuana, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization, including Oatis.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for March 3, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $8,000,000, 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. Oatis remains in custody pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The DEA in Pittsburgh, PA; the DEA, Columbus, OH; the DEA, Harrisburg, PA; Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Pittsburgh, PA; HSI, Orlando, FL; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; United States Postal Service, Columbus, Ohio; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Lawrence County Drug Task Force – Special Investigations Unit; and New
Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Oatis.

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 aunderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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

Darren Alston, age 30, of Johnstown, PA, pleaded guilty to a lesser included offense at Count One of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from on or about April 2019, to on or about July 2021, Alston did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 9, 2023. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the 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 Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Alston. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is 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 – A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on Receipt of Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor as well as Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Child, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on Sept. 27, 2022, and unsealed on Friday, named Mark Kriss, 64, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about May 22, 2021, Kriss did knowingly receive a visual depiction of a minor using any means and facility of interstate and foreign commerce, namely, the Internet and a cellular telephone, the production of which visual depiction involved the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, and that depicted a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Further, Kriss knowingly attempted to solicit the child to engage in a commercial sex act.

Specifically, the indictment alleges Kriss was engaged in a text message conversation with the minor and asked the child to send him sexually explicit images of herself. Kriss received the images and also solicited the child to have sex with him for money. Kriss later picked up the child in a church parking lot before taking her to a motel room and sexually assaulting her.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least five years. 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 Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern Regional Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Chicago, IL, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, PA on a charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The seven-count Superseding Indictment, returned on Oct. 4, named Christian Matthews, 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, Matthews fraudulently obtained personal identifying information belonging to other people and used it, without permission, to file claims for pandemic-related unemployment benefits in several states. The resulting benefits were sent via the United States mail and interstate commercial carriers to locations, including an office building in Pittsburgh, where Matthews could retrieve and use them.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 22 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The government is requesting detention.

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

The United States Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Findlay Township Police Department 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 Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Wire Fraud Conspiracy, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Tamara Feldman, also known as Tamara Petrova, age 34, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Feldman participated in a fraud scheme along with Devan Abrams, Azad Khizgilov, Roman Shaulov and others. Abrams, Khizgilov, and Shaulov all pleaded guilty to a similar charge and all were sentenced to terms of imprisonment. The large-scale and sophisticated fraud scheme facilitated the black-market importation and sale of tens of millions of dollars of dangerous and addictive prescription medications. In summary, the conspirators established and ran a business that, through a series of misrepresentations, misled various credit card companies into processing credit card transactions for on-line purchases of drugs that were illegal to be sold in the United States. These drugs were often imported from Russia, China, India, and other countries. The complex scheme involved front companies, fake websites, and a tangled web of bank accounts. Feldman participated in the scheme by opening fraudulent merchant accounts and overseeing fraudulent payments.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for March 23, 2023, at 1:00 pm. The law provides for a total sentence of twenty years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Feldman and her conspirators.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident was sentenced on Monday in federal court to 37 months of imprisonment on his conviction of felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jamiel Green, age 28, of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Green was arrested in possession of a firearm on March 13, 2021, by the Allegheny County Police Department. Green had previously convictions for felony offenses involving illegal gun possession and drug trafficking, and federal law makes it illegal for felons to possess firearms.

In the week prior to May 13, 2021, the Allegheny County Police were assisting the Clairton Police Department because of shootings in that area attributed to the 21 Gang, with whom Green is associated. The Clairton Police Department identified Green as particularly dangerous.

On May 13, 2021, there was a shooting in Clairton, and Allegheny County Police detectives responded. The detectives saw Green and recognized him as someone who was wanted. Green had two outstanding arrest warrants. When the detectives approached the vehicle Green was occupying, Green got of the vehicle and began to run. When the detectives caught up to Green, they found a loaded firearm on his person. A later search of the vehicle revealed three other firearms, fentanyl, and more than $10,000 in cash.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Michael Gamble, age 37, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Dec. 10, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant upon Gamble’s residence. Law enforcement encountered Gamble sitting on a couch in the basement. A search of Gamble’s person resulted in the seizure of fentanyl and over $2,500.00. Between a cushion on a couch where Gamble was seated, law enforcement recovered a loaded handgun with an attached extended magazine. In a hidden compartment in the basement, officers recovered additional fentanyl. In total, law enforcement seized about approximately 90 grams of fentanyl.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Feb. 9, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000 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 Gamble 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 Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gamble.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced to 96 months imprisonment and four years of supervised release on charges of violating federal firearms and drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Brandon Washington, age 36, formerly of the City’s Spring Hill neighborhood.

According to information presented to the court, on March 4, 2021, Washington delivered a quantity of cocaine to an undercover narcotics detective with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police in a hotel located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh. On March 18, 2021, DEA agents and members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed federal search warrants on several rooms utilized by Washington in the same hotel where the undercover drug buy took place. During the search of the hotel rooms detectives located crack cocaine and a semi-auto handgun that was possessed by Washington in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 Brandon Washington.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of drug diversion and health care fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Larry J. Goisse, Jr., 38, of the City’s Mt. Washington neighborhood, pleaded guilty to six counts today before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Goisse’s guilty plea included one count of an Indictment charging him with drug diversion, and five counts of an Information charging him with health care fraud.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in September and October 2018, Goisse, a former certified nurse practitioner, continued to prescribe Adderall and submit claims to Medicare for office visits under a co-worker’s license after his nursing license was suspended.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for  Jan. 19, 2023 at 9:30 a.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU). The Western Pennsylvania OFADU, led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, combines the expertise and resources of federal and state law enforcement to address the role played by unethical medical professionals in the opioid epidemic. This unit has investigated and prosecuted more corrupt health care professionals than any other U.S. Attorney’s Office in the country.

The agencies which comprise the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 36 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on David Aranda, 24.

According to information presented to the court, on or about August 25, 2021, Aranda attempted to possess with intent to distribute 368 grams, an estimated 3,000 to 3,500 counterfeit blue pills, comprised of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Cercone stated that fentanyl “is a scourge of this country” and noted the dramatically increased potency of the fentanyl pills in comparison to the prescription pills they are designed to mimic. “People are dying everyday by what you’re doing,” Judge Cercone stated to Aranda.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Aranda.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment followed by 8 years of supervised release, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Michael Talbert, 43.

In connection with the guilty plea and sentencing, the court was advised that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating a cocaine and fentanyl trafficking organization that operated throughout the United States, including Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico.  Beginning in December of 2019 and continuing through August of 2020, the DEA received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization.  Talbert, as a member of this multistate drug trafficking organization, was intercepted discussing the distribution of cocaine throughout the Western District of Pennsylvania.  In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, ecstasy, marijuana, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization, including Talbert.

Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the DEA in Pittsburgh, PA; the DEA, Columbus, OH; the DEA, Harrisburg, PA; Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Pittsburgh, PA; HSI, Orlando, FL; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; United States Postal Service, Columbus, Ohio; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Lawrence County Drug Task Force – Special Investigations Unit; and New Castle Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Talbert.

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. 

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months in prison, 10 years supervised release and ordered to pay $37,000 in restitution on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on David Lyons, 29. 

According to information presented to the court, from January 2019 to March 2020, Lyons received digital images 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.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lyons.

PITTSBURGH – United States Attorney Cindy Chung has named two Assistant U.S. Attorneys to oversee the office’s Environmental Justice work. Criminal Division AUSA Nicole Vasquez-Schmitt and Civil AUSA Jacqueline Brown are serving as the office’s Environmental Justice Coordinators to enhance and advance the office’s Environmental Justice efforts.

Environmental Justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origins, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

“These designations will serve to enhance our longstanding commitment to vigorously enforce environmental laws, with a particular emphasis on minority and lower-income communities,” said U.S. Attorney Chung. “We will continue to protect western Pennsylvania’s vast natural resources while holding those who violate federal environmental laws accountable.”

The Office has established a procedure for members of the public to report Environmental Justice concerns. Citizens may call (412) 894-7551 or send an email to USAPAW.Environment@usdoj.gov.

AUSAs Vasquez-Schmitt and Brown will coordinate with counterparts in the other 92 U.S. Attorney’s Offices, the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
 

PITTSBURGH, PA – On September 28, 2022, a resident of North Versailles, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Evan Smith, age 22, pled guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about April 8, 2021, Smith possessed with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine, MDA, and MDMA, and possessed a short-barreled shotgun that he failed to register with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

Senior United States District Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 5, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, a term of supervised release of at least 3 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed was based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Olanta, 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.

Brent Shaffer, age 38, 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 one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Shaffer 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 Shaffer received parcels that were shipped from California to the Western District of California containing a total of between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Investigators searched Shaffer’s residence on August 31, 2021, pursuant to a federal search warrant and seized over 200 grams of methamphetamine and three firearms.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Shaffer on February 7, 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 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 Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Keenan Young, 28, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak on Sept. 27, 2022.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on April 16, 2021, a federal search warrant was executed on Young’s residence located in Wilkinsburg, PA. Agents with the DEA and members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police located a loaded KelTec .380 caliber handgun and multiple baggies of crack cocaine inside of a bedroom. Young admitted to possession of the recovered firearm and crack cocaine. Young is prohibited from possessing any firearms based upon his multiple felony convictions. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Chief Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Feb. 2, 2023, at 1:30 pm. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,00,000 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. Young remains detained pending sentencing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three residents of the Pittsburgh area were sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program and related offenses, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Arlinda Moriarty, 53, of Cranberry, to 84 months’ imprisonment; her sister, Daynelle Dickens, of Pittsburgh, 48, to 24 months’ imprisonment; and their uncle, Tony Brown, 65, to 36 months of probation, including 3 months of home confinement. Moriarty, Dickens, and Brown were also ordered to pay restitution to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program totaling $8,700,000, $1,000,000, and $43,113.02, respectively. All three defendants previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and health care fraud. Moriarty pleaded guilty to additional counts of engaging in a scheme to conceal material facts in a health care matter and aggravated identity theft.

A total of 16 defendants were charged in connection with the health care fraud conspiracy and scheme, and 15 have now been convicted. The remaining defendant died during the pendency of the case.

“During this elaborate, years-long scheme, Arlinda Moriarty, her sister, and 13 of their co-conspirators stole millions of dollars from a critical government health care program by billing for in-home services that were never rendered,” said U.S. Attorney Chung. “I commend our law enforcement partners for their extraordinary efforts to investigate this massive health care fraud scheme, as well as the prosecutors who held the perpetrators accountable.”

“Ms. Moriarty sought to profit by defrauding the Medicaid program,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “She undermined the integrity of federal health care programs and patient trust. Now, she faces the consequences of her actions. Today’s sentencing is a strong reminder that anyone who commits fraud will be held accountable. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to expose fraud and protect the public from illegal schemes.”

“When someone commits Medicaid fraud they are stealing from hard working Pennsylvanians,” said Attorney General Josh Shapiro. “These defendants made millions of dollars by defrauding Pennsylvanians and will now face the consequences for their actions. I am grateful for the work that my office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the United States Postal Inspection Service have done to bring justice in this case.”

“Defrauding federal and state health care programs wastes valuable taxpayer dollars and takes resources away from vulnerable populations in need of care and assistance,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is proud to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable perpetrators of health care fraud.”

“Postal Inspectors value the partnerships with other federal and state agencies that helped identify and dismantle an intricate false billing scheme,” said Inspector In Charge Lesley Allison for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “Arlinda Moriarty and her co-conspirators took advantage of the Medicaid waiver program that was devised to allow qualified individuals to receive assistance in their own homes. Today’s sentencing confirms that anyone who uses the U.S. Mail for criminal activity will be brought to justice and held accountable.”

According to admissions made in connection with the defendants’ guilty pleas, between January 2011 and April 2017, Moriarty, Dickens, and Brown were associated with four related entities controlled by Moriarty—Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS), and Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI). Dickens owned CCI, and Brown was an employee of MCI. MCI, ADL, and CCI were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients (“consumers”), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. EPS nominally performed back-office functions for MCI, ADL, and CCI.

Between January 2011 and April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for home health services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount. During that time, Moriarty admitted orchestrating a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud Medicaid for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims.

The defendants admitted that the conspiracy and fraud scheme were carried out in a variety of ways. For example, co-conspirators fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, they never provided to the consumers identified on timesheets. Members of the conspiracy also paid kickbacks to consumers in exchange for their participation in the scheme. Indeed, Brown admitted paying kickbacks to his then-son-in-law in connection with the submission of fraudulent Medicaid claims stating that Brown had provided in-home care for the son-in-law, when, in fact, he had not. Brown, the son-in-law, and Brown’s daughter, Tamika Adams, who previously was sentenced to 65 months’ incarceration, would then split the fraud proceeds. As part of the conspiracy, co-conspirators also caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of “ghost” employees for PAS care that never occurred.

During the conspiracy, Moriarty and Dickens also admitted causing the periodic bulk submission of fraudulent Medicaid claims for so-called “unused” hours—i.e., excess hours of care that consumers had not needed and therefore should not have been billed. Finally, Moriarty admitted that during the course of audits of MCI, ADL, and CCI, she directed the fabrication of various documents for submission to state authorities in an effort to conceal the Medicaid fraud scheme. Among other things, co-conspirators fabricated PAS timesheets, criminal history checks for attendants, child-abuse clearance forms for attendants, and certain consumer affidavits to ensure that files requested as part of the audits appeared complete. During the conspiracy, Moriarty and Dickens received payments from the Moriarty-related companies totaling approximately $1.6 million and $1 million, respectively.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation of the defendants, with assistance from the Pennsylvania Bureau of Financial Operations.

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Michael T. Onder, 53, of Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around July 2010 and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2016, Onder was the representative payee designated to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits totaling $30,854.68 for the use and benefit of another person, but instead knowingly and willfully converted the benefits for his own use.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for February 7, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Michael T. Onder.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, 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 two-count Indictment, returned yesterday, named Cecil Lee Pinnix, 53, formerly of the City’s Upper Hill District neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Pinnix is alleged to have possessed with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and 28 grams or more of cocaine base on or about July 29, 2022. Pinnix is also alleged to have possessed a firearm as a convicted felon on or about July 29, 2022.

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

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

The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced on a charge of violating federal narcotics trafficking laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Hasani James, 51, currently incarcerated at Northeast Ohio Correctional Center, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years’ supervised release by District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In conjunction with the sentencing hearing, the Court was informed that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a long-term investigation into drug-trafficking activity occurring in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Law enforcement identified several individuals, suspected at the time, of illegally distributing controlled substances, including methamphetamine in Allegheny, Westmoreland, Erie, Fayette, and Washington Counties.

Investigators identified James, who resided in Detroit at the time of the conspiracy, as a cocaine source of supply for among others, co-defendant Bill Rana, who was a “fully patched” member of the Pagans Motorcycle Club and Sergeant of Arms for the Pittsburgh Chapter. Over the course of the conspiracy, James was responsible for or could otherwise reasonably foresee the distribution of at least, 500 grams but less than 2 kilograms of cocaine.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of James.

This sentencing was the 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 Houston, Texas pleaded guilty in federal court to violation 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.

Jesus Gonzalez, age 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Gonzalez 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 on October 22, 2020, Gonzalez and three other individuals chartered a private plane and transported six kilograms of cocaine from Houston to Pittsburgh International Airport. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the plane and seized the cocaine from two pieces of luggage.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Feb. 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 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.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered the defendant remain out on bond.

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 Conneaut Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Jennifer Glasscock, age 38, pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Nov. 30, 2020, a Trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Glasscock in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. Upon approaching the vehicle, the Trooper observed Glasscock with an open purse in her lap. The open purse contained a loaded handgun, pills, rubber bands, her driver’s license, and approximately $4,000.00 in United States currency. On the floor of the vehicle, the Trooper observed, in plain view, suspected methamphetamine. The Trooper also observed a green backpack on the backseat.

Thereafter, law enforcement applied for and obtained a search warrant for the vehicle. The green backpack contained two lockboxes, which held suspected controlled substances and two digital scales. The Greensburg Regional Laboratory confirmed net weight and identity of the controlled substances as follows: 195 grams of methamphetamine, 26 grams of a mixture containing heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, perforated paper containing LSD, and 15 grams of oxycodone. Methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone are Schedule II controlled substances. Heroin and LSD are Schedule I controlled substances.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Feb. 7, 2023, at 9:30 a.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded the defendant 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 Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Glasscock.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Kersey, 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.

Melvin Shelander, age 31, 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. Shelander 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 Shelander 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 Williams on January 31, 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 Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Brandon McCaskill, age 28, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 17, 2020, officers with the Duquesne Police Department attempted to locate a suspect in an unrelated investigation at Brandon McCaskill’s residence in Duquesne, PA. Upon arriving at the residence, officers observed McCaskill seated on the front porch with a backpack between his legs. ]Officers also detected the strong odor of marijuana. As a result, law enforcement applied for and obtained a search warrant for the porch of the residence.

The backpack between McCaskill’s legs contained a loaded handgun, controlled substances packaged into 11 bricks stamped “Dr. Pepper”, and several plastic bags. A “brick” is typically comprised of 50 glassine bags. From on and underneath a couch on the porch, officers recovered two digital scales, bulk United States currency, and additional packaged controlled substances. The Drug Chemistry Section of the Office of the Medical Examiner, Allegheny County, tested the seized substances. The laboratory confirmed that the bricks marked “Dr. Pepper” contained a mixture of fentanyl and tramadol; that other bricks contained a mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and tramadol; and that some plastic baggies contained cocaine.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Jan. 26, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the City of Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McCaskill.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Clearfield, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 57 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release on her conviction of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Nicole Gaines, age 42, of Clearfield, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2019 to June 2020, Gaines conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

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

Ms. Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Gaines. 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 - A former resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years of imprisonment on his conviction of identity theft offenses, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Iklas Reginald Davis, age 41. Davis is currently incarcerated.

According to information presented to the court, the evidence at trial established that in the summer of 2017, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Police investigated a series of vehicles that had been broken into while parked at various entertainment venues, including the Boyce Wave Pool, the Pittsburgh Zoo and similar venues. The victims reported the theft of their credit cards and means of identification and the use of the credit cards, typically on the same day as the break-ins. Investigators secured video of Davis using and attempting to use some of the stolen credit cards at various retail establishments. The later investigation revealed that an individual named Terry Porterfield broke into the vehicles and then transferred the credit cards to Davis and others, who then used the credit cards to purchase primarily gift cards and electronic equipment.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the United States Secret Service, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Davis.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Friday in federal court to violating federal law, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Andrew Molinaro, 45, pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine on or about July 15, 2020, before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Mr. Molinaro is one of 20 defendants charged in the Superseding Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that in 2020 the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a drug trafficking organization that operated throughout the greater Washington County area. Beginning in April of 2020 and continuing through October of 2020, the FBI received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. The organization was responsible for orchestrating and directing the movement of drugs from New Jersey to the Western District of Pennsylvania for distribution throughout Washington County. Mr. Molinaro, who was a sergeant in the intake department of the Washington County Jail during this investigation, utilized his law enforcement position to provide a member of the drug trafficking organization with law enforcement sensitive information to aid that individual in evading law enforcement detection.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for Jan. 19, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Mark V. Gurzo and Jerome A. Moschetta are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Molinaro. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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

Tammie Brolin, age 54, pleaded guilty to Count Two 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, Brolin did conspire to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for January 31, 2023. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 – An Ohio resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Bruce McKnight, 55, of Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine from March of 2019 through September of 2020 and one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl from March of 2020 through September of 2020 before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. In addition, McKnight accepted responsibility for possessing a firearm in conjunction with his drug trafficking. McKnight is the lead Defendant of 13 defendants charged in the Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating a cocaine and fentanyl trafficking organization that operated throughout the United States, including Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico. Beginning in December of 2019 and continuing through August of 2020, the DEA received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. McKnight, as the leader of this multistate drug trafficking organization, was intercepted orchestrating and directing the movement of cocaine from various states into the Western District of Pennsylvania for distribution. McKnight was also intercepted communicating about acquiring fentanyl, distributing fentanyl, and cutting fentanyl to increase profits. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, ecstasy, marijuana, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization, including McKnight.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for Feb. 23, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $20,000,000, 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. McKnight remains in custody pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The DEA in Pittsburgh, PA; the DEA, Columbus, OH; the DEA, Harrisburg, PA; Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Pittsburgh, PA; HSI, Orlando, FL; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; United States Postal Service, Columbus, Ohio; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Lawrence County Drug Task Force – Special Investigations Unit; and New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of McKnight.

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 - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12½ years (152 months) of imprisonment on his conviction of federal narcotics and firearms violations, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark Hornack imposed the sentence yesterday on James W. Johnson, age 37, formerly of the City’s Glen Hazel section.

According to information presented to the court and at the trial, on Dec. 30, 2016, Johnson was observed by Pittsburgh Bureau of Police officers selling fentanyl to an individual out of an abandoned residence on Renova Street in the Hazelwood section of Pittsburgh. Johnson is associated with the Hazelwood Mob gang that operates in that area. The law enforcement officers stopped the purchaser after the sale and recovered the purchased drugs. The individual identified the defendant as the seller of those drugs. Based on that information and other evidence, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the abandoned Renova Street residence, which was executed on Jan. 2, 2017. When law enforcement executed the search warrant, they encountered the defendant leaving the abandoned residence and he had a key for the residence and two cellular telephones. A search of the residence revealed distribution quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine, along with a loaded and stolen handgun, a ballistic vest, and other evidence of drug trafficking. A search of the cellular telephones associated with the defendant revealed communications associated with drug trafficking and communications with the individual who purchased fentanyl on Dec. 30, 2016.

The defendant has a lengthy criminal history, including multiple felony convictions for prior drug trafficking and illegal gun possession. He was therefore precluded for possession of firearms or ammunition under federal law.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Texas was sentenced in federal court for his role in defrauding federally-funded meal programs, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab sentenced Charles Simpson, 44, of Dallas, Texas, to 30 months’ incarceration following his guilty plea to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Judge Schwab also ordered Simpson to pay restitution to the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the amount of $1,500,000, and to forfeit an additional approximately $427,000.

During Simpson’s plea hearing on May 19, 2022, he admitted, among other things, that he and his co-conspirators, Tanisha Jackson and Paige Jackson, operated HOIN, Inc. (HOIN), a Texas-based non-profit organization. The co-conspirators caused HOIN (a/k/a Helping Others In Need) to enroll as a “sponsor” in two programs funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the purpose of providing meals to underprivileged youth—the Child and Adult Care Feeding Program (CACFP) and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) (collectively, the feeding programs). CACFP funded after-school meal service during the school year, while SFSP operated in the summer months. In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PADOE) administered the USDA-funded feeding programs. Simpson also acknowledged having previously been excluded from participating in the feeding programs in other states.

As part of the conspiracy, Simpson admitted that he and Tanisha Jackson caused the submission of false enrollment documentation to PADOE on behalf of HOIN in connection with its participation in CACFP and SFSP between 2015 and 2019. Among other misrepresentations, HOIN’s applications to PADOE used aliases for Simpson and Tanisha Jackson as a means to obscure their involvement and falsely certified that none of its principals had been excluded from the feeding programs. Simpson further admitted causing HOIN to submit reimbursement claims for hundreds of thousands of meals that were never served to eligible children by either inflating the number of meals that, in fact, were served, or by seeking reimbursements for meals purportedly served on days on which the identified feeding site was not operating at all. To conceal their fraudulent conduct and justify HOIN’s claimed meal service, Simpson and Tanisha Jackson submitted fabricated documents to PADOE in connection with periodic program reviews. On certain occasions, Tanisha Jackson would impersonate Paige Jackson, her daughter, in interactions with PADOE. Likewise, Paige Jackson used a fictitious name in dealings with PADOE. In total, PADOE issued reimbursement payments to HOIN in excess of approximately $4 million between 2015 and 2019.

In connection with the money laundering conspiracy, Simpson admitted that he and Tanisha Jackson engaged in numerous financial transactions involving the proceeds of the fraud. Specifically, Simpson and Tanisha Jackson spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in HOIN reimbursements on shopping sprees at high-end apparel stores, personal air travel and  lodging, and the acquisition of at least nine luxury vehicles, including a Bentley, two Land Rovers, two Maseratis, two Mercedes, a Hummer, and a Porsche. Simpson and Tanisha Jackson also withdrew cash from HOIN bank accounts in excess of $10,000 on more than a dozen occasions. 

Tanisha Jackson and Paige Jackson have separately entered guilty pleas and will be sentenced on Oct. 20, 2022, and Nov. 2, 2022, respectively.

Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Nicole Vasquez Schmitt are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the  investigation of the defendants 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.

Kenneth L. Blanks, 41, 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 Blanks received and possessed computer images and movies 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 Cercone scheduled sentencing for Jan. 30, 2023, at 1:00 pm. 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 Blanks on bond.

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

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Blanks.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Elias Dominique Raggs, 29, who has been incarcerated since his arrest on February 16, 2021.

According to information presented to the court, on or January 12, 2021, Raggs possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul. S. Sellers prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Raggs.

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

William Anthony Eldridge, 58, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 18, 2020, Eldridge possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon.

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.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Jan. 30, 2023, at 1:45 pm. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Erie Police Department and the Erie Law Enforcement Crime Task Force-Gun Working Group conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Eldridge. The Erie Law Enforcement Crime Task Force-Gun Working Group is a multi-agency taskforce consisting of federal, state, county and local law enforcement partners and agencies that formed in 2015 to combat gun violence in the Erie area.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Donora, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 66-1/2 months on his conviction of federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Jamie Lightfoot, Sr., 51, currently incarcerated at the Northeast Ohio Correctional Center.

According to information presented to the court, Lightfoot Sr., even though incarcerated, remained involved in a drug conspiracy involving his son, Jamie Lightfoot, Sr., and other co-defendants. Lightfoot Sr. was also involved in a conspiracy to smuggle steroids into prison during his incarceration.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, and the Perryopolis Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lightfoot Sr.

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- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, initially charged in federal court by criminal complaint for possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of sex trafficking by force, threats of force, fraud and coercion, as well as production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The seven-count Indictment, returned yesterday, names Eric Jefferson, 39, formerly of the Polish Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh and currently incarcerated at Allegheny County Jail, as the sole defendant.

According to the seven-count Indictment, from in and around June 2019 to in and around April 2022, Jefferson attempted to and did by force, threats of force, fraud or coercion, cause four different adult females, who are known to the grand jury, to engage in commercial sex acts. Additionally, the Indictment alleges that from in and around February 2021 to in and around May 2022, Jefferson used the internet and cell phone to promote, manage, establish, carry on, and facilitate the promotion, management, establishment, and carrying on of a business involving prostitution, in violation of state and federal law. The Indictment also alleges that on or about May 29, 2017, Jefferson produced a visual depiction of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Lastly, the Indictment alleges that, on or about May 18, 2022, Jefferson possessed material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors who were under the age of 12.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00 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 Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics Division, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
The charges in the Indictment concern specific victims. Additional members of the public who may have information about Jefferson’s involvement in sex trafficking are encouraged to call the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office at (412) 432-4000.

This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now). Operation T.E.N. serves as an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community, and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation across agencies and service providers, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Ronnell Taylor, Jr., 40, of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in or around March 2016 to in or around August 2017, Ronnell Taylor, Jr. participated in an IRS impersonation fraud conspiracy.  The IRS impersonation fraud scheme involved call centers located in India that would use phone numbers to make their calls appear to originate in the United States.  The calls would provide recorded information to individuals in the United States and fraudulently claim that the call was from the IRS concerning the individual’s failure to pay taxes.  The call would provide a U.S.-based telephone number for the individual to call in order to resolve the matter.  Calls to these U.S.-based telephone numbers would be automatically forwarded to call centers in India, and those who answered would tell callers that they owed money to the IRS and demand immediate payment via gift card or other means.  

The court was advised that, to assist in this fraud scheme, Taylor would activate cell phones in the United States.  To do so, he would insert SIM cards into cell phones, activate the cell phone number with the SIM card, and program the cell phone to automatically forward calls to the call centers.  Taylor hired associates to help him program hundreds of cell phones and cell phone numbers.  At all times, Taylor and his co-conspirators activated these cell phones in the Western District of Pennsylvania. 

The court was further advised that Taylor had a working relationship with those involved with the fraudulent call centers, including Sagar Thakar, also known as “Shaggy,” and that after Taylor learned that co-conspirators in India had been charged with conduct related to the IRS impersonation scheme, Taylor destroyed evidence related to the scheme, including prepaid credit cards, cell phones, and documents.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for Jan. 17, 2023, at 10:30 a.m.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

The matter was investigated by United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

Anyone with information about allegations of elder fraud can report it by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 833–372–8311.  More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative at https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.  For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP.  The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at https://www.ovc.gov.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Altoona, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six years of imprisonment on his convictions for federal narcotics and firearms offenses, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Royal Lee Griffin, age 33.

According to information presented to the court, Griffin was sentencing in connection with criminal offenses that occurred on two occasions.

In the first matter, the court was advised that on Aug. 24, 2018, Griffin possessed two firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition, and Griffin has multiple felony convictions, including Aggravated Assault, Robbery, Carrying a Firearms Without a License, and Escape. Also on Aug. 24, 2018, Griffin possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin. Those offenses were uncovered after a search of his person and the vehicle he occupied by the White Oak Police Department.

In the second matter, the Court was advised that Allegheny County Police detectives working on a violence suppression detail observed Griffin in the Mon View Heights housing complex concealing a firearm. When the detectives approached Griffin, they found the firearm on Griffin’s person.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Allegheny County Police Department, the White Oak Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Griffin.