Western District of Pennsylvania

WASHINGTON – A Maryland man pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to communicate restricted data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships to a person he believed was a representative of a foreign nation.

Jonathan Toebbe, 43, of Annapolis, was arrested on Oct. 9, 2021, after he placed an SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a location in West Virginia. According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.

“Among the secrets the U.S. government most zealously protects are those related to the design of its nuclear warship weapons systems,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The defendant was entrusted with some of those secrets and instead of guarding them, he betrayed the trust placed in him and conspired to sell them to another country for personal profit. The Department of Justice will vigilantly protect the American people and our nation’s security by investigating and prosecuting those who violate their Constitutional oath and abuse their positions for personal gain.”

“The agents and prosecutors handling this matter are to be commended for their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld for the Northern District of West Virginia. “They are talented and tenacious, and their work in this case has helped to make our country safer.”

“There’s a message here for anyone who would sell out America’s secrets,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler, Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI and its partners will use all our investigative techniques to bring you to justice.”

“The FBI is relentless in its efforts to uncover those who seek to do our nation harm by targeting our most valuable secrets,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “This case is an example of the hard work and diligence of the FBI and our federal partners to neutralize and hold accountable those people who threaten our national security.”

“Today Jonathan Toebbe admitted that he violated federal law when he conspired with his wife to sell sensitive government information to a foreign power,” said U.S. Attorney Cindy Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those who would pursue financial gain at the expense of their solemn duty to protect our country’s closely held secrets.”

“The overarching mission of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is to prevent terrorism, reduce crime and protect secrets, with a very high priority on protecting vital information such as the design and operation of nuclear-powered warships,” said Special Agent in Charge Michelle Kramer of the NCIS Office of Special Projects. “It’s this kind of technology that provides the Department of the Navy with capabilities unmatched by any of America’s adversaries. NCIS remains committed to protecting that information to ensure the readiness of the US Navy and Marine Corps.”

According to his plea, in April 2020, Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.

On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.

Toebbe pleaded guilty to count one of the indictment charging him with conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data which carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to life in prison, a fine up to $100,000, and term of supervised release not more than five years. Pursuant to his plea agreement, Toebbe will serve a minimum of 151 months, or 12 and a half years, in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher of the Northern District of West Virginia, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.

A Maryland man pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to communicate restricted data related to the design of nuclear-powered warships to a person he believed was a representative of a foreign nation.

Jonathan Toebbe, 43, of Annapolis, was arrested on Oct. 9, 2021, after he placed an SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a location in West Virginia. According to court documents, at the time of his arrest, Toebbe was an employee of the Department of the Navy who served as a nuclear engineer and was assigned to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. He held an active national security clearance through the Department of Defense, giving him access to “Restricted Data” within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act. Restricted Data concerns design, manufacture or utilization of atomic weapons, or production of Special Nuclear Material (SNM), or use of SNM in the production of energy – such as naval reactors. Toebbe worked with and had access to information concerning naval nuclear propulsion including information related to military sensitive design elements, operating parameters and performance characteristics of the reactors for nuclear powered warships.

“Among the secrets the U.S. government most zealously protects are those related to the design of its nuclear-powered warships. The defendant was entrusted with some of those secrets and instead of guarding them, he betrayed the trust placed in him and conspired to sell them to another country for personal profit,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. The Department of Justice will vigilantly protect the American people and our nation’s security by investigating and prosecuting those who violate their Constitutional oath and abuse their positions for personal gain.”

“The agents and prosecutors handling this matter are to be commended for their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld II for the Northern District of West Virginia. “They are talented and tenacious, and their work in this case has helped to make our country safer.”

“There’s a message here for anyone who would sell out America’s secrets,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler, Jr. of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI and its partners will use all our investigative techniques to bring you to justice.”

“The FBI is relentless in its efforts to uncover those who seek to do our nation harm by targeting our most valuable secrets,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “This case is an example of the hard work and diligence of the FBI and our federal partners to neutralize and hold accountable those people who threaten our national security.”

“Today Jonathan Toebbe admitted that he violated federal law when he conspired with his wife to sell sensitive government information to a foreign power,” said U.S. Attorney Cindy Chung for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those who would pursue financial gain at the expense of their solemn duty to protect our country’s closely held secrets.”

“The overarching mission of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is to prevent terrorism, reduce crime and protect secrets, with a very high priority on protecting vital information such as the design and operation of nuclear-powered warships,” said Special Agent in Charge Michelle Kramer of the NCIS Office of Special Projects. “It’s this kind of technology that provides the Department of the Navy with capabilities unmatched by any of America’s adversaries. NCIS remains committed to protecting that information to ensure the readiness of the US Navy and Marine Corps.”

According to his plea, in April 2020, Toebbe sent a package to a foreign government, listing a return address in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, containing a sample of Restricted Data and instructions for establishing a covert relationship to purchase additional Restricted Data. Toebbe began corresponding via encrypted email with an individual whom he believed to be a representative of the foreign government. The individual was really an undercover FBI agent. Toebbe continued this correspondence for several months, which led to an agreement to sell Restricted Data in exchange for thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency.

On June 8, 2021, the undercover agent sent $10,000 in cryptocurrency to Toebbe as “good faith” payment. Shortly afterwards, on June 26, Toebbe serviced a dead drop by placing an SD card, which was concealed within half a peanut butter sandwich and contained military sensitive design elements relating to submarine nuclear reactors, at a pre-arranged location. After retrieving the SD card, the undercover agent sent Toebbe a $20,000 cryptocurrency payment. In return, Toebbe emailed the undercover agent a decryption key for the SD Card. A review of the SD card revealed that it contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. On Aug. 28, Toebbe made another “dead drop” of an SD card in eastern Virginia, this time concealing the card in a chewing gum package. After making a payment to Toebbe of $70,000 in cryptocurrency, the FBI received a decryption key for the card. It, too, contained Restricted Data related to submarine nuclear reactors. The FBI arrested Toebbe and his wife on Oct. 9, after he placed yet another SD card at a pre-arranged “dead drop” at a second location in West Virginia.

Toebbe pleaded guilty to count one of the indictment charging him with conspiracy to communicate Restricted Data which carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to life in prison, a fine up to $100,000, and term of supervised release not more than five years. Pursuant to his plea agreement, Toebbe will serve a minimum of 151 months, or 12 and a half years, in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI and NCIS are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Matthew J. McKenzie and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarod J. Douglas and Lara Omps-Botteicher of the Northern District of West Virginia and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar for the Western District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Jerome Frank Brown, age 50, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 19, 2021 Brown had possessed a total of 14 kilograms of fentanyl and $136,000 in cash, in addition to a firearm and ammunition. The Court was informed that Drug Enforcement Administration agents and task force officers executed search warrants on Brown’s vehicle, his apartment, and a nearby storage unit. DEA personnel recovered one kilogram of fentanyl from Brown’s vehicle, approximately three more kilograms from his apartment, along with the cash and a firearm. When DEA agents searched Brown’s storage unit, they recovered 10 more kilograms of fentanyl.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2022 The law provides for a total sentence of at least 15 years to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain detained.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jerome Brown.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Newell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft and embezzlement from a program receiving federal funds, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Edward T. Stevenson, age 63, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Stevenson, who was employed as the Administrative Director as well as served as the Treasurer of Brownsville Ambulance Service, Inc. (BAS), located in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, from January 17, 2013 through March 22, 2017, without authorization, issued 132 checks totaling $136,140 from BAS’s checking accounts at First National Bank and PNC Bank, made payable to himself, to cash, and to his personal business, Lunden’s Flower Shop, also located in Brownsville. Stevenson deposited the checks in his personal bank account or one of two bank accounts he maintained on behalf of Lunden’s Flower Shop, all of which were issued in excess of his wages and for his personal benefit. At the time of the offense, BAS was a not-for-profit business that annually received $10,000 or more in federal benefits through the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 14, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The law also requires that Stevenson make full restitution to BAS for the funds he embezzled. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued bond.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Stevenson.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Curwensville, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 24 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release on his conviction of unlawful possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Chancellor M. Shaw Walter, 27.

According to information presented to the court, on September 16, 2019, Shaw was found in possession of ammunition. On June 26, 2018, Shaw was convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Clearfield County, of the crimes of flight to avoid apprehension and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, which are crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing ammunition

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

Ms. Chung commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Shaw.

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

Michael Knisely, 31, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about April 16, 2021, Knisely possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum 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 Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Cambria County Drug Task Force, and Cambria County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Knisely.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 10 years’ in prison followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Matthew Michael Walter, 34. 

According to information presented to the court, on or about August 22, 2019, Walter knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. All computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

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

Ms. Chung commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Walter.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Seven people from Illinois and Pennsylvania have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

]The five-count Superseding Indictment, returned on February 1, 2022, and unsealed today named the following defendants: • Anthony Cook, 53, of Chicago, IL; • Curtis Diggs, 51, of Westchester, IL; • Dion Diggs, 55, of Brownsville, PA; • Byron McCrae, 42, formerly of Monessen, PA; • Douglas Smith, 39, of Monessen, PA; • Michael Martin, 41, of Brownsville, PA; and
• Nadia Wilkins, 45, of Chicago, IL

According to the Superseding Indictment, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base from in and around June 2020 to in and around July 2021. McCrae and Cook are also charged with possessing with intent to distribute and distributing 500 grams or more of cocaine, while McCrae is further charged with possessing with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, all on March 3, 2021. Also on March 3, 2021, McCrae is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

McCrae faces a minimum sentence of 20 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine of up to $20,500,000, or both. Cook faces a minimum term of 10 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine of up to $15,000,000, or both. As to the remaining defendants, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years and 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 Attorneys Yvonne Saadi and Jonathan Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of New Jersey and current resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of failure to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Leon McGirt, also known as “Leon McGirk”, “Leon McGrit” and “Leon McGirle”, age 45, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 20, 2012, McGirt pleaded guilty to Criminal Attempt and Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Minor in Essex County, New Jersey and was sentenced on June 4, 2012. As a result of his New Jersey conviction, McGirt is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”) in any jurisdiction in which he resides. After McGirt was released from prison in New Jersey on December 13, 2018, he traveled in interstate commerce, from the State of New Jersey to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and stayed in Pennsylvania and knowingly failed to register as a sex offender as required by SORNA.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted McGirt to remain on bond.

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

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McGirt.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Carpentersville, Illinois, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Aiding or Assisting in the Preparation or Filing of False Federal Income Tax Returns, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Ephrem F. Lijalem, age 48, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised Lijalem operated Cititax Tax Refund stores in Pittsburgh, and he and his taxpayers defrauded IRS out of $7.2 million in illegal tax refunds generated by false Schedule C tax returns filed with the IRS. The government represented that tax return preparers at Cititax stores owned by Lijalem in Pittsburgh regularly falsified Schedule C attachments to personal income tax forms for customers with non-existent business, inflated income, and altered expenses in order to maximize the tax refunds for customers.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 31, 2022 The law provides for a total sentence of six years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ephrem F. Lijalem.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New York, NY, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Francis Yamel Garcia, age 39, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 26, 2020, Garcia was found to be in possession of approximately 885 grams of fentanyl during a traffic stop conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Garcia.

PITTSBURGH – Steve Garduno was sentenced to 10 years (120 months) in prison for possessing with intent to distribute 305 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Garduno, age 51 of Strasburg, Colorado, was sentenced by United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand. Judge Wiegand ordered Garduno to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

On October 28, 2020, Garduno got caught in possession of 305 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine as a result of a traffic stop of his SUV conducted by the Greenville (Pennsylvania) Police Department. As of that date, Garduno had been convicted of several felony crimes throughout the prior 30 years ranging from burglaries to weapons and assault crimes to drug trafficking crimes. Also as of that date, he was on bond with a pending Colorado charge for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine that had been filed just four months earlier.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller and Special Assistant United States Attorney/Mercer County Assistant District Attorney Shane T. Crevar prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Greenville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Amanda Nichelle Downs, 30, pleaded guilty to Counts One and Two of the Indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from December 2018 to Sept. 1, 2019, Downs produced images of a minor female engaged in sexually explicit conduct using materials that were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2022. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Clearfield Borough Police Department, and the Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Downs.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to charges of Bank Robbery and Attempted Bank Robbery, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Timothy Sowinski, age 53, of Pittsburgh, pled guilty to the charges before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

According to information presented to the Court at the time of the plea, Sowinski entered the Northwest Bank on Smithfield Street in downtown Pittsburgh on March 12, 2018, and handed a demand note to the teller, stating that he had a gun and wanted cash. The teller complied with the demand and gave cash to Sowinski, who then fled the bank. Two days later, Sowinski entered the PNC Bank on Walnut Street in Pittsburgh and presented a similar note, but the teller did not immediately understand what Sowinski wanted. Another teller saw what was happening and activated the bank’s alarm. Sowinski then fled the scene. The Pittsburgh Police received information that Sowinski was likely the robber in both instances, and on the following day they located him and interviewed him. Sowinski then confessed and admitted that he had been the perpetrator at both banks.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Sowinski for June 1, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $50, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of failure to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Andrew Gere, 53, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Information before United States District Judge Stephanie Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about Feb. 2, 2021, to on or about July 20, 2021, Gere traveled in interstate commerce, and did knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, fail to register and update a registration, as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for June 21, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gere.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. -- A resident of Johnstown, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Hasus L. Hardy, 34, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about August 25, 2021, Hardy knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, possessed firearms and ammunition, after having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.

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

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

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Zai Quan Henderson, age 24, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about January 12, 2022, Henderson was in possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten 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 defendant is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

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

The Allegheny County 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 resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to one count of been of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Christopher D. Casamento, age 42, of Pittsburgh, PA 15237, pleaded guilty to one count before the Honorable Arthur J. Schwab.

The United States represented that PayPal informed the FBI that a vendor on Ebay known as “Steel-City-Motor-Toys” sold over 13,000 PPE, primarily Aura N-95 Masks, surgical masks and particulate masks at inflated prices during the height of the Covid pandemic in early 2020. FBI confirmed that the registered owner of Steel City Motor Toys was the defendant, Christopher D. Casamento, who admitted to stealing PPE from his former employer, the University of Pittsburgh while serving as the Director of Emergency Management during the Covid pandemic from February 28, 2020, to March 22, 2020. Masks were shipped to buyers in states outside of Pennsylvania, earning Casamento approximately $18,783.50. Casamento was terminated by University of Pittsburgh officials in July 2020.

The court scheduled sentencing for June 15, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of not more than three 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 defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Casamento.

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on January 21, 2022, released the Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.

Rooted in the foundational pillars and priorities of the interagency National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, which President Biden released on Dec. 3, 2021, the Justice Department's National Strategy is expansive in scope. It aims to enhance the department's capacity to prevent human trafficking; to prosecute human trafficking cases; and to support and protect human trafficking victims and survivors.

“Human trafficking is an insidious crime,” said Attorney General Garland. “Traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm. The Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking will bring the full force of the Department to this fight.”

“Through our Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now) initiative, led by our Human Trafficking Prosecutions Coordinator, we are proactively working with local, state and federal law enforcement, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, to identify and prosecute human traffickers and to empower victims to become  thriving survivors,” said U.S Attorney Cindy Chung. “Our outreach efforts include providing the public with education and training on, among other things, defining human trafficking, identifying the “red flags” or indicators, as well as the myths about human trafficking. Interested community groups can reach us at 412-644-3500 to request a presentation.”

U.S. Attorney Chung further said, “Importantly, the Operation T.E.N. team includes victim specialists, at the FBI, HSI and our office, who assist victims through the criminal justice process, and provide emotional support, in conjunction with local organizations who offer victims of, not only human trafficking, but all forms of sexual abuse, with much-needed housing, programming, and an opportunity to reclaim their lives.”

Among other things, the Justice Department’s multi-year strategy to combat all forms of human trafficking will: 

• Strengthen engagement, coordination and joint efforts to combat human trafficking by prosecutors in all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and by federal law enforcement agents nationwide.
• Establish federally-funded, locally-led anti-human trafficking task forces that support sustained state law enforcement leadership and comprehensive victim assistance.
• Step up departmental efforts to end forced labor by increasing attention, resources and coordination in labor trafficking investigations and prosecutions.
• Enhance initiatives to reduce vulnerability of American Indians and Alaska Natives to violent crime, including human trafficking, and to locate missing children.
• Develop and implement new victim screening protocols to identify potential human trafficking victims during law enforcement operations and encourage victims to share important information.
• Increase capacity to provide victim-centered assistance to trafficking survivors, including by supporting efforts to deliver financial restoration to victims.
• Expand dissemination of federal human trafficking training, guidance and expertise.
• Advance innovative demand-reduction strategies.

The department’s strategy will be implemented under the direction of the National Human Trafficking Coordinator designated by the Attorney General in accordance with the Abolish Human Trafficking Act of 2017.

If you believe that you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or Text 233733.

To read the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking click here.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Westmoreland County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named James Smith, age 43, formerly of Herminie, PA 15637, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about December 29, 2021, Smith robbed Dollar Bank in Pleasant Hills of $604.00.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pleasant Hills 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 - A resident of West Alexander, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of filing a false income tax return, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Tina L. Beck pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Beck filed federal income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service for the calendar years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, on which she willfully underreported gross receipts from the operation of the business she jointly owned with her husband known as “Beck’s Refuse Service”. Beck acknowledged underreporting receipts in excess of $986,000, resulting in a tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service of more than $232,000.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for June 21, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than three years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued bond.

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

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Beck.

PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of McKees Rocks, 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 named Melquan Hudson, age 19, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about January 13, 2022, Hudson possessed with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl, cocaine base and/or cocaine. On or about the same date, Hudson also possessed three firearms in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Allegheny County 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Franklin, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Rodney Lee Plowman, 55, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about December 15, 2021, Plowman possessed with intent to distribute more than fifty grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

The law provides for a maximum total 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 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE) task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Erie Bureau of Police, the Oil City Police Department, the Franklin Police Department, and the Titusville 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.

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

Timothy Perry, 39, of pleaded guilty to the offense at 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, Perry did conspire to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2022. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and a maximum 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 Perry. 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 resident of Hudson, Florida, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 days’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release on her conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Lori Shaffer, age 53, of Hudson, Florida.

According to information presented to the court, from July 2013 through October 2017, Shaffer stole approximately $43,672 in Survivor’s Insurance Benefits from the United States Social Security Administration, which were paid to her deceased grandmother and to which she knew she was not entitled.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that Shaffer had committed a serious theft of taxpayers’ contributions to the Social Security system and that the evidence revealed that she had taken premeditated steps to ensure her continued access to Social Security funds to which she was not entitled. In addition to the imposed terms of imprisonment and supervised release, the court ordered Shaffer to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $43,672.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A citizen of the Dominican Republic has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal immigration laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Rudys Osvaldo Torres, age 48, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 15, 2021, Torres, an alien who had previously been deported and removed from the United States, and who had knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully reentered the United States, was found in the United States in Somerset County, Pennsylvania without having applied for and received permission from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter the United States.

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

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

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

Ahmed Doumbia, 28, pleaded guilty to a lesser-included offense at Count One and to the offense at Count Two of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 5, 2018, to on or about May 5, 2020, Doumbia did conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack,” as well as, conspired to commit money laundering.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 9, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum 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 Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting 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.

OCDETF conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Indiana Borough Police Department.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of North Versailles, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The three-count Indictment returned on February 1, 2022, named Jerome Sidney Whitley, age 23, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about July 10, 2021, Whitley possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and possessed an Anderson Manufacturing .223 caliber rifle in furtherance of drug trafficking and as a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Murrysville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court following his convictions for unlawful dispensing and distributing Schedule II controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer sentenced Yee Chung Ho, age 72, a physician, to three years of probation, including 180 days of home detention. Ho also was ordered to pay restitution totaling $6,500 to Medicare, and to forfeit his Drug Enforcement Administration number, Pennsylvania state license to practice medicine, and $89,280.00 to the United States. Ho was further ordered to serve 250 hours of community service.

During the defendant’s plea hearing on November 9, 2021, Ho admitted that, while practicing as a licensed medical doctor at his family medicine practice located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he knowingly dispensed and distributed Schedule II drugs, specifically, Oxycodone, to a patient outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Ho also admitted that, from April 2018 through June 2019, he committed health care fraud by causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare for payments to cover the costs of unlawfully prescribed drugs.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Cessar and Karen Gal-Or and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are 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.

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.

PITTSBURGH - Mario Allen was sentenced to 15 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to launder drug-trafficking proceeds between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Allen, age 40, of Petersburg, Virginia, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan directed that the prison sentence be served consecutively to the federal prison sentence Allen was serving at the time as a result of prior racketeering and drug-trafficking convictions.

Allen was incarcerated at USP-Lee in Virginia when he conspired to launder the proceeds of the distribution of Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances. Such substances have caused severe illness and deaths throughout the United States in recent years.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA -- A former resident of Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotic and firearm laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Marshall Grimes, age 42, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between May 2018 and December 2018, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and Butler County Drug Task Force conducted an investigation into Marshall Grimes, a known drug dealer from Columbus, OH who was operating in Butler, PA. On December 11, 2018, law enforcement received a 911 call regarding the apartment building where Grimes and his co-conspirators distributed narcotics. Thereafter, officers responded and detained Grimes. During a consensual search of the apartments used by Grimes and his associates, law enforcement recovered approximately 280 grams of cocaine, 80 grams of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, $11,989.00, and a loaded firearm.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2022, at 11:30 am. 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 to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. The defendant remains detained pending sentencing.

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

The Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General and Butler County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Grimes.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Boris Goldshtein, 55, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 26, 2020, Postal Inspectors intercepted a parcel mailed to Goldshtein’s residence that was found to contain approximately 439 grams of methamphetamine. The next day, a federal search warrant was executed on Goldshtein’s residence. Inside the residence, investigators recovered approximately 335 grams of methamphetamine, along with firearms and bulk currency.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 26, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH – Dwayne Smallwood was sentenced to 28 months in prison for conspiring to distribute, and distributing, fentanyl and heroin in Butler, Pennsylvania, between 2017 and 2020, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Smallwood, age 43, formerly of Butler and Philadelphia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville ordered that Smallwood serve six years of supervised release following his prison term.

Smallwood was previously convicted in Philadelphia on two occasions of committing crack cocaine trafficking crimes. He thereafter relocated to Butler in Butler County and trafficked fentanyl and heroin as part of a Butler-based drug trafficking crew between 2017 and 2020. He was on probation during part of that time as a result of separate convictions in Butler County for insurance fraud and crack possession.

Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

U.S. Attorney Chung commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Butler County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force for leading the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 120 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Jamie Darnell Pullium, 40.

According to information presented to the court, on or about February 20, 2020, Pullium possessed fentanyl with the intent to distribute. As part of the plea, Pullium also acknowledged his responsibility for distributing cocaine as charged elsewhere in the Indictment.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Operation S.O.S. (Synthetic Opioid Surge), a Department of Justice enforcement initiative designed to dismantle deadly fentanyl distribution networks through cooperation with local, state and federal law enforcement, as well as local and state prosecutors. The Western District of Pennsylvania is one of 10 districts from across the country to implement the S.O.S. program.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Erie County Drug Taskforce, Erie County Detective Bureau, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pullium.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 105 months’ imprisonment followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Nathaniel McKnight, 28, of New Castle, Pennsylvania.

According to the information presented to the court, 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 was intercepted communicating with his codefendants and coconspirators to orchestrate the movement of cocaine from Columbus, Ohio to the Western District of Pennsylvania for distribution. McKnight was also intercepted communicating about acquiring fentanyl, distributing fentanyl, and cutting fentanyl to increase his 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.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) in Pittsburgh, PA; the DEA, Columbus, OH; 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 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, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to two months in prison and two years of supervised release on her conviction of access device fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicolas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Samiat Akinyemi, 26, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Akinyemi was part of a conspiracy that involved using stolen identity information to induce financial institutions to issue credit and debit cards on victim customers’ accounts. She used one of these fraudulently obtained cards to purchase approximately $9,000 worth of store gift cards and other items from Macy’s and Nordstrom Rack.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Akinyemi.

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Irwin, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal law against the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Thomas Crosby, age 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about October 16, 2020, Crosby knowingly possessed material that contained images of child pornography, was aware of the sexually explicit nature of the material and further knew that the visual depictions were of actual minors engaged in that sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, a term of supervised release of at least five years, or any 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 defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Glassport, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 87 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Rory Shelton, 59, formerly of Glassport, PA.

According to information presented to the court, in May 2019, a 16 year-old female went missing from her home in Paducah, Kentucky. An investigation traced the girl to Shelton’s one-room apartment in Glassport, PA, where the female was found to be staying with Shelton. Subsequent search warrants for the apartment and Shelton’s cell phones revealed an extensive collection of child sexual abuse material, including prepubescent minors and sadistic and masochistic conduct. Sexually exploitive images of the 16 year-old were also discovered. Shelton was convicted in Allegheny Court of Common Pleas for his conduct related to the 16 year-old girl and is serving a state sentence of 36 to 72 months of imprisonment. Judge Colville ordered the federal sentence to run concurrently with the state sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shelton.

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

The one-count Indictment named James D. Higgins, age 42, formerly of Apollo, PA 15613, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on June 17, 2021, Mr. Higgins was found to be in possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a total sentence of not less than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five 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 defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Donald Anthony Ware, Jr., age 22, of the City’s Hill District neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about November 3, 2021, in connection with the acquisition of a firearm from a licensed dealer, Ware falsely claimed on firearms purchase paperwork that he was purchasing the firearm for himself when he was actually purchasing it for another person.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten 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 Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has 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 named Kenneth Gaines, 31, formerly of Pittsburgh’s East Hills neighborhood, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about December 22, 2021, Gaines possessed with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and tramadol. The Indictment further alleges that Gaines possessed firearms and ammunition. His prior felony convictions make it unlawful for him to possess firearms and ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years, a fine of $3,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms 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), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 63 months in prison followed by five years’ supervised release on his conviction for possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on William Jay Clark, 34.

According to information presented to the court, on February 23, 2017, Clark knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce

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

Ms. Chung commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Clark.

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 better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Somerset County pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession and distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Kristian E. Heller, 46, of Windber, PA pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about April 20, 2021, Heller knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, possessed one or more visual depictions, namely, videos and images in individual computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and which depict prepubescent minors and minors who have not attained 12 years of age, engaging in sexually explicit conduct, all of which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, by means of a computer, and all of which had been produced using materials which had been mailed and shipped in interstate and foreign commerce.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Heller.

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 better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

PITTSBURGH, PA  A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12½ years (150 months) of imprisonment and six years of supervised release on his conviction of violating the conditions of his supervised release and violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Davee Ward, age 31, formerly of Pittsburgh’s North Side. Ward is a member of a violent gang who call themselves the North Charles Crips.

According to information presented to the court, in 2013, Ward was convicted in the Western District of Pennsylvania of distribution of heroin. In that case, the Court imposed a sentence of 37 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. The conditions of release included, among other conditions, that the defendant not violate any federal, state or local law.

On July 25, 2016, a search of a vehicle Ward occupied revealed distribution quantities of heroin, $4,100 in cash, and multiple cellular telephones. He was arrested by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. As that conduct constituted a violation of the conditions of his supervised release, the Court issued a warrant for arrest, but, before that arrest warrant was received by the Allegheny County Jail, the defendant had already been released on bond and absconded. It was almost two years before the defendant was arrested again.

Regarding his supervised release violation, which was not contested, the Court imposed a sentence of six months’ imprisonment. For the events of July 25, 2016, the Court imposed a sentence of 144 months to run consecutive with the six-month sentence imposed for the supervised release violation for a total of 150 months’ imprisonment. The Court also imposed six years of supervised release to follow the 144-month sentence.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 72 months’ incarceration followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Galen Gray, age 35.

According to information presented to the Court, in and around March 2014, Gray possessed images and videos depicting prepubescent minors and minors who had not attained 12 years of age engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The government further informed the Court that Gray’s personal cell phone contained evidence of Skype and Kik conversations showing that Gray had engaged in online chats in order to seek and receive child sexual abuse material (child pornography). The government also presented the Court with evidence that Gray had accessed the Internet and child sexual abuse material in August and November 2020 while he was on pretrial release and prohibited from doing so. In imposing sentence, Judge Fischer recognized that Gray’s criminal conduct was egregious and stated that consumers, like Gray, create a market for producers of such material. Judge Fischer read and listened to Impact Statements provided by the victims of Gray’s crime and recognized the never-ending cycle of abuse that victims of child pornography crimes are subjected to as their images are used over and over again on the Internet.

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

United States Attorney Chung commended the FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the North Fayette Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gray.

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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Loraleigh Helen Barber, 51, Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from January 1, 2007 through August 2, 2019, Barber received $127,636 in Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits from the United States Social Security Administration, to which she knew she was not entitled. Ms. Barber had served as a representative payee for her father and after he died in December of 2006, yet she never advised the Social Security Administration and kept on receiving and spending the benefits intended for her father.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Barber on bond.

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

The United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barber.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Alabama pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to charges of sex trafficking crimes, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Anthony Juskowich, age 23, who was residing in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood at the time of the crime, pleaded guilty on January 28, 2022, to two counts before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

“The defendant’s plea comes following 19 months of diligent work by our Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now) team and marks the first conviction in western Pennsylvania of an individual for the sex trafficking of an adult,” said U.S. Attorney Chung. “I note that this is also National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about human trafficking and to educate the public about how to identify and prevent this horrific crime.”

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that from January 2020 through May 2020, Juskowich knowingly conspired to commit sex trafficking, using force, threats of force, fraud or coercion, on an adult female, A.H., to cause her to engage in commercial sex acts. Additionally, Juskowich pled guilty to knowingly attempting to commit sex trafficking, of the same female, between May 13, 2020, and May 14, 2020.

The Court was further informed that on May 13, 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted an undercover operation, posing as a commercial sex buyer, during which time Juskowich arranged the “date”, or commercial sexual activity, to occur at a hotel in Moon Township with A.H. The next day, May 14, law enforcement entered the hotel room and identified themselves as law enforcement, rescuing A.H. from her trafficker, Juskowich.

Juskowich was arrested on the same day, by the Pittsburgh Police, for an outstanding warrant. He told the FBI and Pittsburgh Police that A.H. engages in sex work for money. Juskowich further described his role as driving A.H. from hotel to hotel and keeps the money A.H. made in a safe at their apartment. Juskowich further touted that A.H. makes $10,000 a month working for him and pointed out that he was wearing a $700 Louis Vuitton belt that he purchased with money A.H. made.

Text messages between A.H. and Juskowich raised numerous red flags to investigators working the case, revealing ongoing sex trafficking. For instance, Juskowich required A.H. to make $500 a day and set weekly quotas, telling A.H. that she could not come home without meeting the quota. Hotel records confirmed that from March 5, 2020, through May 15, 2020, Juskowich rented rooms, in A.H.’s name, on approximately 25 separate occasions, in the Moon Township area.

Investigators determined that Juskowich had been grooming A.H. since December of 2019, when the two met in Alabama. After a few failed attempts at expanding his sex trafficking business in Alabama and Georgia, Juskowich convinced A.H, who had never traveled outside of the south, to travel with him to Pittsburgh, where he claimed to know the commercial sex scene. Juskowich coerced and forced A.H. to engage in commercial sex acts based upon the false promise of working towards a legitimate future income source, purportedly by using A.H.’s earnings to purchase and run a fast-food franchise. Juskowich further acknowledged, at the change of plea hearing, that he used physical force and threats of force against A.H. and controlled everything that she did, compelling her to engage in commercial sex acts.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for June 2, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000. 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 ordered the defendant remained detained.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics Division, and the Moon Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Juskowich.

This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), the United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania’s coalition to end human trafficking. 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, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to six years’ (72 months’) imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release 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 yesterday on Monty Grinage, 43, of the Swissvale area.

According to information presented to the court, Grinage sold powder cocaine in the Pittsburgh area between June and November of 2017.

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 Grinage.

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 Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 14 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Deonte Reddick, age 21.

According to information presented to the court, Reddick was sentenced to count one of the Indictment, which charged him with being illegal drug user in possession of a firearm. On May 13, 2021, the Allegheny County Police were conducting a violence suppression effort following shootings in the Clairton area when they approached a vehicle. As they approached, one of the occupants, who was wanted, exited the vehicle and began to run. Ultimately, detectives were able to capture that individual and found a firearm on his person.

When the detectives returned to the vehicle, they observed multiple firearms in plain view, including one in the possession of Reddick. Reddick was, at that time, an illegal drug user and therefore precluded from possessing a firearm under federal law.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Allegheny County Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Reddick. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted in the investigation.

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

Terrell Robison Ickes, 31, of Listie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about June 23, 2020, to on or about July 3, 2020, Ickes did possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for May 26, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum 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 Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Somerset County Detectives and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ickes.