Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH – Harold Hooten pled guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine base in 2020 and 2021, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Hooten, age 44 of Hermitage, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing to occur on February 28, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

The law provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is to be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department led the investigation resulting in the conviction 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former Pittsburgh-area physician pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics and health care laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Emilio Ramon Navarro, 60, of Coal Center, Pennsylvania, 15423 pled guilty to one count of unlawful distribution of oxycodone and one count of health care fraud before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Navarro also accepted responsibility for eight additional counts of unlawful distribution of Schedule II controlled substances.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Navarro was a licensed physician in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and operated private family practices in Mount Pleasant and Perryopolis, Pennsylvania. In 2018, Navarro issued Victim 1 nine prescriptions for a total of 300 dosage units of oxycodone and 240 dosage units of oxymorphone, both Schedule II controlled substances, outside the usual course of professional practice and for no legitimate medical purpose but in exchange for sexual favors. Navarro then submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid for reimbursement for the unlawfully prescribed prescriptions thereby defrauding Medicaid.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for March 1, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both, for the narcotics conviction. Navarro faces an additional maximum term of imprisonment of not more than 10 years, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the health care fraud conviction. 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 Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Mark V. Gurzo 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, PA - A former resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in prison, three years supervised release and restitution of $4,600.00 on his conviction of violating federal counterfeit laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Forkpa Howard, 32, formerly of Philadelphia, PA 19124.

According to information presented to the court, Howard conspired to counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes and then passed said counterfeit bills at various retail stores and businesses in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere in August 2019.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon concurred with the government that defendant’s crime affects the integrity of our monetary system and our nation’s economy. She did not agree to a vary from the advisory guidelines range in this case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Howard.

PITTSBURGH - Two southwestern Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on conspiracy and fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned on September 21, named Richard Sunseri, 36, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Matthew Durbin, 41, of McMurray, PA as the defendants.

According to the Indictment, from in and around April 2017 until in and around December 2017, Sunseri and Durbin knowingly and willfully conspired to defraud the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and falsified statements by bidding on and purchasing property as intended homeowners, only to renovate and the sell the property for profit and splitting the commissions.

More specifically, the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Single Family Property Disposition Program allows individuals to purchase a home from HUD after a Federal Housing Administration loan forecloses. The program is designed to encourage ownership by families who intend to reside in the homes as owner/occupants by allowing those families to bid on the foreclosed properties before the process is opened up to real estate investors who merely intend to profit, short-term, by “flipping” the houses. Here, as alleged, Sunseri and Durbin, in an effort to jump the line ahead of other real estate investors, falsely certified on bidding forms that they intended to occupy the homes as owner/occupants, when, in fact, they intended to flip the homes for profit. This unlawful abuse of the Single Family Property Disposition program has two effects that frustrate the program’s purpose: first, it can allow real estate investors to potentially outbid families who otherwise would purchase the home and reside in the community and, second, it allows real estate investors to jump the line and bid on foreclosed homes before other investors are eligible.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development-Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH- Two residents of Upper St. Clair, PA, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on conspiracy and fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on September 21, named J. Reed Pirain, 45, and Renee Vasilko, 48, as the defendants.

According to the Indictment, from in and around February 2018, until in and around March 2019, Pirain and Vasilko knowingly and willfully conspired to defraud the Department of Housing and Urban Development and falsified statements by bidding on and purchasing property as intended homeowners, only to renovate and the sell the property for profit.

More specifically, the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Single Family Property Disposition Program allows individuals to purchase a home from HUD after a Federal Housing Administration loan forecloses. The program is designed to encourage ownership by families who intend to reside in the homes as owner/occupants by allowing those families to bid on the foreclosed properties before the process is opened up to real estate investors who merely intend to profit, short-term, by “flipping” the houses. Here, as alleged, Pirain and Vasilko, in an effort to jump the line ahead of other real estate investors, falsely certified on bidding forms that Vasilko intended to occupy the home as an owner/occupant, when, in fact, Pirain and Vasilko intended to flip the home for profit. This unlawful abuse of the Single Family Property Disposition program has two effects that frustrate the program’s purpose: first, it can allow real estate investors to potentially outbid families who otherwise would purchase the home and reside in the community and, second, it allows real estate investors to jump the line and bid on foreclosed homes before other investors are eligible.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development-Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment and 2 years’ supervised release on her conviction of narcotics trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Marleka Robinson, age 26, of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on September 11, 2016, Marleka Robinson obtained a large quantity of fentanyl from a distributor in the Knoxville section of Pittsburgh at Robinson’s brother and co-defendant Jerry Coker’s request. Robinson returned the drugs to the residence she shared with Coker and their other sister, codefendant Monique Robinson. A search warrant executed at the Coker residence the following day resulted in the seizure of more than 285 grams of fentanyl and small quantities of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. Drug packaging, weighing, and distributing materials were found strewn through the house, along with two Smith & Wesson pistols and $8,900 in cash, all of which were seized by law enforcement. Robinson admitted that she had transported narcotics for Coker on more than one occasion.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon stated that a sentence of 18 months imprisonment reflected the serious nature of her conduct, her lack of criminal history, and the limited role in the trafficking activity that Robinson played.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Drug Enforcement Agency for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Robinson.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Production of a Visual Depiction of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Zachary Bosh, age 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about April 12, 2019, Bosh produced digital images and videos that depict the sexual exploitation of a minor female.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in conjunction with the FBI Washington Field Office’s (WFO) Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of Tarentum, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Gregory Brown, age 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on September 27, 2021, Brown was found to be in possession of an Astra .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. Due to a prior felony conviction, Brown is not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case along with the Wilkinsburg Police Department.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

David Joyner, 26, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin from June of 2019 through December of 2019, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV. In addition, Joyner accepted responsibility for possessing firearms in conjunction with his heroin trafficking. Joyner is one of seven defendants charged in the Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a heroin trafficking organization that operated throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. Beginning in July of 2019 and continuing through August of 2019, the FBI received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Joyner was intercepted communicating with his codefendant and coconspirator about purchasing and distributing heroin as well as the purity of the heroin they intended to distribute. Through extensive physical and electronic surveillance, Joyner was observed meeting with his codefendant and coconspirator to facilitate their heroin distribution. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized heroin, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization, including Joyner.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for February 22, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,000,000, 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. Joyner remains in custody pending sentencing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police
Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Joyner.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating various federal carjacking and interstate commerce laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Jonathan Trowery, age 34, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about January 30, 2021, Trowery is alleged to have engaged in carjacking and the interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Agency, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, New Beaver Police Department, Cobb County Police Department (Georgia), and the Fulton County Police Department (Georgia) 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 New Jersey has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction for conspiring to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine and quantities of heroin and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on James Vance, 37, of Jersey City, New Jersey.

According to the information presented to the court, in November of 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police began investigation a drug trafficking organization that operated in Washington County, Pennsylvania. Beginning in April of 2020 and continuing into November of 2020, the FBI received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Through the wiretap and extensive physical and electronic surveillance in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, agents discovered that Vance met with alleged codefendants and coconspirators in New Jersey where he supplied them with kilogram quantities of cocaine and quantities of heroin-fentanyl mixtures. Vance’s alleged codefendants and coconspirators transported the drugs back to Washington County, Pennsylvania where they redistributed the drugs throughout the community. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, heroin-fentanyl mixtures, firearms, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Vance.

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 New Castle pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Darnell Latham, 52, of New Castle, Pennsylvania pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine from March of 2019 through September of 2020, before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Latham is one of thirteen defendants charged in the Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2019, 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. Latham was intercepted communicating with his codefendant and coconspirator about purchasing, distributing, and cutting cocaine. 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.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for February 15, 2022. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,000,000, 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. Latham remains in custody pending sentencing.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration 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 conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Latham.

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 Fayette County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Superseding Indictment named Kwame Eddings, 41, formerly Republic, PA 15475, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about March 17, 2021, Kwame Eddings possessed with the intent to distribute quantities of cocaine base, cocaine, and a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl.

At each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Detroit, Michigan, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Willie James Harvey, age 37.

According to the Indictment, on November 13, 2019, Harvey robbed the Kay Jewelers store located at 2200 Tanger Boulevard in Washington, PA, and also conspired to rob jewelry stores in Mahoning County, Ohio and Washington County, Pennsylvania from November 12, 2019 through November 13, 2019.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, South Strabane Police Department, Boardman (Ohio) Police Department, and Hillsborough County (Florida) Sheriff’s 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 – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 14 years of imprisonment on his conviction of drug trafficking and firearms offenses, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Derrick Walker, age 31, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on June 15, 2019, Walker sold several stamp bags of fentanyl to an individual. These stamp bags were labeled “Pray for Death.” The following day, the individual was found deceased, with several opened “Pray for Death” stamp bags next to him. The autopsy and toxicological testing confirmed that the victim died of a fentanyl overdose.

On June 24, 2019, the defendant was pulled over during a traffic stop and found in possession of additional stamp bags of fentanyl, and the cell phone that was used to arrange the transaction with the victim. The defendant’s house was subsequently searched, and investigators recovered additional stamp bags of fentanyl, including numerous stamp bags labeled “Pray for Death.” Investigators also recovered thousands of rounds of ammunition, as well as body armor and drug packaging paraphernalia. The defendant’s cellular phone was searched, and it contained numerous narcotics-related communications, including ones in which the defendant advertised that he had “Pray for Death” stamp bags for sale. The cellular phone also contained the text message conversations between the defendant and the victim, in which the victim and the defendant arranged the June 15, 2019 drug transaction. When the defendant was arrested on August 26, 2019, he was found in possession of a firearm and additional ammunition.

When the defendant pleaded guilty on December 21, 2020, he accepted responsibility for causing the death of the victim.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ambrose stated that the defendant’s offense conduct was extremely serious.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Derrick Walker.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Justin Sean Johnson was sentenced on Friday to the statutory maximum sentence of 60 months' incarceration for Conspiracy to Defraud the U.S., and the statutory maximum of 24 months for Aggravated Identity Theft, for a total of 84 months of incarceration, for hacking the human resources databases of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and stealing Personally Identifiable Information (PII) of more than 65,000 UPMC employees, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R, Hornak imposed the sentence on Johnson, aka TheDearthStar and Dearthy Star, age 30, formerly of Detroit, Michigan.

Johnson, known on the dark web as TheDearthStar and Dearthy Star, infiltrated and hacked into the UPMC human resource server databases in 2013 and 2014 and stole sensitive PII and W-2 information belonging to tens of thousands of UPMC employees. Johnson then sold the stolen information on dark web forums for use by conspirators, who promptly filed hundreds of false 1040 tax returns in 2014 using UPMC employee PII. These false 1040 filings claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars of false tax refunds, which they converted into Amazon.com gift cards, which were then used to purchase Amazon merchandise which was shipped to Venezuela.

Additionally, Johnson, from 2014 through 2017 stole and sold nearly 90,000 additional (non-UPMC) sets of PII to buyers on dark web forums, which could be used to commit identity theft and bank fraud.

The scheme resulted in approximately $1.7 million in false tax return refunds.

“Justin Johnson stole the names, Social Security numbers, addresses and salary information of tens of thousands of UPMC employees, then sold that personal information on the dark web so that other criminals could further exploit his victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “Today’s sentence sends a deterrent message that hacking has serious consequences.”

“The actions of criminals like Justin Johnson can have long-lasting and devastating effects on the lives of innocent people,” said Yury Kruty, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. “Johnson carried out his intricate scheme with no regard for his victims. Today’s sentencing will hopefully be a deterrent to other potential crooks who may be considering carrying out similar conduct.”

“The U.S. Secret Service today sends a message to Justin Sean Johnson and anyone who seeks to conceal their criminal activity in cyberspace and on the dark web that there is no hiding place we cannot find,” said U.S. Secret Service Pittsburgh Field Office Special Agent in Charge Timothy Burke. “Information compromise and identity theft victimize not only the individuals whose information is stolen, but also threaten our collective global security. I am immensely proud of the agents involved in bringing a just end to these crimes.”

“Investigating identity theft and protecting consumers victimized by these crimes is part of our mission. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all the law enforcement agencies involved to bring this individual to justice,” said Lesley Allison, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division.

In imposing the sentence, Judge Hornak noted the severity of Mr. Johnson’s crimes, likening his behavior to a “bulldozer” through people’s personal lives when he “indiscriminately” hacked their PII.

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

Agents from the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Justin Johnson.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day of incarceration on her conviction of conspiracy to commit laundering of monetary instruments, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donnetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Holly Parrish, age 32, of Elizabeth Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Parrish conspired to launder the proceeds generated by her paramour’s drug trafficking organization. Specifically, the Court was informed that Darryl Arnold, Parrish’s paramour, was responsible for distributing massive quantities of heroin throughout Washington County. Parrish assisted in laundering hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash proceeds from Arnold’s heroin distribution and utilized the training she received as a bank employee to structure cash deposits in such a way as to evade regulatory detection. Additionally, Parrish and Arnold used the drug trafficking proceeds to live a lifestyle otherwise beyond their means, spending nearly $100,000 on shoe retailers, Gucci retailers, luxury hotels, and other items.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ambrose stated that she found the nature and circumstances of the offense to be very serious.

Assistant United States Attorneys Ross Lenhardt and Doug Maloney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Canonsburg and Monessen Police Departments for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Parrish.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Duncansville, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 46 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of conversion of government funds and filing false tax returns. Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Benjamin Allen Rhine, 49, of Duncansville, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about April 19, 2013, to on or about June 18, 2017, Rhine received and converted falsely to his own use a total of $1,590,257 in federally-funded grant money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, with payments made to him to which he was not entitled. Further, on Feb. 12, 2015, Feb. 20, 2016, and April 10, 2017, Rhine willfully filed Income Tax Return Form 1040, in which a written declaration was made under the penalties of perjury, and which he did not believe to be true and correct. The tax returns reported no taxable income; whereas Rhine knew and believed he had a taxable income resulting in additional tax due in the amounts of $103,626 for tax year 2014, $138,115 for tax year 2015, and $60,157 for tax year 2016.

“Benjamin Rhine’s greed overtook his good sense,” said U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “Massive thefts of government funds will be prosecuted aggressively.”

“Mr. Rhine's actions resulted in him illegally enriching himself and shortchanging the community he was supposed to be serving,” said Yury Kruty, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. “The Special Agents of IRS-CI will continue working with our law enforcement partners to prosecute others who participate in schemes like this.”

“I want to thank our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to bring Mr. Rhine to justice” said Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, of the Department of Homeland Security-Office of the Inspector General.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security-Office of the Inspector General for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Rhine.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court for narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Raelynn Stevenson, age 31, was sentenced ten years’ imprisonment to be followed by eight years of supervised release by United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. This sentence comes after Stevenson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of fentanyl and heroin. Stevenson is one of 40 defendants that were charged in the Indictment and Superseding Indictment returned in this case.

In connection with the sentencing hearing, the Court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Intercepted communications revealed that the defendant both collaborated with lead defendant Christopher Highsmith and supplied her own drug customers. On several occasions during the conspiracy, the defendant and Highsmith discussed the weight, packaging, and distribution of narcotics.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

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 - One resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Anthony West, age 28, formerly of Dohrman Street, as the sole defendant.

According to a publicly filed Complaint, on September 16, 2021, West entered a bank location in Bridgeville, PA and threatened or intimidated an employee, secured U.S. currency in the custody of the bank, and fled.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to charges of making false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer, and immediately following, was sentenced to one day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Paul Gregory Williams, Jr., 27, pleaded guilty to Counts One and Three of the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 6, 2019, and December 14, 2019, Williams, acting as a straw purchaser, purchased firearms from Gander Outdoors, Sporting Goods Discounters, and Dunham’s Sports, federally licensed firearms dealers, stating he was purchasing the firearms for himself, when, in truth and fact, he was not the actual buyer, but was purchasing the firearms on behalf of another person.

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

Mr. Kaufman commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Cranesville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years in jail and 20 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Adam Jepson, 40.

According to information presented to the court, Jepson distributed sexually explicit photos depicting a minor victim under the age of six to an undercover officer. Jepson also possessed other images of child sexual abuse depicting minors under the age of twelve, some as young as infants and toddlers.

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.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department and the Erie County Detectives Bureau for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jepson.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of New Florence, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Nicholas Beard, 28, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about October 9, 2020, Beard did possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 16, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison to 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.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force, and the Indiana County Drug Task Force led the prosecution of Beard.

PITTSBURGH, PA - Two former residents of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The two-count Indictment named the defendants as Angel Perez, 55, formerly of Philadelphia, PA 19134 and his son, Troy Perez, 28, formerly of Philadelphia, PA 19125.

According to Indictment, on or about September 15, 2021, Angel Perez and Troy Perez, both convicted felons, were each in possession a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing both firearms and ammunition.

At each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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 former resident of Jamestown, NY pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Peter Shawbrougham, 27, pleaded guilty to a lesser-included offense at Count Two of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or about July 2019 through in and around June 2020, Shawbrougham conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 17, 2022. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison to 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police led the prosecution of Shawbrougham.

PITTSBURGH, PA - One resident of Munhall, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The twelve-count Indictment, returned on Sept. 28, 2021 and unsealed today following her arrest, named Jaime Jones, 45, of Munhall, PA 15120, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, from May 2020 to September 2020, Jones filed fraudulent applications on behalf of herself and others for pandemic-relief funding through the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. As part of these fraudulent applications, Jones made misrepresentations about, among other things, whether particular businesses existed as well as the number of people employed by particular businesses, in an attempt to maximize the funding they received.

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 Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Small Business Administration’s Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 90 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of federal child exploitation laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Anthony Bellisario, 58, formerly of Robinson Township, PA.

According to information presented to the court, as a result of a large-scale, international investigation into the darknet site “Welcome 2 Video”, which offered child sexual exploitation images and videos for sale using the cryptocurrency bitcoin, Bellisario was identified as a user of this Website. Namely, from January 21, 2017 through February 27, 2018, Bellisario downloaded approximately 1,673 files of child sexual abuse material (commonly referred to as child pornography) and uploaded approximately six files to the Website and in return received credits to obtain “free” videos of child sexual abuse material.

The Court was further advised that on March 27, 2018, during the execution of a federal search warrant at Bellisario’s residence, law enforcement seized two laptops owned by Bellisario. On these laptops, law enforcement found 1,000 unique videos and 443 unique images of child sexual abuse material; as well as 769 unique videos and 9,340 unique images of child erotica.

Bellisario used a Virtualized Private Network (VPN) in an effort to mask his identity online because he “[knew] what [he was] doing was illegal. That way people can’t find you for doing things that are illegal.” The Court was further informed that Bellisario admitted to law enforcement that he had been looking at child sexual abuse material for the last 15 years.

Judge Colville remanded Bellisario into custody, denying Bellisario’s request to self-report to the Bureau of Prisons on a later date.

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

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the North Strabane Police Department, Robinson Township Police Department and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bellisario.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today following his guilty plea to a charge of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Quenton McCoy, age 35, pleaded guilty to one count and was sentenced before United States District Judge Marilyn Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that McCoy had pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl in federal court in 2020. In August 2020, McCoy was sentenced to four years’ probation, including 10 months of home detention. In February 2021, while McCoy was still on home detention, a Penn Hills police officer stopped McCoy for a traffic violation. Over the course of the stop, the officer believed that McCoy was involved in criminal activity, and the officer obtained a search warrant for the car. During a search of the car, Penn Hills police officers found distribution quantities of heroin and fentanyl. By possessing heroin and fentanyl, McCoy violated the terms of his probation.

Judge Horan sentenced McCoy for the charge in the Indictment and the probation violation. In total, McCoy was sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release.

Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Czarnecki is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Penn Hills Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of McCoy.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of McKees Rocks, PA, has been sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Tyrell Rankin, age 31, formerly of Washington Street.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 6, 2020, a search warrant was executed on Rankin’s residence, and a firearm was seized. Rankin informed law enforcement officers that the firearm belonged to him. Rankin is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 30 years’ imprisonment on his conviction of federal drug and gun offenses and money laundering charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Lynell Guyton, age 32, formerly of Lakewood Street, Pittsburgh, PA.

On January 10, 2020, the defendant was found guilty by jury verdict of all nine counts of a Third Superseding Indictment, which charged Guyton with conspiracy to distribute more than 100 grams of a fentanyl analogue, possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, two counts of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a fentanyl analogue, attempted possession with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, two counts of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and two counts of money laundering.

The evidence presented to the jury established that from May of 2017 through August of 2017, Guyton conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute various analogues of fentanyl, which he obtained through suppliers in China and paid for via wire transfers to China. The evidence also established that Guyton possessed numerous firearms and ammunition, which he knew he was prohibited from possessing because of his prior felony convictions. On August 9, 2017, law enforcement officers executing a search warrant at Guyton’s stash house had to be transported to UPMC Mercy Hospital after a table on which Guyton and his conspirators were processing cyclopropyl fentanyl, an analogue of fentanyl, had been tipped over, causing some officers to experience dizziness and numbness.

Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Cercone stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Guyton.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six months imprisonment followed by a two-year term of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Jamelle Fairfax, age 33.

In order to combat the devastating impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on the United States, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed into law. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program, which provided unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended unemployment benefits. Individuals are eligible for PUA if they were unemployed due to the pandemic and could accept a job if one were offered.

While incarcerated at State Correctional Institution (SCI) Fayette, the defendant conspired to obtain PUA benefits. Due to his incarceration, the defendant was unemployed and unemployable for reasons unrelated to the pandemic. Nevertheless, the defendant’s jail call recordings prove that he conspired with another to falsify material facts in a PUA application filed in the defendant’s name. Specifically, the conspirators certified that Jamelle Fairfax was available to work and was only unemployed due to COVID-19. The total amount paid on the claim was $11,100.00, which was money allocated to individuals in need of financial assistance during the global pandemic. The defendant was ordered to pay restitution for this amount.

“Jamelle Fairfax conspired to defraud the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program by having his co-conspirator fraudulently file for and receive benefits on his behalf while Fairfax was incarcerated at SCI Fayette. The United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is grateful for our partnerships with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and our many law enforcement partners. We also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their continued efforts to prosecute those who violate public benefit programs and commit fraud,” stated Syreeta Scott, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the United States Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General and the United States Secret Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fairfax.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in jail to be followed by 10 years supervised release and ordered to pay $1,000 in restitution to two separate victims on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Adam Gregory Ryzinski, 43.

According to information presented to the court, Ryzinski received and possessed tens of thousands of computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors, as young as infants and toddlers, being sexually abused.

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.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two residents of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotic laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The six-count Indictment, returned on Sept. 21, 2021, and unsealed yesterday following their arrests, named Troy Terrell, age 32, and Angel Barton, age 36, as the defendants.

According to the Indictment, from in and around April 2020 and continuing thereafter until in and around June 2020, Terrell and Barton possessed and distributed fentanyl.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Canonsburg 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 – Three residents of Detroit, Michigan and one of Ambridge, Pennsylvania have been indicted by superseding indictment before a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal drug trafficking laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The seven-count Superseding Indictment, returned on October 5, 2021, named Dvonte Amos, age 21, Darryl Junior Ballard, age 26, and Andrew Brent Steel, age 30, as defendants.

This Superseding Indictments comes after the four defendants were indicted on July 20, 2021. According to the Superseding Indictment, from in and around May 2020, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2021, the defendants conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of acetyl fentanyl, 100 grams or more of a mixture containing heroin, and 28 grams or more of cocaine base, The Superseding Indictment further alleged that Ballard, Steel, and Wilson distributed controlled substances and that Amos and Wilson possessed with intent to distribute controlled substances at various times during the conspiracy.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum of ten years, a fine of $20,000,000 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 Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Beaver County Drug Task Force and Ambridge Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Eric M. Kortz, 53, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was arrested and charged today with the murder of a United States Postal Service mail carrier, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The criminal complaint was filed just minutes ago in federal court in Pittsburgh. Kortz is expected to make an initial appearance before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Cynthia R. Eddy today at 5 p.m. at which time the government will request he be held without bond pending further criminal proceedings.

The complaint alleges that on October 7, 2021 United States Postal Inspectors and local law enforcement were informed that a shooting had occurred in Collier Township, located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Investigators arrived on scene and observed the victim of the shooting, Louis Vignone (“Vignone”). Vignone, who was a United States letter carrier, was in his marked United States Postal Services (USPS) vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head. At the time of the shooting, Vignone was wearing his USPS uniform and working his shift as a letter carrier. Investigators located a firearm and seven spent shell casings in a yard near the USPS vehicle.

Shortly after the shooting, Kortz arrived at the Carnegie Borough Police Department, where he stated that he shot someone and wanted to turn himself in. Kortz subsequently was transported to the Allegheny County Police Department Headquarters.

At the Allegheny County Police Headquarters, U.S. Postal Inspector Erik J. Bohin and Allegheny County Police Detective Patrick Kinavey interviewed Kortz. Prior to the start of the interview, Kortz agreed to be interviewed and signed the USPIS agency-issued Miranda Warnings and Waiver Form.

The interview was audio and video recorded. During the interview, Kortz informed Investigators that he shot Vignone. Kortz claimed that he shot Vignone because Kortz believed that Vignone and Vignone’s family had poisoned Kortz and Kortz’s family with cyanide when Vignone and Kortz were previously neighbors.

Kortz informed Investigators that Kortz was aware of where Vignone worked. Kortz stated that he located Vignone on his mail route, drove his vehicle toward Vignone’s USPS vehicle, and stopped in front of the vehicle to stop Vignone. Kortz then stated that he “went to put some bullets in him”, referring to shooting Vignone. Kortz stated that he then dropped the firearm at the scene, got into his van, and drove to the Carnegie Borough Police Department.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment or death.

The case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Collier Township Police Department.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, PA - The former president of an Ohio healthcare management company has been sentenced in federal court to 42 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Harold Sosna, age 68, of Cincinnati, Ohio.

“Harold Sosna received a long prison sentence which is consistent with the magnitude of his fraud scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “He cheated community banks in western Pennsylvania and Ohio of an astounding sum - $59 million. Sosna is responsible for the largest bank fraud scheme ever prosecuted in our District.”

“Mr. Sosna has now been sentenced and held accountable for his greed and negligence in gaming the banking system,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “The FBI investigates these matters aggressively to safeguard the financial industry. Fraud of this magnitude will not be tolerated.”

The court was advised that during the time of the check kite, Sosna was the president of Premier Healthcare Management (Premier), located in Blue Ash, Ohio. It owned and operated nine nursing care facilities in southern and central Ohio. Premiere provided in-facility, post-acute, and long-term care for individuals recovering from medical procedures, as well as assisted living services through various corporate entities. Each entity had a subsidiary relationship with Premier and operated individual bank accounts at various banks to include S&T Bank, headquartered in Indiana Pennsylvania, and First Financial Bank, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.

According to information provided during his plea hearing, Sosna wrote checks between various S&T Bank and First Financial Bank accounts under his control and associated with Premier, in increasing dollar amounts. This was done to manipulate the numerical balance in the accounts and thereby create the false and fraudulent appearance that the defendant had sufficient legitimate available funds in various accounts, and to trick the banks into honoring checks drawn against accounts with insufficient funds. Between May 15, 2020, and May 18, 2020, by writing and negotiating checks, Sosna, sent more than $118,000,000.00 through S&T Bank and First Financial Bank, which were unfunded amounts and were the equivalent of obtaining money from the banks without actual properly secured loans. A total of 203 checks were negotiated in execution of his scheme. S&T Bank incurred a loss of $59,240,000.00.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sosna.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Acting United States Attorney Steve Kaufman has announced a new way of dealing with travelers who have guns in their carryon bags at Pittsburgh International Airport security checkpoints. Following is the statement he issued today during a news conference hosted by Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

“Unfortunately, it appears that 2021 will be a record-breaking year for the number of guns found in passengers’ carry-on bags at our airport. This is not the kind of record we aspire to break.

“The United States Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Allegheny County Police and TSA currently review every incident in which TSA screeners discover a gun during security screening at the airport checkpoint. Almost inevitably, the passenger being interviewed claims that they forgot that the gun was in their bag and no criminal charges are filed. Nevertheless, bringing guns to the checkpoint is completely unacceptable and poses a serious security risk.

“In order to send the message that airport security checkpoints and guns don’t mix, we need a deterrent strategy, in addition to the stiff civil penalties issued by TSA. So today we are announcing that in incidents involving an individual who possesses a valid concealed carry permit, we will be requesting County Sheriffs to rescind that resident’s firearms concealed carry license due to negligence. We have already secured the cooperation of the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office to revoke concealed carry permits of residents who are determined to have acted negligently. And we will be contacting Sheriff’s Offices in other counties in Western Pennsylvania requesting that they consider enacting the same policy.

“So, the message to the flying public is this: Check your bags five times if you have to, but make 100% sure that your carryon bags do not contain a firearm or other dangerous weapon. That’s responsible gun ownership, which is essential to protect the flying public”

So far in 2021, the TSA team at Pittsburgh International Airport has detected 27 firearms at the security checkpoint.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Hudson, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Lori Shaffer, age 53, of Hudson, Florida, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

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

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for February 8, 2022 at 9:30AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Social Security Administration (SSA), Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shaffer.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clinton County, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Jared Nyman, 24, of Lock Haven, PA, pleaded guilty to Count Two of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from July 2019 to June 2020, Nyman conspired to distribute 500 grams of more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 9, 2022.  The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison to 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Hyde, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

John McKinney, 53, pleaded guilty to Count Two of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, from July 2019 to June 2020, McKinney conspired to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 9, 2022. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Maureen Sheehan-Balchon 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Donald Nicklo, 46, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about March 12,2021, Donald Nicklo, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On that same date, Nicklo also possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both for the firearm charge, and not more than twenty years in prison and a fine of not more than $1,000,000.00 or both for the narcotics charge. 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 Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of North Carolina pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

David R. Shahriari, a/k/a “David Anderson”, 38, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on August 29, 2011, Shahriari did knowingly steal and unlawfully take, eight firearms from L.B. Toney’s Alamo Gun Shop in DuBois, PA, which is a business licensed to deal in firearms.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Feb. 10, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the DuBois City Police led the prosecution of Shahriari.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Louisville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Varanise C. Booker, 66, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with her guilty plea, the defendant admitted that she was a licensed psychiatrist who operated a medical practice, Family and Children Behavioral Health Services, in Louisville, Kentucky. Between approximately October 2011 and August 2013, the defendant further admitted that she referred patients for drug testing and related services performed by Universal Oral Fluid Labs (“UOFL”), a clinical drug testing and drug screening laboratory located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. The court was further advised that the defendant engaged in health care fraud by causing UOFL to bill the Kentucky Medicaid program for testing based on referrals that were outside the ordinary course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Specifically, the defendant acknowledged that she did not document a legitimate justification for ordering certain drug tests and services, failed to document the results of certain drug tests and services performed by UOFL in her medical files, and failed to address the results of certain drug tests and services in the treatment of her patients. The defendant further admitted that she caused UOFL to pay her a certain portion of the reimbursements the laboratory received from Kentucky Medicaid in connection with her referral of unlawful drug tests and related services. As a result, the defendant caused losses to Kentucky Medicaid of more than $15,000 but not more than $40,000.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 10, 2022. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Medicaid Fraud Control Section conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Booker.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on a charge of fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Tylan Huddleston, 24, was sentenced to six months of incarceration followed by two years of supervised release by United States District Judge David Cercone.

On March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to be an emergency under Section 501(b) of the Robert T. Stafford disaster Relief and Emergency Act. Subsequently, on March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (which is frequently referred to as the CARES Act) was signed into law. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program, which provided unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended unemployment benefits. The CARES Act also provided an emergency increase in unemployment compensation benefits of $600.00 per week.

According to information provided to the court, Huddleston conspired with another individual to commit mail fraud to obtain $13,905 in connection with pandemic unemployment assistance benefits while he was incarcerated awaiting trial on state charges.

“Tylan Huddleston conspired to defraud the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program by having his co-conspirator fraudulently file for and receive benefits on his behalf while Huddleston was incarcerated at Lawrence County Jail. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will continue to work closely with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and our law enforcement partners, to safeguard the integrity of all unemployment assistance programs,” stated Syreeta Scott, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

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

The United States Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tylan Huddleston.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on September 28, 2021 and unsealed today, named Karl D. Lutes, age 50, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on February 11, 2020, Lutes possessed videos and still images in computer graphics files depicting minors, some of whom had not yet attained the age of 12 years, engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Midland, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of access device fraud and identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Danel Cordero, age 35, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Cordero purchased stolen credit card numbers through the dark web and encoded them onto the magnetic strips of gift cards, which he then used to make unauthorized purchases from businesses in and around the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 26, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twelve years in prison, a fine not to exceed $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Court ordered that Cordero remain on bond pending sentencing.

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

This case resulted from the investigations of multiple agencies, including the Beaver Borough Police Department, the United States Secret Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The six-count Indictment, returned on September 28, and unsealed today, named Earl Eggleton, age 51, of Duncan Street, Pittsburgh, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the six-count Indictment, on or about June 28, 2020, October 18, 2020, November 23, 2020, January 27, 2021, and twice on February 7, 2021, Eggleton made false statements during the purchase of firearms.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten (10) years, a fine not to exceed $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 Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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 – After the government spent three days presenting witnesses and evidence to a jury, George Wilson, III entered a plea of guilty in federal court to firearms charges, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today. Wilson’s trial had commenced on Monday, September 27, 2021.

Wilson, age 39, and a former resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to four firearms counts before United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton on September 30, 2021. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Wilson committed a series of armed robberies of retail businesses and gas station convenience stores throughout the Pittsburgh area from November 2014 through December 2014. Wilson committed each of the robberies at gunpoint and shot a store employee who was unable to open the cash register during the attempted robbery of the Ross Township The Exchange store.

Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for January 20, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than seven years imprisonment, nor more than life imprisonment, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendant remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and James R. Wilson are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, the Ross Township Police Department, and the Wilkins Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wilson.

The case is being prosecuted as 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of West Alexander, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of filing false income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned on September 21 and unsealed today, named Tina L. Beck, age 53, of West Alexander, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, 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 known as “Beck’s Refuse Service”.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than twelve (12) years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

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

The Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named William Lacell Dark, Jr., age 21, currently detained at Allegheny County Jail, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about September 2, 2021, Dark Jr., having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison, knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release between three and five years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Risacher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The 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.