Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Greene County resident 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 two-count Indictment named Chester Aaron Hostutler, 34, of New Freeport, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on two separate occasions in August 2020, Hostutler knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition as a drug user or addicted person.

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

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

The Pennsylvania State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH- A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, now in custody at Allegheny County Jail, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Ryan Peters, 31, formerly of McKees Rocks, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about August 26, 2021, until on or about September 13, 2021the indictment/information presented to the court, Peters attempted to coerce and entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.

The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years and not more than life in prison, a fine not greater than $250,000.00, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of McKees Rocks pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Gamale Vaughn, age 45, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge William S. Stickman.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in June 2019, officers with the McKees Rocks Police Department executed a search warrant on the defendant’s residence. During the search, law enforcement recovered a Springfield Armory .45 caliber handgun, which was previously reported stolen. Following a waiver of his rights, the defendant admitted that the firearm was his. The Court was further advised that the defendant was previously convicted of a felony drug trafficking offense in Allegheny County. As a convicted felon, the defendant is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for February 23, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court continued the defendant on bond.

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

The McKees Rocks Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.

PITTSBURGH, PA - Two suburban Pittsburgh residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiring to commit offenses against the United States, making false statements in matters relating to naturalization or citizenship, and unlawfully attempting to and procuring naturalization or citizenship, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The five-count Superseding Indictment named Man Ho, 32, and Le Thuy Nguyen, also known as Kim Nguyen, 48, of the 3300 block of Lenox Drive in Pittsburgh, PA (Forest Hills) as the defendants.

According to the Superseding Indictment, Ho and Nguyen are charged at Count One with conspiring to commit offenses against the United States. At Counts Three and Five, Ho and Nguyen respectively are charged with making false statements related to obtaining naturalization or citizenship. Finally, at Count Two, Ho is charged with unlawfully attempting to obtain naturalization or citizenship, while Nguyen is charged at Count Four with unlawfully procuring naturalization or citizenship.

As to Counts Two and Four, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. At Counts One, Three, and Five, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 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 defendants.

Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Yvonne M. Saadi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services 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 - Three New York state residents were sentenced in federal court on Friday to terms of imprisonment on their convictions for participating in a complex Bank and Wire Fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the following sentences on the following individuals: • 38-month term of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on Devan Abrams, age 40, of West 37th Street, New York, New York; • 38-month term of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on Azad Khizgilov, age 47, of Dahlgren Place, Brooklyn, New York; and
• 28-month term of imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release on Roman Shaulov, age 54, of Shore Parkway, Brooklyn, New York.

According to information presented to the court, including in a public filing, for years these defendants enriched themselves by leading a massive and sophisticated fraud scheme that facilitated the black-market importation and sale of tens of millions of dollars of dangerous and addictive prescription medications and controlled substances. In summary, they established and ran a business that, through a series of misrepresentations, misled various credit card companies into processing credit card transactions for purchases of drugs that were illegal to be sold in the United States. These drugs were often imported from Russia, China, India, and other countries. The complex scheme involved front companies, fake websites, and a tangled web of bank accounts.

“Committing fraud was the full-time job of these defendants,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “They manipulated friends and even family members to serve as owners of front companies, they had a cadre of employees whom they supervised and trained to commit fraud, and they created and executed a complex scheme that allowed them, for years, to deceive sophisticated financial institutions. Now they have been held accountable for their criminal actions.”

“When prescription drugs from outside FDA’s secure supply chain enter the U.S. marketplace, patients are put at risk. The risk is even greater when the criminals disguise the purchase of these unlawful drugs to avoid detection,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who engage in illegal conduct that undermines the safety of the US drug supply.”

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of these defendants.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Diassandai Serrano was sentenced to 35 months in prison for conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances while on federal supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Serrano, age 26, formerly of North Versailles, Pennsylvania. was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan sentenced Serrano to 27 months in prison for the drug trafficking conspiracy conviction and to 8 months in prison for the supervised release violation. Judge Ranjan ordered that the prison sentences be served consecutively to each other. Judge Ranjan also ordered Serrano to pay a $500 fine and to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Serrano was previously convicted in 2015 and sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was released to supervised release following the prior prison sentence. He then conspired to distribute the Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances while on supervised release for the prior conviction. As part of the conspiracy, he supplied the controlled substances to other dealers, including to a co-defendant who was incarcerated at FCI-Hazelton at the time.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A Butler County-based company pleaded guilty in federal court to willfully violating an OSHA regulation that resulted in the death of a worker, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Insight Pipe Contracting, LLC, located in Harmony, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that federal regulations require that any vehicle or mechanical equipment capable of having any part of its structure elevated near energized power line must maintain a clearance of 10 feet. On April 12, 2018, an Insight Pipe crew was installing pipe-liner at a work site in Johnstown, PA. The crew was using a telehandler, a piece of equipment that has the features of a forklift and crane, to remove liner from a box truck. Energized power lines were located above the site. At one point, the telehandler removed a large roll of liner from the truck and attempted to place it into an open manhole. The liner got stuck. As the telehandler’s operator attempt to reposition the machine’s forks, the forks made contact with the overhead lines, causing the machine to become energized. While this was taking place, one Insight Pipe’s employees had his hand on the telehandler’s door and was apparently trying to tell something to the operator. The worker was electrocuted and died at the scene.

Under the terms of its plea agreement, Insight Pipe has agreed to pay a fine of $20,000 and serve a probationary term of three years. Earlier this year, Insight Pipe paid a fine of $180,000 in civil penalties in an OSHA administrative case stemming from the worker’s death.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for October 28, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of five years’ probation, a fine of $500,000, or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration of the United States Department of Labor conducted the investigation of Insight Pipe.

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

The two-count Indictment, returned on September 21, named Tahj Thomas, age 23, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about August 25, 2021, Thomas possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of fluorofentanyl, fentanyl, and tramadol. Also on August 25, 2021, Thomas possessed a firearm and ammunition despite being a convicted felon. Under federal law, possessing a firearm and/or ammunition is a violation of federal law for those who have previously been convicted of a crime punishable by greater than a year in prison.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years, a fine of $1,000,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Monessen, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Devon White, age 48, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine before United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that White’s cell phone contains multiple text messages between him and an individual using a specific phone number. On January 25, 2021, White and that individual exchanged text messages about two packages being sent to Western Pennsylvania – one to White’s home in Monessen and the other to the home of White’s son in Hazelwood. For the package being sent to White’s home, the individual texted a photo of a receipt with the tracking number and instructions to track the package over the phone but not leave White’s name. Two day later, the United States Postal Inspection interdicted both packages. Each package contained just under a quarter kilogram of cocaine and was addressed to the name of a fictitious person who does not live at that address. The Monessen package’s cocaine was hidden in designer boots and the Hazelwood package’s cocaine was hidden in sneakers. Postal Inspectors installed electronic monitoring devices in the Monessen package and replaced the drugs with a sham substance.

On January 28, 2021, the Monessen package was delivered to the front porch of White’s home in Monessen, he picked it up, and brought it into his home. He then opened the package, found the designer boots, found the sham drugs, and saw the electronic devices that had been installed by Inspectors. He took a photo of one of the devices and texted it to the individual’s cell phone. White also broke one of the electronic devices. White then wrote “return to sender” on the package, put the boots and sham back inside, sealed the package, and took it back to the porch with the electronic devices in his hand. When White exited his home, he encountered law enforcement personnel who were approaching the home to execute an anticipatory search warrant. They ultimately went back into the home with White, read him his Miranda rights, and he waived those rights in writing. White admitted that he knew this package was sent to his home and would contain the designer boots with approximately nine ounces of cocaine, which is just over a quarter kilogram. He also admitted that he knew the Hazelwood package would contain approximately nine ounces of cocaine.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for January 13, 2022 at 11:00 am. The law provides for a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court continued White’s release on $10,000 unsecured bond and other conditions.

Assistant United States Attorney Ira M. Karoll is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Devon White.

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

The two-count Indictment, returned on July 14 and unsealed today, named Jamar Kenya Turner, age 46, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about October 9, 2020, Turner possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing cocaine. The Indictment further alleges that, on or about January 4, 2021, Turner unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Altoona, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Matthew Michael Walter., 34, formerly of Altoona, PA, pleaded guilty to Count Two of the Indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on or August 21, 2019 and August 22, 2019, Walter received images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Further, on another occasion,

Walter knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. All computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

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

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

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Walter.

PITTSBURGH - Dwayne Smallwood was convicted of conspiring to distribute, and distributing, fentanyl and heroin in Butler, Pennsylvania, between 2017 and 2020, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Smallwood, age 43, formerly of Butler and Philadelphia, pled guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing to occur on February 3, 2022, at 11:30 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $4,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA- Two residents of Los Angeles, California, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, PA on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The two-count Indictment names Gabriel A. Garcia, age 26, and Alvaro Medina Elenes, age 44, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, on or about May 26, 2021, Garcia and Elenes did knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully conspire to and did possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years in prison and up to life, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the traffic stop leading to the seizure of the controlled substances and special agents with 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.

PITTSBURGH – Six residents of Allegheny County have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of violating federal narcotic laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen Kaufman announced today.

The three count Indictment, returned on Sept. 14 and unsealed Sept. 16, named Leon C. Ford, 55, formerly of Pittsburgh, Frank McClellan, 52, formerly McKeesport, Kelly Lucy, 42, formerly of McKeesport, Michael Seyko, 53, formerly of McKeesport, Kimberly Rutland, 53, formerly of McKeesport, and Tyrone Binion, 62, formerly of Pittsburgh, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, from March 2021 through September 2021, Ford, McClellan, Lucy, Seyko and Binion did knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully conspire with persons both known and unknown to the grand jury, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Additionally, McClellan and Lucy did knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams of more of cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance. Finally, McClellan, Lucy, Rutland, and Seyko did knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully conspire to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams of more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

For all defendants except for Rutland, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and up to life, a fine of no greater than $10,000,000.00, a term of supervised release of at least five years, or a combination thereof. For Rutland, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to 40, a fine of no greater than 5,000,000, a term of supervised release of at least four years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, McKeesport Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Penn Hills Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to time served with five years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Balon Kennedy, age 28, Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Balon Kennedy conspired to distribute over 28 grams of crack cocaine.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kennedy.

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, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession with the intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Edwin Williams, age 31, of Laketon Road in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Williams possessed with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine on or about March 25, 2021.

The law provides for a maximum total 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of North Las Vegas, Nevada, has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months’ imprisonment and 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Renad Bautista, age 32.

According to information presented to the court, on or about December 5, 2019, until December 9, 2019, Bautista travelled from Las Vegas to Pittsburgh with a motivating purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor whom he had been messaging on social media.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Mifflin Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bautista.

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of West Decatur, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The 4-count Indictment, returned on Sept. 14 and unsealed today, named Jon Osewalt, 28, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from on or about Feb. 24, 2020 to on or about Mar. 4, 2020, and from on or about Apr. 14, 2020 to on or about June 26, 2020, Osewalt produced images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct using materials that were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. Further on or about June 27, 2020, and on or about December 1, 2020, Osewalt possessed images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The images were produced using materials that were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

Chancellor M. Shaw, 27, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

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

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Jan. 18, 2022 at 1:30 p.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 Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shaw.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Juan Washington, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, Washington left a bar in Uniontown after midnight on December 30, 2019, and then he accidentally shot himself in the leg outside a nearby Family Dollar Store. Washington then limped across the street where he placed the gun and magazine on the retaining wall next to the sidewalk in front of a private home. Washington then limped back across the street to the sidewalk in front of the bar where he called for help. He initially claimed that robbers shot him, that he took the gun, and that he fired back. But he later admitted that he shot himself by accident. Police traced the trail of blood from the front of the bar to the retaining wall where they found the gun and then to the Family Dollar where they found a spent shell. The same brand and caliber of ammunition was in Washington’s pocket, the gun, and the magazine, as well as the spent shell casing outside the Family Dollar. Additionally, Washington’s DNA was the only DNA found inside the gun barrel, gun muzzle, and spent casing and was the majority component of DNA found on portions of the gun, magazine, and live rounds. Washington has multiple prior felony convictions for receiving stolen property in 2006 and drug trafficking in 1999.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for January 31, 2022 at 11:00 am. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine up to $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.

Pending sentencing, the Court continued Washington’s release on $10,000 unsecured bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Ira M. Karoll is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Hagerstown, Maryland, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in jail on her conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Sierra Dawn Frisby, 31 of Hagerstown, Maryland.

According to information presented to the court, Frisby conspired with five co-defendants to distribute large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl between January 2018 and February 2019.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Frisby.

PITTSBURGH – Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today, Press Play PA, a media messaging campaign aimed at connecting western Pennsylvania individuals with substance use disorder to life-saving treatment. 

In 2020, 123 people died from an overdose in Westmoreland County, an increase of nearly seven percent over 2019.  In Allegheny County, there were 689 overdose deaths in 2020, up 22 percent from 564 in 2019. 

Press Play PA includes billboards, bus shelter ads, and bus boards placed in Westmoreland and eastern Allegheny County locations experiencing high rates of overdose deaths. Targeted social media ads link individuals to a treatment database searchable by community, overdose statistics, and information about law enforcement initiatives and outreach.  The messaging campaign encourages the public to learn more about treatment and resources at www.PressPlayPA.com and www.FindTreatment.gov.

“The Press Play PA campaign works to connect western Pennsylvanians experiencing substance use disorder to recovery resources,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman.  “Treatment options are available across the state and our campaign aims to encourage people to seek treatment and press play on life.  Our message is simple: treatment is effective and recovery is possible.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office created the Press Play PA campaign with funding from the Ohio High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).  In 2020, Westmoreland joined three other southwestern Pennsylvania counties - Allegheny, Beaver and Washington - in receiving critical federal resources to coordinate federal, state and local governments to fight drug trafficking and abuse.  Earlier this year, Erie County received HIDTA designation.

Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman was joined by Westmoreland County District Attorney John Peck and Westmoreland County Judge Meagan Bilik-DeFazio of the Westmoreland County Drug Court in making the announcement. 

The campaign was launched during Nation Recovery Awareness Month, a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the nation who make recovery in all its forms possible.  The focus of National Recovery Month this September is to celebrate all people that make the journey of recovery possible by embracing the 2021 theme, Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community. Recovery Month spreads the message that people can and do recover every day.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A South Hills pharmacist pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of obtaining controlled substances by fraud, misbranding of drugs, and health care fraud conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Timothy W. Forester, 46, of Venetia, PA pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Forester was a licensed pharmacist who owned four pharmacies – Century Square Pharmacy in West Mifflin, PA and Prescription Center Plus with locations in South Park, PA, McMurray, PA and Eight Four, PA. From on or about November 14, 2018, to on or about February 14, 2019, Forester admitted he knowingly, intentionally and unlawfully obtained oxycodone and hydrocodone, Schedule II controlled substances, by misrepresentations, fraud, and deception. Forester admitted he did not place the controlled substances into the inventories of the four pharmacies and did not maintain records to show the controlled substances were dispensed. In addition, Forester admitted he relabeled generic drugs as name brand medications and then sold them as if they were the more expensive drugs. Finally, Forester admitted filling prescriptions with generic drugs, but billing Medicare and Medicaid for the more expensive name brand drugs, thereby committing health care fraud and causing a loss to Medicare and Medicaid of approximately $680,000.

“Timothy Forester ordered opioids without adding them to inventory, mislabeled generic drugs as name-brand medications, and billed Medicare and Medicaid for name-brand drugs when he provided generics, all in violation of federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman, “We will continue to pursue medical professionals who engage in fraud schemes to enrich themselves at the expense of their patients.”

“U.S. consumers rely on health care professionals to follow FDA requirements pertaining to prescription medications. When they take actions to evade these requirements, they put patient health at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who threaten the safety of the nation’s drug supply and, ultimately, the patients who take those drugs.”

“Pharmacy professionals who mishandle opioids in an effort to enrich themselves only exacerbate the challenges and devastation families and communities experience as a result of our nation's opioid epidemic," said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge for the Inspector General’s Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in Philadelphia. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring unscrupulous health professionals to justice.”

“Pharmacists such as Forester have an obligation to properly dispense and safeguard controlled substances such as oxycodone and hydrocodone,” said Thomas Hodnett, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. “Forester used his position of trust and access to obtain these powerful painkillers for his own use through fraud and deception.”

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for February 8, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. As to Count 1, the law provides for a maximum sentence of four years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. As to Count 11, the law provides for a maximum sentence of three years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. As to Count 12, 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: 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, 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 and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to six years’ imprisonment on his conviction for violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora B. Fischer imposed the sentence on Daniel Curtis Simon, 35, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA, who pleaded guilty in June 2021 to distributing a quantity of fentanyl.

According to information presented to the Court, on December 1, 2017, Mr. Simon distributed over 20 grams of fentanyl along with boxes of “stamp bags,” which are commonly used to package fentanyl for redistribution, to an informant working with agents from the Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Court was further advised that the quantity of fentanyl Mr. Simon distributed was sufficient to fill over 1,000 individual dosage units of fentanyl.

Following his release from incarceration, Mr. Simon will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for six years. Mr. Simon remains in the custody of the United States Marshals pending transfer to a federal Bureau of Prisons facility.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Simon.

WASHINGTON - A Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to one count of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 23, of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS in relation to his plan to attack a church in Pittsburgh.

“The defendant, motivated by ISIS’s call to violence and hate, plotted a terrorist attack targeting a church in Pittsburgh,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Mark J. Lesko of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “With today’s guilty plea, he will be held accountable for his crimes. The Department of Justice is committed to identifying, disrupting and holding accountable individuals who seek to engage in such attacks. I commend the agents, analysts and prosecutors who identified the threat posed by this defendant and took action to protect the public from his plans.”

“Inspired by ISIS, Mustafa Alowemer devised and intended to carry out a deadly attack on a house of worship and its congregation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “If not for the tireless, multi-faceted investigation by the FBI and our partner agencies, the true depth of his determination to commit violence in the name of ISIS may not have been exposed until his deadly plans were achieved.”

“The guilty plea today by Mustafa Alowemer leaves no question about his intention to commit an act of terrorism against a place of worship,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “Mr. Alowemer will now face the consequences of his elaborate plan to inflict harm on innocent people. I’m proud of FBI Pittsburgh and all of the personnel who worked countless hours to protect the community, and I want to thank all of the agencies that participate in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. Together, we combine our resources to identify and disrupt threats to protect our communities and the nation.”

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

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

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

Alowemer is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 26, 2022. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both, and a lifetime term of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Alowemer remain detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

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

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

A Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to one count of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 23, of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS in relation to his plan to attack a church in Pittsburgh.

“The defendant, motivated by ISIS’s call to violence and hate, plotted a terrorist attack targeting a church in Pittsburgh,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Mark J. Lesko of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “With today’s guilty plea, he will be held accountable for his crimes. The Department of Justice is committed to identifying, disrupting and holding accountable individuals who seek to engage in such attacks. I commend the agents, analysts and prosecutors who identified the threat posed by this defendant and took action to protect the public from his plans.”

“Inspired by ISIS, Mustafa Alowemer devised and intended to carry out a deadly attack on a house of worship and its congregation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “If not for the tireless, multi-faceted investigation by the FBI and our partner agencies, the true depth of his determination to commit violence in the name of ISIS may not have been exposed until his deadly plans were achieved.”

“The guilty plea today by Mustafa Alowemer leaves no question about his intention to commit an act of terrorism against a place of worship,” said Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “Mr. Alowemer will now face the consequences of his elaborate plan to inflict harm on innocent people. I’m proud of FBI Pittsburgh and all of the personnel who worked countless hours to protect the community, and I want to thank all of the agencies that participate in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. Together, we combine our resources to identify and disrupt threats to protect our communities and the nation.”

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

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

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

Alowemer is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 26, 2022. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both, and a lifetime term of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Alowemer remain detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 17 months of prison followed by two years of supervised release on her conviction of bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Danielle Strother-Rush, 34, of Columbia Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218.

According to information presented to the court, Strother-Rush was an Accounting Coordinator for the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council, which is a nonprofit organization that was created to increase business opportunities for minority-owned businesses. From approximately August 2014 until August 2016, Strother-Rush embezzled $321,255.88 in various ways and spent on funds on, among other things, gambling and frivolous purchases. The primary way in which she embezzled funds was by writing checks to herself from the operating accounts and forging her supervisor’s signature on the checks. She also made unauthorized ATM withdrawals, including several at the Rivers Casino. Lastly, she accessed the payroll bank account online and made unauthorized electronic checks payable to herself.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Strother-Rush.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Dontae Gilbert, age 20, of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV. Gilbert is one of 36 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. Gilbert was identified as a low-level distributor of heroin and fentanyl supplied by members of the organization.

The court was further advised that on April 12, 2019, agents searched Gilbert’s residence and found him in possession of 13 stamp bags containing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, a loaded pistol, and drug packaging and weighing materials.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for February 17, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five (5) years in prison and not more than life, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Gilbert remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. 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, PA – Bobby Askew was sentenced to 27 months in prison for distributing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, including within 1,000 feet of a school in Butler, Pennsylvania, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Askew, age 39, formerlyof Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. Judge Colville ordered that Askew serve six years of supervised release following his prison term.

In 2009, Askew was convicted of crack cocaine trafficking in Philadelphia. He was sentenced to 5 to 10 years in state prison. After being paroled from state prison, he relocated to Butler in Butler County and trafficked fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine as part of a Butler-based drug trafficking crew. Askew dealt these drugs on a regular basis between 2017 and 2020, including within 1,000 feet of multiple schools in Butler.

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

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

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

The two-count Indictment, returned on September 14, and unsealed today, named Daniel Dellich, Jr., age 46, of 522 Harrisville Road, Boyers, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about August 26, 2021, Dellich possessed with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. The Indictment also alleges that Dellich, a convicted felon, possessed both a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

As to Count One, the law provides for a term of imprisonment of not more than twenty (20) years, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000 or both. As to Count Two, the law provides for a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation 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 Allegheny County has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation and ordered to pay $22,611.62 in restitution on his conviction for theft of government money, Social Security fraud, and Social Security representative payee misuse, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on John Robert Mahoney, 54, of Curtisville Pennsylvania.

Previously, in connection with his guilty plea, the court was advised that Mahoney had applied to the Social Security Administration (SSA) be the representative payee for his minor child and receive Social Security Title II survivor benefits and Title XVI Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits on her behalf. As a representative payee, Mahoney was required to report to the SSA if his child left his household and was required to use SSA funds for his child’s benefit or save them.

In October 2015, Mahoney’s child was removed from his custody, and he failed to report the removal to the SSA as required. Mahoney continued to receive Title XVI payments on behalf of the child until December 2017 and Title II payments until April 2018. He also submitted a Representative Payee Report to SSA in which he falsely stated that his child had resided with him the prior year. Mahoney used money he received from SSA to pay his rent rather than for the child’s benefit. The overpayment by the SSA to Mahoney was $22,611.62.

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

The U.S. Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mahoney.

PITTSBURGH, PA - Three residents of Texas have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail and wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, and obstruction of justice, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on August 25, 2021 and unsealed yesterday, names Charles Simpson, 43, of Southlake, Texas, Tanisha Jackson, 49, and Paige Jackson, 29, both of Lancaster, Texas, as defendants. Charles Simpson and Paige Jackson were arrested yesterday in the Dallas area and will have their initial appearances today in the Northern District of Texas. Tanisha Jackson remains at large.

According to the Indictment, Simpson, Tanisha Jackson, and Paige Jackson controlled and operated HOIN, Inc. (“HOIN”), a Texas-based non-profit organization. The defendants allegedly caused HOIN (a/k/a “Helping Others In Need”) to enroll as a “sponsor” in two programs funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) for the purpose of providing meals to underprivileged youth—the Child and Adult Care Feeding Program (“CACFP”) and the Summer Food Service Program (“SFSP”) (collectively, “the feeding programs”). CACFP funded after-school meal service during the school year, while SFSP operated in the summer months. In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (“PADOE”) administered the USDA-funded feeding programs.

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

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

In addition, Simpson is charged with obstruction of justice based on multiple lies he allegedly told federal law enforcement officers during a voluntary interview.

“The defendants allegedly created a nonprofit to provide meals to underprivileged children in our area, but instead billed and were reimbursed for services they never provided; they then used those ill-gotten funds for extravagant personal luxury purchases,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. “Submitting fraudulent claims equals stealing, and those who perpetrate financial fraud against the government will be vigorously prosecuted.”

USDA Office of Inspector General, Special Agent-in-Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins stated, “The Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program were created to provide food and nutrition to those who truly need this assistance. Those who are involved in fraud and abuse of USDA feeding programs will be investigated by our office to the fullest extent. Our joint investigation with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Federal Bureau of Investigation identified those who sought to profit from the CACFP through illegal schemes. The USDA Office of Inspector General will continue to dedicate investigative resources, working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners, in order to protect the integrity of these programs and bring to justice those who commit fraud.”

“It is a crime to knowingly engage in monetary transactions involving criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000 that is derived from a specified unlawful activity, such as mail fraud or wire fraud,” said Yury Kruty, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminalp Investigation. “IRS-CI is adept at tracing complex financial transactions and my office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help unravel schemes such as this.”

“It’s very disappointing when greed and selfishness take over and deprive our youth of much needed funding to provide them with nutritious meals,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “To use a non-profit organization as a means to engage in fraud targeting USDA-funded feeding programs is unacceptable. It’s also insulting to the teachers and educators working every day to make a better future for our children.”

All three defendants are charged with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, which imposes a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years and a fine not more than the greater of $250,000 or an alternative fine in an amount not more than the greater of twice the gross pecuniary gain to any person or twice the pecuniary loss to any person other than the defendant. Simpson and Tanisha Jackson are charged with money laundering conspiracy, which imposes a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years and a fine of not more than $250,000 or an alternative fine of not more than twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the transaction. Finally, the obstruction of justice charge as to Simpson imposes a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years and a fine of not more than $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and 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.

• Indictment

PITTSBURGH, PA - The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer (PWSA) Authority has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, ordered to pay a monetary judgment in the amount of $500,000, and to implement a comprehensive environmental compliance program after being convicted of violating the federal Clean Water Act, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed the sentence on the PWSA.

According to information presented to the court, PWSA violated its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit when it discharged a substance known as clarifier sludge into the Allegheny River on a number of occasions between 2010 and 2017. Under the terms of its NPDES permit, PWSA was not permitted to discharge sludge into the river. PWSA also violated its Industrial User permit by supplying ALCOSAN with false information about the amount of sludge it was shipping to ALCOSAN’s waste treatment facility. After the meters measuring the flow of sludge to the waste treatment facility became inoperable, the Authority used estimated numbers instead actual numbers. These numbers were included in reports and were certified as truthful and accurate. PWSA replaced the monitors five years after they became inoperable and federal investigators learned of their inoperability. Under the terms of its plea agreement, PWSA agreed to be placed on probation for three years and pay $500,000 into a self-funded compliance fund to be used to establish a comprehensive environmental compliance program. PWSA also agreed to hire an environmental compliance manager and take additional steps to ensure that it will follow state and federal environmental laws, rules, and regulations. PWSA is prohibited from using the cost of the fund as a basis for seeking a rate increase.

In imposing sentence, Judge Stickman observed that the purpose of the monetary judgment served productive as opposed to punitive ends and the PWSA had learned it lesson and was cleaning up its act.

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commented that the plea agreement reached with the PWSA is intended to “ensure future compliance with federal environmental laws, rules, and regulations and to change the corporate culture at the Aspinwall plant that enabled this criminality to occur. The plea agreement, which precludes the Authority from passing the cost of the required compliance program to its ratepayers, will deter the Authority from engaging in future criminal conduct. The importance of PWSA to the Pittsburgh region cannot be underestimated. Nevertheless, public institutions must and will be held accountable for breaking the law.”

According to Jennifer Lynn, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement programs in Pennsylvania, “This sentence reinforces that governmental entities providing environmental services such as drinking water must develop and implement compliance programs that will prevent and detect violations of the law, just as ‘for profit’ organizations must.”

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Martin Harrell, an attorney with the Environmental Protection Agency, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served and two years of supervised release with 180 days home confinement, on his conviction of narcotics trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Thomas Dwyer, age 43.

According to information presented to the court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Dwyer admitted that he obtained heroin, which he then distributed, from James Wells. Wells, a SCO gang member, has already pleaded guilty in this case, admitting by way of his guilty plea that he was a heroin trafficker in and around the Braddock area.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the multi-agency team, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dwyer.  Partners in this investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.

This case is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, known as OCDETF. OCDETF was established in 1982 to support comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. It is the keystone of the drug reduction strategy of the Department of Justice. By combining the resources and expertise of federal agencies and their state and local law enforcement partners, OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years of imprisonment on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Nathaniel Thomas, 40, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the Court, in April 2019, the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division began an investigation into heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine distribution by Thomas. As part of that investigation, agents obtained a federal search warrant for Thomas’s residence on Coleridge Street in Pittsburgh, which was executed on May 29, 2019. Inside of Thomas’s bedroom, agents seized approximately 158 “bricks” – the equivalent of roughly 7,900 individual dosage units – containing mixtures of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl (an analogue of fentanyl) and heroin. Agents also found roughly 40 grams of cocaine and a digital scale containing a white powder residue in the same area. Thomas admitted that he possessed those scheduled narcotics intending to distribute them.

In a related filing, the Government advised the Court that Thomas has a prior conviction for a serious drug felony offense arising out of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, and that the enhanced penalties set forth in the federal narcotics laws should be applied. The Court found that the enhanced penalties applied to Thomas and sentenced him to serve 15 years imprisonment followed by 10 years of federal supervised release. Thomas remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transfer to a federal Bureau of Prisons facility to begin serving his sentence of imprisonment.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Westmoreland County has been sentenced in federal court to 87 months’ imprisonment on his conviction for violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed the sentence on Eric T. Emerson, 32, formerly of Monessen, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the Court, on March 1, 2019, agents executed a search warrant at Mr. Emerson’s residence in Monessen, PA, where they seized four firearms, ammunition, firearm accessories, and drug paraphrenia used in the distribution of narcotics. Agents also seized approximately 300 individual dosage units (weighing an aggregate of 20 grams) containing mixtures of heroin and fentanyl, which are scheduled controlled substances under federal law. In connection with his guilty plea, Mr. Emerson admitted that he possessed those narcotics intending to distribute them, and that he possessed the seized firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense.

Following the 87-month term of imprisonment, Mr. Emerson will be supervised by the United States Probation Office for six years. Mr. Emerson will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending transfer to a Bureau of Prisons facility.

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

Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Monessen Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mr. Emerson.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Cresson, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 262 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Steven L. Brock, 33, of Cresson, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 1, 2016, to on or about July 31, 2018, Brock produced images of a minor female engaged in sexually explicit conduct using materials that were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

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

Mr. Kaufman commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration, Customs & Enforcement, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Brock.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has returned two separate, but related, Indictments following a four-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking and violence in and around the Hazelwood neighborhood in Pittsburgh. The Indictments charge 25 residents of Western Pennsylvania with narcotics trafficking and firearms violations, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman said, “Years ago Hazelwood thrived along with the steel industry. But with its fortunes tied to the steel industry, it also underwent a decline. Now is it being revitalized, and incapacitating the Hazelwood Mob will lead to a safer community.”

“The Hazelwood Mob has terrorized this neighborhood and is responsible for the increase of violent crime to include murder, retaliatory shootings and illegal drug distribution,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “This investigation is another example of the commitment by the FBI and our Safe Streets program to work with our law enforcement partners to rid our neighborhoods of these violent street gangs.”

“I am grateful for the consistent cooperation, intelligence-gathering, and information-sharing between our local, state, and federal partners so that once again, we can witness the results of those collaborative efforts, which is to bring those responsible for crimes to justice,” said Wendell Hissrich, Public Safety Director, City of Pittsburgh.

The first Indictment, returned on August 31 unsealed today, names the following 24 individuals as defendants in a conspiracy to distribute drugs: • Joshua Yarbough, 36, of Hazelwood
• Asia Andrews, 26, of McKees Rocks
• Justin Bailey, 34, of Braddock
• James Correll, 30, of Hazelwood
• Javon Grant, 20, of Hazelwood
• Gregory Griffin, 45, of Mount Oliver
• Neil Harris, 36, of Hazelwood
• Jasson Hart, 19, of Hazelwood
• Vernessa Hines, 37, of Hazelwood
• Taemon Johnson, 20, of Hazelwood
• Otis Mickens, 42, of Arlington
• Delrico Shields, 25, of Hazelwood
• Steve Smith, 30, of Hazelwood
• Cameron Snow, 23, of Hazelwood
• Aronde Stamps-Howard, 21, of Hazelwood
• Rich Stanford, 57, of Pittsburgh
• Ronald Stanford, 34, of McKeesport
• Lawrence Strothers, Sr., 38, of Hazelwood
• Michael Strothers, Jr., 25, of Hazelwood
• Michael Strothers, Sr., 48, of Hazelwood
• Moniem Strothers, 22, of Hazelwood
• William Thomas, 43, of Pittsburgh’s Hill District
• Dorian Wood, 40, of Clairton
• Jemeal Youngblood, 24, of Sheraden/Hazelwood

The named conspirators include leaders, members, drug suppliers, and associates of a violent neighborhood gang known as the “Hazelwood Mob” or the “Down Low Gang” based out of the Hazelwood neighborhood of Pittsburgh. The Indictment alleges that the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute at least 400 grams of fentanyl, 280 grams of crack cocaine, and quantities of heroin and fluorofentanyl from August 2019 through August 2021. The Indictment further alleges individual drug trafficking charges against Joshua Yarbough, Asia Andrews, Taemon Johnson, Lawrence Strothers, Sr., and Jemeal Youngblood. The Indictment also includes the allegation that Joshua Yarbough discharged a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in connection with a shooting that occurred on June 13, 2021 and that he possessed ammunition after having been convicted of several crimes punishable by more than a year in prison. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The second Indictment, returned on August 31 and unsealed today, charges Kodi Downing, 33, of Swissvale, Pennsylvania, with one count of possessing ammunition after being convicted of a crime punishable by more than a year in prison.

For all defendants charged in the first Indictment, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, or both. As to Kodi Downing, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Munhall Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and Whitehall Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to six months in prison followed by two years of supervised release on his conviction of theft of government funds and willful failure to file tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Louis Impell, 58, of Pittsburgh, PA 15210.

According to information presented to the court, Impell filed an application for Social Security benefits falsely claiming that he was disabled and had no income. In reality, however, Impell operated a successful home improvement company and was not disabled. As a result of the fraudulent application, from August 2009 through June 2018, Impell was the recipient of $72,186.78 in Title XVI, Supplemental Security Income benefits to which he was not entitled. Additionally, for the calendar years 2015, 2016, and 2017, Impell failed to file income tax returns that would have disclosed his business income to the IRS. The tax due on his business income was $21,805.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Impell.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 235 months in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Porch, 34, of Pittsburgh’s Summer Hill neighborhood.

According to information presented to the court, over the course of approximately two years, Porch physically, emotionally and sexually abused two children who were under his care. During this period, Porch also produced pornographic photos of the children, which were found on his cell phone. The Court was further informed that Porch has state charges pending for assaulting a third child, as well as domestic violence charges relating to his wife.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Porch.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months of incarceration, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on her conviction of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Victoria Mazur, 54, of McKim Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Mazur was employed as the Controller for Gateway Packaging Corporation, which was located in Export, PA. From December 2012 until December 2017, she issued herself and her husband a total of approximately 189 fraudulent credit card refunds, totaling $195,063.80, through the company’s point of sale terminal. Her thefts were so extensive, they caused the failure of the company, which is now out of business. In order to conceal her fraud, Mazur supplied the owners with false financial statements that understated the company’s true sales figures.

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

United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mazur.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months home incarceration on her conviction of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Lindsey Michelle Thompson, 37 of Erie, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about December 19, 2019, Thompson and a co-defendant conspired to distribute and distributed fifty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Erie County Detective Bureau, Erie Police Department and the Millcreek Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

PITTSBRUGH - A resident of Blawnox, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Michael Marlette, age 55, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on April 19, 2018, Marlette possessed images and videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for Jan. 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum 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 Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Blawnox Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Marlette.

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

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

The three-count Indictment, returned on August 25 and unsealed today, named Tecko Tartt, age 35, as the sole defendant.

According to Count One of the Indictment, on or about March 31, 2021, Tartt possessed with the intent to distribute 10 grams or more of fluorofentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance and an analogue of fentanyl; and quantities of cocaine. On or about that same date, Tartt also possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon (Count Three) and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count Two).

As to Count 1, the law provides for a minimum of five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. The maximum sentence for Count 2 is at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The maximum sentence for Count 3 is up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A southwestern Pennsylvania 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 Indictment, returned on August 25 and unsealed today, named Leonard Jackson, age 45, of Washington, PA and/or Brownsville, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Jackson possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on or about June 3, 2021.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

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

The three-count Indictment, returned on August 25 and unsealed today, named Byron McCrae, age 32, as the sole defendant.

According to Count One of the Indictment, on or about March 3, 2021, McCrae possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack. On or about that same date, McCrae also possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon (Count Three) and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count Two).

As to Count 1, the law provides for a minimum of five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. The maximum sentence for Count 2 is at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. As to Count 3, the minimum sentence is 15 years in prison up to life and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - The Justice Department announced today that it has reached an agreement to resolve a lawsuit against Allen and Heidi Woodcock, owners and managers of rental properties in Oil City, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the Fair Housing Act.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleges that Allen Woodcock sexually harassed a female tenant in April 2019 after he entered her home to perform maintenance. According to the complaint, Allen Woodcock touched the tenant’s body without her consent and forcibly tried to kiss her, and the Woodcocks evicted the tenant after she reported the harassment to Heidi Woodcock.

Under the consent decree, which still must be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, defendants are required to pay a total of $13,000 in monetary damages to the woman who was harmed as a result of the sexual harassment. The consent decree also bars future discrimination, prevents Allen Woodcock from participating in the rental or management of residential properties in the future, mandates Fair Housing Act training and requires monitoring and reporting regarding property management activities and compliance with the terms of the consent decree.

“This resolution demonstrates the commitment of our office to swiftly enforce the Fair Housing Act, especially when it comes to discrimination in housing,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Steve Kaufman. “Sexual harassment in housing will not be tolerated.”

The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers, or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the Initiative in October 2017, the Justice Department has filed 22 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.

Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination should call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-833-591-0291, email the Justice Department at fairhousing@usdoj.gov, or submit a report online.

Individuals can also report sexual harassment and other forms of housing discrimination by contacting the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a HUD complaint online.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Perryopolis, Pennsylvania, 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 Indictment, returned on August 25 and unsealed today, named Larry Diggs, age 67, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 3, 2021, Diggs possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, 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 Indictment, returned on August 25 and unsealed today, named Keith McCrae, age 47, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 31, 2021, Keith McCrae possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, and a quantity of cocaine.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Yvonne M. Saadi and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Wilkinsburg has been sentenced in federal court to 21 months imprisonment with 2 years’ supervised release on his conviction of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jacque Butler, age 25 formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15221.

According to information presented to the Court, on September 8, 2020, an officer of the City of Duquesne Police Department observed a vehicle with two inoperable brake lights, stop at an intersection obstructing both lanes of traffic. The officer conducted a traffic stop on this vehicle and detected the odor of marijuana. After learning that the driver’s license was suspended as well as the vehicle’s registration, the officer informed the driver that the vehicle would have to be towed. During a search of the vehicle, the officer discovered that Butler, who was in the rear passenger seat of the vehicle, had a backpack at his feet. This backpack contained a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun with 15 rounds contained in the magazine along with a second magazine containing an additional 15 rounds, digital scales, small amounts of marijuana, and four tablets of ecstasy. Butler waived his Miranda rights and admitted that the gun was his. As a convicted felon, Butler is prohibited from possessing firearms.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon denied the Defendant’s request for a downward variance on the basis of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Court also acknowledged Butler’s significant criminal history which has showed no signs of slowing down.

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

United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Duquesne Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Butler.

This case was 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.