Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Odessa, Florida, was sentenced in federal court on May 5, 2021, for one count of conspiracy to smuggle misbranded drugs into the United States and introduce them into interstate commerce, as well as one count of money laundering conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak sentenced Julia Fees, 29, to four years of probation. Fees was also ordered to forfeit a total of approximately $231,000 to the United States.

During the defendant’s plea hearing on Jan. 17, 2019, Fees admitted her role in obtaining and distributing etizolam to individual consumers for their personal, recreational use. Etizolam, as Fees admitted, is a drug known as a thienodiazepine, which is chemically similar to benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax) and carries risks of dependency, toxicity, and the possibility of fatal overdose—particularly in combination with other depressants. Etizolam is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the United States, and it cannot legally be imported, distributed, or prescribed domestically for use as a drug. The defendant further admitted that she and her business partner and co-conspirator, William Kulakevich, illegally brought significant quantities of etizolam into the United States from an overseas supplier—an Indian national named Jeetendra Belani, aka Jeetu—for the purpose of distributing the drug to individual consumers. As part of the conspiracy, the defendant arranged to have etizolam smuggled into the United States from Belani through the use of, among other means, multiple post office boxes controlled by the defendants. To evade scrutiny by regulatory and law enforcement authorities, Fees and Kulakevich used false and misleading packaging, and generally misrepresented the nature of the products sold on their website.

In addition, in order to promote their continued illegal activities, Fees and Kulakevich engaged in money laundering activity, including by using varied methods to transfer funds to Belani in India as payment for his ongoing supply of etizolam. These methods included international wire transfers, virtual currency payments, and even cash payments. To further mask the co-conspirators’ activities, Fees admitted using used a front entity—Clicken Little LLC—and related bank accounts to route payments between the defendants and Belani.

Kulakevich and Belani previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the etizolam conspiracies—among other offenses as to Belani—and were sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment and approximately thirteen months’ imprisonment, respectively.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. The United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh-area physician has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics laws and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The 242-count Indictment, returned on May 5 and unsealed yesterday, named John Keun Sang Lee, age 78, of Venetia, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, the defendant was a medical doctor and owner of the medical practice Jefferson Pain and Rehabilitation Center, with a principal office located at 4735 Clairton Blvd, Pittsburgh, Pa 15236. The indictment alleges that on multiple dates between May 2016 and October 2020, Lee knowingly distributed Schedule II controlled substances to five patients outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. The Indictment further alleges that from May 2016 to October 2020, Lee executed a scheme and artifice to defraud health care benefit programs Medicare and Medicaid by knowingly and willfully submitting claims for steroid injections that were neither reasonable nor medically necessary.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Karen Gal-Or is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health & Human Services – Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

Jermaine Kyle Clark, 43, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that as a result of an Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET) investigation into drug-trafficking activity within Allegheny County, DANET investigators, in February of 2019 using a Confidential Source (CS), orchestrated a controlled purchase of 5 kilograms of cocaine from the CS’s Philadelphia-based cocaine source of supply, Jermaine Clark, aka Fats.

Clark, in conjunction with his guilty plea, admitted that he and co-defendant Suggs traveled from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh to conduct the drug transaction, using two vehicles, a Chevrolet Traverse and Subaru Tribeca, which both contained after-market, hydraulically controlled "traps" or compartments near the rear of the vehicles.

On February 24, 2019, Clark and Suggs met with the CS at a local restaurant and, on February 25, 2019, Clark and the CS agreed to meet to conduct the drug transaction at a location in North Braddock. Investigators conducted surveillance in the vicinity of where the drug transaction was to occur and observed the Chevy Traverse, driven by Clark, and Subaru Tribeca, driven by Suggs, arrive. The Court was further informed that investigators located 5 kilograms of cocaine in the Chevrolet Traverse’s trap and $8,060, behind the passenger seat in the Subaru as well as 18 kilograms of cocaine in the Subaru’s trap.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Sept. 2, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Mr. Clark remain in custody.

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

The Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team (D.A.N.E.T), conducted the initial investigation and the arrest on February 25, 2019, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the federal prosecution of Clark.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years’ imprisonment and 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of drug trafficking charges related to a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV, imposed the sentence on Christopher Highsmith, age 28, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, 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. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to intercept the wire communications of several of the suspected members of the organization, which continued through June of 2019. In addition to identifying communications about drug trafficking between Highsmith, the leader of the organization, and many of his coconspirators, agents made numerous seizures of fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs from members of the organization, as well as maintained critical physical surveillance of Highsmith’s drug-trafficking activities.

Highsmith personally engaged in the distribution activity, as well as directed lower-level members of DS44 to make drug deliveries, to collect payment, and to maintain records of drug proceeds. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl and other Schedule I and II controlled substances, as well as possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and fentanyl. Highsmith had at least two prior felony drug trafficking convictions.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman stated that Highsmith was responsible for the distribution of significant quantities of opiates and the harm to the community that stems from such distribution. He offered that a 15-year term of imprisonment was appropriate given Highsmith’s criminal history and his conduct in this case.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted 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 InspectionService.

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 thatthreaten communitiesthroughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agencyapproach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies againstcriminal networks.

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

The one-count Indictment named Royal Lee Griffin, 31, formerly of Rankin, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on April 22, 2021, Griffin possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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

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

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

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

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

Raymond Jones, 35, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Jones conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute heroin from June of 2019 through December of 2019. In 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigation a heroin trafficking organization operating throughout the greater Pittsburgh area of which Jones was a member. Beginning in July of 2019 and continuing through August of 2019, the FBI initiated a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Jones was intercepted communicating with his codefendant about diluting, packaging, and distributing heroin. Through extensive physical surveillance, Jones was observed meeting with his co-conspirator to facilitate their heroin distribution.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 13, 2021. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of New York, NY, has been sentenced in federal court to a sentence of time served on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute heroin, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Pedro Rosario, age 29.

According to information presented to the court, the defendant conspired to traffic 100 grams or more of heroin from New York to the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon stated that sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing. The defendant had already served 33 months’ imprisonment pending his sentencing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKees Rocks, 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 named Devon Lamont Johnson, age 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on April 22, 2021, Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed the sentence on Doron McCarthy, 29, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, McCarthy conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute heroin from September of 2018 through October of 2019. In 2018 the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a heroin trafficking organization operating throughout the greater Pittsburgh area of which McCarthy was a member. Beginning in February of 2019 and continuing through September of 2019, the FBI initiated a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. McCarthy was intercepted communicating with his codefendants about acquiring quantities of heroin, prices of heroin, and the purity of the heroin. Through extensive physical and electronic surveillance, McCarthy was observed meeting with his codefendants to conduct heroin transactions. Judge Stickman referenced the seriousness of the offense as well as McCarthy’s criminal history.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McCarthy.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

George Goodwin, 49, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nicholas Ranjan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 8, 2020, Goodwin was engaged in an internet chat when he distributed two videos of prepubescent children engaged in sexual acts with adults. The Court was also advised that the investigation of Goodwin involved multiple search warrants and the discovery of a large collection of child pornography, including videos that depicted sadistic and masochistic abuse of prepubescent children.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for Sept. 7, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court released Goodwin on home detention and required a $50,000 bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a drug-trafficking charge in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Anthony Jetter, age 32, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 100 grams of heroin before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Jetter was immediately sentenced following his guilty plea to 87 months’ imprisonment and four years’ supervised release.

According to the information presented to the court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of the investigation, the United States received authorization to intercept wire communications of several of the suspected members of the conspiracy through June of 2019. Communications intercepted established Jetter’s role in distributing heroin and fentanyl obtained from his codefendant Christopher Highsmith, one of the highest members of the drug-trafficking organization.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted 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 - On May 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m., the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Pittsburgh Division, and the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) are holding a virtual town hall event on protecting seniors from financial fraud and potential scams during the COVID-19 pandemic, Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced.

One of the best ways to protect yourself or a loved one from financial fraud is to remain informed. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the SEC, the FBI, and AAA have partnered to raise awareness and educate seniors in Pennsylvania about the latest financial scams.

The free virtual town hall will be live on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, between 9:55 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 ET. Attendees are also able to call in using the dial-in: 415-527-5035, with the event ID 199 557 2341.

Participants may submit questions for the speakers in advance to: SECSeniorOutreach@sec.gov.

The DOJ Elder Justice Initiative aims to combat elder financial exploitation by expanding efforts to investigate and prosecute financial scams that target seniors; educating older adults on how to identify scams; and promoting greater coordination with law enforcement partners. The DOJ provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office of Victims of Crime at www.ovc.gov. Additional elder justice resources, training, and outreach materials can be found at the Elder Justice Website at www.elderjustice.gov. Elder fraud complaints may be sent to the U.S. Attorney’s Office at usapaw.covid19fraud@usdoj.gov or to the IC3 at www.ic3.gov.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Jenessa Tolejko, 35, of Beaver, PA 15009 pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Tolejko, while serving as Treasurer of the Brighton Township – Beaver Soccer Association, a volunteer-run youth soccer association, improperly used $100,000 of the soccer association’s money for personal expenditures, including a cruise, other travel, goods from Amazon and LuLaRoe, and her household bills.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for August 26, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted Tolejko to remain free on bond.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Beaver Borough Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tolejko.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Beaver County woman pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and filing false income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Jeanne Bowser, 62, of Aliquippa, PA 15001 pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Robert Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bowser was the elected tax collector for Center Township, Beaver, Pennsylvania and also collected taxes for Central Valley School District. From approximately December 2011 until approximately August 2019, Bowser embezzled $1,028,183.81 in tax payments from both the township and school district. She embezzled the funds by writing checks to herself out of a bank account that was used for tax deposits and by stealing cash tax payments. In addition to the embezzlement, the Court was further advised that Bowser filed a false income tax return for 2016 by underreporting her income.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for Sept. 28, 2021 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 23 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court released Goodwin on a $25,000 bond.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bowser.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Glassport, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 27 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release, on his conviction of Conspiracy, Food Stamp Fraud, and Money Laundering Conspiracy, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Sin Y Sit, 46, of 502 Marie Street, Glassport, PA 15045.

According to information presented to the court, beginning in and around March 2014, and continuing until May 2017, the defendant engaged in acts of food stamp fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Sin Y Sit and his wife Qiao Jiang owned and operated Mei A. Asian Grocery in McKeesport, PA. Sit and Jiang allowed customers to unlawfully exchange food stamp credits under the USDA’s S.N.A.P. program for cash (the defendants paid out fifty cents on a dollar) and other ineligible grocery items, such as tobacco. The amount of fraud during the term of the conspiracy is between $250,000 and $550,000. The defendant also engaged in financial transactions involving cash withdrawals of money which had been transferred into the store’s business account by the USDA to reimburse the defendant and his store for the food stamp credits which had been scanned by the defendant and his customers at the store during the fraudulent transactions. The cash withdrawn by the defendant was then used by the defendant at his store to pay more customers in the unlawful use of the food stamp credits..

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sin Y Sit.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Beckley, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to five thefts of specialized mine equipment that occurred in Indiana and Armstrong Counties, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Eudell Dickerson, 46, pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that five break-ins and thefts occurred in and around February 2017 through May 2017, at mining sites located in the Indiana and Armstrong counties, in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Dickerson admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he and other individuals, including his co-defendant David Stanley, stole high-value mining equipment, valued in excess of $2.5 million, from these sites and sold it to a company in the business of selling new and/or used mining equipment in Beckley, West Virginia. Special agents, the court was informed, located some of the stolen equipment at the reseller’s facility and also identified trucks operated by Dickerson and Stanley as those involved in the thefts. Dickerson also admitted that he, and other individuals, were involved in additional thefts at mining sites in Virginia and Kentucky.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation of this case.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Jamestown, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Michael Deniro Hackett, 43.

According to information presented to the court, from March 9, 2020, to July 21, 2020, Hackett and two co-defendants conspired to violate federal straw purchase laws. The two co-defendants acquired firearms for Hackett who was prohibited from possessing firearms based on prior criminal convictions.

During the sentencing, the attorney for the United States described how Hackett had recruited, coerced, and intimidated straw purchasers without prior criminal histories to purchase firearms on behalf of Hackett. Judge Cercone, in sentencing Hackett, highlighted the role that the straw purchase of firearms has played in the rising instances of gun violence in the area.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Pennsylvania State Police, Conewango Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hackett.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children and was sentenced to 36 months in prison, 10 years supervised release and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $18,000 to the victims, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Charles Przybyszewski, 54, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea and sentencing, the court was advised that from July 2018 to July 2020, Przybyszewski possessed computer images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA-- A resident of Aliquippa, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Thaijenelle Smith, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Smith was selling narcotics from her Aliquippa residence and possessed with intent to distribute approximately 55 grams of fentanyl, carfentanil and heroin.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for Sept. 30, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court continued Smith on bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months’ imprisonment and lifetime supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bisson imposed the sentence on Krent Jeffrey Haight, age 48, formerly of the City’s Mount Washington neighborhood.

According to information presented to the court, Haight, on November 14, 2018, unlawfully possessed approximately 1500 still images and videos in computer graphics files depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years. The images and videos were found on electronic devices seized by federal agents during the execution of a search warrant at Haight’s residence. During the search, Haight admitted to the agents that he uploaded numerous sexually exploitive images to Tumblr, a social networking website, making them available for public viewing.

Haight had two prior convictions for sex offenses, the most recent of which involved the possession of child pornography. He was a registered sex offender in the State of Pennsylvania.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon stated that she believed a 10-year term of imprisonment and lifetime supervised release would serve to protect the public and to provide for just punishment.

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

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Alexis Riley, 25, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, from October 2019 through September 2020, Riley did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, purloin and convert to her own use, money of the United States belonging to the United States Postal Service, in excess of $1,000.

The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000,00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Leon Madorsky, age 62, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 29, 2020, Madorsky filed false information associated with the overseas shipping of five semi-automatic pistol slides.

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

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

Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Department of Commerce – Bureau of Industry and Security – Office of Export Enforcement conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Jaimere Dehonney, age 24, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Dehonney possessed with the intent to distribute and distributed a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of heroin and fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000.00, a term of supervised release of at least three years, or a combination thereof. 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 Brian W. Castello is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Vaughn Parker, 39, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about April 1, 2021, Parker was found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition. His prior felony conviction makes it unlawful for him to possess a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants. The defendant is currently being detained at Allegheny County Jail

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Watertown City, New York 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 named Demensio McCall, age 29, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on April 8, 2021, McCall possessed with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Hammond, Indiana, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of attempted sex trafficking, sex trafficking and sexual exploitation of a child, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Roderick King, age 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the three-count Indictment, from in and around July 2017 to November 2020, King knowingly attempted to and engaged in sex trafficking of a female minor, who is known to the Grand Jury, causing her to engage in commercial sex acts. In addition, the Indictment charges the defendant with two counts of producing material depicting the sexual exploitation of the same minor victim from in and around July 2017 to April 2019.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years to life in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Group, and special agents with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General Child Predator Section, with the assistance of Butler Township Police Department, Butler City Police Department, Butler City School District, and Butler County Children and Youth Services, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania, formed and led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation among law enforcement partners, victim service providers and community members, thereby enhancing the Office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

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

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

The three-count Superseding Indictment named Abdullah Woods, age 29, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on December 7, 2020, Woods was found to be in the possession of a firearm and ammunition. Woods is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to a prior conviction. The Superseding Indictment further alleged that on that same date, Woods was found to be in possession with the intention of distributing cocaine base and cocaine. The Superseding Indictment also alleged that Woods possessed the firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Imperial, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of failing to account for and pay over payroll taxes to the Internal Revenue Service, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The 16-count Indictment named Rebecca Lynn Boyce, 42, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Boyce operates Cutie Patootie Daycare, a childcare center in Imperial, Pennsylvania. The Indictment alleges that for each quarter during 2015 through 2018, Boyce withheld payroll taxes from employees of Cutie Patootie but failed to pay over these funds to the Internal Revenue Service and failed to account for the withholdings by filing quarterly Forms 941.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five 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 David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal 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 Butler, 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 three-count Indictment named Darnell Wynn, age 41, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about February 15, 2021, Wynn possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, 10 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of fluorofentanyl, fentanyl, and tramadol, as well as a quantity of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of heroin and fentanyl. The Indictment further charged Wynn with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Finally, the Indictment charged Wynn with possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

The law provides for a term of imprisonment of life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $8,000,0000, 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 Butler City Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

Erie, Pa. - An individual believed to have entered the United States illegally in March 2018 pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of access device fraud and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Janos Vaczi, 50, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2018 to June 22, 2019, Vaczi and his co-conspirators installed ATM skimming equipment on numerous ATM machines throughout Northwest Pennsylvania. The skimming equipment unlawfully captured the bank account and personal identity information of numerous individuals. Vaczi and his cohorts then placed the unlawfully captured information on to other cards which they then used at various ATM machines to unlawfully obtain thousands of dollars in victim funds.

During the investigation, the FBI searched a storage locker that Vaczi had rented in the Pittsburgh area. Inside the storage locker the FBI discovered hundreds of cards that contained stolen bank account information which enabled Vaczi and his co-conspirators to use the cards at various ATM machines to steal funds from the victims’ bank accounts. Vaczi’s storage locker also contained $10,000, ATM skimming equipment and numerous fake passports and international driver’s licenses bearing Vaczi’s picture but with different names.

Shortly before the FBI apprehended Vaczi, he attempted to bury hundreds of cards containing stolen identity information near a grocery store in the Pittsburgh area. Agents noticed that the ground had been disturbed in the area where Vaczi had been standing and discovered the cards shortly thereafter.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for August 25, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of 11 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (commonly known as (RICO), Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Sydney Pack, 23, formerly of Pittsburgh’s Hill District neighborhood, pleaded guilty to one count of RICO conspiracy before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon on Wednesday, April 21, 2021.

In connection with the guilty plea, Mr. Pack acknowledged that he was a member of the violent street gang known as "11 Hunnit," which operated in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Mr. Pack acknowledged that he, along with alleged codefendants Dionte Griffin, Richard Kelly, and others, conspired to conduct and participate in the conduct in the affairs of the 11 Hunnit gang through a pattern of racketeering activity consisting generically of acts involving murder, robbery, and the distribution of controlled substances. Mr. Pack acknowledged his personal participation in certain overt acts that were done in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy, which included an April 2015 shooting of a rival gang member, a January 2016 shooting of a rival gang member, an October 2016 shooting of a rival gang member, a November 2016 shooting of a rival gang member, the unlawful possession of heroin, fentanyl, and firearms on various dates, and his participation – along with other members of 11 Hunnit – in several publicly available rap music videos designed to intimidate rival gangs and enhance 11 Hunnit’s reputation as a violent enterprise.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 17, 2021, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 remanded Mr. Pack to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, together with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Pack. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force ("OCDETF") investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Erie, Pa. - A former resident of Albion, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Jeffrey Scott Artello, 68, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 25, 2020 and August 19, 2020, Artello possessed numerous firearms while being a convicted felon.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for August 25, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold 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 Artello.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to eight years (96 months) in prison on his conviction of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Cheron Shelton, age 34.

According to information presented to the court, on March 12, 2016, Shelton possessed a stolen .22 caliber rifle and ammunition that was recovered from his mother’s residence by Allegheny County Police Homicide Detectives. The rifle and ammunition were recovered during the investigation into the March 9, 2016 murder of five people in Wilkinsburg, PA. The rifle was not used in the March 9, 2016 mass shooting.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the efforts of the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The resolution of this case was the result of the collaborative effort of these agencies.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Atlanta, Georgia has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges related to check fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The indictment, returned on April 13 and unsealed today, charged Joshua Buice, 36, with one count of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States.

According to the Indictment, from in and around April 2019 to in and around January 2020, the defendant conspired to steal mail matter from the United States mail for the purpose of stealing checks. The legitimate checks were drawn on accounts of businesses operating in interstate commerce and were drawn on accounts at financial institutions then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. These checks were altered by changing the payee names to the names of individuals recruited to cash the fraudulent checks.

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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, 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 former resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 63 months’ imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release on his conviction of narcotics trafficking and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Antoine Cummings, age 37.

According to previous information presented to the court, in September 2019, the Beaver County Drug Task Force and Aliquippa Police Department searched an apartment in which Cummings was living. During the search, law enforcement officers found and seized around 51 grams of powder cocaine, a loaded Smith and Wesson 40 caliber pistol, ammunition, and over $5,800, all possessed by Cummings. Because Cummings had prior felony convictions, including one for drug trafficking, he was a person not to possess a firearm and ammunition.

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

Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Beaver County Drug Task Force which led the multi-agency investigation of this case. Other agencies involved in the investigation include the Beaver County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and the Aliquippa Police Department.

PITTSBURGH – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named David Stanton, age 53, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on March 5, 2021, Stanton knowingly possessed visual depictions, namely, videos in computer graphic and digital files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – An inmate of Butler County Prison, located in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of possessing contraband while in prison, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named William Kelly Penn, age 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on February 20, 2021, Penn, a federal detainee at Butler County Prison, possessed a cell phone while in custody, a prohibited object for inmates.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than one year in prison, a fine not to exceed $100,000.00, a term of supervised release of not more than 1 year, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Christian Matthews, 32, as the sole defendant.

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

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

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

The United States Department of Labor, United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Findlay Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The three-count Indictment named Andre Randolph, 50, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 23, 2021, Randolph was found to be in the possession of heroin and a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. His prior felony conviction makes it unlawful for him to possess a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1.5 million 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 of the defendants. The defendant is currently being detained at Allegheny County Jail

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

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

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

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

The two-count Indictment named Felipe Ramos, age 41, and Ruben David Apellaniz-Figueroa, age 38, as co-defendants.

According to the Indictment, in March 2021, Ramos and Apellaniz-Figueroa possessed and conspired to distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, a term of supervised release of at least 4 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Three brothers residing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Jerwahn Atkins, 24, Jerquay Atkins, 23, and Jamir Atkins, 22, each pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy on April 16, 2021, April 19, 2021 and April 20, 2021, respectively.

In connection with the guilty pleas of the three brothers, the court was advised that the Atkins brothers conspired to steal firearms from a federal firearm licensee, Allegheny Arms and Gun Works, on the night of May 30, 2020. The Atkins’s used a crowbar in an attempt to gain entry to the gun store, which triggered a burglary alarm. This alarmed caused the brothers to run away to which Jerquay and Jerwahn left the scene in the same vehicle while Jamir departed in a separate vehicle, not arriving at the next crime scene. Jamir Atkins and Jerwahn Atkins then drove to the National Armory in Moon Township, also a federal firearm licensee. On May 31, 2020, a crowbar was again used to pry open the door triggering the burglary alarm causing the two brothers to flee once more.

Judge W. Scott Hardy scheduled sentencing for Jamir Atkins on August 26, 2021 at 10:00 a.m., Jerquay Atkins on August 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m., and Jerwahn Atkins on August 24, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than five years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release not more than three years, and/or a $250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded Jerwahn and Jerquay Atkins to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.  Jamir Atkins was continued on bond pending sentencing.

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

The Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jerwahn Atkins, Jamir Atkins and Jerquay Atkins.

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

The two-count Indictment named Marvin L. Sheppard III, age 27, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about March 13, 2021, Marvin L. Sheppard III, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On or about March 25, 2021. Sheppard possessed with the intent to distribute 10 grams or more of an analogue of fentanyl and a quantity of fentanyl.

At each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both, for the firearm charge. For the drug charge, the law provides for a sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of embezzlement from a federal credit union and willful failure to file tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Stacey Shaw, 47, of Industry, PA pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Shaw was the President and CEO of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 712 Federal Credit Union, and beginning in May 2017 she opened six credit cards in her name without getting approval from the Board of Directors. Over the course of approximately three years, and without authorization, Shaw raised the credit limits on her credit cards approximately 138 times, using the available credit to make personal purchases. When her conduct was discovered, the six credit cards had a total outstanding balance of approximately $2.1 million, all of which resulted in a loss to the credit union. Ultimately, the loss was so profound, the credit union went out of business. The Court was further advised that Shaw had significant income for the years 2018 and 2019, but she willfully failed to file tax returns for those years.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for August 10, 2021 at 9:30 A.M. The law provides for a total sentence of 31 years in prison, a fine of $1,100,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court released Shaw on a $50,000 bond.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shaw.

PITTSBURGH - A West Virginia resident has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, including six months of home detention, on her conviction for wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Tanya Thompson, aka Tanya Whetzel of Martinsburg, West Virginia.

According to information presented to the court, Thompson used fraudulent electronic coupons on her mobile device to purchase third party gift cards and prepaid credit cards at various Kmart stores. From June 2017 until December 2017, Thompson traveled to approximately 25 states and dozens of Kmart stores to use the fraudulent coupons. The total loss to Kmart was $94,977.50.

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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Waterford, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

John Douglas Root, Jr., 28, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that while engaged in a Kik chat group focused on child exploitation, Root received and distributed digital images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for August 19, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Root on bond.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of the City of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (commonly known as RICO), Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

Richard Kelly, 26, formerly of the Pittsburgh’s Hill District neighborhood, pleaded guilty to one count of RICO conspiracy before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, Mr. Kelly acknowledged that he was a member of the violent street gang known as "11 Hunnit," which operated in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Mr. Kelly acknowledged that he, along with alleged codefendants Sydney Pack, Dionte Griffin, and others, conspired to conduct and participate in the conduct in the affairs of the 11 Hunnit gang through a pattern of racketeering activity consisting generically of acts involving murder, robbery, and the distribution of controlled substances. Mr. Kelly acknowledged his personal participation in certain overt acts that were done in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy, which included a June 2015 incident wherein Mr. Kelly was in a stolen vehicle with other gang members where police found numerous stamp bags of heroin and a stolen firearm previously used in a shooting; an incident in October 2016 wherein Mr. Kelly and another 11 Hunnit member conspired to rob an unknown person in the Hill District neighborhood; and two shootings on December 4, 2016.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2021, at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of not more than $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 remanded Mr. Kelly to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, together with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Kelly. 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 - Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The six-count Indictment named Brandon Washington, 34, and Damone Porter, 33, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 4, 15 and 18, 2021, Washington possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine and/or cocaine base. The Indictment further alleges that Washington possessed a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime and that Washington was prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition because he is a convicted felon. Additionally, the Indictment charges Porter, a convicted felon, with illegally possessing a firearm on or about March 18, 2021.

With respect to Washington, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than life in prison, a fine of $1,500,000 or both. With respect to Porter, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ (60 months’) imprisonment and four years’ supervised release on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Williams was charged in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV, imposed the sentence on Ronald Williams, age 28. Mr. Williams is one of 40 defendants charged in the Indictment and Superseding Indictment returned in the case.

According to information presented to the court, 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. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wiretap investigation, which continued through June of 2019. Communications about drug trafficking between Williams and his codefendant, Christopher Highsmith, the leader of the organization, were intercepted. Additionally, agents made two controlled purchases of quantities of a fentanyl and heroin mixture from Mr. Williams and seized approximately there grams of a fentanyl and heroin mixture following a traffic stop of Mr. Williams’ vehicle.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman advised Williams that his sentence was in keeping with other defendants sentences in the case that had a mid-level role within the drug-trafficking organization. Judge Stickman further ordered that $1,540 dollars in U.S. currency seized from Williams be forfeited to the United States.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted 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 – A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Sean Marcus Talley, 21, formerly of Tarentum, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about January 28, 2020, Sean Marcus Talley, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, 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 named Frederick Allen, 39, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on February 10, 2021, Allen is alleged to have possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and fluorofentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000 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 Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and DEA 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.