Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Blawnox, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to violating federal laws regarding the sexual exploitation of a minor and has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years of prison, to be followed by lifetime supervised release, on his conviction, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on James Muir, 60, who pleaded guilty to two counts.

According to information presented to the Court, on or around October 19, 2022, Muir induced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing videos and still images of such conduct. Muir then distributed the child sexual abuse material to another individual via text message.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Pittsburgh’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Allegheny County Police Department and Blawnox Borough Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Muir.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to making a threat to injure a local public official and making false statements to government agents, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Edward Arthur Owens Jr., 30, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on May 20, 2025, Owens knowingly and willfully transmitted via a social media messaging app the following threat to injure a local public official: “We’re coming for you [emoji of person raising right hand] [German flag emoji] be afraid. Go back to Israel or better yet, exterminate yourself and save us the trouble. 109 countries for a reason. We will not stop until your kind is nonexistent.” The Court was advised that the reference to “109 countries” is an antisemitic assertion that Jews have been expelled from 109 different countries; it is used by antisemites to call for the expulsion of Jews from other countries and otherwise to promote hatred. The recipient of the message is a local official who regularly engages with the public.

The Court was further advised that, on or about May 30, 2025, Owens made false statements to special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, telling the agents that his firearms—which included a .22 LR caliber rifle, an AR-15 style rifle, and a 9mm caliber Smith & Wesson pistol—were all in the custody of his mother, that he did not know where the firearms were, and that he did not have access to any of them. Those statements were false in that Owens did, in fact, know that his 9mm caliber Smith & Wesson pistol was still in his custody and control (located inside of the vehicle Owens drove immediately prior to making his false statements to the FBI agents), that he still had access to this pistol, and that the pistol was not in his mother’s custody.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 13, 2026. The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both per count. 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 Owens remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Thomas Pipich Jr., 74, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, between May of 2017 and August of 2023, Pipich transferred more than $3.7 million from the bank account of a fund for which he managed investments to another client’s account in order to backfill investment losses. Pipich told the victim fund’s members a series of lies about the transfers, including that the funds were part of a secured loan when in fact there was no collateralized loan. Pipich paid himself and his wife more than $800,000 from the funds.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice Pipich’s gain from the offense, whichever is greater, 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 William Guappone is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Edward Dietrich, 60, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville to time served of six days in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine.

Prior to sentencing, Judge Colville was informed that the conspiracy in which Dietrich participated was responsible for the distribution of large quantities of controlled substances in New Castle as well as in Detroit, Michigan, and that Dietrich suffers from multiple serious medical and physical conditions. According to information presented to the Court, Dietrich primarily participated in the conspiracy by allowing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine to be stored inside and distributed from his New Castle residence for months between August 2023 and August 2024, with the defendant having received controlled substances as compensation for the use of his residence for that purpose.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Mercer County Drug Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Douglas County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dietrich.

This prosecution was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations that have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Detroit, Michigan, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Patrick Brown, 33, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and a quantity of heroin between August 2023 and August 2024, and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine on August 1, 2024. Judge Colville also ordered Brown to pay a $1,000 fine and to serve two years of supervised release following his prison term.

Prior to sentencing, Judge Colville was informed that Brown was part of a conspiracy that was responsible for the distribution of large quantities of controlled substances in New Castle as well as in Detroit, Michigan. Brown primarily participated in the conspiracy by regularly selling fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine to customers, including moving from the Detroit area to work the conspiracy’s trap houses in New Castle.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Mercer County Drug Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Douglas County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case.

This prosecution was part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations that have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - Two residents of Reading, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Angel Diaz-Gibson, 34, and Kayla Rickenbach, 24, separately pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines on January 5, 2026.

In connection with the guilty pleas, the Court was advised that, from in and around June 2024 to in and around August 2024, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Diaz-Gibson and Rickenbach conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, with Diaz-Gibson also conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and Rickenbach conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Additionally, each defendant pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl: Diaz-Gibson, in and around July 2024, and Rickenbach, in and around August 2024.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for Diaz-Gibson for May 4, 2026, and for Rickenbach for May 5, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both for Rickenbach. Diaz-Gibson faces a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the defendants.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Myles Daryl Johnson, 44, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about December 11, 2025, Johnson, as a convicted felon, possessed firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Tarentum Borough Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Jayvon Turner, 23, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about August 16, 2025, Turner had a firearm and ammunition in his possession after previously having been convicted of a felony on a state robbery charge. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced in federal court to 180 months in prison, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and crack, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Kareem Middlebrook, 43, on December 18, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around December 2021 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Middlebrook conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine, a quantity of a mixture of fentanyl, and a quantity of a mixture of crack. Additionally, in and around May 2022, Middlebrook possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. Middlebrook was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others. Further, in and around May 2022, Middlebrook—who had been previously convicted of a felony—unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Middlebrook. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Indiana Borough Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The HSTF for the Western District of Pennsylvania comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Kyreik Vanstory, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about December 9, 2025, Vanstory, who had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a 9mm Glock 19 pistol. Vanstory is prohibited from possessing a firearm as a result of his felony conviction.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 15 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 offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney R. Chase Stelzer is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for committing drug trafficking and firearm crimes, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Daniel George, age 37, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak for committing two crimes on July 7, 2022: (1) possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, a quantity of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine; and (2) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Judge Hornak ordered George to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term.

Prior to sentencing, the Court was informed that, in 2022, George engaged in armed fentanyl and cocaine trafficking in Farrell, Mercer County. He did so despite his prior convictions, and years of incarceration, for drug trafficking, firearm, and domestic violence crimes. He also did so from a location where his girlfriend and an infant child resided.

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

The Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Mexico pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of unlawfully possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Ignacio Xalamihua-Salinas, 30.

According to information presented to the Court, on or about September 25, 2025, in connection with an ongoing investigation, law enforcement encountered Xalamihua-Salinas and searched the vehicle that he was operating. During the search, officers located a revolver, which Xalamihua-Salinas admitted to possessing. Because Xalamihua-Salinas was illegally and unlawfully in the United States, he was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

In connection with his guilty plea, Xalamihua-Salinas agreed to cooperate with immigration authorities and will remain in custody until he is deported from the United States pursuant to an Immigration Judge’s Order of Deportation.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics and Vice Unit for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Xalamihua-Salinas.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Mark Lamarr Beavers, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about August 26, 2025, Beavers, as a convicted felon, possessed two firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Squad conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has indicted 13 individuals from Pennsylvania, California, New York, Florida, and New Mexico on charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The seven-count Indictment follows a two-year investigation into the drug trafficking organization.

The Indictment named the following individuals as defendants:

Name

Age

Residence

35

30

32

34

39

38

43

24

23

63

48

54

46

According to the Indictment, from January 2023 to April 2024, Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Flores, Johnson, Mitchell, Simmons, and Wilson conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Additionally, on August 30, 2023, Rivera possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. On February 17, 2024, both Francisco-Tomas and Flores-Cedeno possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The Indictment further alleges that, on January 17, 2023, Ruan engaged in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity, and that, from in and around January 2023 through in and around April 2024, Xia, Canizales-Soto, Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, and Flores participated in interstate travel or transmission in aid of racketeering. Finally, the Indictment charges that, on October 5, 2023, Mitchell possessed a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

For Francisco-Tomas, Flores-Cedeno, Vega, Rivera, Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Flores, Johnson, Mitchell, Simmons, and Wilson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. For Ruan and Xia, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. For Canizales-Soto, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. In relation to the firearms charge for Mitchell, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, 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.

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

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The HSTF for the Western District of Pennsylvania comprises agents and officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Eight individuals from Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, California, and Massachusetts have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The 12-count Superseding Indictment names the following individuals as defendants:

Name

Age

Residence

59

48

46

69

43

29

41

57

According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about May 28, 2024, Castillo is alleged to have unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, while, on or about June 6, 2024, Escalona also unlawfully possessed with the intent to distribute five kilograms of cocaine. The Superseding Indictment also charges that, on June 27, 2024, the defendants all conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and that, on the same date, Lyman possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, with Lyman, Jackson, and Clifford all also possessing a firearm as previously convicted felons and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Additionally, on that date, Jackson possessed with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and Clifford possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

For Lyman and Clifford, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, or both. For Jackson, East, Sanchez-Polanco, Castillo, Escalona, and Gonzalez-Diaz, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. In relation to the firearms charges for Lyman, Jackson, and Clifford, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, 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.

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

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The HSTF for the Western District of Pennsylvania comprises agents and officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Honduras citizen has been sentenced in federal court to 39 months in prison, to be followed by deportation, on his convictions of illegal reentry of a removed alien, fraudulent use of a Social Security number, and aggravated identity theft, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Jose Mejia-Sarmiento, 67.

According to information presented to the Court, Mejia-Sarmiento was found in the Western District of Pennsylvania after having been deported and removed from the United States three times prior between 1996 and 2016, including after a felony conviction on the latter occasion. Further, Mejia-Sarmiento made false statements to the Social Security Administration on four different occasions between May 2024 and February 2025 in the Western District of Pennsylvania, by possessing and using the identification of another person. Following the completion of his sentence, Mejia-Sarmiento will be immediately deported to Honduras.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Mejia-Sarmiento.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 3 years’ probation plus 7 days intermittent confinement on his conviction of theft of government property, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Nicholas T. Grimes, 31.

According to information presented to the Court, following the death of a Title II Social Security benefits recipient, Grimes began stealing that person’s Social Security retirement benefits, beginning as early as 2014. Grimes stole benefits totaling approximately $216,779 by negotiating the benefits from the deceased’s account through ATM transactions. Grimes has also been ordered to pay the full restitution of $216,779 to the Social Security Administration.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grimes.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Anton Reed Sr., 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about July 8, 2022, Reed produced visual depictions of the sexual exploitation of a minor. The Indictment also charges Reed with possessing, from on or about December 10, 2022, until on or about September 8, 2025, videos and still images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were prepubescent and under the age of 12 years.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, and Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Orlando, Florida, and a resident of Vienna, Virginia, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The six-count Indictment named Trevaughn J. Yearwood, a/k/a Larry Wood, 28, of Florida, currently in custody in the Clearfield County Jail on unrelated state charges, and Amit Kumar Jain, a/k/a Buddy Patel, 46, of Virginia, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, which was unsealed following Jain’s arrest today in Virginia, Jain and Yearwood conspired to defraud senior citizens in Western Pennsylvania and throughout the United States in an elder fraud scheme in which conspirators used deceptive emails that led victims to give Yearwood, Jain, and their co-conspirators tens of thousands of dollars in cash or to make substantial deposits of cash into bitcoin ATMs. The Indictment alleges that, between January 2024 and August 2025, Jain and his co-conspirators operated fictitious entities through which Jain and others laundered approximately $26 million of victim funds through accounts held at a Vienna, Virginia, bank.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both for Jain, and up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both for Yearwood. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Mt. Lebanon (Pa.) Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Phoenix, Arizona, and a Mexican national illegally residing in Phoenix were sentenced in federal court to charges of violating the federal “Kingpin” drug-trafficking statute for operating a continuing criminal enterprise as well as money laundering, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendants were among 35 individuals charged in a Second Superseding Indictment unsealed in January 2024 for their participation in a domestic and international narcotics and money laundering conspiracy involving substantial quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine (read the Second Superseding Indictment news release here).

The sentences imposed by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan were:

In connection with the guilty pleas, the Court was advised that, at various times from September 2022 to November 2022, Monarrez Jr.—a co-leader, along with his father Marcos Monarrez-Mendoza, of the Phoenix-based Monarrez Drug Trafficking Organization—was intercepted over a federal wiretap obtaining hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, millions of fentanyl pills, and kilograms of cocaine from a Mexican national drug supplier. Monarrez Jr. and Monarrez-Mendoza provided the drugs to a network of subordinate drug traffickers who redistributed them throughout the country, including into western Pennsylvania. Additionally, Monarrez Jr. provided over $10,000 and Monarrez-Mendoza provided over $100,000 in proceeds from the drug sales to couriers, who smuggled the money into Mexico to promote the drug trafficking operation.

“The sentencings of the father/son leaders of this transnational criminal organization today, in addition to the earlier sentencings of nearly two dozen of their co-defendants in the case, are reflective of the extremely serious nature of these charges and the magnitude of the destruction such groups inflict upon our communities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti. “The Monarrez TCO introduced massive amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into neighborhoods throughout the country, using violence and money laundering to help carry out their drug trafficking. We remain resolute in standing with our law enforcement partners at all levels to investigate and dismantle such networks and protect our communities from these predators.”

“Today’s sentencings send a clear message: the FBI and our partners will not allow organized drug networks to crisscross this continent,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The flow of these deadly poisons across the border ends right here in our communities where families and lives are destroyed. It fuels addiction, overdoses, and violence. Those who think they can peddle these drugs will be put away for a very long time.”

“With Marcos Monarrez Jr. and his father, Marcos Monarrez-Mendoza, heading to federal prison, the dismantling of this father-and-son trafficking enterprise has proven that no one is beyond the reach of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Eric McLoughlin. “By working in lockstep with the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and our state and local partners, HSI cut off a pipeline responsible for distributing millions of fentanyl pills, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, and multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine into communities here in western Pennsylvania and across the nation. Today’s sentencings demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protect the public and to hold transnational criminal networks fully accountable for the devastation they inflict.”

Monarrez Jr. was also sentenced at the same proceeding to a charge from the Eastern District of Michigan of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl from in and around February 2019 to on or about December 14, 2021. Additionally, Monarrez Jr. pleaded guilty at the same proceeding to a charge of violating RICO racketeering acts involving bribery conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute K2, and money laundering. While detained at the Cambria County Prison in the Western District of Pennsylvania from in and around July 2023 to on or about December 19, 2023, Monarrez Jr. used contraband cell phones to communicate with other co-conspirators outside of the jail facility in an effort to direct the continued operations of the Monarrez DTO. Specifically, Monarrez Jr. coordinated the distribution of approximately 500,000 fentanyl pills and kilogram-quantities of fentanyl powder throughout the United States. Sentencing for the latter offense is scheduled for April 13, 2026. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.

To date, 33 of the 35 defendants charged in the Second Superseding Indictment have pleaded guilty or been convicted in this case, with 25 now having been sentenced. Two of the defendants were convicted during a jury trial in September 2025 and are pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Arnold P. Bernard Jr. and Katherine C. Jordan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Prison, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to nine and a half years of incarceration on his conviction of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, as well as violation of his federal supervised release, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Gerald Underwood, 44, who was found guilty of the firearm charge on June 10, 2025, following a jury trial. Judge Horan imposed a sentence of eight years on the charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and an additional sentence of 18 months (to run consecutive to the eight-year sentence) for Underwood’s violation of federal supervised release.

According to information presented to the Court, on November 9, 2022, Underwood possessed a firearm and ammunition at a gas station in the East Liberty neighborhood of Pittsburgh. At the time, Underwood was on federal supervised release for a prior conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Underwood has a number of state felony convictions as well as two prior federal convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Horan noted that Underwood has a history of violent behavior and had not learned from the prior sentences, and stated that she was imposing a sentence above the advisory sentencing range because of the need to protect the public from Underwood.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Underwood.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Ladayja Floyd, 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about October 9, 2025, Floyd had a firearm and ammunition in her possession after having been convicted of two prior felonies, including on state firearm and drug charges. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to threatening to kill a Pennsylvania poll watcher working in the Western District of Pennsylvania, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

John Courtney Pollard, 63, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon to a one-count Indictment charging Pollard with making interstate threats.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on September 6, 2024, Pollard sent Victim 1, a Regional Election Integrity Director, four iMessages over the course of about ten minutes. Victim 1 had previously posted online, in Victim 1’s capacity as an employee of a state political party, that Victim 1 was recruiting volunteers to help “observe at the polls on Election Day” and included Victim 1’s phone number. Pollard texted Victim 1 that he was “interested in being a poll watcher” and included Victim 1’s first name. Pollard then texted Victim 1 three threats: • “I will KILL YOU IF YOU DON’T ANSWER ME!”
• “Your days are numbered, B****!”
• “GONNA F***ING FIND YOU AND SKIN YOU ALIVE AND USE YOUR SKIN FOR F***ING TOILET PAPER, YOU F***ING KKK**T!”

“Election workers, including volunteers and poll watchers, must be able to do their jobs without fear of threats and intimidation,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti. “Unfortunately, online threats are increasing, as individuals appear to believe that they can hide behind their keyboards. We are committed to using all of our law enforcement tools to investigate and prosecute these offenders to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Ensuring free and fair elections is a cornerstone of our system of government,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “Threatening those tasked with protecting the integrity of elections will not be tolerated. Threats such as these carry very real consequences. The FBI and our partners will hold accountable anyone who thinks they can weaponize fear to influence our election process.”

Judge Bissoon scheduled Pollard’s sentencing for March 31, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of 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.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States, with valuable assistance from the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN).  PIN oversees the investigation and prosecution of all federal crimes affecting government integrity, including bribery of public officials, election crimes, and other related offenses.  PIN handles cases independently but also often works in partnership with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices on investigating and prosecuting these crimes.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Che Rose, 39, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan on December 2, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2024 through in and around June 2024, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Rose conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of mixtures and substances containing fentanyl and cocaine base in the form commonly known as “crack.”

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for April 1, 2026. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, 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 Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation Laurel Highlands Resident Agency’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rose.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of the borough of Whitehall, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of cyberstalking, interstate stalking, and interstate threats, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The 14-count Indictment named Brett Michael Dadig, 31, as the sole defendant. Dadig was previously charged by way of criminal complaint with three counts of cyberstalking on November 7, 2025. Dadig has remained in custody pending a detention hearing that was continued at the request of defense counsel until December 15, 2025.

“As charged in the Indictment, Dadig stalked and harassed more than 10 women by weaponizing modern technology and crossing state lines, and through a relentless course of conduct, he caused his victims to fear for their safety and suffer substantial emotional distress,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti. “He also ignored trespass orders and protection from abuse orders. We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities from menacing individuals such as Dadig.”

According to the Indictment, in the summer and fall of 2025, Dadig harassed, threatened, and intimidated multiple female victims in Pittsburgh and across the country. Dadig recorded a podcast and considered himself a social media influencer, with much of his content focusing around his desire to find a wife and his interactions with women. Relying on advice from an artificial intelligence chatbot, Dadig attempted to meet women at gyms. Dadig thereafter harassed, intimidated, and threatened the women and gym employees in posts on social media, on his podcast, and in phone calls.

The Indictment sets forth allegations pertaining to 11 victims, including from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida, Iowa, and New York. Dadig’s harassment of his victims included showing up to their homes and places of business unannounced and uninvited, following them from their places of business, attempting to get them fired, taking and posting pictures of them online without their consent, and revealing private details (including their names and locations) online. Some of Dadig’s threats and online content included references to breaking his victims’ jaws and fingers, dead bodies, burning down gyms, strangling people, being “God’s assassin,” and his victims rotting in hell and suffering “judgment day.” Two of Dadig’s Pittsburgh victims obtained Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders against him, which Dadig violated both online and in person. When Dadig was banned from gyms and businesses and was reported to the police in one city, he would move on to another city to continue his stalking course of conduct. View the full Indictment here.

The law provides for a minimum sentence of 12 months for each charge involving a PFA violation and a maximum total sentence of up to 70 years in prison, a fine of up to $3.5 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, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment, with the assistance of multiple local police departments in Pittsburgh and across the country.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Russellton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years of incarceration, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal law regarding the sexual exploitation of a minor, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Michael Rearick, 44, on November 25, 2025, also ordering Rearick to pay $20,000 in restitution to his victim.

According to information presented to the Court, from on or about April 21, 2023, until on or about April 23, 2023, Rearick transported a minor from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to Canada with intent that the minor engage in criminal sexual activity.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the West Deer Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rearick.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Norcross, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Michael Allen Barnes, 42, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV to a one-count Indictment charging Barnes with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on April 11, 2024, law enforcement arrested Barnes in downtown Pittsburgh on an outstanding Georgia arrest warrant. From the waistband of the defendant’s pants, law enforcement recovered a chambered pistol which was loaded with approximately nine rounds of ammunition. Barnes was previously convicted of burglary in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Stickman scheduled Barnes’ sentencing for March 30, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit and United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Barnes.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Shawn Geer, 49, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about July 2, 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Geer possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for March 24, 2026. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, 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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of the Bronx, New York, entered a guilty plea in federal court to cocaine trafficking, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Jose Baez Cabrera, 34, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon to possessing with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine on August 16, 2023.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2026. The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pennsylvania State Police and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the defendant.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Avonmore, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal sex offense laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Kenneth Bee, 54, pleaded guilty to Counts One through Four of the Indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, over a several year period, Bee produced images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Further, in and around September 2022, Bee possessed images of prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for March 24, 2026. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bee. Other agencies involved include the Armstrong County District Attorney’s Office and the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Wall, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws regarding the sexual exploitation of minors, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Dylan Weyandt, 34, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV on November 17, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from February 2022 through February 2023, Weyandt induced two minors living in jurisdictions outside of the Western District of Pennsylvania to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and sending to Weyandt visual depictions of such conduct. Weyandt, who met his minor victims on a social media application, would alternate between complimenting and threatening his victims to induce the victims to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for March 23, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $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.

Weyandt remains detained pending sentencing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation-Pittsburgh’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Selma (California) Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Weyandt.

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 Las Vegas, Nevada, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of cyberstalking and sexual exploitation of a minor, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The four-count Indictment named Renad Bautista, 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from May 2022 through August 2025, Bautista intimidated and harassed an individual in the Western District of Pennsylvania when she was a minor and into adulthood by repeatedly attempting to contact and contacting her over social media and by repeatedly sending letters to her through the mail. All of the contact was unwanted and harassing and caused substantial emotional distress to Bautista’s victim and her immediate family members.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or a combination thereof. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Bautista remains detained following his arrest in Las Vegas and arraignment in the Western District of Pennsylvania earlier this week.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation-Pittsburgh conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal explosives laws and has been sentenced to 12 months of imprisonment, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Paul Lyn Graves, 47.

Graves, a convicted felon, admitted to illegally possessing explosive materials. According to information presented to the Court, in January 2022, Graves began working at a manufacturer of military equipment despite his previous felony conviction. In April 2022, he was tasked with assembling the detonators on M213 grenade detonating fuses. These fuses contained Royal Demolition eXplosives, which are explosive materials under federal law.

On April 14, 2022, members of the Pennsylvania State Police executed a search warrant at Graves’ residence and recovered three M213 grenade detonating fuses that were between the detonator assembly step and the sealing step, the same assembly state that Graves was tasked with completing.

In imposing the sentence, Judge Bissoon referenced the inherently dangerous nature of the offense and Graves’ prior conviction.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Graves.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Robert Schatzman, 21, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand to a one-count Indictment charging Schatzman with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on April 29, 2025, law enforcement recovered a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol and ammunition from a floor air vent in Schatzman’s bedroom during the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s home. Schatzman was previously convicted of robbery in the Court of Common Pleas of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Wiegand scheduled Schatzman’s sentencing for March 23, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

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

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

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the Indictment occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

The one-count Indictment named James W. McKissick III, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about August 29, 2025, McKissick possessed a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the sentencing occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 36 months of imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and for possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Melvin Gaines, 30, of the Oakmont neighborhood of Pittsburgh, on November 12, 2025.

According to the information presented to the Court, between March 2024 and July 2024, Gaines participated in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine by functioning as a redistributor of the controlled substances. In addition, Gaines was found to be in possession of two firearms, one of which was stolen; numerous magazines; and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Gaines is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gaines.

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the sentencing occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to time served, to be followed by one year of home detention, on her three convictions for violating federal firearms laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Barbara Miller, 33, on October 16, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, on three different dates during 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Miller acted as a straw purchaser when buying firearms from several federally licensed firearms dealers by stating that the firearms were being purchased for herself, when she was actually purchasing the firearms on behalf of another person.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Miller.

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the Indictment occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

The one-count Indictment named William Jermaine Rodgers III, 28, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about July 1, 2025, Rodgers possessed a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Westland, Michigan, pleaded guilty in federal court to cocaine trafficking, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Roy Brown, 56, pleaded guilty on October 21, 2025, before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville to conspiring to distribute a quantity of cocaine between August 2023 and August 2024.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for March 10, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, 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 Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Lawrence County Drug Task Force, New Castle Police Department, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Mercer County Drug Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Douglas County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brown.

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the plea occurred.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Jonathan Brunson, 54, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to Counts One, Two, Three, and Five of the Superseding Indictment on November 4, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2019 to July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Brunson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, 28 grams or more of crack, 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and cocaine. Similarly, in and around June 2021, Brunson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of fentanyl and, in and around April 2021, possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Brunson was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 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, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brunson. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation; United States Postal Inspection Service; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Pennsylvania State Police; Cambria County District Attorney’s Office; Indiana County District Attorney’s Office; Cambria County Sheriff’s Office; Cambria Township Police Department; Indiana Borough Police Department; Johnstown Police Department; Upper Yoder Township Police Department; Richland Police Department; Ferndale Police Department; and other local law enforcement agencies.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on November 18, 2025, to 15 months of imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release, on his conviction of forgery, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Michael Brandon Cohen, 42, who pleaded guilty on July 25, 2025, to forging the signature of a United States District Judge on two occasions.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, in 2022, Cohen was licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Cohen was retained to represent a victim in a civil lawsuit against a healthcare company, and informed the victim that he filed the lawsuit on the victim’s behalf in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania; however, Cohen never filed the lawsuit.

On both May 18, 2022, and October 13, 2022, Cohen sent the victim fake court orders purportedly issued by the Chief United States District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in the victim’s favor against the healthcare company. The orders awarded the victim monetary sanctions and fees and bore the electronic signature of the Chief Judge. However, the Chief Judge never issued the orders and, therefore, did not authorize his electronic signature on the orders. Rather, Cohen forged the Chief Judge’s signature on the fake orders in an effort to authenticate their legitimacy to his victim client.

Assistant United States Attorneys Carl J. Spindler and Mark Gurzo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and Blair County District Attorney’s Office for their support in the successful prosecution of Cohen.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years of imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Terron Slatton, 26.

According to information presented to the Court, in late December 2022, Slatton used a messaging application to contact and persuade and entice a 10-year-old girl from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to engage in sexual activity. During their subsequent online conversations, Slatton discussed sex with the child and solicited the minor to send him sexually explicit images of herself. Slatton then suggested they meet in person to engage in sex. Slatton was arrested at his residence in Tennessee following the issuance of federal arrest and search warrants.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations–Pittsburgh and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Slatton.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Rossiter, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 97 months of incarceration, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of a destructive device, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Roam L. Beer, 51.

Beer was convicted of the offense at the conclusion of a jury trial on August 7, 2025. The evidence presented during the day-and-a-half trial established that, on January 5, 2024, Beer threw an ignited homemade explosive device, which had been weaponized with steel shot, at the side of the residence of his estranged wife, who was in the room immediately inside the wall of the house where Beer threw the device, but was uninjured in the incident.

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

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer spoke of Beer’s lengthy criminal history, during which Beer “moved from threats to making bombs,” and described Beer’s offense in this case as “a very dangerous act warranting a serious penalty.”

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and New Kensington Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Beer.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Natrona, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of communicating interstate threats, as well as threatening to assault and murder a federal official, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The 11-count indictment named Thomas Dorn, 39, as the defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about October 17, 2025, Dorn called one of his victims and left voice messages that detailed threats to injure and kill that victim and others. The Indictment further alleges that, on or about October 27, 2025, Dorn threatened to shoot his postal carrier and then shoot up his post office.

On October 28, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) filed a federal criminal complaint against Dorn and arrested him at his residence. Following a hearing, a federal magistrate judge found that Dorn presented a danger to the community and ordered him detained pending trial.

The Indictment additionally contains forfeiture allegations, which notified Dorn that the United States would seek to forfeit certain property seized by the FBI on October 28, 2025, including 11 firearms, firearm suppressors, firearm scopes, firearm magazines, and ammunition of various calibers.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, and Harrison Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint and Indictment against Dorn.

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

This release was issued following the 43-day government shutdown during which the sentencings occurred.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two individuals from Ohio were sentenced in federal court on their convictions of violating federal narcotics laws in connection with a cross-state drug trafficking ring, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced. The defendants were among 27 individuals charged through a Superseding Indictment unsealed in March 2023 for their participation in a cross-state narcotics conspiracy involving substantial quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, crack, and heroin.

The sentences imposed by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan were:

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around December 2022 to March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Hurst conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of cocaine and crack. From in and around August 2018 to March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Lyde conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine, and a quantity of a mixture of cocaine base. The defendants were intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that they distributed to others.

With these sentencings, 24 of the 27 defendants charged in the Superseding Indictment now have been sentenced in the case, following guilty pleas from 26 of the defendants.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency; Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation; United States Postal Inspection Service; and other local law enforcement agencies for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the defendants.

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the sentencing occurred.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A former resident of Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months of imprisonment, to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws related to a six-month Title III wiretap investigation into drug trafficking in and around Blair, Cambria, Centre, and Clearfield counties, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Joshua Pote, 42, on November 4, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, investigators seized a quantity of methamphetamine from Pote on August 8, 2023.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Service–Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pote.
 

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the sentencing occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh’s Mt. Oliver area pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and was sentenced to 51 months of incarceration, to be followed by three years of supervised release, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Kyreese Thomas, 24, pleaded guilty to one count of violating federal firearms law before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon on October 6, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Thomas was one of two men who, on May 23, 2024, fired a gun at a residence in the Homestead neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Thomas used a stolen 9mm Ruger pistol with an obliterated serial number to shoot at the home, then attempted to flee the scene with his co-defendant by vehicle. Law enforcement officers were able to stop the vehicle and found Thomas in the front passenger seat with the Ruger under the seat. Gunshot residue was found on Thomas’s hand, and ballistic testing matched the firearm to spent shell casings found near the scene of the shooting. Thomas has two prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a prohibited person in Allegheny County and was on parole for one of those convictions, as well as a prior conviction involving possession of contraband while incarcerated, when he committed the instant offense.

Judge Bissoon agreed to allow Thomas to proceed to sentencing on the same date as his guilty plea. Prior to imposing sentence, the Court noted the defendant’s extensive criminal history for his young age.

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

First Assistant United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Munhall and Homestead police departments; and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thomas.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Morrisdale, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Brandon Kifer, 45, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines to Counts One and Two of the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around February 2023 to March 2023 in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Kifer conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for March 26, 2026. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $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, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kifer.

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the plea occurred.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on October 2, 2025, to a charge of violating a federal firearms law, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Thomas Thornton, 48, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand to a one-count Indictment charging Thornton with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on December 19, 2024, Thornton discharged 10 rounds of ammunition from a stolen 9mm semi-automatic pistol into an occupied residence within the City of Pittsburgh. Officers with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police arrested Thornton within minutes of the shooting. Following the execution of a search warrant on Thornton’s vehicle, officers recovered the 9mm pistol Thornton used in the shooting. Thornton was previously convicted on federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses, and was also on federal supervised release at the time of the instant offense. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Wiegand scheduled Thornton’s sentencing for February 4, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of 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 of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thornton.

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

This release was published following the 43-day government shutdown during which the plea occurred.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of stealing funds from a program or entity receiving federal funding, First Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Brett Smith, 41, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines on October 1, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Smith, the former manager of a Johnstown apartment complex that houses the elderly, deposited rental payments and coins from the complex’s laundry machine into his own bank account. The complex receives federal funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the form of Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for February 3, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or an alternative amount, 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 Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The HUD Office of Inspector General and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Smith.