Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ (60 months’) imprisonment and four years supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Leroy George, 51.  

According to information presented to the court, the charges resulted from a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement determined that the defendant was distributing fentanyl in the Pittsburgh area. Intercepted communications over a federal wiretap ultimately led to the seizure of $12,200 in drug proceeds from the defendant, $10,000 of which were seized during a traffic stop after communications indicated that the defendant intended to meet with a coconspirator in the parking lot of a Chili’s in Ross Township. The court was further informed that as a condition of his guilty plea, George accepted responsibility for the distribution of between 40 and 160 grams of fentanyl.

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

The FBI’s Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF) led the mulit-agency investigation that led to the successful prosecution of George. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. Additionally, the GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office for theWestern District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years imprisonment and eight years supervised release on his conviction of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on James Wells, age 32.

According to information presented to the Court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Wells and other individuals were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh Region.

In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Wells, along with 32 others were indicted in June of 2019 by a federal grand jury in three separate, but related, Indictments.

As to Wells, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that he was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin and cocaine base, commonly known as crack. Wells admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a higher level member of "SCO" and was responsible for distributing controlled substances to a number of regular customers and partnered with co-conspirator and SCO’s leader, Howard McFadden to conduct larger drug transactions.

On June 12, 2019, law enforcement arrested a majority of the defendants, however, Wells, after seeing law enforcement at his residence, fled the scene and remained a fugitive until July 3, 2019, when he was arrested in Monroeville, PA. Law enforcement executed a federal search warrant, on June 12, 2019, at Wells’ residence and seized, in addition to suspected controlled substances and other indicia of drug trafficking, a Glock 9mm firearm and ammunition, which Wells was prohibited from possessing based upon his prior criminal history.

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

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

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ (24 months’) imprisonment on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Delrico Clyburn, age 28, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Delrico Clyburn and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clyburn.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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UPDATE

The indictment in this case has been dismissed pursuant to a pretrial diversion agreement.

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PITTSBURGH - A New York resident was arrested and criminally charged for his role in allegedly advertising and selling stolen COVID-19 testing services for $135 to $200, falsely claiming that he was connected to labs that would test the kits, shipping test kits without any prior medical screening, and providing no results to consumers, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Additionally, the United States Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office Cyber Fraud Task Force, successfully shut down the websites that advertised and sold these stolen test kits. The Department of Justice, under Attorney General William Barr’s recent direction, prioritizes such detection, investigation, disruption and prosecution of illegal conduct related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Henry Sylvain Gindt II, 34, of Queens (New York), New York, has been charged by criminal complaint with committing mail fraud and wire fraud, and conspiring to commit mail fraud and wire fraud.

"Let this be a message to anyone who wants to scam our fellow citizens during this pandemic: the Department of Justice will take swift action to disrupt your scheme and then we will arrest you," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "This is why we created our Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force. Gindt tried to profit from the pandemic by selling stolen test kits and services without ever delivering the promised results. Instead, we shut him down and now he is facing prison time."

"This case demonstrates the investigative capabilities of the United State Secret Service, as well as the members of the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Scott Brady. The suspect in this case took advantage of American citizens for his own personal benefit, preying on customers fear and anxiety," said Tim Burke, Special Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office. "This case should serve as a strong deterrent for criminal actors considering taking part in related fraud schemes. The Secret Service along with our Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force partners will continue to investigate and arrest criminals who attempt to defraud citizens and businesses related to the COVID-19 pandemic."

According to the Criminal Complaint, Gindt II founded YouHealth, Inc., a website offering telemedicine and personalized nutrition, wellness and DNA genetics testing. Gindt II illegally obtained stolen COVID-19 test kits from a laboratory employee. He then advertised those stolen testing kit services for $135 to $200 on his YouHealth websites and in unsolicited emails that he sent to consumers in multiple states. As part of his advertising, Gindt II falsely and fraudulently misrepresented that he was affiliated with a certified lab that would test the samples and provide results. Gindt II sold the test kits to consumers – including in Western Pennsylvania – without any prior medical screening. Instead, once the testing kit services (including the nasal swabs used for collection and packaging to send to the lab) were ordered, Gindt would have them overnighted to consumers with a request to then complete a medical questionnaire to screen for COVID-19 symptoms. Gindt II sent the test kits to consumers via FedEx Overnight using the FedEx account in the name of an entity identified in the complaint as "Lab" and an individual identified as "T. A." Gindt II directed consumers to swab themselves and send their test kits to "Lab" for testing. The consumers never received any test results.

On April 15, 2020, the United States Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office Cyber Fraud Task Force, successfully shut down the websites for YouHealth.shop and YouHealth.me relating to this investigation.

This case began following a tip to the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Task Force from a western Pennsylvania resident who had received an email from henry.gindt@youhealth.me advertising the sale of at-home COVID19 testing services.

The public is urged to continue to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 by calling the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s Toll Free Hotline: 1-888-C19-WDPA or 1-888-219-9372 or send an email to the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s email address: usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar. The United States Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, and all members of the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia and the Federal Bureau of Investigation participated in the investigation of this case.

A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Southwestern Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months' imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Larry Dandridge, age 25, formerly of Monroeville, PA.

According to information presented to the Court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. As a result of this investigation, Dandridge, along with 32 others were indicted in June of 2019 by a federal grand jury in three separate, but related, Indictments.

As to Dandridge, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Dandridge was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute heroin in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The Court was further informed that Dandridge accepted responsibility for the distribution of 95 grams of heroin and seven pounds of marijuana between of April of 2019 and May of 2019.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the multi-agency team, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dandridge.

Partners in this investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies included the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – Seven leaders of a drug trafficking organization distributing crack cocaine and methamphetamine throughout Indiana County were arrested and charged federally with drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

A criminal complaint charges the following defendants with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine:

• Jelahn Williams, 25, of Philadelphia, PA;

• Malik Byers, 28, of Philadelphia, PA;

• Ahmed Doumbia, 26, of Indiana, PA;

• Dayton Melton, 22, of Philadelphia, PA;

• Romello Johnson-Holland, 24, of Indiana, PA; and

• Isaiah Daniels-Wheeler, 24, of Elkins Park, PA.

A separate, but related, criminal complaint names Tamir Washington-Jenkins, 23, of Indiana, PA, as the sole defendant. Washington-Jenkins is charged with possession with intent to distribute/distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

"Today, we’ve successfully dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking network operating between Philadelphia and Indiana County," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "This required a major, coordinated effort to arrest those responsible for trafficking these toxic substances throughout our communities. Indiana District Attorney Bob Manzi and I remain committed to combatting the drug threat – and the violence associated with it – and prosecuting those who prey on our vulnerable citizens."

"The ongoing partnerships between local, state and federal law enforcement are incredibly important when investigating, prosecuting and punishing drug dealers," said Indiana County District Attorney Bob Manzi. "My office is proud to partner with the men and women of law enforcement to make today’s arrests possible. The bottom line is that Indiana County is safer now than it was just twelve hours ago because these drug dealers are locked up. This should send a clear message to drug dealers thinking about setting up shop in Indiana County: get out!"

According to the Criminal Complaint, the investigation in this case has revealed that from January 7, 2020 to April 18, 2020, the defendants have been engaged in a conspiracy to transport crack cocaine from the greater Philadelphia area for distribution in Indiana County, Pennsylvania and the surrounding region. The investigation has shown that, during the time period alleged in this Complaint, Williams, Byers, and/or Doumbia have made multiple trips from Indiana, Pennsylvania to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where they have obtained large quantities of crack cocaine from/with Melton and/or Daniels-Wheeler and/or others, brought the crack cocaine back to "trap locations" in Indiana, including, frequently, an apartment rented by Johnson-Holland, and distributed the crack cocaine in Indiana to drug purchasers and street-level dealers.

As part of this investigation, investigators have conducted court-authorized Title III interceptions of wire and electronic communications occurring over several telephones known to be used by members of this conspiracy. During the periods of interception, investigators have intercepted communications between the defendants related to the manufacture and/or distribution of crack cocaine and other controlled substances. The Criminal Complaint contains samples of calls between the defendants.

The Criminal Complaint filed against Tamir Washington-Jenkins alleges that on October 10, 2019, members of the Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force completed a controlled buy of methamphetamine from Washington-Jenkins. Washington-Jenkins provided the suspected methamphetamine to a confidential source/undercover officer in exchange for $1,600 in controlled funds. Lab testing confirmed that the substance provided by Washington-Jenkins contained methamphetamine and weighed 54.99 grams.

"Drugs and the violence, which often underpins illicit drug trafficking, has a devastating effect on our communities." said FBI Pittsburgh Acting Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. "The FBI will not tolerate people bringing these types of dangerous drugs in from other areas to sell in our neighborhoods. The FBI, our Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force, along with our federal, state and local partners, will continue to work together to make sure those responsible are held accountable."

"Even during today’s pandemic, Homeland Security Investigations continues to work to remove violent drug offenders from the streets of Pennsylvania." said Assistant Special Agent in Charge, HSI Pittsburgh, James D. Abbate. "HSI remains committed to working with our local, state and federal partners to keep our communities safe."

For each of the defendants, the law provides for a penalty of not less than five years’ to not more than to 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of 5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant(s).

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

This case has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, Indiana County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force, Indiana Borough Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania assisted in this investigation.

A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ (60 months’) imprisonment and four years of supervised release on his conviction of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Rand Wolford, age 32.

According to information presented to the Court, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock suburb of Pittsburgh. Wolford and other individuals were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019.

Wolford, along with 32 others were indicted in June of 2019 by a federal grand jury in three separate, but related, Indictments.

As to Wolford, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Wolford was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances. Wolford admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a member of "SCO" and was responsible for distributing multiple ounce quantities of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, into the community. The Court was further informed that in conjunction with intercepted communications, law enforcement obtained additional information, including physical and electronic surveillance, which confirmed that Wolford met with other members of the conspiracy at a location in Braddock where they processed cocaine into cocaine base.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the multi-agency team, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wolford. Partners in this investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny

County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies included the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a sentence of time served on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The defendant had been detained pretrial on this charge since June of 2018.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Mark Givens, age 30, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the Greenway Boy Killas or GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Mark Givens and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Givens.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

St. John Williams, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Williams is one of 36 defendants charged in the Indictment and is the fourteenth to plead guilty.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Williams was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including purchasing distribution level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from co-conspirator Anthony Jetter, and also selling heroin and fentanyl on behalf of co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 22, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Williams remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which

also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives,

Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Rico Taylor, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Taylor is one of 36 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Taylor was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as source of supply of heroin and fentanyl for co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith. In connection with his guilty plea, Mr. Taylor accepted responsibility for distributing or possessing with intent to distribute 39 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 21, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Taylor remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that the City of Altoona Pennsylvania, received $42,842 in Department of Justice grants to purchase supplies that are essential for responding to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.

The grant, awarded to the City of Altoona is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. According to U.S. Attorney Brady, an additional $1,369,225 has been allocated for other local counties, cities, and municipalities in Western Pennsylvania. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has discussed this grant with each of those eligible jurisdictions, which are listed on this website. In addition, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency has been awarded $17.6 million in grants that can be distributed to eligible governmental agencies throughout Pennsylvania, including western Pennsylvania. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.

"The men and women on the front line of this pandemic deserve our deepest appreciation for answering the call to serve regardless of the danger," U.S. Attorney Brady said. "The public safety funds being made available through DOJ’s Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program can be used for the most pressing needs of our state and local partners, including new hiring and overtime pay, training, critical personal protective equipment and supplies, and the medical needs of prisoners."

"We are grateful for this grant," added Janice Freehling, Chief of Police of the Altoona Police Department. "The funds will allow us to purchase the supplies necessary to help keep our citizens and employees safe while combatting the coronavirus."

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.

The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

James Givner, 26 pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. He also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine. Mr. Dunbar is one of 36 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

Intercepted communications demonstrated that Givner sold heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine base to customers, as well as facilitated drug transactions for co-defendant Christopher Highsmith. The court was further informed that during a traffic stop on January 14, 2019, the Allegheny County Police, Givner possessed more than 180 stamp bags of heroin, and a baggie containing cocaine base. In connection with his guilty plea, Mr. Givner accepted responsibility for distributing or possessing with intent to distribute 220 grams of heroin and fentanyl, and 6 grams of cocaine base. He also admitted to possessing a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activity.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Sept. 11, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of $6,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Givner remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg

Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New YorkCityPolice Department,Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States MarshalsFugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal InspectionService.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task ForceProgram (OCDETF).The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination thatallows federal and state agencies to work togetherto successfully identify, investigate,and prosecutemajor interstate and international drug traffickingorganizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former office manager for a licensed physician pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to district oxycodone, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy launder money, and theft of public money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marcia Ramsier Arthurs, 62, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy launder money, and theft of public money before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 26, 2015 to June 22, 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Arthurs conspired to distribute oxycodone, conspired to commit health care fraud, and conspired to launder money. In addition, from October 2012 to July 2018, Arthurs unlawfully obtained benefits from the Social Security Administration in that she provided false information about her living and financial arrangements with her co-defendant.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for September 9, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Arthurs’ co-defendant, former physician Paul Hoover, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in October 2019 to 11 years and four months in prison on his conviction for conspiracy to illegally distribute oxycodone, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and Social Security fraud.

Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Rachael L. Mamula are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The investigation that led to the prosecution of Arthurs was conducted by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Social Security Administration.

The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of time served to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, false statements to the government, and theft of government money, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joyce Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Octavio Rodrizuez Shipman, age 54.  This defendant has been in some type of federal/state custody since his arrest on January 2, 2019.

Previously, in connection with Shipman’s guilty plea, the court was advised that in April 2018, Shipman’s paramour purchased a 9mm semi-automatic Canik pistol, which he took possession of shortly after. Around the end of April 2018, Shipman sold the Canik pistol to another individual in McKees Rocks. Shipman had been convicted of 8 offenses in 5 different cases between 1992 and 2002. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.

The court was further advised that on or around July 12, 2018, Shipman falsely represented to federal law enforcement agents that another individual had sold him two bags of cocaine in exchange for $2,800.00 when in fact he and the other individual knowingly obtained a non-narcotic substance from a retail store, which Shipman represented to law enforcement agents was cocaine that he had purchased. The court was advised that Shipman willfully converted $2,800 in U.S. currency from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for his own use.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation leading to the

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

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian enhances coordination of federal, state, and local authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the Pennsylvania Instant Criminal Background Check System ( PICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

PITTSBURGH, PA –A former resident of Hundred, West Virginia was sentenced in federal court to time served, plus three years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed sentence on Michael Broglie, 51.  Mr. Broglie is the first of 36 defendants to be sentenced in connection with this large-scale drug trafficking case, investigated by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force.

According to information presented to the Court, in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Mr. Broglie purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Ronald Williams, and re-distributed the drugs to other people. Broglie has been detained in federal custody since July 10, 2019.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises

PITTSBURGH – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, "Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope."

"Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity," said Attorney General William P. Barr. "To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors."

"Whether a victim of violent crime, sexual assault, child exploitation, hate crimes, domestic violence, elder abuse or financial fraud, all crime victims need and deserve to be protected, and to be assured that those who caused their suffering will be brought to justice," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "National Crime Victims’ Rights Week provides an opportunity to recognize the work being done on behalf of crime victims and to highlight the real difference we make in victims’ lives."

In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week. In so doing, he brought national attention to the trauma suffered by victims of crime, and prioritized the protection of victims’ rights in his Administration. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and the Department of Justice carry on President Reagan’s legacy, implementing historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.

According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.

This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.

"While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. "This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion."

"Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people," said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. "I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors."

This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.

For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws and money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Garfield Campbell, also known as “Sean Grant”, age 45, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan. Campbell has been detained at the Allegheny County Jail.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Campbell participated in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Campbell also plead guilty to conspiring to commit money laundering, from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019. Specifically, Campbell was part of a conspiracy in which individuals, many of whom were born in Jamaica, mailed kilograms of cocaine from California to individuals in the Western District of Pennsylvania, including Campbell, who then arranged for its further distribution. The conspiracy also involved Campbell and others mailing packages back to the California cocaine suppliers, also through the mail. Federal agents obtained Court authorization and intercepted the communications of members of the conspiracy, including Campbell, and they also executed numerous search warrants. As part of the plea, Campbell acknowledged that he was responsible for between 15 and 50 kilograms of cocaine, and he and the government also agreed that the appropriate sentence in the case was 12 years of imprisonment.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for August 4, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of $10,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balcon are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Campbell. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. In this case, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the New Castle Police Department also participated in the investigation.

 

PITTSBURGH - Scott W. Brady, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro today warned against hacking teleconferences during the coronavirus pandemic. The Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Task Force will investigate, disrupt and prosecute such hacking.

Many Pennsylvania residents have turned to video-teleconferencing platforms, such as Zoom, to stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, as the FBI has reported, there has been a rise in so-called "Zoom-bombing," or video hacking across the United States, where uninvited hackers disrupt conferences and online classrooms with pornographic images, hate images and/or threatening language. These attacks have also targeted religious communities, minority groups, and vulnerable populations, such as Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Some hackers have planned coordinated attacks through websites and social media, including Discord and Instagram, in violation of the terms of use. Pennsylvanians have seen several instances of such hacking within the past week.

Western Pennsylvania’s chief federal, state, and local law enforcement officials are joining together to warn that anyone who hacks into a teleconference can be charged with state or federal crimes. Charges may include: disrupting a public meeting, computer intrusion, using a computer to commit a crime, hate crimes, fraud, or transmitting threatening communications. When hackers work together on coordinated attacks, they can also be charged with conspiracy. All of these charges are punishable by fines and imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Brady said, "Hackers are disrupting business and community meetings for sport and targeting specific groups, including addiction recovery meetings, in order to mock, harass and interfere with treatment. This is another low point in this crisis. We are better than this. DOJ will use all of our resources to find, expose and prosecute these low-lifes."

"At a time when people need internet conferencing technology to do essential business or to connect with loved ones, it’s vital that we make these platforms safe from hackers," Attorney General Josh Shapiro said. "People need confidence in the services they are relying upon during this emergency. Through my Office’s partnership with the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force, we will be able to investigate and prosecute hackers."

"The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a spike in businesses and employees teleworking to communicate and share information over the internet," said Acting FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. "Cyber criminals see this as an easy way to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community and to exploit telework software vulnerabilities to obtain sensitive information. The FBI encourages users to safeguard their user information and prevent these malicious cyber actors from eavesdropping or stealing sensitive information. We ask anyone with information about criminal activities, especially those exploiting the disruptions caused by the Coronavirus, to contact us."

"Over the course of the next several weeks, the United States Secret Service’s primary investigative priorities will be to mitigate any efforts by criminals that target citizens for cyber-enabled crimes and identity theft as it relates to COVID-19 scams," said Tim Burke, Special Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service Pittsburgh Field Office. "In doing so, we at the Secret Service are grateful to be joining our fellow law enforcement partners on the COVID-19 Fraud Task Force. Together, the COVID-19 Task Force will enable us to focus our resources to uncover, investigate, and prevent these crimes more effectively in a unified front."

"Every community and their leadership are appreciative of the efforts that all of the Federal agencies are putting forth in addressing the issues of Zoom-bombing," added Bruce A. Fromlak, West View Borough Chief of Police and President of the Western Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. "As we conduct business each and every day we are presented with new challenges. This is clearly a new challenge however this too will be dealt with in cooperation with all of our law enforcement partners and professional law enforcement organizations. We will approach and address all malicious attacks in an expeditious and professional manner in order to bring any and all unscrupulous individuals to justice."

As individuals continue the transition to online lessons and meetings, law enforcement recommends exercising due diligence and caution in your cybersecurity efforts. The following steps can be taken to mitigate teleconferencing threats:

• Do not make the meeting or classroom public. In Zoom, there are two options to make a meeting private: require a meeting password or use the waiting room feature and control which guests are admitted.

• Do not share a link to a teleconference or classroom on an unrestricted publicly available social media post. Provide the link directly to specific people.

• Manage screen sharing options. In Zoom, change screen sharing to "Host Only."

• Ensure users are using the updated version of remote access/meeting applications. In January 2020, Zoom updated their software. In their security update, the teleconference software provider added passwords by default for meetings and disabled the ability to randomly scan for meetings to join.

• Understand the features of your specific teleconference platform, including how to close a conference call in the middle and how to kick out people who are disrupting. Zoom has posted these steps on their blog.

• Lastly, ensure that your organization’s telework policy or guide addresses requirements for physical and information security.

If you were a victim of a teleconference hijacking, or any cyber-crime for that matter, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx. Click here for more information regarding teleconference hijacking: https://www.ic3.gov/media/2020/200401.aspx.

Additionally, if you receive a specific threat during a teleconference, please report it to the FBI at https://tips.fbi.gov/ or call the FBI Pittsburgh Division at (412) 432-4000.

To contact Secret Service directly call (412) 281-7825.

If you believe you have been a target or victim of any COVID-19-related frauds, please report them the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s Toll Free Hotline: 1-888-C19-WDPA or 1-888-219-9372, or email the Task Force at usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov or the Pennsylvania Attorney General at scams@attorneygeneral.gov.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been ordered detained pending trial, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Earlier today, Cheron Shelton, 33, proceeded to a detention hearing before federal Magistrate Judge Lisa Pupo Lenihan of the Western District of Pennsylvania. At the close of the hearing, Judge Lenihan determined that no condition or combination of conditions of release could adequately assure the safety of the community and the appearance of the defendant for future court proceedings, and ordered the defendant detained pending trial.

Shelton is charged in a one-count Indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to the Indictment, on March 12, 2016, Shelton possessed a firearm and ammunition, namely a Colt Model M4, .22 caliber rifle, knowing that he had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits any person who has been convicted of a felony from owning a firearm.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Douglas C. Maloney and Brendan T. Conway are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - The United States Attorney’s Office and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) warned western Pennsylvania taxpayers today to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments.

U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady and Michael Montanez, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-CI Philadelphia Field Office, offer the advice today in an effort to prevent taxpayers from being victimized by criminals using the recently approved federal payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.

Taxpayers should be extra vigilant for unsolicited phone calls or emails concerning their economic impact payments. The IRS will not call or email you about your payment.

"With the COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments due to be sent out soon, we want all Americans to be on high alert for fraudsters," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "These charlatans will try every trick in the book to try to steal your money. If you sense you are being deceived, hang up, exit the email, slam your door and contact us right away!"

Citizens who suspect fraud can reach the U.S. Attorney’s Office at:

• Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s Toll Free Hotline:

1-888-C19-WDPA or 1-888-219-9372

• Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s email address:

usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov

"Unfortunately there are fraudsters out there who will attempt to victimize vulnerable people during these trying times", said IRS-CI Acting SAC Montanez. "Everyone should be wary of swindlers trying to steal their COVID-19 Economic Impact Payment, as well as crooked individuals trying to take advantage of the crisis by tricking people into unnecessarily turning over their personal, sensitive information. All Americans should be cautious in this regard and it is asked that everyone also be on the lookout for the interests of the elderly and other susceptible family members and friends."

Anyone with information about fraud in this area or any other tax related fraud is asked to please contact IRS-CI at PhiladelphiaFieldOffice@ci.irs.gov.

The Treasury Department and the IRS announced that distribution of Economic Impact Payments will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically. Most individuals do not need to take any action. The IRS will calculate and automatically send payment to those eligible. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For those without a bank account, the elderly or other groups that have traditionally received tax refunds via paper check, they will continue to receive payments in that manner.

U.S. Attorney Brady and SAC Montanez offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related Economic Impact Payments will be issued:

First, every American should know that the IRS will NOT contact you to request your banking information, will NOT ask you to confirm personal information to send or expedite your Economic Impact Payment, and will NOT require you to pay a fee.

Most IRS impersonation scams try to trick taxpayers into thinking these are official communications from the IRS, tax industry professionals or tax software companies. We expect to see a surge of these scams when fraudsters find a new opportunity— like the stimulus checks being sent.

Here are things to watch out for and tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from these scams:

• The IRS will deposit your economic impact payment into the direct deposit account your previously provide on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check). The IRS will NOT call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information – even if someone claims it is necessary to get your economic impact payment. If you receive a call, do not engage with scammers or thieves. Just hang up!

• Scam emails ask taxpayers about a wide range of topics – related to refunds, filing status, ordering transcripts, and verifying PIN information – in order to steal your personal information or file tax returns. When people click on links from these emails, their computers are infected with malware designed to steal their files or record their keystrokes. Don’t get scammed. These emails are not from the IRS!

• We are starting to see reports of bogus stimulus checks. If you receive a "check" in the mail now, it’s fraud – it will take the Treasury Department a few weeks to distribute the payments. If you receive a "check" for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s fraud.

• The IRS will NOT ask you to send money before it will issue your Economic Impact Payment. If someone asks you to send money to get your payment, do not send money. If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, don’t respond or click the links! Report them right away.

Don’t be a victim! Education is the best way to avoid being defrauded by scammers. For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to support the successful reentry of justice involved individuals into communities. These funding opportunities are available for state and local governments, non-profit and for profit organizations, and institutes of higher education to support the successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.

"Ensuring the safe and successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals is an important component of our crime reduction strategy," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "These grants provide communities with the opportunity to develop and implement comprehensive and collaborative programs that effectively serve the needs of reentrants."

"Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.

A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.

Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104

Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020

Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096

Total Available $3 million Deadline 4/28/2020

Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20

Total Available $13.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020

Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281

Total Available $4 million Deadline 5/4/2020

Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295 

Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/5/2020

Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa

Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline 4/10/2020

Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110

Total Available $13.5 million Deadline 5/4/2020

Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680

Total Available $4 million Deadline 4/28/2020

Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf

Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/28/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.

For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.

PITTSBURGH – The Department of Justice has announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.

According to U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady, $1,412,067 of the funds will go to these eligible governmental agencies in Western Pennsylvania: the Counties of Allegheny, Blair, Cambria, Erie and Indiana; the Cities of Pittsburgh, Altoona, Erie, Johnstown and McKeesport; as well as Indiana Borough, Wilkinsburg Borough and Penn Hills Township. In addition, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is eligible for up to $17.6 million in grants that can be distributed to eligible governmental agencies throughout Pennsylvania, including western Pennsylvania.

"The men and women on the front line of this pandemic deserve our deepest appreciation for answering the call to serve regardless of the danger," U.S. Attorney Brady said. "The public safety funds being made available through DOJ’s Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program can be used for the most pressing needs of our state and local partners, including new hiring and overtime pay, training, critical personal protective equipment and supplies, and the medical needs of prisoners."

"This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals," said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. "We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents."

The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.

For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553.

For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.

For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Florida has been sentenced in federal court to three years and five months (41 months) in prison, to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release, and ordered to pay $962,840.47 on conviction of conspiracy to pass counterfeit checks and possession of stolen mail, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Marylyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Calar Braxton a/k/a Vivian Hugo a/k/a Taylor Crimson, 45, of Orlando, Fla.

According to information presented to the court, Braxton and two conspirators flew to Pittsburgh in October 2017 and rented a motel room in North Fayette Township. Afterwards, the group stole outgoing mail from residential mailboxes and opened the mail. If the mail contained a check, they prepared counterfeit checks using the account information from the purloined check. They then used the counterfeit checks to purchase merchandise from stores located in and around the Mall at Robinson. The conspirators targeted national chains with the intention of obtaining a cash refund for ill-gotten merchandise at counterpart store located in another state. Braxton’s sentence under federal guidelines called for a term of imprisonment of between 41 and 51 months. Based on Braxton’s criminal history, which included over 20 fraud-related convictions, the government requested a sentence within the advisory range. Braxton requested a sentence of home detention and community service, claiming that such a sentence would be consistent the measures the United States Department of Justice and the United States Bureau of Prison have taken in light of the COVID-19 virus. At the sentencing hearing, the government opposed this request on the basis that Braxton, due to her risk of recidivism, would not qualify under the Bureau of Prisons’ relief measures.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Horan stated that Braxton had maintained a lifestyle of criminal behavior and denied her request.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and North Fayette Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Braxton.

PITTSBURGH – U.S. Attorney Scott Brady today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to prevent and reduce school violence. These funding opportunities are available for school districts, state and local government and law enforcement agencies, non-profits, and public and state controlled higher education institutions to improve school security by providing students and teachers with the tools they need to recognize, respond quickly to, and help prevent acts of violence.

"Keeping students safe while at school is the first priority of every local government and school district," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "These funds provide the opportunity to increase and enhance school safety across western Pennsylvania. I encourage cities and school districts to take advantage of the critical support these grant funds provide."

"School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats.

A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future:

STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308

Total Available $71.4 million Deadline 4/13/2020

Research and Evaluation on School Safety

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308

Total Available $5 million Deadline 4/13/2020

Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926

Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/27/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.

For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.

PITTSBURGH – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that more than $52.8 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address human trafficking. These funding opportunities are available for state and local government and law enforcement agencies, non-profit victim services providers, including housing stakeholders, task forces and other innovative local programs and solutions to combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.

"My office is firmly committed to preventing human trafficking, bringing traffickers to justice and assisting victims of his heinous crime," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "But we can’t do it alone. State and local law enforcement, local government agencies and community non-profits are key partners in the fight against sex trafficking. I encourage eligible entities to review and apply for these critical funding opportunities."

"Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors.

A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.

Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351 

Total Available $1.8 million Deadline 4/6/2020 (Extended)

Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-ecm-task-force-to-combat-human-trafficking.pdf

Total Available $22 million Deadline 5/18/2020

Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324

Total Available $2.5 million Deadline 4/20/2020

Services for Victims of Human Trafficking

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-services-for-victims-of-human-trafficking.pdf

Total Available $16.5 million Deadline 5/18/2020

Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-specialized-tta-on-housing-for-victims-of-human-trafficking.pdf

Total Available $2 million Deadline 5/14/2020

Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-ht-improving-outcomes-for-child-and-youth.pdf

Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/18/2020

Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-services-for-minor-victims-of-labor-trafficking.pdf

Total Available $2 million Deadline 5/18/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.

For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on March 3 and unsealed today, named Chezeq Morgan, age 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about December 14, 2019, Morgan robbed PNC Bank at 1612 Lincoln Way, in White Oak, Pennsylvania.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis. These funding opportunities are available for state and local partners, including opioid-abuse disorder treatment programs, drug and veterans courts, programs for targeting at-risk youth, including youth mentoring programs, and other innovative local programs and solutions in combating our opioid and addiction epidemic.

"No solution to the opioid epidemic is complete without the critical work performed by our partners in the medical and treatment communities," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Through this $163 million in grant funding, DOJ demonstrates its ongoing commitment to a comprehensive solution to this crisis."

"Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.

A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:

Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098

Total Available $1.75 million Deadline 5/14/2020

Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20

Total Available $27 million Deadline 5/21/2020

Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf

Total Available: $19 million Deadline: 5/4/2020

Family Drug Court Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090

Total Available $18.2 million Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)

Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754

Total Available $28.1 Deadline 5/5/2020

Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051

Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)

Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930

Total Available $48 million Deadline 4/13/2020

Opioid Affected Youth Initiative

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352

Total Available $9 million Deadline 4/20/2020

Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275

Total Available $1 million Deadline 4/20/2020

Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners

https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20

Total Available $4.5 million Deadline 4/6/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.

For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.

During these difficult times, the last thing the people of Pennsylvania need are individuals, retailers, or wholesalers taking advantage of them. Gouging prices of household essentials or scamming people out of money for "at home" coronavirus kits that don’t exist isn’t just a disgusting practice – it is illegal.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we created a first-in-the-nation operation – the Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force – to protect western Pennsylvanians from fraud related to this crisis. We are bringing together federal and state resources to stop fraudsters from profiting off misinformation in this uncertain time.

The breadth of fraud and scams we are seeing requires a similarly broad law enforcement coalition to respond. We have assembled a team that combines the necessary expertise and resources from critical federal and state partners.

Some of the scams we anticipate, or are already seeing include: individuals selling fake vaccines or cures for COVID-19; websites selling fake supplies, including face masks and medical equipment; individuals spoofing the phone numbers of health organizations who demand payment over the phone; and individuals requesting donations for fake charities.

We ask you to report any instances of these scams to our Task Force. We will share your reports with the appropriate agencies across state and federal governments and pool our resources to hold bad actors accountable. Our goal is to protect you by investigating jointly and taking action decisively.

Already, the Office of Attorney General has received nearly 2,000 complaints about price gouging, including many instances in western Pennsylvania:

A drug store in Monroeville was charging $21 for a 12-roll pack of toilet paper; a grocery store in Robinson Township charging $51.33 for a pack of toilet paper; and a grocery store in Pittsburgh increased its prices on a 12-roll pack of Charmin to $19.39. This is disgraceful.

Other scams have been reported to the U.S. Attorney’s Office: a physician marketing unapproved COVID-19 test kits for $49; fraudsters getting seniors’ social security numbers by posing as Medicare representatives; and fraudulent emails with malicious links that download malware to steal banking and other sensitive personal information.

Our goals are clear. First, we want each of you to receive consistent and timely information about scams to protect you and your loved ones against current or potentially active efforts. To do that, we will provide clear and consistent warnings about COVID-19 fraud, including counterfeit goods, fake remedies, malicious websites and apps, and disingenuous charities. We will keep you informed about what we are seeing, and we will give you practical tips to protect yourself.

Second, we plan to quickly and efficiently combat scam operations to bring justice to individuals who have already been affected, and prevent the spread of a scam’s misinformation and harm. Whether criminally or civilly, we must stop those who seek to exploit this crisis. We will shut down websites, send out cease-and-desists letters, seize counterfeit goods, and ensure that these individuals are held accountable for their crimes.

If you see anything that resembles these scams, call 888-C19-WDPA (219-9372) or email us at pricegouging@attorneygeneral.gov or usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov. We will investigate every report and take legal action if necessary to serve justice.

We are here to protect and serve, but there are also steps you can take to protect yourself. When trying to identify a scam: independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19. Check the websites and email addresses of the entity offering information, products or related services. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website is www.cdc.gov but scammers will use "cdc.com" or some other similar address.

Ignore any claims of a vaccine or cure that come from an email, phone call, or unsolicited contact. If a vaccine is announced, you will hear about it from legitimate news sources and government agencies. Additionally, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (https://www.sec.gov/) to verify offers from any company that contacts you about potential investment opportunities related to COVID-19.

Please remember that government agencies will not call you to ask for your social security number, financial information or any direct payment. Until you verify, do not give out such information over the phone or email. Rest assured: during these difficult times our agencies remain on the job and vigilant. Through this joint Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Task Force, we are bringing together state and federal resources to more effectively combat those seeking to exploit Pennsylvanians. This is a time to band together, not give in to unlawful greed.

We ask you to report any price-gouging, scam, or other COVID-19-related fraud to our Task Force. Call our dedicated hotline at 888-C19-WDPA (219-9372) or email us at pricegouging@attorneygeneral.gov or usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov. Outside of Pennsylvania, report to the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721 or disaster@leo.gov.

ERIE, Pa. - Six residents of Erie, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on federal drug and firearms charges relating to an international drug trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 14-count Indictment, returned on March 10 and unsealed today, named Abimael Arroyo-Garcia aka Pepo, Orlando Arroyo-Figueroa aka Lindin, Braulio Arroyo-Figueroa aka Sami, Jonathan Roman Vargas aka Mimo, Alberto Arroyo-Amaro, and Brayan Oma Arroyo-Amaro, as defendants.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from November 2017 through February 2020 these defendants operated a conspiracy, with others known and unknown to the grand jury, to ship large quantities of cocaine and heroin from Puerto Rico for distribution in Erie, Pennsylvania. The indictment also alleges that on February 10, 2020, Vargas knowingly carried a Beretta 9mm handgun, during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. On February 10, 2020, investigators seized approximately $250,000 in cocaine destined for Erie from Puerto Rico as part of this conspiracy.

"Through this coordinated effort between federal and state agencies, we disrupted a significant international drug trafficking organization which had been supplying cocaine and heroin to the Erie area for years," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We want the people of Erie to know that the men and women of law enforcement continue to serve you every day and protect you from drug dealers who poison our communities."

"The culmination of this successful investigation validates the dedication and combination of investigators and resources combatting drug trafficking in the Erie area," said Captain Kreg S. Rodrigues, Director of the Drug Law Enforcement Division of the Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation. "Drug dealers will be held accountable for their actions. The Pennsylvania State Police remains committed to the drug enforcement mission and will continue to partner with the Federal, state and local agencies by working together toward the common goal of improving the quality of life in our communities."

"The Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to protecting the American public," said Acting Inspector in Charge James Giehl. "One of the ways we fulfill this mission is by working tirelessly with other law enforcement agencies in operations just like this one to keep dangerous drugs out of the communities we serve."

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $16,000,000, or both for Orlando Arroyo-Figueroa; life imprisonment, a fine of $13,250,000, or both for Jonathan Roman Vargas; life imprisonment, a fine of $10,000,000, or both for Abimael Arroyo-Garcia; life imprisonment, a fine of $7,000,000, or both for Braulio Arroyo-Figueroa; and life imprisonment, a fine of $5,000,000, or both for Alberto Arroyo-Amaro and Brayan Oma Arroyo-Amaro. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police, Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - Scott W. Brady, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro today announced the formation of a joint federal and state Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force to investigate and prosecute coronavirus-related fraud.

The Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force will bring together federal and state investigative agencies and prosecutors to receive public information on myriad scams being perpetrated on-line and in-person by scammers seeking to exploit the evolving coronavirus public health crisis. The Task Force will marshal the collective investigative power of our federal and state law enforcement agencies by forming joint investigative teams, and prosecutors from both offices will be cross-designated to work on such investigations together.

The Task Force will be led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator and an Executive Deputy Attorney General of Pennsylvania. Task Force members include representatives from the United States Attorney’s Office, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Education – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania State Police.

"Attorney General Shapiro and I have spoken on a regular basis during this crisis," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "In coordinating the response of federal and state law enforcement to COVID19 fraud, we felt it was critical that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office form a joint COVID19 Fraud Task Force. Our goal is simple: we seek to ensure there is no gap between the shields of federal and state law enforcement in protecting the public from fraudsters – whether here in Pennsylvania or around the globe - who would exploit this crisis in order to harm the citizens of western Pennsylvania. Bad guys should know we are open for business. We will find you and we will stop you. Together, the outstanding men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office will continue to work day and night to protect our families, friends and neighbors during this crisis."

"I’m grateful for the partnership between the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office during these challenging times," said Attorney General Josh Shapiro. "People across Pennsylvania are concerned about their health and their economic futures, and it is despicable that retailers, distributors, and wholesalers are taking advantage of people. The joint COVID19 Task Force allows my Office, and our federal partners, to quickly combat fraudsters who want to exploit Pennsylvanians. This is a time to band together—not to give into unlawful greed."

The goal of the Task Force is to protect the citizens of western Pennsylvania from fraudsters who seek to take advantage of the fear and confusion many feel surrounding the coronavirus. Fraudsters are targeting vulnerable members of our community, including our seniors, by setting up websites to sell bogus products, and using fake emails, texts, and social media posts as a ruse to take your money and get your personal information. The emails and posts may be promoting awareness and prevention tips, and fake information about cases in your neighborhood. They also may be asking you to donate to victims, offering advice on unproven treatments, or contain malicious email attachments.

Some examples of COVID-19 scams include:

• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.

• Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.

• Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.

• Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.

• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.

• App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.

• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.

• Price Gouging scams: Individuals and businesses may sell essential goods, like hand sanitizer, for significantly higher prices than in a non-emergency setting. It is legally considered price gouging when the price of one of these products increases more than 20 percent its price one week prior to an emergency declaration from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

U.S. Attorney Brady and Attorney General Shapiro urge everyone, especially those most at risk of serious illness, to avoid these and similar scams by taking the following steps:

• Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.

• Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use "cdc.com" or "cdc.org" instead of "cdc.gov."

• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.

• Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download a virus onto your computer or device.

• Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.

• Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.

• Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.

• Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID- 19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like "CDC" or "government" in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.

• Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.

• Be cautious of "investment opportunities" tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand. For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.

• For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites.

We urge you: don’t fall victim to these frauds. We have set up a dedicated toll free Hotline and dedicated email addresses for the public to report suspected COVID-19 fraud. If you believe you have been a target or victim of these frauds, please report them the Task Force at:

• Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s Toll Free Hotline:

1-888-C19-WDPA or 1-888-219-9372

• Western Pennsylvania COVID-19 Fraud Task Force’s email address:

usapaw.covid19@usdoj.gov

• Pennsylvania Attorney General’s price gouging email address:

pricegouging@attorneygeneral.gov

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery and the robbery of multiple convenience stores, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 18 and unsealed today, named Michael Eric Buchanan, Jr., 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from Oct. 23, 2019 through Nov. 20, 2019, Buchanan robbed two banks (using an apparent bomb) and two conveniences stores. Specifically, the indictment alleges that on Oct. 23, 2019, Buchanan robbed the First National Bank on East Carson Street in Pittsburgh; On Nov. 4, 2019 Buchanan robbed the Citizens Bank in Turtle Creek; on Nov. 16, Buchanan robbed the Uni-Mart on Brownsville Road in Pittsburgh; and on Nov. 20, 2019, Buchanan robbed the Dollar Eagle Discounts store on Broadway Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 45 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Gerald Terry, 51, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, between March 30, 2018, and April 4, 2018, Gerald Terry and a co-conspirator conspired to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and cocaine. Further, on April 4, 2018, they were found in possession of a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 13, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $15,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police SHIELD Unit and Somerset Turnpike Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Terry.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court for violating the Clean Air Act, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti sentenced Vikas Jain, 48, to one month of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release that will include nine months of home detention.

In connection with the defendant’s guilty plea and sentencing, the Court was advised that the defendant controlled various business entities focusing primarily on residential and commercial real estate development and management. In approximately May 2012, the defendant, through one such entity, purchased the George Westinghouse Research and Technology Park (the Westinghouse Facility), a multi-building commercial and industrial complex located on approximately 150 acres in Churchill, Pennsylvania. The Westinghouse Facility was built between approximately the 1950s and 1970s, and it comprised over one million square feet of testing, laboratory, and office space across more than a dozen buildings. As the defendant acknowledged, he sought to redevelop the Westinghouse Facility and surrounding property for commercial and residential mixed-use purposes.

The defendant further admitted that, prior to completing the purchase of the Westinghouse Facility, he obtained the results of an earlier environmental assessment of the property, which identified the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in, among other substances, floor tile and pipe insulation located throughout the complex. Between approximately May 2012 and February 2017, the defendant, through entities he controlled, leased space at the Westinghouse Facility to third-party tenants, including television production companies. For the most part, however, the Westinghouse Facility remained unused and unoccupied.

In connection with one licensing agreement in approximately 2015, the defendant obtained two asbestos-abatement permits from the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) allowing for the proper removal of ACM in portions of two of the buildings at the Westinghouse Facility. The removal was completed by a licensed abatement contractor. Later, in early 2017, the defendant, through a contractor working on the redevelopment project, obtained a proposal from a different licensed abatement entity to inspect another building that the defendant intended to demolish. The proposal was never consummated.

Rather, as the defendant admitted, beginning no later than approximately February 1, 2017, and continuing until February 28, 2017, he directed various workers to remove previously unabated ACM from two buildings at the Westinghouse Facility, including large quantities of ACM floor tiles, mastic, and pipe insulation. The defendant further directed a worker to rent floor grinders, which the workers then used to remove and pulverize ACM floor tiles and mastic. The defendant did not apply for or obtain an ACHD permit for the abatement activity, and workers conducted the removal of ACM without proper protective clothing or adequate respirators. Once removed, ACM debris was placed in black trash bags and taken by workers via a pick-up truck to a dumpster located outside of one of the defendant’s residential rental properties. As the defendant admitted, the contents of the dumpster, including trash bags containing ACM, were subsequently taken to a local landfill that was not qualified to receive asbestos-contaminated waste.

Finally, the defendant admitted that, after local Churchill authorities and ACHD investigators learned of the illegal asbestos abatement, he took steps to conceal the nature and extent of the removal activity, including by causing grinders to be removed from the Westinghouse Facility, cleaned, and, as to two grinders, returned to the equipment rental company prior to inspection by ACHD. At no time did the defendant inform ACHD that the grinders he presented for subsequent inspection had been cleaned of ACM or otherwise were not the same ones that had been used in the Westinghouse Facility.

Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government, with assistance from Perry D. McDaniel, Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel of the Environmental Protection Agency. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation of the defendant.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Somerset County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating child pornography and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

William M. Jones, 51, of Stoystown, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on September 18, 2019, knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Further, Jones was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. In 2003, Jones was convicted in Howard County, Indiana, of child molestation, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Jones is detained and was ordered to remain detained pending sentencing.

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Waterford, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named John Douglas Root, Jr., 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from April 2017 to March 2018, Root received, distributed and possessed computer and cell phone images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - United States Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced the appointment of a COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator to lead investigations into potential fraud schemes perpetrated as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Attorney General William Barr has asked U.S. Attorneys nationwide to remain vigilant in detecting, investigating and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the crisis. "The pandemic is dangerous enough without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public panic and this sort of conduct cannot be tolerated," Attorney General Barr said.

"Scammers are using email phishing schemes claiming to be from legitimate health organizations, advertising counterfeit virus test kits, and fraudulently seeking donations for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations, all in an effort to exploit people’s anxiety and uncertainty," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We will prioritize the investigation and prosecution of fraud related to the COVID-19 virus in order to protect the people of western Pennsylvania. All fraudsters should know that if you cross a state line, use your phone or the internet, DOJ can and will prosecute your crime."

As part of the strategy, Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun Sweeney, a Senior Litigation Counsel, will serve as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator, and will oversee the prosecution of fraud resulting from virus scammers.

"AUSA Sweeney is an experienced and talented federal prosecutor who will lead our work to stop individuals who are taking advantage of the coronavirus outbreak," U.S. Attorney Brady added.

In addition the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s website now contains a front page button where visitors can quickly report fraud to the office and/or to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Western Pennsylvanians who believe they may have been the target or victim of a virus-related fraud scheme should visit www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa and provide detailed information about their experience.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Oil City, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children and violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Edward Baker III, 50, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from April 2019 to December 2019, Baker received and possessed computer images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, he unlawfully possessed firearms as an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 50 years in prison, a fine of $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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A physician who operated private family practices in Perryopolis, Pennsylvania, and Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of unlawfully dispensing controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 161-count Superseding Indictment, returned on March 10 and unsealed today, named Emilio Ramon Navarro, 58, of Coal Center, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

"The U.S. Attorney’s office supports in NO MORE week, March 8-14, 2020, a week dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness and inspiring everyone to become part of the solution," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We say NO MORE to corrupt doctors like Emilio Navarro who exploit the opioid addictions of women for their own perverse sexual gratification. Our office will continue to fight against such sexual exploitation and abuse, this week and every week."

According to Counts 1 – 28 of the Superseding Indictment, from April 2018 until April 2019, Navarro, a licensed physician, unlawfully distributed Oxymorphone and Oxycodone, Schedule II substances, to Victim 1 in return for sexual favors, either physically or by electronic communications, outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Counts 29 through 141 charge that from April 2015 to September 2019, Navarro unlawfully distributed Oxymorphone and Oxycodone, Schedule II substances, to Victim 2 in return for sexual favors outside the usual course of practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Counts 142 to 159 charge that from April 2015 to September 2019, Navarro unlawfully distributed Alprazolam, a Schedule IV controlled substance, to Victim 2 outside the usual course of practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Navarro is also charged in Counts 160 and 161 with health care fraud for causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicaid for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed controlled substances.

The law provides for a maximum per count sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both, for the controlled substances offenses. Navarro faces an additional maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of $250,000 for each of the health care fraud charges. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Mark V. Gurzo are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The investigation leading to the indictment in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU). The Western Pennsylvania OFADU, led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, combines the expertise and resources of federal and state law enforcement to address the role played by unethical medical professionals in the opioid epidemic.

The agencies which comprise the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count each of conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program, health care fraud, and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Tamika Adams, 43, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

During her plea hearing, Adams admitted that at various times between 2011 and 2017 she was an employee of three related entities operating in the home health care industry—Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS). MCI, ADL, and a fourth entity, Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI), were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients ("consumers"), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. EPS nominally performed back-office functions for MCI, ADL, and CCI.

Between in and around January 2011 and in and around April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for home health services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount. During that time, Adams admitted that she participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims.

As part of the conspiracy, Adams admitted that she fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, she never provided to the consumer identified on the timesheets. In one instance, Adams admitted submitting false timesheets claiming that she provided more than 80 hours of care in a single week to an attendant, while also working full-time as the nominal president of ADL. Adams further admitted that she caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of "ghost" employees for PAS care that never occurred. Likewise, Adams admitted that she paid kickbacks to at least one consumer—her spouse at the time—in exchange for his participation in the scheme. Specifically, Adams admitted that she and her father, co-defendant Tony Brown, used Brown’s name on time sheets for fabricated care of Adams’s spouse. At various times, Adams admitted that she, Tony Brown, and her spouse would meet at an MCI office on the day that Brown received payment for the fraudulent care so that the three individuals could divide the proceeds. In total, Adams acknowledged causing losses to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in excess of $250,000 related to her spouse.

Adams also admitted that during the conspiracy, she caused the submission of Medicaid claims for PAS care that her friend, an MCI employee, purportedly provided to various consumers, without the friend’s knowledge and when in fact no such care had been provided to the consumers. During this time, Adams admitted that her friend was recovering from a serious injury and unable to work. Adams further misused her friend’s personally identifiable information to obtain and misappropriate the resulting salary payments. Finally, Adams admitted that during the course of audits of MCI, ADL, and CCI, she fabricated documentation for submission to state authorities in an effort to conceal the Medicaid fraud scheme. Among other things, Adams fabricated PAS timesheets, criminal history checks for attendants, child-abuse clearance forms for attendants, and certain consumer affidavits to ensure that files requested as part of the audits appeared complete.

Judge Bissoon scheduled Adams’s sentencing for 2:15 p.m. on July 8, 2020.

The conspiracy and health care fraud charges each carry a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The aggravated identity theft charges carry a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to run consecutively with any sentence imposed on any other charge and a fine of no more than $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

To date, a total of sixteen defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation. Adams is the twelfth defendant to enter a guilty plea. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Assistant United States Attorneys Eric G. Olshan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Edward Song are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation of the defendants.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former Mercer County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marvin Lee Houze, Jr., 24, of Sharon, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Houze possessed with the intent to distribute approximately 75 grams of a mixture and substance containing tramadol, fentanyl, heroin, acetyl fentanyl, and carfentanil; approximately 30 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and heroin; and approximately 30 grams of crack cocaine. In addition, Houze, a convicted felon, was in possession of a Smith & Wesson pistol, Model SD 40 VE and ammunition. Houze has felony convictions for firearms offenses in Ohio. As a convicted felon, Houze is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.

"The prosecution of Marvin Houze, Jr. is a direct result of our partnership with the Mercer County District Attorney’s Office, led by DA Peter Acker, and our Project Guardian strategy. Project Guardian is a partnership of federal, state and local law enforcement to prosecute and remove the most violent offenders from our communities," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Houze, a two-time felon, was trafficking in fentanyl and cocaine, and illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition. I commend the work of District Attorney Peter Acker and the County’s Drug Task Force to make Mercer County a safer community."

"The Office of the District Attorney of Mercer County is extremely grateful to U.S. Attorney Scott Brady and his staff for assuming prosecutorial responsibility of this case and obtaining the conviction," said Mercer County District Attorney Peter C. Acker. "We are also grateful to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Region 6 Narcotics Strike Force, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mercer County Critical Incident Response Team and the Mercer County Drug Task Force in coordinating and executing the search warrant. The operation struck a blow to the interstate movement of narcotics into Mercer County."

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison to a maximum of 40 years, and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses, and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Mercer County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Guardian, the Attorney General’s initiative to prosecute those who violate the federal firearms laws. Reducing gun violence has always been among the Department of Justice’s highest priorities. Project Guardian serves as a complementary effort to the success of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Aliquippa, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to more than 15 years (190 months) in prison, five years’ supervised release, and to pay restitution to two victim banks, as a result of his bank robbery convictions, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tyler Bridges, age 34.

According to information presented to the court, on February 12, 2016, Bridges used a firearm to rob the WesBanco Bank in Ambridge, Pennsylvania, of more than $1,500. Four days later, on February 16, 2016, Bridges and Herbert Pope used firearms to rob the Sewickley Savings Bank in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, of more than $3,500. During both robberies, Bridges had climbed over the teller counter while brandishing a handgun, before taking money from the drawers. Bridges was arrested after law enforcement found evidence of the robberies—including guns, money, and items of clothing—inside Bridges’ residence.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey Bengel and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sewickley Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Ambridge Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Bridges.

PITTSBURGH – Six former residents of Mexico have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Superseding Indictment, returned on March 10, named Amado Alonzo Zazueta Garcia, Juan Jose Quintero Felix, Luis Antonio Alvarado Llanes, Sergio Geovany Alvarado Felix, and Jose Molina Perez, each of whom is originally from Sinaloa, Mexico; and Aracelis Martinez Nunez, formerly of Sonora, Mexico, as the defendants.

According to the Superseding Indictment, from in and around September 2019, to in and around November 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, the defendants conspired with one another, and with persons both known and unknown to the grand jury, to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The defendants were originally charged by complaint following their arrest on November 20, 2019. All of the defendants are detained pending trial.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence for each defendant of not less than 10 years in prison and not more than life imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Unit, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - After deliberating for an hour on Tuesday, a federal jury of five men and seven women found Dana Lamont Henderson guilty of one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Henderson, 38, formerly of Pittsburgh’s Green Tree neighborhood, was tried before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Assistant United States Attorneys Brian Czarnecki, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on or about May 8, 2016, Henderson possessed a 40 caliber Smith and Wesson 40 caliber pistol loaded with a magazine containing six bullets and a round in the chamber. As a convicted felon, Henderson was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Judge Hornak will issue an order scheduling the date and time for sentencing. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years imprisonment. However, if Henderson is determined to have had three previous convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years to life imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Stowe Township Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Henderson.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of New Castle, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Wesley Cox, also known as Michael Deshawn Carter, age 38, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from 2017 through May 2019, Cox participated in a conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for June 30, 2020 at 9:30AM. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and up to life, a fine of $10,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cox. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Borough of Baldwin Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police.

The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. The Lawrence County Drug Task Force and the New Castle Police Department also participated in the investigation.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Second Superseding Indictment, returned on March 10, named Sean Zachary Horton, age 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the Second Superseding Indictment, on June 7, 2018, Horton was in possession of a firearm and ammunition while knowingly having been previously convicted of felonies. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a felony from owning a firearm.

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

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

The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Second Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Deandre Gordon, 24, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Gordon is one of 37 defendants charged in the Indictment.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its drug-trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.

The court was further advised that Deandre Gordon purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Jarrell Dawson, and re-sold the drugs to other people.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for August 4, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Gordon remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult

Probation, AlleghenyCounty Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement TaskForce Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal fundingandcoordination thatallows federaland state agencies to work together to successfully identify,investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

 

PITTSBURGH, PA. – A resident of the state of Illinois pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to charges of Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Michael W. Decker, age 32, of Vernon Hills, IL, pled guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

According to the information provided to the Court at the time of the guilty plea, Decker submitted fraudulent applications for loans to purchase several expensive vehicles, including two Jeep Cherokee Trackhawks, from dealerships in Western Pennsylvania. Decker was part of a conspiracy based in Chicago. The members of the conspiracy travelled to dealerships in several states and used stolen identity information to obtain loans for high end vehicles. After obtaining the vehicles, members of the conspiracy would alter the Vehicles Identification Numbers and sell the vehicles.

Judge Colville scheduled the sentencing for August 5, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than seven years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both as to each count. 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 Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Western Regional Auto Theft Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH – Terrell Williams pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Williams, age 41 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan also ordered Williams to serve six years of supervised release following his prison term. Williams was serving a prior federal prison sentence when he committed the crime to which he pled guilty and for which he was sentenced.

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

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

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

 

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Dana Lindstrom, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, in August 2019, Lindstrom produced child pornography by recording videos of a minor female in a bathroom without her permission.

"The U.S. Attorney’s office is participating in NO MORE week, March 8-14, 2020, a week dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness and inspiring everyone to become part of the solution," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Today’s indictment demonstrates our steadfast commitment to safeguarding our children and bringing to justice individuals who commit child exploitation crimes."

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Jamie Darnell Pullium, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about February 3 and February 11, 2020, Pullium distributed cocaine in Erie, Pennsylvanian and on or about February 20, 2020, he possessed fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Erie County Drug Taskforce, Erie County Detective Bureau, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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