Western District of Pennsylvania

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of DuBois, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 3 years’ probation with 180 days of home detention on his conviction of conversion of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Daniel P. McIntosh, 41. 

According to information presented to the court, from Aug. 1, 2014, to July 31, 2016, McIntosh did receive and convert falsely to his own use a total of $41,529.70, which represents approximately 115 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments made to him and also to him as representative payee for his wife and minor children, to which he or they were not entitled.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of McIntosh.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Adam Hosie, age 25, of Freedom, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on July 12, 2018, Hosie possessed images and videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, and the Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hosie.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA –A resident of 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.

April Price, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Ms. Price 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 Ms. Price was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, along with co-defendants Christopher Highsmith and Anthony Jetter.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 14, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Price 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 theWilkinsburg Police Department. Other assistingagencies include the Green Tree PoliceDepartment, New YorkCityPolice Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, PennsylvaniaState Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and theUnited States PostalInspection 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 successfullyidentify,investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH − A resident of the City of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Romello Edward Jones, age 20, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan to a two-count Indictment charging him with possessing quantities of heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them, and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition while knowing that he was a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on May 6, 2019, Allegheny County Probation and Parole Officers, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Officers, went to the Defendant’s residence to conduct a compliance check on Mr. Jones, who was on probation at that time for felony convictions relating to narcotics and firearms. While there, the officers observed the Defendant possessing a bag containing several "bricks" (approximately 400 individual dosage units) containing heroin. The officers searched the Defendant’s residence and found additional quantities of heroin and fentanyl, drug paraphernalia such as digital scales, and U.S. currency. In connection with the plea, the Defendant admitted that he possessed the quantities of heroin and fentanyl intending to distribute them. The officers also seized a loaded 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol from the Defendant’s residence, which he admitted to possessing knowing that he had previously been convicted of a felony.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2020, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the Court ordered the continued detention of Mr. Jones.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Adult Probation and Parole Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Jones.

PITTSBURGH − A resident of the City of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Romello Edward Jones, age 20, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan to a two-count Indictment charging him with possessing quantities of heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them, and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition while knowing that he was a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on May 6, 2019, Allegheny County Probation and Parole Officers, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Officers, went to the Defendant’s residence to conduct a compliance check on Mr. Jones, who was on probation at that time for felony convictions relating to narcotics and firearms. While there, the officers observed the Defendant possessing a bag containing several "bricks" (approximately 400 individual dosage units) containing heroin. The officers searched the Defendant’s residence and found additional quantities of heroin and fentanyl, drug paraphernalia such as digital scales, and U.S. currency. In connection with the plea, the Defendant admitted that he possessed the quantities of heroin and fentanyl intending to distribute them. The officers also seized a loaded 9mm caliber semiautomatic pistol from the Defendant’s residence, which he admitted to possessing knowing that he had previously been convicted of a felony.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2020, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the Court ordered the continued detention of Mr. Jones.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Allegheny County Adult Probation and Parole Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mr. Jones.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Delaughn Searcy, age 24, formerly of New Castle, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on or about April 10, 2019, Delaughn Searcy distributed more than 28 grams of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Horan scheduled the sentencing for June 3, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a sentence of not less than 5 years nor more than 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Lawrence County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Delaughn Searcy.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to three counts and has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison, 20 years of supervised release, a $5,100 special assessment and was ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution to four victims on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on David Anthony Thompson, 37.

According to information presented to the court, Thompson distributed, received and possessed computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Thompson.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eliezer Rodriguez, age 41, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rodriguez was in possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, all on or about October 3, 2018.

Judge Cercone scheduled the sentencing for June 17, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to federal narcotics and firearms charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dushawn Griffey, age 21, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised in March of 2017, Griffey, then 18, was a fentanyl dealer living and operating out of a house in McKees Rocks, PA. On March 28, 2017, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Detectives stopped Griffey after he left his house in McKees Rocks and recovered a bag of fentanyl and a loaded firearm from him. Subsequent to this stop, members of the FBI Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted a search of Griffey’s home. The search of the home recovered a large quantity of suspected fentanyl, drug packaging materials and drug paraphernalia, and multiple firearms.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum total sentence of 10 years in prison up to life, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. DuShawn Griffey has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court and will remain detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Douglas Maloney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Stowe-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have 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 two-count Indictment named Tyrone Terry, age 28, and Terrelle Smith, age 28, both residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, on October 8, 2019, Terry and Smith each knowingly possessed a firearm, knowing they had been previously convicted of crimes with terms exceeding one year punishment. Federal law prohibits anyone from owning a firearm who has been convicted of a crime for a term of one year or longer. Terry was in possession of a FN Herstal Five-Seven 5.7x28 semiautomatic pistol, knowing he had been previously convicted of carrying a firearm without a license. Smith was in possession of a Glock 19 9mm semiautomatic pistol, knowing he had been previously convicted of flight to avoid apprehension, trial or punishment, possession of a firearm with an altered manufacturer’s name, and carrying a firearm without a license.

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

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

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - Three former residents of Erie, Pennsylvania, have 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 two-count Indictment named David Anthony Madden, 33, David Lee Cramer, 51, and Jamie Eileen Cramer, 42, as defendants.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $20,000,000, or both for each defendant. 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 conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA –A resident of 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.

Keevan Jackson, 21, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Jackson 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 Mr. Jackson was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as a runner for co-conspirator Christopher Highsmith.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years to not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant. Jackson 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 assistingagencies include the Green Tree PoliceDepartment, New YorkCityPolice Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, PennsylvaniaState Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and theUnited States PostalInspection 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 –William Davis was sentenced to 46 months in prison for distributing cocaine and possessing a firearm after prior felony convictions, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Davis, age 39, of McKees Rocks, was sentenced by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan. Judge Horan also sentenced Davis to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison.

Davis was sentenced for distributing over 100 grams of cocaine in June and July 2017. He had previously been convicted in 2011 in federal court in Pittsburgh for conspiring to distribute cocaine. Davis was also sentenced for possessing a stolen firearm on January 3, 2019, after having been convicted of several felony crimes, including cocaine trafficking in 2011 and unlawful firearm possession in 2004 and 2005.

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

The Stowe Township Police Department, the McKees Rocks Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Internal Revenue Service, and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentence in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) which 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 120 months in prison and eight years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Leon E. Szewczyk, 36.

According to information presented to the court, on April 6, 2018, Szewczyk possessed with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack."

Judge Gibson also sentenced Szewczyk to 18 months imprisonment on a supervised release violation with regard to a 2011 case in which Szewczyk was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment and five years’ supervised release for violating federal narcotics laws.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Szewczyk.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at Moshannon Valley Correctional Center in Philipsburg, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown to a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, and immediately following, was sentenced to two months in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Zhivrago McBride, 38, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on August 17, 2018, McBride possessed a seven-inch sharpened piece of metal attached to an ink pen.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Moshannon Valley Correctional Center, Special Investigative Staff, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McBride.

PITTSBURGH, PA –  A former resident of Westmoreland County pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal wire fraud and mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft, charged in two separate indictments, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jennifer Lynne Clark aka Jennifer Gill, age 42, formerly of Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania and now residing in Pinellas Park, FL, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty pleas in criminal case 18-250, between August, 2015 and October, 2016, Clark defrauded her then employer Elite Oil by stealing company employee credit cards and processing unauthorized payments through Square, Inc.  Clark then set up mobile payment accounts with Square, Inc., in the false names of other businesses, and used the credit card information to authorize fraudulent payments into her own personal bank account.    In making the unauthorized transactions, Clark used credit card numbers that were assigned to specific individual employees.

In connection with the guilty plea in criminal case 19-35, in 2017, Clark defrauded her then employer Wright Traffic Controls by using the identity of a former employee to process payroll checks in a former employee’s name. Clark forged the ex-employee’s signature to the checks, and deposited them into her own bank account.

Judge Conti scheduled the sentencing for June 9, 2020.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 32 years in prison for the case at docket 18-250, and a fine up to one million dollars. In the indictment at docket 19-35, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 22 years in prison, and a fine up to $250,000.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jennifer Lynne Clark.

ERIE, Pa. - A former 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 nine-count Superseding Indictment named Jeffrey Adam Jepson, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, Jepson took sexually explicit photos of a victim who was under the age of six. He also distributed the images depicting the minor victim to an undercover officer. Jepson also possessed other images of child pornography depicting minors under the age of twelve.

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

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 250 years in prison, a fine of $2,250,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department and the Erie County Detectives Bureau 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of false statement to the government, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Jamie Gilmore, 23, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about January 25, 2020, Gilmore made false statements to a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation when he was questioned about matters that were material to the investigation of the January 25, 2020, robbery at Wendy’s in Edinboro, Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

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

The twenty-count Indictment named Erika A. Grandberry, 45, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, Grandberry, while working as a free-lance tax preparer, knowingly and repeatedly reported false and fraudulent income and expenses for non-existent businesses on Individual Tax Returns from 2015 to 2017.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - 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 Superseding Indictment named Randy Dwayne Tate, 38, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, in October 2015, Tate attempted to produce child pornography by recording a video of a minor female in a bathroom without her permission. Tate was then found in possession of that video on his cell phone.

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.

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

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Erie 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 – A resident of Ohio plead guilty in federal court to a charge of identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Robert Lee Weaver, III, 35, of Canfield, OH, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, between February, 2017 and March, 2017, Weaver used false state photo identification cards from other states to negotiate counterfeit checks at several casinos, including the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh in February, 2017. Losses associated with counterfeit checks total approximately $32,000.

Judge Fischer scheduled the sentencing for July 9, 2020. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both, for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Agents from Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robert Lee Weaver, III.

PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County man has pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jarrel Williams, age 32, of Arnold, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

During the guilty plea hearing, Williams admitted to distributing fentanyl on January 17, 2017. As part of his plea agreement, Williams accepted responsibility for causing the death of M.S., a 33-year-old male who lived in Westmoreland County, and agreed to serve 162 months in prison.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing to occur on June 3, 2020, at 9:30 a.m.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, the West Leechburg Police Department, the Allegheny Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Melvin Russaw, 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about June 6, 2017, Russaw was apprehended by law enforcement on state charges, after attempting to flee in his 2008 Gray Chevy Impala. Upon execution of a search warrant for the vehicle, which was registered to Russaw, investigators discovered a small panel wherein a Glock, model 21, .45 caliber pistol, bearing serial number HVH758, was hidden. Russaw, who has multiple prior felony state convictions, as well as a federal conviction, is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2020 at 10:00 AM. Due to Russaw’s prior convictions, the law provides for an enhanced sentence of not less than fifteen (15) years and not more than life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendant remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Hundred, West Virginia, 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.

Michael Broglie, 51, 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. Broglie 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 Mr. Broglie purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Ronald Williams, and re-distributed the drugs to other people.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 13, 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. Rogers remains on bond 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 – A former Allegheny County man was sentenced to 15 years and one month (181 months) in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after his convictions at trial on multiple federal narcotic and firearms offenses. United States District Court Judge Marilyn S. Horan imposed the sentence on Cameron Basking, age 28, previously of Wilkinsburg and Pittsburgh.

Basking was previously tried before United States Judge Marilyn S. Horan. He was convicted after a week-long jury trial of one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.

According to information presented during the course of the trial, Cameron Basking was the leader of a large scale fentanyl trafficking conspiracy operating in Allegheny County from January to March 14 of 2018. Basking would receive large amount of fentanyl from two co-conspirator suppliers and then mix that fentanyl for future resale. To further this conspiracy, Basking used multiple locations in Allegheny County to cut and mix the fentanyl, store the fentanyl, and sell the fentanyl.

As part of the investigation, on March 14, 2018, members of the FBI’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force executed search warrants at multiple locations and vehicles tied to Basking. At a location on Princeton Boulevard in Wilkinsburg, investigators recovered tens of thousands of stamp bags used to package fentanyl in the basement of this location as well as ammunition. At an address on West Carter in North Versailles, investigators recovered voluminous drug and drug related evidence including over 40 grams of fentanyl, thousands of stamp bags, blenders and grinders, and gas masks to protect from fentanyl exposure. Additionally at the West Carter address, investigators recovered a fully loaded 9mm Glock handgun, a fully loaded Bushmaster .308 assault rifle, two extended 9mm magazines, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. At another location in Wilkinsburg, on Rebecca Street, investigators recovered another firearm and ammunition, a quantity of fentanyl, six digital scales for drug distribution use and fentanyl packaging material.

Evidence presented at trial showed that Basking used the West Carter address to store the fentanyl, the Princeton Boulevard address to cut and mix the fentanyl for distribution, and the Rebecca Street address as the distribution center. In handing down the sentence, Judge Horan found that Basking had an aggravating role in the offense as he was the leader of five or more people in a narcotics trafficking organization.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Christopher Cook represented the Government in this prosecution and trial.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. The Allegheny Office of the Medical Examiner, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics and Vice Division, and Drug Enforcement Agency also assisted in the prosecution of this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, 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 Indictment named Deandre Darnell Hawkins, age 23, formerly of Duquesne, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on September 19, 2019, Hawkins possessed a firearm, knowing he had been previously convicted of carrying a firearm without a license, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits anyone from owning a firearm who has been convicted of a crime for a term of one year or longer.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Carlisha Williams, age 30, of Aliquippa, PA, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, between September 2016 and July 2017, Williams provided co-conspirators an address to receive packages of fentanyl shipped from overseas into the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

This prosecution is part of a long-term 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. 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. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western 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. The Department of Homeland Security Investigators also assisted in the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

This 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 resident of Hundred, West Virginia 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.

Jesse Tedrow, 27, 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. Tedrow 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 Mr. Tedrow purchased distribution-level quantities of heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Ronald Williams, and re-sold the drugs to other customers.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 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. Rogers remains on bond 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Windber, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to two years (24 months) in prison and two years’ supervised release for violating conditions of supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Paul Marone, 40.

According to information presented to the court, Marone was on supervised release from a conviction in 2012 in the Western District of Michigan for violating Title 18, United States Code Section 2423(b), by traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.

Marone was on supervised release for the same conviction in 2015 when Judge Gibson revoked that release for similar conduct. In 2015, Marone was sentenced to 24 months in prison and five years’ supervised release for violating the terms of release by possessing ten cell phones and using them to communication with minors.

On February 7, 2020, Marone was again revoked for violations of his supervised release for enticing, coercing a minor to engage in sexual activity, and using an electronic device to communicate with a minor for the purpose of promoting sexual relations with a child.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Greensburg, PA, has been sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine after his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Dr. Milad Shaker, 49, of who was found guilty of 14 counts of illegal dispensing opioids on October 18, 2019.

The evidence introduced during the six-day trial established that from October 2014 through March 2017, Shaker, a primary care physician, illegally dispensed Hydrocodone, Percocet and Tramadol to a patient in return for sex and sexually explicit photos and texts. According to testimony at trial, Shaker would meet the patient at various hotels in Westmoreland and Fayette counties and at two locations on the side of the road to engage in sex in return for opioid prescriptions. Shaker also exchanged prescriptions for texts containing sexually explicit images of the patient. During cross examination, Shaker, in defending his illegal prescribing, testified that, "opioids are like candy," and "10 to 20 opioid pills will not hurt you."

In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Bissoon stated, "Dr. Shaker, you have abused your position as a doctor, a trusted healer, by feeding the addiction of a vulnerable woman for your personal gratification. Your actions, and your utter failure to appreciate your wrongdoing, particularly amid the opioid crisis in America, and, indeed, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, are troubling." Judge Bissoon continued, "I do hope at some point you come to realize how devastating your actions were to another individual and the sentence imposed today reinforces the gravity of your actions."

Judge Bissoon remanded Shaker to the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU) for conducting the investigation leading to the prosecution of Shaker. 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 comprising the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Three southwestern Pennsylvania residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on January 16, named Ronnell Taylor, Jr., 37, of Jeannette Pennsylvania; Barry Nealer, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Michael Galanis, 31, of Export, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment presented to the court, between March 2016, and August 2017, the defendants knowingly and willfully conspired to commit wire fraud, including, among other alleged conduct, by activating and programming cell phone numbers later used by individuals impersonating employees of the United States Internal Revenue Service to defraud victims in the United States.

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 Rachael L. Mamula is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government

The United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

An indictment is an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distributing material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Gary Whisner, age 36, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 5, 2017, Whisner distributed multiple videos containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including two females who were approximately 10 years old. A subsequent search of Whisner’s electronic devices revealed approximately 10,700 images and 800 videos that depicted child pornography.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 27, 2020, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Whisner.

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

PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Mexico has been sentenced in federal court to two years (24 months) in prison on his conviction of Illegal Reentry After Deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nicholas J. Ranjan imposed the sentence on Jorge Segundo-Cruz, 29, of Mexico.

According to information presented to the court, Segundo-Cruz had been previously deported and removed from the United States in 2010. In 2017, after unlawfully reentering the United States, he was convicted of aggravated assault, attempted rape, and other related charges in Pittsburgh. As a result of these charges, he was identified by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and charged with illegal reentry.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranhan stated that the 24 month sentence would further the goals of deterring Segundo-Cruz and others from illegally reentering the United States and committing crimes.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Segundo-Cruz.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Plum Borough, PA, has been sentenced in federal court today to 10 years (120 months) of imprisonment on his conviction for violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Brandon Winters, age 43, formerly of Plum Borough, PA, who pleaded guilty in September 2019 to the two-Count Indictment charging him at Count One with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl; and at Count Two, with possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

According to information presented to the Court, on January 30, 2019, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division executed a search warrant at an apartment located in Pittsburgh, which was utilized by Mr. Winters and his alleged coconspirators, Eduard Rijo and Erick Martinez. Upon entry into the apartment, case agents located Winters, Rijo, and Martinez, approximately 1,500 "bricks" (the equivalent of roughly 75,000 individual dosage units) containing mixtures of heroin and fentanyl, and more than 500 grams of cocaine. Additionally, case agents seized over $250,000 in U.S. Currency, which was found in and around Mr. Winters and his alleged coconspirators.

Prior to sentencing Mr. Winters to a 10-year term of imprisonment, the Court noted Mr. Winters’ acknowledgement that his criminal conduct in this case was motived by his selfishness, greed, and addiction to the fast and easy money associated with narcotics trafficking. Following Mr. Winters release from his sentence of incarceration, the Court ordered that he be under the supervision of the United States Probation Department for a period of five years.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome A. Moschetta and Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mr. Winters.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 57 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Derrick L. Harper, Jr., 27.

According to information presented to the court, on Nov. 27, 2018, Harper possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, fentanyl and cocaine.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Johnstown Police Department for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Harper.

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

Mark Carter, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in June 2016, Pennsylvania State Police arranged for a confidential informant to buy crack and heroin from Mark Carter. Carter arranged for Brandon Morris to meet the CI. In exchange for $2,000 in pre-recorded funds, Morris gave the CI three bricks of heroin and one-half of an ounce of crack. On June 27, 2016, the CI purchased heroin and crack from Carter using $2,150 in pre-recorded funds.

On June 28, 2016, troopers executed a search warrant on Morris’ residence located on E. Brady St. in Butler, PA. In the bedroom where Carter was found, troopers recovered a plastic bag containing 39.57g of raw heroin, a plastic bag containing 119.36g of crack cocaine, individual packets of heroin, $7,612.00, including $4,150 pre-recorded funds, and various items of drug paraphernalia.

On July 21, 2016, the CI arranged to buy drugs from Carter. Carter asked the CI to pick up Janell Hunter from the Greyhound Bus Station and to get her a hotel room in Butler. Carter arrived from Philadelphia a short time later. A search warrant on the hotel room revealed a bag containing 80.58g of crack cocaine, 38.83g heroin, and drug paraphernalia.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 23, 2020. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Carter remain detained.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Carter.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Blair County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh on charges of tax evasion and wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Patrick S. LaMarsh, age 40, of Altoona, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, between 2011 and 2013, LaMarsh defrauded TracFone and Walmart by selling fraudulently obtained Straight Talk airtime cards on Amazon.com. According to the information provided to the court, LaMarsh fraudulently re-encoded Straight Talk prepaid wireless cards and sold them for a discount, netting in excess of one million dollars in sales. LaMarsh used the proceeds to buy precious metals and a recreational vehicle. In addition, LaMarsh deposited proceeds into nominee bank accounts to conceal income.

Judge Bissoon scheduled the sentencing for June 24, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years’ imprisonment for each count of conviction for tax evasions, and 20 years imprisonment for each count of conviction for wire fraud, a fine of $4,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Monroeville pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to conspiracy to commit marriage fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Makhan Singh, 53, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around 2011 through in and around October of 2018, Makhan Singh conspired with his brother Rajinder Singh, and United States citizen Dawn Haroulakis, to knowingly facilitate or enter into a marriage for the purpose of evading the immigration laws. The court was further advised that Makhan Singh offered to pay Ms. Haroulakis if she would marry his brother, Rajinder Singh, so that Rajinder, a native and citizen of India, could obtain legal permanent residency in the United States. Ms. Haroulakis agreed to the sham marriage, and Makhan Singh then made payments of more than $15,000 to Ms. Haroulakis in exchange for her marriage to Rajinder Singh.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for August 6, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendant remains on bond pending sentencing.

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

The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Singh, in connection with the Pittsburgh Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF). The DBFTF is a multi-agency partnership established to focus on high-impact criminal investigations involving the use of fraudulent documents in furtherance of immigrations benefit applications and petitions, financial fraud, criminal work-site enforcement, and public benefits fraud. The Pittsburgh DBFTF consists of the following agencies: Homeland Security Investigations, US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, US Department of State-Diplomatic Security Service, US Department of Agriculture- Office of the Inspector General, US Department of Labor- Office of the Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.

PITTSBURGH – Quoc Boa Trinh pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute Schedule I synthetic cannabinoid controlled substances between 2017 and 2019, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Trinh, age 40, pled guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing to occur on July 7, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. Trinh was serving a prior federal prison sentence when he committed the crime to which he pled guilty.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Evans City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a bank robbery charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chad Vaughan, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Vaughan robbed the NexTier Bank, located at 226 South Main Street, in Zelienople, on October 23, 2018, of $2,065.00. Vaughan was dressed in all black, including a ski mask and gloves, and demanded "big bills" from the bank tellers. After receiving money from the tellers, he placed the money into a shopping bag before and ran out of the bank. An eye witness observed Vaughan getting into a Ford sedan, which law enforcement later located and searched. During the search of the vehicle, law enforcement found the same black clothing, ski mask and gloves worn by Vaughan when he robbed the bank. Vaughan admitted, during the hearing, that before he robbed the bank, he used his cell phone to search the internet for "what is the jail time for a bank robbery" and "how easy is it to rob a bank." A few days after the bank robbery, Vaughan also admitted that he searched for and viewed an article on a local news website about the NexTier Bank robbery.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 7, 2020, at 2:15 PM. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Vaughan remains incarcerated pending sentencing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 63 months to be followed by 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Brian R. Reddinger, age 37, of Mt. Royal Boulevard, in Shaler Twp., PA.

According to information presented to the court, in the fall of 2016, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was conducting an online investigation into the internet sharing of child pornography. As part of the investigation, a special agent was able to connect to a device that was sharing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors and download a suspected child porn file. The investigation led to Brian Reddinger. On November 1, 2016, agents executed a search warrant on Reddinger’s home. Reddinger admitted to searching, downloading, viewing and possessing child porn. He stated that his downloads are highly structured on his computer. He further stated that he downloaded files of individuals as young as 5 years of age. He stated that he searches for child porn once a week using child porn terms and that although he deletes a lot of files, he has "probably a gross number" of child porn. He asked the agents if they could delete or overlook the situation. Three of the items seized from Reddinger contained child porn. In total, there were 2,932 images and 60 videos of child porn on the devices.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Brian Reddinger.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge relating to theft of Social Security funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Kristie Marraccini, age 40, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from in and around August 2016, to in and around December 2017, Marraccini knowingly received and converted Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, in an amount exceeding $1,000.00.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Vashon Dewight Cotton, 29, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about November 6, 2019, Cotton, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm.  Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00 or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

Assistant United States Attorney Christopher M. Cook is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearm and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Superseding Indictment named Samuel A. Cheeks, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about July 23, 2017, and September 27, 2017, Cheeks unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition after having previously been convicted of crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. The Superseding Indictment also alleges that, on September 27, 2017, Cheeks unlawfully possessed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

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

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Ellwood City Police Department, and the New Castle 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..

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

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Verona, PA, has been sentenced to federal prison on federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chace Johnson, age 21, formerly of Harvest Drive, previously pleaded guilty to one count of maintaining a drug involved premises before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. Yesterday, Judge Hornak sentenced Johnson to a term of 23 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

According to information presented to the court in August and September of 2017, Johnson guarded the drug house on Harvest Drive in Verona, PA run by Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. and other co-conspirators. In furtherance of this, Johnson guarded large sums of money used in the drug trafficking and also acquired drug packaging material to be used in re-packaging and distribution for the drugs coming into the house.

On November 5, 2017, an FBI and Pennsylvania State Police Task Force executed a search warrant at the Harvest Drive location. The search netted 52 kilograms of cocaine and heroin, 85 pounds of marijuana, illegal steroids, three firearms, and nearly a million dollars in cash.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni and Shaun Sweeney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police, with assistance from the South Strabane Police Department, the Elizabeth Borough Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the Perryopolis Police Department, conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Superseding Indictment named Nathaniel Jackson, 44, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, on or about April 29, 2019, and on May 1, 2019, Jackson distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.

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

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court related to a series of bank robberies that occurred in West Mifflin, McCandless, Penn Hills and Bloomfield, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jasmine Parrish, 30, pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Nora Barry Fischerfull name of Judge.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was informed that Parrish, a former employee of PNC bank, met her co-defendant, Donna Poremski, while the two worked together in the home-healthcare industry. 

Parrish admitted, during her change of plea, that she and Poremski conspired together to commit three bank robberies on June 23, 2018, September 6, 2018, and October 18, 2018, and that she, additionally, drove a juvenile to the Liberty Avenue area and wrote the demand note for the juvenile to use to rob the PNC Bank located on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield, on November 21, 2018.

The Court was informed during the hearing that during the first bank robbery, on June 23, 2018, Parrish and Poremski entered the PNC Bank, located in West Mifflin, and attempted to conceal their identities by dressing in traditional Middle Eastern attire, including wearing hijabs that covered their faces.  Additionally, Parrish carried a cane and wore a surgical mask over her face with a tube that connected to an oxygen tank.  The women approached the teller station and handed one of the tellers a note as well as threatened that they had a bomb.  The Court also was informed that Poremski was observed on surveillance footage brandishing what appeared to be a firearm, and that the two women then directed the bank employees to empty their cash drawers and enter the bank vault where he bank employees were forced to put the money into the suitcase.  Parrish admitted that the women stole $61,124.00 from this bank.

Parrish admitted, in conjunction with her guilty plea, that during the second and third bank robberies, on September 6, 2018, and October 18, 2018, the two women wore disguises and that she entered the banks, located on McKnight Road in McCandless, and on Rodi Road in Penn Hills, to scope the bank out prior to Poremski entering the bank and robbing them. 

During the September bank robbery, the Court was also informed that Poremski brandished what appeared to be a .9mm pistol and demanded money from the tellers.  After obtaining the money from the teller’s cash drawer, Poremski directed the bank employees into the bank vault where the bank employees were forced to put money into Poremski’s bag.  While the bank robbery was underway, Parrish was observed driving Poremski’s vehicle near the bank.  Parrish admitted that the women stole $35,500.00 from this bank. 

During the October bank robbery, the Court was further informed that Poremski demanded money from the tellers and threatened to use a firearm but never brandished one.  Parrish admitted that the women stole $350.00 from this bank.

A total of $97,004.00 was taken from the West Mifflin, McCandless and Penn Hills PNC banks, during these robberies. 

Parrish also admitted that she drove a juvenile to the Liberty Avenue area and wrote the demand note for the juvenile to use during a bank robbery at the PNC Bank located on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield, on November 21, 2018.  The Court also was informed that this was the branch that Parrish had previously worked at and that while the juvenile gave one of the tellers the demand note, that she left the bank before obtaining any money.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2020 at 11:30 a.m.  As to each of the armed bank robbery counts, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both.  As to each of the unarmed bank robbery counts, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.  Additionally, the law provides for a minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the conspiracy offense.  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.

Parrish remains incarcerated pending sentencing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, West Mifflin Borough Police Department, the McCandless Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of DuBois, Pennsylvania has been sentenced for health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

In March 2019, David James Girardi pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud. In connection with the guilty plea, Girardi admitted to committing health care fraud by submitting fraudulent claims to Highmark for six Oxycodone and Hydrocodone prescriptions that Girardi wrote for his wife, but which were in fact intended for his own use.

On January 30, 2020, United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson sentenced Girardi to five years’ probation and six months’ home confinement. Judge Gibson further ordered that Girardi pay a $5,000 fine and restitution to Highmark, Inc.

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

The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of David James Girardi.

PITTSBURGH - A Westmoreland County physician has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, health care fraud, and conspiracy to distribute phentermine hydrochloride and diethylpropion, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned on January 16, and unsealed on January 30, named Thomas Whitten, 69, of Greensburg, PA, as the defendant.

According to the Indictment, from May 2013 to November 2015, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Whitten conspired to receive kickbacks from Insys Therapeutics in exchange for prescribing fentanyl, in the form of Subsys, to his patients, and that Whitten conspired to distribute fentanyl, in the form of Subsys. The Indictment also alleges that from May 2013 to March 2017, Whitten committed health care fraud by causing insurers to pay for unlawful Subsys prescriptions. Finally, the Indictment alleges that from November 2017 through December 12, 2019, Whitten conspired to distribute phentermine hydrochloride and diethylpropion.

The law provides for a sentence of not less than five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Karen Gal-Or are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Pennsylvania State Attorney General’s Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thomas Whitten. An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The investigations leading to the filing of charges in these cases were 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 resident of Pembroke Pines, Florida, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 21 months to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction for theft of mail, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur Schwab imposed the sentence on Cassio Orville Donald Slowden, age 28.

Previously, in connection with Slowden’s guilty plea, the court was advised that in February 2019, Citizens Bank replacement debit cards and PIN reminders were fraudulently ordered for several customers in McMurray, Pennsylvania. On the afternoon of February 11, U.S. mail was delivered to the mailbox of one of the residences in McMurray. Shortly after, Slowden removed several pieces of mail from the mailbox and drove away from the residence. Slowden’s vehicle was stopped by law enforcement, and a search of the vehicle recovered stolen mail, including the Citizens Bank replacement debit card and PIN reminder taken from the mailbox of the McMurray residence.

The Court was further advised that Citizens Bank, Bank of America, and other financial institutions were victims of an ongoing multistate fraud scheme. The scheme involved one or more callers contacting banks and impersonating customers. The caller would order replacement debit cards and debit card PIN reminders to the customer’s address on file. The suspects would intercept the cards and use them to make fraudulent ATM withdrawals. Slowden is connected to at least $116,277.19 in losses related to fraudulent withdrawals from accounts of at least 12 Citizens Bank and Bank of America customers

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

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Slowden.