Western District of Pennsylvania

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

Brian Salaj, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. Mr. Salaj 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.

Intercepted communications demonstrated that Mr. Salaj conspired with others to distribute controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl. Specifically, Mr. Salaj served as a middleman who purchased distribution-level quantities of narcotics from co-conspirators and then redistributed the narcotics to other customers. Mr. Salaj was responsible for the distribution of 15 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 2, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Salaj remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

PITTBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Derek Reddix, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on February 23, 2018, Derek Reddix was on pretrial release for two separate state court firearms charges. That day, Pittsburgh Police officers were driving outbound on the 7500 block of Formosa Way when they observed an individual, later identified as Reddix, manipulating what was believed to be a firearm in his waistband. Officers exited their vehicle in order to conduct an investigation. As the officers began approaching Reddix, he fled on foot, running between and behind houses, despite the officers’ repeated and clear orders to "Stop." One officer eventually was able to catch and tackle Reddix. Reddix fell to the ground, while clutching a blue flip phone. Officers handcuffed Reddix, and he stated that he had dropped his other cell phone while running, and asked whether the officers were able to find it.

Officers secured the area where Reddix had been observed running, and they discovered and seized a Glock handgun with a 30-round extended magazine under the rear porch of 7578 Kelly Street. The gun was loaded with one round in the magazine. Within approximately a few feet of the gun, officers also discovered and seized Reddix’s other cell phone. A subsequent search of the cell phone revealed photographs of Reddix holding the Glock.

Reddix is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm, as he was convicted on or about April 21, 2009, in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas of the crime of Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License, and was sentenced to one to two years’ in jail.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Reddix remain detained on the federal firearms charge.

Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Derek Reddix.

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, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court for aiding and abetting armed bank robbery and attempted armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer sentenced Nicole Wallace, 35, to 48 months for her crime, and ordered that she pay restitution for the money she helped steal from the bank.

According to information presented to the court, in October 2018, Wallace acted as the getaway driver for two armed bank robberies (the October 17 robbery of Huntington Bank in Pittsburgh and the October 29 robbery of the First National Bank in Pittsburgh) and one attempted armed bank robbery (at the First National Bank in Pittsburgh on October 26) in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In one of those incidents, a security guard was assaulted, drew his weapon, and there was an armed stand-off with Wallace’s co-conspirator.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was warranted based on the seriousness of the offenses and the danger they posed to the community.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wallace.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Keenan Williams, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of heroin at Count One of the Indictment, before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Williams and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications over the phone of Williams’ co-defendant and brother, Richard Coto-Wheat, confirmed that Williams served as a drug runner for the conspiracy, distributing controlled substances in the North Versailles and Braddock neighborhoods.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020, at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, 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. Williams remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on January 7, named Aaron Lyons, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about November 19, 2019, Lyons, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol and 11 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. The Indictment also alleges that the defendant had been convicted in April 2018 of unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reductions 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 prevent and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Brooklyn, New York, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Quaruan Chance, age 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Chance was found to be in possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000, a term of supervised release of at least four years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and 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.

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 Indictment named Andrew R. Colvin, 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about October 7, 2019, Colvin possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana. Further, on or about October 9, 2019, Colvin possessed with intent to distribute one gram or more of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana, cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), ketamine, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force 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, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Kyleif Harley, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. The defendant acknowledged his responsibility for the distribution of 15 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Mr. Harley 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.

Intercepted communications demonstrated that Harley possessed and distributed heroin and fentanyl, and communicated directly with his co-defendant, Christopher Highsmith, who was among the leaders of the drug trafficking conspiracy, in order to develop his drug trafficking business. The court was further informed that during a traffic stop of Harley near Philadelphia on August 1, 2018, law enforcement officials seized 261 stamps bags of heroin, over 60 pills that tested positive for various forms of fentanyl, and items related to narcotics distribution that were purchased in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Harley later pleaded guilty to state charges that stemmed from the traffic stop.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for July 6, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Harley remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New 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 Curwensville, Pa., was indicted on January 7, 2020, by a federal grand jury on a charge of violating federal firearms and ammunition laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Chancellor M. Shaw, 25, as the sole defendant.

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

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and 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 of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

Timothy Bonner, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bonner conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance and a quantity of marijuana from April 2017 through April 2019.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for April 27, 2020 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than forty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Fairview, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 22 months in jail and ordered to pay $200,000 in restitution on her conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Elizabeth McMahan, 51. 

According to information presented to the court, McMahan was a commission sales employee at National Tool Grinding in Erie. From June 2010 to August 2014, she was selling products for a thirty to ninety percent discount without authorization from her employer, which resulted in greater commissions for her. In addition, McMahan falsified commission reports by submitting false sales that never occurred and increasing purchase prices.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of McMahan.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Meadville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 96 months in jail and 8 years supervised release 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 Dennis Michael Kerr, 29.

According to information presented to the court, Kerr transported computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Kerr also transferred and attempted to transfer obscene material to an individual Kerr thought was a minor.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kerr.

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the Allenwood United States Penitentiary in Allenwood, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of infliction of bodily injury, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Lawrence W. Nelson, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about July 10, 2019, Nelson assaulted a staff member while an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution. The staff member suffered a broken nose, black eye and concussion as a result of the assault.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 28, 2020 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Nelson.

PITTSBURGH – Two Ohio men pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to charges of conspiracy to commit armed pharmacy robbery, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and armed pharmacy robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Mohammed Jibril, age 19, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, and Arthur Lee Worthy, II, age 21, of Columbus, Ohio, each pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Court Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Abdulrahman Abdelaziz Jamea is the leader of numerous well-orchestrated pharmacy robberies in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere.  He recruited other individuals, including Mohammed Jibril and Arthur Lee Worthy, II, to rob pharmacies.  Jamea researched which pharmacies to rob and then would drive to the location of the pharmacy to be robbed, stake it out, then he and/or his crew would complete the robbery.   

On November 17, 2018, two individuals robbed the Rite Aid pharmacy located on Third Street in Beaver, PA.  One of the males pulled out a black colored automatic pistol and pointed it in the pharmacist’s direction.  Worthy jumped over the counter and inquired about the safe and asked for codeine syrup.  He pulled out a garbage bag then placed prescription pills into the bag.   Based on historical cell site records, it appears that Jamea was on scene at the Rite Aid at the time of the robbery. 

On November 22, 2018, at 2:22 am, two black males robbed the CVS pharmacy on Centre Avenue in Pittsburgh.  One of the males pointed a gun at the pharmacist and told her to open the safe.  Worthy jumped the counter and as the pharmacist opened the two safes, Worthy placed prescription narcotics into a black trash bag.  Jamea was identified on the surveillance video entering the store shortly before the robbery occurred.  As the males fled the store, the getaway vehicle, a red Hyundai Sonata with Ohio registration, owned by Jamea, pulled up and they fled. 

On December 2, 2018, Worthy robbed the Rite Aid in Marietta, Ohio.  He brandished a gun then jumped over the pharmacy counter and pistol-whipped the pharmacist.  He pointed the gun at the cashier and demanded that he open the register.  Worthy was only able to get $447.05 before fleeing in a dark red/maroon four door vehicle with Ohio tags. The weapon, a .177 pellet/BB pistol was found in the parking lot.  There were also text messages between Jamea and Jibril leading up to the robbery. 

On December 7, 2018, at 6:14 am, Worthy robbed the CVS Pharmacy in Erie, Pennsylvania.  He approached the pharmacy counter and demanded drugs and money and threatened to kill the pharmacist. Worthy jumped over the counter and asked for oxycodone and money, then placed prescription narcotics in a Foot Locker bag.  He also took $410 in U.S. Currency before fleeing the store.  Worthy’s fingerprints were lifted from the pharmacy. At 9:09 am, Ohio state patrol initiated a stop on Jibril and Worthy’s rental vehicle.  From the vehicle, officers recovered the Foot Locker bag filled with prescription drugs and $300 from Jibril.  Text messages indicate that Jamea provided Jibril with the address of the pharmacy and told him where to park the vehicle prior to the robbery.  The messages also indicate that Jamea arranged for the rental of the vehicle.  During the time of the traffic stop, Jamea was texting Jibril. 

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for Jibril for April 20, 2020, and for Worthy for April 22, 2020.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.  Pending sentencing, the court ordered both defendants to remain detained.

Abdulrahman Abdelaziz Jamea is pending trial.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Bridgeville Police Department and the Ohio Highway Patrol, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

John Fedorka, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. The defendant acknowledged his responsibility for the distribution of 18 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Mr. Fedorka 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.

Fedorka purchased heroin and fentanyl from his co-conspirator, Christopher Highsmith, and served as a middleman in drug transactions. The court was further informed that on January 17, 2019, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police made a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Fedorka was the front seat passenger. Police recovered three bricks of heroin from Fedorka.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for May 6, 2020, at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. In addition to the charges to which he pleaded guilty, Fedorka has a prior felony drug conviction, and, as such, is subject to enhanced penalties. The defendant remains in jail pending the sentencing hearing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New 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 resident of Varna, Bulgaria, was sentenced on December 16, 2019, in federal court in Pittsburgh to a period of time served after having served more than 39 months in prison following his conviction on charges of criminal conspiracy, computer fraud, and bank fraud for his role as a member of the GozNym malware cybercrime network, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Krasimir Nikolov, 47, of Bulgaria. Nikolov will be transferred into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody and removed from the United States to Bulgaria.

At the request of the United States, Nikolov was arrested in September 2016 by Bulgarian authorities and extradited to Pittsburgh in December 2016 to face prosecution in the Western District of Pennsylvania. According to information presented to the court, Nikolov’s primary role in the conspiracy was that of a "casher" or "account takeover specialist." In that capacity, Nikolov used victims’ stolen online banking credentials captured by GozNym malware to access victims’ online bank accounts and attempt to steal victims’ money through electronic transfers into bank accounts controlled by fellow conspirators.

Nikolov conspired with fellow GozNym members charged in a related Indictment announced in May 2019 in The Hague, Netherlands by U.S. Attorney Brady and international partners from Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, Germany, Europol, and Eurojust. The Indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, charged 10 additional members of the GozNym criminal network with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to that Indictment, Alexander Konovolov, aka "NoNe," aka "none_1," of Tbilisi, Georgia, was the primary organizer and leader of the GozNym network who controlled more than 41,000 victim computers infected with GozNym malware. Konovolov assembled the team of elite cybercriminals charged in the Indictment, in part by recruiting them through underground online criminal forums. Marat Kazandjian, aka "phant0m," of Kazakhstan and Tbilisi, Georgia, was Konovolov’s primary assistant and technical administrator. Konovolov and Kazandjian were arrested and prosecuted in Georgia for their respective roles in the GozNym criminal network

In a related announcement today, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia announced the convictions and imposition of sentences against Konovolov and Kazandjian following a lengthy trial held in Tbilisi, Georgia. In an unprecedented level of cooperation, the Georgian trial included witness testimony from an FBI agent and a computer scientist from the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office, as well as evidence obtained by the

FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office through their parallel investigation. The Georgian prosecution was based on violations of Georgian criminal laws perpetrated by Konovolov and Kazandjian against GozNym victims in the United States, including victims in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

"In announcing the prosecution of the GozNym international cybercrime syndicate with our law enforcement partners at Europol in May, I stated that borderless cybercrime necessitates a borderless response," said U. S. Attorney Brady. "This new paradigm involves unprecedented levels of cooperation with willing and trusted law enforcement partners around the world who share our goals of searching, arresting and prosecuting cyber criminals no matter where they might be. I want to congratulate and personally thank the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia for their dedication and hard work in securing these important convictions, and for their willingness to seek justice on behalf of GozNym victims in the United States and around the world."

"The FBI will not allow cyber criminals from any country to operate with impunity," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. "For years, these cyber criminals believed they could steal millions from innocent victims. Through international cooperation with multiple agencies, we were able to target, takedown and bring to justice members of this criminal enterprise. We will continue to relentlessly pursue these cyber criminals who think they can conduct illicit activity from behind the perceived anonymity of a computer."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the U.S. government.

In addition to extending his gratitude and appreciation to the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia for their investigation and successful prosecution of Konovolov and Kazandjian, United States Attorney Brady commended the FBI for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutions of Nikolov, Konovolov and Kazandjian.

The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance with the extradition of Nikolov from Bulgaria as well as with the bi-lateral sharing of evidence with Georgia. Bulgaria’s General Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime assisted in the arrest of Nikolov.

Georgia Prosecutor's Office Press Release.pdf

PITTSBURGH - A resident of North Las Vegas, Nevada, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual Activity and Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on Dec. 17 and unsealed today, named Renad Bautista, age 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from in and around April 2018, until on or about December 9, 2019, Bautista used the Internet to knowingly attempt to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The Indictment further alleges that on from on or about December 5, 2019 until on or about December 9, 2019, Bautista travelled for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual contact.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than life in prison, a fine of $750,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Mifflin 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.

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 West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Wayne Barker, age 61, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In April of 2019, investigators obtained authorization for the interception of wire and electronic communications over a telephone operated by another member of the conspiracy, which continued through May of 2019.

Based in part upon intercepted communications, on May 24, 2019, law enforcement established surveillance in the vicinity of an apartment on Covode Street in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, which was identified by investigators as a large-scale marijuana stash house operated by Barker. While conducting surveillance, law enforcement officials observed a Dodge Ram operated by another member of the conspiracy pull into the driveway of the apartment where several individuals unloaded boxes into the apartment and then loaded two additional boxes into the Dodge Ram. Investigators executed federal search warrants on the vehicle and the apartment, and seized $469,475 from the Dodge Ram. Additionally, the Court was informed that law enforcement seized 404 pounds of marijuana and an additional $5,012 from the apartment as well as vacuum sealers, a money counter and other items indicative of large-scale drug-trafficking.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2020 at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence, as to each count, of not less than five and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Barker remains on bond pending sentencing.

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

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

Reginald Brown, 29, formerly of Glassport, PA, pleaded guilty to one count related to drug trafficking, before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

Gregory Luptak, 51, of North Huntingdon, PA, pleaded guilty to one count related to drug trafficking also before Judge Schwab.

In connection with the guilty pleas, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock area. Reginald Brown, Gregory Luptak, and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh Region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019.

As to Reginald Brown, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Brown was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances, namely cocaine base in the form commonly known as crack. Mr. Brown admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a member of "SCO." The court was further advised that on June 12, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and located the following items from the kitchen cabinets indicative of drug-trafficking, including: several cell phones, a Ruger 9mm pistol with loaded magazine and chambered round, a digital scale, suspected crack cocaine, sandwich baggies and baking soda, as well as $5,490.00. The court accepted Mr. Brown’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019.

As to Gregory Luptak, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Luptak distributed large quantities of heroin. Mr. Luptak admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he was observed purchasing heroin at a stash house location on Seddon Avenue in Braddock, which he then distributed. The court accepted Luptak’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 47 grams of heroin.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 14, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Brown and May 18, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Luptak. For Brown, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years and not more than 40 years in prison, with a maximum fine of $5,000,000. For Luptak, the law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000,000 at each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants. Williams was previously ordered detained by the court and will remain incarcerated pending sentencing. Luptak was released on bond pursuant to the court’s prior order and will remain out on bond pending sentencing.

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

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

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

The one-count Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Kris Johnson, age 28, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on August 12, 2018, Kris Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of 5-F ADB, a synthetic cannabinoid, a Schedule I controlled substance

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

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

The Drug Enforcement Agency 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 federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment today against a resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Superseding Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Zaamar Stevenson, aka Scrap, age 43, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on or about November 9, 2015, the defendant conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. In addition, the Superseding Indictment charges the defendant with possessing with intent to distribute both of those drugs on that date.

The law provides for a maximum total 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.

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

The Butler County District Attorney's Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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 federal grand jury returned a third superseding indictment against two residents of Pittsburgh, PA, on charges of violating the federal narcotics, firearms and money laundering laws, United States Scott W. Brady announced today.

The nine-count third Superseding Indictment, returned on Dec. 17, named Lynell Guyton, age 30, and Drevon Woodson, age 22, as the defendants.

According to the third Superseding Indictment, Guyton and Woodson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute varying quantities of an analogue of fentanyl, from May, 2017, to August, 2017. Guyton is charged with possession with intent to distribute the same. According to information provided to the Court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant at 7 Bond Street in Pittsburgh’s West End. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne. Several SWAT operators experienced dizziness and numbness. In all, 18 officers were transported to UPMC-Mercy for evaluation before being medically cleared. In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the "Ferrari" stamp and the "Louis Vuitton" stamp.

In addition, the third Superseding Indictment charges that Guyton possessed with intent to distribute a fentanyl analogue on July 20, 2017, and August 2, 2017, and that he attempted to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue on June 1, 2017. In addition, Guyton is charged with two counts of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and with two counts of sending international wire transfers to promote the drug trafficking.

The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 10 years to up to life in prison as well as certain statutory minimum sentences starting at 5 years in prison. Fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $20,000,000 may also be imposed. 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 each defendant. Guyton and Woodson are currently detained pending resolution of these charges.

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

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, conducted the investigation leading to the third Superseding Indictment in this case.

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

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PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Patrick Acierno, 34, who received a total of 57 months’ imprisonment, followed by 36 months’ supervised release.

According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2019, Acierno entered KeyBank, located at 9605 Harmony Drive, Ingomar, PA 15127, dressed in a black hooded sweatshirt, black mask, sunglasses, and blue latex gloves, proceeded toward the teller stations where two tellers were working and took $7,743, including eight $20.00 bait bills. Acierno fled on foot and was observed by one of the tellers getting into a blue Toyota Rav 4. Franklin Park Police later identified the Toyota Rav4, and apprehended the defendant after a brief vehicle chase. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement officials found the items Acierno wore during the robbery, and $7,743 in U.S. currency, including the bait bills from the Key Bank.

In addition to the March 5, 2019 KeyBank robbery, Acierno was sentenced for committing three additional bank robberies on September 12, 2018, at the PNC Bank at 20940 Route 19, in Cranberry, on November 12, 2018, at the West View Savings Bank, 2566 Brandt School Road, in Wexford, and December 5, 2018, at the WesBanco Bank, 3531 Broadhead Road, in Monaca.

Additionally, Acierno was sentenced for robbing the Cogos located at 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, also in Monaca, on October 11, 2018. Acierno was ordered to pay restitution to the victim banks and convenience store, which totals $26,423 from the banks and $630 from CoGos.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cranberry Police Department, the Franklin Park Police Department, the Center Township Police Department, the McCandless Police Department, and the Monaca Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Acierno.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Coraopolis, PA, was sentenced to eight years in prison to be followed six years of supervised release for distribution of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cleo Maurice Bronaugh, age 42, was sentenced by United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Bronaugh acknowledged as part of his guilty plea that the fentanyl he distributed resulted in the death of a Moon Township woman. Bronaugh has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court and will continue to remain detained pending his placement in the Bureau of Prisons.

According to information presented to the court, on March 5, 2017, Bronaugh delivered a quantity of fentanyl to an individual identified as L.T. in Moon Township, PA. Bronaugh attempted to warn L.T. and her family members of the potency of the fentanyl he distributed to her by leaving numerous phone messages. However, these messages did not reach L.T. in time and she ingested the fentanyl without any of the defendant’s warnings. L.T. was discovered by her family members the next day. The Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner later determined that L.T.’s death was due to fentanyl toxicity.

Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Moon Township Police, the Allegheny County Police, the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner and the Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.

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

Tia Collins, 44, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

During her plea hearing, Tia Collins admitted that between 2011 and 2017 she was affiliated with Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI), Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL), and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS)—three related entities operating in the home health care industry. MCI, ADL, and a fourth company, Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI), were approved under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program to offer certain services to qualifying Medicaid recipients ("consumers"), including personal assistance services (PAS), service coordination, and non-medical transportation, among other services. Between in and around January 2011 and in and around April 2017, MCI, ADL, and CCI, collectively, received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments based on claims submitted for these services, with PAS payments accounting for more than $80,000,000 of the total amount.

During that time, Collins admitted that she participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program for the purpose of obtaining millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments through the submission of fraudulent claims for services that were never provided to the consumers identified on the claims, or for which there was insufficient or fabricated documentation to support the claims. As part of the conspiracy, Collins admitted that she fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care that, in fact, she never provided to consumers. Collins also admitted that she caused the submission of Medicaid claims in the name of a "ghost" employee for PAS care that was never provided to the consumers specified on the claims. Collins also paid or caused other individuals to pay certain consumers cash kickbacks in exchange for the consumers’ participation in the fraudulent arrangement. Likewise, Collins admitted that she paid additional kickbacks to consumers out of the proceeds of fraudulent transportation reimbursements Collins caused Medicaid to disburse on behalf of the consumers. In total, Collins admitted causing losses to the Pennsylvania Medicaid program in excess of $150,000.

Judge Bissoon scheduled Collins's sentencing for 2:15 p.m. on April 9, 2020.

The conspiracy and health care fraud charges each carry a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years’ (24 months’) imprisonment and two years of supervised release on her conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Latisha Butler, age 29.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 14, 2018, Butler, an individual with a prior felony conviction for Possession with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, knowingly and unlawfully possessed a Smith & Wesson Model M&P-15 Rifle, a Smith & Wesson, Model SD9VE handgun, a Diamondback Model DB9 Handgun, and various types of ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Butler.

PITTSBURGH – Jamiek Moore, 23, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on Monday to 130 months’ imprisonment (10 years and 10 months) on his convictions for violating the federal narcotics and firearms and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W, Brady announced today. Following a two-day non-jury trial that concluded in March 2019, Jamiek Moore was convicted of conspiracy to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and two counts of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on or about June 8, 2017, Moore conspired with others, including co-defendant Jaimere Dehonney, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and that Moore possessed firearms on that day in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The government’s evidence largely consisted of items seized by law enforcement pursuant to search warrants from a residence and vehicle utilized by Moore, his co-defendant Dehonney, and others, located at a residence on Yosemite Drive in Penn Hills, Allegheny County. That evidence consisted of quantities of heroin, large quantities of heroin packaging materials, approximately $28,000 in U.S. Currency, and two loaded firearms. The government further established that on May 15, 2017, at a residence located on Rhine Court in Pittsburgh, Moore possessed quantities of marijuana and heroin with the intent to distribute them, and that he possessed two loaded firearms that day in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On December 16, 2019, United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton sentenced Moore to five-year terms of imprisonment on the firearms offenses, which were ordered to run consecutively to one another pursuant to federal law for a total sentence of 10 years’ (120 months’) imprisonment for those crimes. Additionally, Judge Walton sentenced Moore to an additional 10 months of imprisonment for the narcotics violations, also to run consecutively to the sentence for the firearms offenses, pursuant to federal law, for a total sentence of 130 months’ imprisonment. Upon Moore’s release from incarceration, he will be supervised by the United States Probation Department for a term of five years.

U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Penn Hills Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutio

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Mark Ridley, age 28, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute heroin and one count of possession with the intent to distribute heroin in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.

According to information presented to the court, on April 25, 2017, Ridley conspired with others to transport a large quantity of heroin to the Hazlewood section of Pittsburgh. Ridley believed that he was transporting the heroin to sell to a drug customer. However, Ridley was actually communicating with two FBI agents acting in an undercover capacity. FBI recovered a large quantity of heroin in a secret compartment of the passenger door after Ridley arrived to a location driven in a car by co-defendant Leonard Rushin-Felder, who has previously pleaded guilty in this case. After arresting Ridley, FBI agents recovered three cell phones from Ridley including the phone undercover agents were in contact with.

The law provides for a sentence of not more 30 years in prison and/or a fine of not more than $2,000,000. 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.

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, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

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

PITTSBURGH - One former resident of Verona, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Kaylin Lightfoot-Homa, age 26, pleaded guilty to one count of maintaining a drug involved premises before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.

According to information presented to the court, from May 2017 to November 2017, Kaylin Lightfoot-Homa lived at a home on Harvest Drive in Verona, PA with her husband and co-defendant Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. and co-defendant Chace Johnson. Both of these individuals have previously pleaded guilty. During this time, Lightfoot-Homa facilitated the use of the house as a drug involved premises where large amounts of cocaine and money were stored and distributed from there. On November 5, 2017, Lightfoot-Homa was present when FBI executed multiple search warrants at the residence and recovered 51 kilograms of cocaine, 85 kilograms of marijuana, multiple firearms, and over $500,000 in US Currency.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 20 years in prison and/or a fine of not more than $500,000. 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 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.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Donora, PA, has pleaded guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Brett Fincik, age 45, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.

According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 to November 2017, Fincik conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Fincik would then resell large quantities of cocaine to customers in Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Washington Counties.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and a maximum of life and/or a fine of not more than $10,000,000. 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 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.

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

The one-count Indictment named Amado Alonzo Zazueta Garcia, Juan Jose Quintero Felix, Luis Antonio Alvarado Llanes, and Sergio Geovany Alvarado Felix, each of whom is originally from Sinaloa, Mexico; and Aracelis Martinez Nunez, formerly of Sonora, Mexico.

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

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A contract employee for Siemens Corporation at the Monroeville, PA location has been sentenced in federal court to a six-month term of imprisonment to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release, and a fine of $7,500 on his conviction of intentional damage to a protected computer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on David Tinley, 62, of Harrison City, PA.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2014 and continuing until on or about May 13, 2016, Tinley intentionally inserted logic bombs into computer programs that he designed for Siemens Corporation. The logic bombs ensured that the programs would malfunction after the expiration of a certain date. As a result, Siemens was unaware of the cause of the malfunction and required Tinley to fix these malfunctions.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tinley.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Jefferson County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Matthew James Kite, 23, of Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on October 26, 2017, and on April 18, 2018, Kite possessed more than 600 images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including children under the age of 12, as well as infants and toddlers. On October 26, 2017, during the first federal search warrant executed at Kite’s home, law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices containing child pornography. In a voluntary interview with law enforcement, Kite admitted to viewing and downloading child pornography. Five months later, in April 2018, a second federal search warrant was executed at Kite’s home. Kite admitted to viewing and downloading child pornography on an additional phone and additional laptop. In addition to the guilty plea to possession of child pornography, Kite accepted responsibility for one count of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for April 21, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Kite remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

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

The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kite. 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 resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a violation of federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Allen Green, age 40, of pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Allen Green conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of powder cocaine.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 19, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years to life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led the multi-agency investigation, which also included the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, that led to the prosecution of Allen Green.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Joseph Hamilton, age 38, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 11, 2019 until on or about April 18, 2019, the defendant used a facility or means of interstate commerce, specifically the Internet and over a cellular phone network, to communicate with an undercover agent, believing the agent to be a minor, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce the purported minor to engage in sexual activity with him. In his messages with the undercover agent, the defendant detailed the sexual activity that he wanted to engage in with the purported minor. The defendant told the purported minor to delete their messages so that the purported minor’s mother would not find them. On April 18, 2019, the defendant made plans to meet with the undercover agent posing as a minor. The plan was for the defendant to pick the minor up at an agreed upon location in his vehicle and then they would go to the defendant’s residence to engage in sexual activity. Law enforcement arrested the defendant when he arrived to meet the purported minor.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for April 7, 2020 at 2:15 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 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.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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

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

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 Ohio has been sentenced in federal court to time served, three years supervised release, 180 days of home detention, and restitution in the amount of $24,244.00 on a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Kadijha D. Starks, 25, formerly of Columbus, Ohio.

According to the information presented to the court, beginning in and around September, 2014, and continuing thereafter until in and around October, 2017, Starks and conspirators used false identification cards to negotiate counterfeit checks at casinos including the River’s Casino in Pittsburgh in December, 2015.

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

The U.S. Attorney commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kadijha D. Starks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Kristoff Cain, a Jamaican national, pleaded guilty in federal court today before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around September 2013, and continuing thereafter until in and around April 2018, Kristoff Cain knowingly and willfully conspired with others to engage in a scheme to defraud elderly victims by contacting them by phone and through a variety of other means to inform them that they had won large cash prizes in a lottery and that the victims needed to send money to specified addresses or recipients to pay taxes or other assessments in order to claim the cash prizes. Additionally, the defendant and other individuals associated with the conspiracy also contacted certain other victims by telephone; represented themselves to be law enforcement officers, and informed the victims that they needed to send money to specified addresses or recipients in connection with investigations involving the individuals’ bank accounts. The defendant, and other persons associated with the conspiracy, well knew that the victims were not associated with any lottery or cash prize award, and that they were not involved in any law enforcement investigation involving the relevant bank accounts, and that the victims did not need to send money to the specified addresses or recipients.

The court was also advised that the amount of loss attributable to Kristoff Cain as part of his scheme and artifice to defraud was more than $250,000, and that the victims who were defrauded as a result of his conduct were unusually vulnerable due to age. Specifically, the defendant and other individuals associated with the conspiracy targeted multiple victims over the age of 80, and induced them to send money via wire transactions and other means to addresses specified by the defendant. The court was further advised that Kristoff Cain was a manager of the conspiracy and directed his co-conspirators’ extensive criminal activity.

Judge Bissoon set sentencing for April 7th, 2020 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Cain has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Clairton, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eugene Reddick, age 36, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine before Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak.

According to information presented to the court, from April 2017 to November 5, 2017, Reddick conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Reddick would then resell large quantities of cocaine to customers in Allegheny, Westmoreland and Washington Counties.

Judge Hornak scheduled his sentencing for April 14, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. Reddick has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and a maximum of life and/or a fine of not more than $10,000,000. 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 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.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Monessen, PA, has plead guilty to federal narcotics charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Deaubre Lightfoot, age 29, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in front of United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak. Additionally, Lightfoot accepted responsibility for between five and 15 kilograms of cocaine and for having a leadership role supervising five or more people in the conspiracy. Judge Hornak scheduled his sentencing for April 16, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. Lightfoot has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing.

According to information presented to the court, from April 2017 to November 5, 2017, Deaubre Lightfoot conspired with others to import large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into Western Pennsylvania. Once the narcotics were in Western Pennsylvania, Lighfoot, and his brother Jamie Lightfoot, Jr. who previously pleaded guilty in this case, would store the narcotics at their respective homes. The drugs would be distributed to co-conspirators in almost every region of Western Pennsylvania. On December 12, 2017, FBI investigators recovered a kilogram of cocaine from Deaubre Lightfoot’s residence.

The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years and/or a fine of not more than $5,000,000. 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 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.  

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

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

Derrick Jones, 34, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July of 2017, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police had been surveilling Jones for suspected narcotics distribution out of his residence at 720 Hampshire Avenue in Pittsburgh. Successive trash pulls revealed packaging and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking and items with cocaine and crack cocaine residue. On July 21, 2017, Pittsburgh Police executed a search warrant at the residence and discovered a hanging basket in the dining room containing powder cocaine, baking soda, and drug packaging supplies. In various locations throughout the house, police recovered six firearms including an AK style assault rifle, additional powder cocaine and crack, and $4,578.00 in United States currency, as well as supplies for making crack cocaine. The defendant was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The court was further informed that Jones has a prior drug felony conviction and, as such, he is subject to enhanced penalties.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2020, at 9:00 am. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Jones remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Orlando, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to pass counterfeit bank checks, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Calar Braxton, aka Vivian Hugo, aka Taylor Crimson, 45, and Brian Omar Campbell, aka Vincent Hugo, aka Troy Crimson, 30, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in September 2017, Braxton and Campbell flew to Pittsburgh and rented a room at motel located in North Fayette Township. Afterwards, they and another member of the conspiracy went to Imperial and Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, to steal outgoing mail from residential mailboxes. The stolen mail was taken back to the motel, where it was opened. If the mail contained a check, the check’s account information and routing number were used to prepare counterfeit checks. They then used the counterfeit checks to purchase merchandise from stores located in and around the Mall at Robinson. The conspirators targeted national chains with the intention of obtaining a cash refund for ill-gotten merchandise at a counterpart store located in another state. The scheme came to an end when members of the North Fayette Township Police Department obtained a warrant for the motel room and searched. During the search, the police recovered blank check stock; a laser jet printer; a laptop computer; a false identification cards for Braxton and Campbell. As part of their plea agreement, both defendants acknowledged that they had also passed counterfeits checks in the following states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.

Judge Horan scheduled Braxton’s sentencing for April 1, 2020, and Campbell’s was scheduled for April 2, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 35 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendants’ detention.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the North Fayette Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the charges in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Terry Porterfield, age 44, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Porterfield participated in an identity theft ring, through which he broke into unoccupied vehicles and stole means of identification and access devices of individuals, including driver licenses, credit cards, debit cards, and Social Security cards. Porterfield and other members of the conspiracy used the stolen means of identification and access devices to make and attempt to make fraudulent purchases at various retail establishments, including Target and Best Buy.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 23, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 22 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, the Allegheny County Police, Ross Township Police, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Porterfield.

PITTSBURGH, PA- A resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Dwyer, 42, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

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

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 11, 2020 at 10:00 AM. As to Dwyer, the law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Dwyer remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - Seven residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on December 10 and unsealed today, named:

Martise Smith, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

Lamont Goodwine, Jr., 31, of Carrick, Pennsylvania;

Raymond Jones, 33, of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania;

Robert Howard, 33, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania;

David Joyner, 24, of McKeesport, Pennsylvania;

Duane Henderson, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and

Mbuitidem Essiet, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Indictment, from in and around June of 2019, and continuing thereafter to in and around December of 2019, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

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

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

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from Homeland Security Investigations, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Stowe Township Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, the North Versailles Police Department, the Allegheny County Port Authority Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. 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.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh, 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.

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 sentenced in federal court on his conviction of conspiracy to commit bank robbery and bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Mark Hammond, 55, who received a total of 36 months’ imprisonment followed by 36 months’ supervised release at both counts one and two of the Indictment, to run concurrently. In addition to the 36 months’ for the robbery, Hammond was sentenced to an additional 24 months’ imprisonment, to be served concurrently, as he was on supervised release for a prior bank robbery conviction at the time of the offense.

According to information presented to the court, on January 10, 2018, Hammond served as the getaway driver for his codefendant, Alonzo Dunbar, who robbed the Huntington Bank located at 650 Smithfield Street in Pittsburgh of $1,678.00. The court was further informed that prior to the robbery, Hammond parked his vehicle on Smithfield Street and went into the bank to make change for $5.00, when, in reality, he was surveilling the bank. Hammond’s vehicle was identified in video surveillance footage, circling the area around the bank, stopping across from the bank, and leaving the bank following the robbery with Dunbar as a passenger. Hammond later received a portion of the proceeds from the robbery from Dunbar for his participation in the conspiracy.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hammond.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, cocaine, and heroin, and a charge of distribution of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Monta Banks, age 29, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the Greenway Boy Killas (GBK) street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. On January 29, 2018, agents made a controlled purchase of heroin from Banks. The wiretap interceptions began shortly thereafter, in February 2018, and continued through June 2018. The investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, gang member Monta Banks and his co-conspirators distributed cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s detention.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly led the multi-agency investigation, which also included the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, that led to the prosecution of Monta Banks.

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 resident of Patterson Township, (Beaver County) Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Michael Ryan Neppach, 40, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on August 28, 2019, Neppach had robbed the PNC Bank at 20940 Route 19 in Cranberry Township of approximately $1,400.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 15, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Cranberry Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Neppach.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Turtle Creek, 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 Sean Johnson, Jr., age 25, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, on or about November 19, 2019, Johnson, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition..

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

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway and Brian M. Czarnecki are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Monroeville Police Department, the Attorney General’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Maryland Office, 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 Swissvale, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on federal narcotics and firearms charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The six-count superseding indictment named Kevin Darwin-Sewell, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment presented to the court, Darwin-Sewell is charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crimes which occurred on July 19, 2016 and February 1, 2017.

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

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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