Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 37 months to be followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Court Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Thomas Thornton, age 43.

According to information presented to the court, the FBI received information that Thomas Thornton conspired to distribute drugs with another individual, and that he was also purchasing fentanyl and had several guns.  Agents executed a search warrant at Thornton’s McKeesport residence on May 22, 2018.  Agents recovered:  a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, with a loaded magazine; a .45 caliber handgun, with a loaded magazine; additional ammunition; 2 Airsoft vests; heroin; cocaine; scales and other materials indicative of drug sales; and a case of cough syrup.

Thornton admitted to selling drugs.  He admitted that he initially purchased marijuana from a source in California.  He later started purchasing cough syrup from Texas after realizing it would be easier for him to sell bottles of cough syrup for a profit.  Thornton also admitted that he has purchased heroin, cocaine and ecstasy pills from Texas.  Thornton admitted to receiving the 9mm firearm in exchange for 50 stamp bags of heroin.  As a result of a prior felony conviction, the defendant is prohibited from possessing firearms and/or ammunition.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thornton.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 5 years imprisonment and 3 years supervised release, and was ordered to pay $4,000 in restitution, on his conviction of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Bank Robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Richard D. Parrish, age 41, formerly of Clairton, Pennsylvania.

According to the information present to the court, Parrish robbed the Dollar General store on Route 51 in Jefferson Hills on January 5, 2019, and then robbed the Dollar Bank on Route 51 in Pleasant Hills on January 7, 2019.

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

The U.S. Attorney commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pleasant Hills Police and the Jefferson Hills Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Richard D. Parrish.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eric Vanderslice, age 40, 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 Pittsburgh, which had been identified by investigators as a large-scale marijuana stash house. While conducting surveillance, law enforcement officials observed a Dodge Ram operated by Vanderslice pull into the driveway of the apartment, several individuals unload boxes into the apartment and then load 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, over 400 pounds of marijuana and an additional $5,012 from the apartment.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 28, 2020 at 9:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence 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. Pursuant to the court’s previous order, Vanderslice remains under home detention 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 - Three former residents of Southwestern 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.

Kreg Williams, 29, formerly of Duquesne, pleaded guilty to one count related to drug trafficking, before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

Dorian Boyd, 25, formerly of Braddock, pleaded guilty to two counts related to drug trafficking, also before Judge Schwab.

Philip Matey, 54, formerly of North Braddock, pleaded guilty to three counts 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 section of Pittsburgh.  Kreg Williams, Dorian Boyd, Philip Matey, 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 Kreg Williams, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Williams was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances.  Williams admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he is a member of “SCO.”  The court was further advised that on June 12, 2019, Williams possessed three firearms, all of which Williams agreed to forfeit.  The court accepted Williams’ 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 Dorian Boyd, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Boyd was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances.  Boyd admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he initially served as a drug runner for other members of the conspiracy but, in March of 2019, operated one of the telephones that law enforcement was interception.  The court was further informed that through intercepted communications as well as surveillance, law enforcement confirmed that Boyd conducted his drug-trafficking activity primarily at the Library Street Basketball Courts’ parking lot as well as at a residence on 13th Street in Braddock.  On June 12, 2019, the court was further advised that law enforcement seized from Boyd’s residence $1,787.00, drug packaging material, suspected controlled substances as well as two firearms. The court accepted Boyd’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 19.3 grams of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and 21.7 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019. 

As to Philip Matey, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that Matey worked as a handyman for one of the other members of the conspiracy and was often paid in controlled substances.  Matey admitted, in conjunction with his guilty plea, that he oversaw renovations at homes located on Seddon Avenue in Braddock, which were owned by another member of the conspiracy and used as stash houses, drug distribution locations, and meeting sites for members of the conspiracy.  Additionally, Matey allowed other members of the conspiracy to use his residence on Taylor Avenue as a place to meet drug customers.  The court accepted Matey’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 15 grams of heroin and 10.6 grams of cocaine base.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 23, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Williams, April 23, 2020 at 11:00 AM for Boyd, and April 28, 2020, at 10:00 AM for Matey.  For Williams, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, with a maximum fine of $5,000,000.  For Boyd and Matey, 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.  Both Williams and Boyd were previously ordered detained by the court and will remain incarcerated pending sentencing.  Matey 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, PA - Two former residents of Southwestern 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.

Michael Rose, 28, formerly of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty to three counts related to drug trafficking and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

Lisamarie Ross, 35, formerly of New Alexandria, pleaded guilty to two counts related to drug trafficking, also before Judge 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. Michael Rose, Lisamarie Ross, 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.

During that time period, the Court was informed, that intercepted communications confirmed that Rose was conspiring with others to distribute controlled substances in Western Pennsylvania. On April 15, 2019, Rose was apprehended by law enforcement while conducting a drug transaction in the parking lot of the Monroeville Mall. After arresting MRose and seizing a firearm, which Rose was not permitted to possess, as well as heroin, cocaine and cocaine base packaged for resale from the vehicle, Rose broke free from law enforcement and ran into the Monroeville Mall while in handcuffs. After he was apprehended, law enforcement found $829.00 on his person. The Court accepted Rose’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 198.4 grams of heroin, 28 grams of cocaine, and 154 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as crack.

As to Ms. Ross, the Court was informed that intercepted communications confirmed that she was conspiring with others to distribute controlled substances in Western Pennsylvania. The Court was informed that Ross was intercepted brokering drug transactions between members of the conspiracy and her drug customers. The Court accepted Ross’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 32 grams of heroin and 120 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as crack.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 22, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. for Rose and April 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. for Ross. For both defendants, the law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and not more than 40 years in prison, with a maximum fine of $7,250,000 for Rose and a maximum fine of $6,000,000 for Ross. 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. Both Mr. Rose and Ms. Ross remain incarcerated 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.

As U.S. Attorney, I am charged with leading the federal response to our most pressing criminal problems.  We have spent considerable resources in the fights against the opioid epidemic and violent crime in western Pennsylvania.  Together with our state and local law enforcement partners, we prosecuted a record number of drug dealers and violent criminals last year, and we have witnessed significant decreases in overdose deaths and in violent crime rates. But as we in law enforcement know, no strategy to combat violent crime is complete without addressing domestic violence.

Domestic violence touches every community in Pennsylvania.  Every day, domestic violence hotlines receive over 21,000 calls, or 15 calls per minute.  The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that 1 in 3 women in the United States has experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner.  In Pennsylvania, over 1,170 domestic violence victims were killed from 2009 to 2018.  Each of those numbers is another tragedy for an individual, a family, and a community.

We all know a person whose life has been touched by this tragedy.  I am no different.  On November 18, 2010, Rebecca “Becky” Patterson Bibart - mother of two beautiful children, a brilliant and charismatic educator, and one of my oldest and dearest friends - was killed by her husband in their home.

Becky and I grew up together in Greenville, Pennsylvania, a small blue collar town in Mercer County. We took virtually every class, and attended every school and community event together from kindergarten on.  She was smart and kind and lit up every room she was in.  Becky was among the top students of our high school class, studied English and education at Wittenberg University, and became an English teacher in public schools in California and Pennsylvania.  She was a dynamic educator whose students adored her.

In 2010, Becky had been going through a difficult separation from her husband.  While Becky had not been subjected to physical abuse until that last, fateful day, what we friends didn’t know was that she had suffered extensive emotional and psychological abuse from her husband.  At the end of September, Becky filed for divorce; she wanted a new life for her and her children.  But on November 18, 2010, her husband stole that opportunity from Becky and her children forever.

During my time as U.S. Attorney, I have been deeply touched by the stories domestic violence survivors have shared with me.  I have spoken at domestic violence awareness events, together with domestic violence advocates throughout western Pennsylvania.  I have spoken with federal, state and local law enforcement leaders about our collective law enforcement response.  And through these conversations, one thing became clear: the Department of Justice needs to do more.

In June of this year, Attorney General William Barr formed the Department of Justice’s first-ever Domestic Violence Working Group.  Our goal is to lead a national conversation about domestic violence, to share best practices among federal, state and local partners, and to bring a renewed focus on prosecuting domestic violence abusers federally.  While most domestic violence cases are handled by state and local authorities, there are certain federal laws that we believe can be impactful, as we seek to find the inflection point at which federal action can prevent domestic violence-related fatalities. 

One of our most powerful tools in fighting violent crime are federal firearms laws.  Federal law prohibits anyone convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence crime or against whom a final protection from abuse (PFA) order has been entered from possessing a firearm.  Knowing that the presence of a firearm during a domestic violence incident increases the risk of homicide by over 500%, we are committed to assisting state and local officials in identifying and prosecuting those abusers who should not have guns in the first place. 

Additionally, we know that abusers increasingly use technology and social media to maintain control through identity theft, hacking, cyberstalking, sextortion, and other forms of cybercrime.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office have some of the most experienced and sophisticated cyber investigators and prosecutors in the country.  We will leverage our extensive expertise in cybercrime to domestic violence threats and will seek to prosecute this type of domestic violence-related cybercrime federally.

Today marks the 9th anniversary of Becky’s death.  When friends from Greenville High School’s Class of 1987 get together, as we did several weeks ago, we invariably talk about Becky - both the remarkable woman and friend that she was, and that day in 2010 that changed our lives forever.  While October was a critical month for raising awareness, know that the Department of Justice is engaged on this issue every month of the year.  As U.S. Attorney, my goal is to protect every person in western Pennsylvania from domestic violence, because every man, woman and child deserves to be safe in our homes.

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

The three-count Superseding Indictment named Mario Tiller, age 41, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on June 19, 2018, Tiller possessed with intent to distribute cocaine base, commonly known as crack. The Indictment further alleges that Tiller unlawfully possessed a Glock 9 millimeter pistol in furtherance of the drug offense, after having been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Those convictions include two convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, two convictions for terroristic threats, and one conviction for theft by unlawful taking. 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.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to six months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Wednesday on Solomon Chambers, Sr., age 52, of Washington.

According to information presented to the court, from July 14, 2016 to July 23, 2016, Chambers and a co-conspirator executed a check-kiting scheme in the Washington area, which defrauded Members 1st Federal Credit Union and Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union. Chambers and a co-conspirator deposited non-sufficient checks into bank accounts that they had opened at those credit unions, using ATMs with a different bank. The conspirators then made cash withdrawals or point-of-sale purchases that rendered those accounts overdrawn before the insufficiency was discovered by the financial institutions. The credit unions suffered a total loss of $28,425.74.

Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell 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 Solomon Chambers, Sr.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 15 months to be followed by three years of supervised release on his conviction of attempted possession with intent to distribute alprazolam and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Court Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on James Robert Czachowski, age 22.

According to information presented to the court, in April 2018, agents interdicted an international express parcel addressed to the defendant with a return address in the United Kingdom. Pursuant to extended border search authority, agents opened the package which contained 11,000 pills consistent with the size and shape of Xanax. On April 11, 2018, U.S. Postal Inspectors made a controlled delivery of the parcel as addressed. The defendant’s father signed for the package. As the defendant’s father removed the package from the residence, but before he could deliver it to his son, agents stopped the defendant’s father, who stated that the package was to be delivered to his son at an address in Pittsburgh. The defendant contacted his father on the phone while his father was with the agents. Agents overheard the defendant ask his father whether he left yet and if everything was OK.

Agents then went to the defendant’s residence. The defendant admitted to investigators that he had purchased narcotics over the DarkNet for approximately one year. He admitted that he paid $4,200 for 10,000 Xanax bars and that he intended to sell them for $1.50 per bar. The defendant gave permission to search his residence and admitted to possessing a .22 revolver. A .380 9mm revolver, a Springfield XD 9mm and numerous rounds of ammunition were recovered, as well. As a result of a prior felony conviction, the defendant is prohibited from possessing firearms and/or ammunition.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Czachowski.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allison Park, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marvin Porter, age 49, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment at Criminal No. 19-160, charging him with conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, between April 2019 and May 2019, 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 occurring in and around the Braddock borough of Pittsburgh. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. In April of 2019, intercepted communications confirmed that Mr. Porter was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute heroin in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Additionally, the Court was advised that on June 12, 2019, law enforcement seized a suitcase containing 612 bricks and one bundle of heroin, six firearms as well as related magazines and ammunition, jewelry, and a digital scale from Mr. Porter’s residence.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 22, 2020, at 9:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence 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.

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 sentenced in federal court to 27 months incarceration, five years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on James T. Murray, Jr, 48.

According to information presented to the court, on or about May 12, 2014, Murray possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine..

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Murray.

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

Mackenzie Cole Roberts, 26, pleaded guilty to six counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 13, 2016, the defendant possessed heroin and a loaded .38 special caliber derringer pistol. Roberts was prohibited from legally possessing a firearm or ammunition as a result of his heroin use.

On December 23, 2016, the defendant sold stamp bags containing fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl which caused the death of M.P.C. On January 5, 2017, the defendant was arrested with nine stamp bags of fentanyl that he intended to sell, and police then located several stamp bags and drug paraphernalia in his residence.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of 81 years in prison, a fine of up to $3,501,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded the defendant to jail.

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

The Drug Enforcement Agency conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mackenzie Cole Roberts with the valuable assistance of the McDonald Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department, the Washington County Coroner, the McDonald Fire Department, and the Fort Cherry Ambulance Department.

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 Sewickley, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud and filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Sue O’Neill, 55, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that O’Neill, while employed as the Controller for Marco Contractors, Inc., embezzled approximately $8.7 million. The Court was further advised that she and another individual started a company called Bulldog Contractors LLC and used approximately $6.7 million of the stolen money to fund the business. The other $2 million in embezzled funds went into her personal bank account. O’Neill and her business partner used the stolen funds for business expenses and for personal use. Among other things, the Court was advised that they purchased two 1969 Ford Shelby GT500s for approximately $160,000 each and spent approximately $163,000 renovating a 1969 Ford Mustang. Lastly, the Court was advised that O’Neill filed false income tax returns because she did not declare the stolen funds as taxable income.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 26, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison for the wire fraud conviction and three years in prison for the false tax return conviction. The law also provides for a fine of $500,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted O’Neill to remain out of prison on a $25,000 bond.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Northern Regional Police Department, the Internal Revenue Service and the United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of O’Neill.

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

Robert Rionda, Jr. pleaded guilty to evading payment of his income taxes before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Rionda solely owned and operated Arms Insurance Group Inc, (Arms Inc.), a subchapter S corporation, from 2002 through May 2014. In October 2011, the Collection Division of the IRS opened a case on Rionda for unpaid income taxes for the 2009, 2010 and 2011 tax years. In May 2012, attempts to obtain payments from Rionda were unsuccessful, and the IRS levied his personal bank accounts.

The defendant responded to the levies by directing the company’s controller/bookkeeper to:

- Stop issuing salary checks to Rionda and his wife;

- Stop using his personal checking accounts altogether; and

- Start paying all of his personal bills from the company's bank accounts rather than from his personal bank accounts.

Over the next several years, Rionda continued to file apparently accurate corporate returns on behalf of Arms Inc., as well as personal income tax returns, but he made only minimal payments to the IRS for the personal income taxes he owed.

During the years 2009-2014, Rionda received distributions from the company each year which varied from approximately $376,000 to $1.6 million per year.

Rionda sold Arms Inc to his son over time, starting in May 2014, and he stayed on as a part owner of the son’s new business, Arms Insurance Group LLC, (Arms LLC). Arms LLC began making payments by check to Rionda that represented monthly payments on a promissory note, rent payments, and owner draw payments. Rionda deposited some of these checks to two bank accounts held by Arms Inc., rather than depositing them to personal bank accounts in his own name.

During the years 2014-2016, the new company, Arms LLC, paid distributions to Rionda of $92,000, $298,410, and $291,460.

Despite receiving all of these distributions from Arms Inc. and Arms LLC, Rionda chose not to make substantial payments towards his taxes. Rionda did, however, make payments towards his personal mortgage, a mortgage on a business property, his credit cards, and his utility bills. In addition, Rionda also transferred millions of dollars in loans and purported investments to another individual. The total tax loss, including assessed interest and penalties, is $1,539,117.00.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for 10:00 a.m on March 5, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court released Rionda on bond.

Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen R. Kaufman and Mary M. Houghton are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rionda.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court for conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service and filing a false bankruptcy declaration, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab sentenced George Retos, Jr., 71, of Washington County, Pennsylvania, to serve one year and one day in prison, followed by two years of supervised release.

In connection with his earlier guilty plea on November 16, 2018, Retos admitted that he orchestrated a conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by failing to pay over to the IRS payroll and employer taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc. and Plastic Power, Inc., two companies controlled by Retos. Specifically, to avoid ongoing collection efforts by the IRS related to unpaid taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc., Retos and his co-conspirator arranged for employees of Prime Plastics, Inc. to be transferred to Plastic Power, Inc., which, in turn, also failed to pay employer and payroll taxes to the IRS. The unpaid employer and payroll taxes totaled more than $250,000.

Retos also admitted that he caused the nominal president of Prime Plastics, Inc.—a personal associate who had no involvement or knowledge of the business’s day-to-day operations or finances—to file for bankruptcy on behalf of the entity. In related court filings, Retos caused the submission of a false declaration stating that there had been no withdrawals from the entity outside the normal course of business during the preceding two years. In fact, Retos was responsible for numerous such expenditures, including thousands of dollars belonging to Prime Plastics, Inc. that Retos spent at casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada, and elsewhere.

In addition, as part of his guilty plea, Retos accepted responsibility for a charge of wire fraud in connection with a separate scheme he concocted to fraudulently obtain unemployment compensation from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for employees of Prime Plastics, Inc. and, later, employees of Plastic Power, Inc. As part of the scheme, Retos reduced the salaries of numerous employees and instructed them to seek unemployment from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to make up the difference, knowing full well that the employees were ineligible for such unemployment compensation. During the execution of the scheme, Retos continued to siphon company funds for his personal benefit.

Assistant United States Attorneys Mary McKeen Houghton and Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Retos.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on November 12, 2013, to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Alyssa Ashley Adkins, age 30, of Houston, PA, pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine; possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon; and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between March 7, 2018, and March 20, 2018, investigators with the Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force utilized confidential informants to purchase quantities of fentanyl from Adkins and co-conspirator, Vashaun Wright. Through those investigative efforts, task force officers obtained a search warrant for a residence located on Main Street in Houston Borough, Washington County, which was utilized by the defendant and Wright. On March 23, 2018, investigators served the search warrant and seized over 40 grams of fentanyl (which was packaged for distribution), a quantity of cocaine (which was packaged for distribution), approximately $24,000 in U.S. Currency, and three loaded firearms, amongst other evidence. Adkins, a felon, admitted in connection with the plea that she unlawfully possessed the three seized firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. Adkins further admitted to possessing the firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes charged in the Indictment.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Adkins’ detention.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for January 21, 2020. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $11,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Adkins.

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

The one-count indictment named Sean Kiara Williams, 30, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about September 6, 2019, Williams possessed with the intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine which he had brought from Dearborn, Michigan to Erie on Amtrak.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $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 Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

The one-count Indictment named Raymond Hammond, 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 16, 2019, City of Pittsburgh Police officers arrested Hammond for possessing a Smith and Wesson model M&P Shield .45 caliber hand gun and .45 caliber ammunition, after having been convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison.  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.

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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Elmhurst, New York and a resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating Federal counterfeiting laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 11-count Indictment named Mario Mondesir, age 35, of Elmhurst, NY and Forkpa Howard, age 30, of Philadelphia, PA as defendants.

According to the Indictment, Mondesir and Howard conspired with each other to counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes, and then passed said counterfeit bills in excess of 1,050 times at various retail stores and businesses in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Both defendants also possessed counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 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.

Julie Wilson, 48, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

During her plea hearing, Wilson admitted that, at various times between 2011 and 2017, she was an employee of Moriarty Consultants, Inc. (MCI) and Everyday People Staffing, Inc. (EPS), two related entities operating in the home health care industry. The other entities were Activity Daily Living Services, Inc. (ADL) and Coordination Care, Inc. (CCI). MCI, ADL, and 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. Wilson admitted that she was responsible for claims processing and billing matters related to Pennsylvania Medicaid. 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, Wilson 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. Among others, Wilson admitted that she conspired with Arlinda Moriarty, the owner of MCI, ADL, and EPS; Daynelle Dickens, the owner of CCI and Arlinda Moriarty’s sister; various office workers at the companies, including Tamika Adams, Tony Brown, Terra Dean, Larita Walls, Keith Scoggins, and Tia Collins; and attendants at MCI, including Tionne Street and Luis Columbie-Abrew.

As part of the conspiracy, Wilson admitted that she and various co-conspirators fabricated timesheets to reflect the provision of in-home PAS care they provided to consumers, when, in fact, no such care ever occurred. Wilson further admitted that, at Arlinda Moriarty’s direction, she collected information about consumers who had "unused" PAS care hours—that is, hours of authorized PAS care that had not been performed and, as a result, had not been billed to Pennsylvania Medicaid. In response, Wilson would provide lists of such consumers and their "unused" hours to Arlinda Moriarty and Daynelle Dickens. Moriarty, in turn, would direct Wilson to submit false claims, in bulk, for some or all of the "unused" hours—without the relevant consumers’ knowledge or consent. Wilson further admitted that she would then send Moriarty a list of the "unused" hours Wilson had billed and that required the creation of back-dated timesheets to document the purported care. Wilson further admitted that she caused Medicaid billings for purported in-home care of a consumer while the consumer was in the hospital, and that she obtained signature stamps for certain consumers that were used execute falsified timesheets in the consumers’ names.

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 16 defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation. Wilson is the sixth 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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – An inmate at the Moshannon Valley Correctional Center in Philipsburg, Pa., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of possession of a prohibited object in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The indictment named Javier Herrera-Hernandez, 36.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on April 26, 2019, Herrera-Hernandez possessed a quantity of Fentanyl, a Schedule II narcotic controlled substance, and a quantity of Buprenorphine, a Schedule III narcotic controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 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 Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Herrera-Hernandez.

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

ERIE, Pa. - An inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of possession of contraband in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named William Hunt, 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about June 11, 2019, Hunt was in possession of contraband, namely a quantity of synthetic cannabinoid NM2201 while an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution.

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 would be 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 Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

Antoine Dean, Sr., age 54, 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, Antoine Dean, Sr. and his co-conspirators distributed 28 grams or more of crack cocaine in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 31, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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 Antoine Dean, Sr.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Cochranton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of Hobbs Act robbery and using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count indictment named Jack Elijah Turner, 21, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 11, 2019, Turner robbed a Kwik Fill gas station at 3360 West 38th Street in Erie at gunpoint.

Project Safe Neighborhood (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.

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

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two brothers residing in the Pittsburgh-area have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and visa fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 6 and unsealed Friday, named Rajinder Singh, 43, of Pittsburgh, and Makhan Singh, 53, of Monroeville, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, Rajinder and Makhan Singh, who are brothers and citizens of India, entered into a conspiracy in 2011 with a woman known to the grand jury as D.H. to enter into a sham marriage for the purpose of evading immigration laws The court was further informed that Makhan introduced D.H. to his brother and paid her to marry him and to make false statements to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIS). The "couple" further staged pictures and opened joint bank accounts, and Makhan made payments for D.H.’s benefit, including paying for car insurance for a vehicle jointly registered to D.H. and Rajinder in order to falsely document their relationship and marriage. The Indictment also alleges that Rajinder made false statements to CIS on or about March 11, 2016 and December 14, 2017 when he stated that he did not live at a separate address from D.H., when they had lived separately.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The defendants remain on bond pending the resolution of the case

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

The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 68 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton imposed the sentence on Jaamiyl Dean, age 43.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. Jaamiyl Dean was intercepted over the wiretap discussing drug transactions. When agents executed a search warrant at Dean’s home and on his vehicle on June 20, 2018, they recovered, among other things, two firearms, several rounds of ammunition, drug packaging materials, and over $64,000 in cash. Dean has previously been convicted of a felony offense, and was prohibited from possessing the firearms and ammunition.

Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Walton stated that a sentence within the advisory Sentencing Guideline range was appropriate in this case.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, who 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, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dean.

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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a two-year term of probation on her conviction of assisting her bank robber son evade law enforcement, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Melissa Kane, age 48.

According to information presented to the court, Kane knew that her son, Brent Richards, robbed the Citizens Bank located at 31 Foster Avenue in Pittsburgh, at gun point, on January 8, 2018. Following the armed bank robber, Kane assisted Richards evade law enforcement by allowing him to stay at her residence, disposing of the clothing worn by Richards and the BB gun that he used, and later denying any knowledge of or involvement in the bank robbery, when interviewed by law enforcement. The Court was further informed that Kane was engaged in a physical altercation with Richard’s former girlfriend, who Kane believed would tell law enforcement that Richards had robbed the bank.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Crafton Borough Police Department, the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, and the West Mifflin Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kane.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington, DC, has been sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh to 24 months’ incarceration, one year supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $307,692.51 on his conviction of aiding in the filing of false tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady, announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jaason J. Weatherly.

According to the information presented to the court, Weatherly, filed false tax returns in 2012 and 2013 for other persons which contained false W-2 forms, income and withholding information.

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

The U.S. Attorney commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for the successful investigation that led to the prosecution of Jaason J. Weatherly.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Scottsdale, Arizona, has been sentenced in federal court to 32 months' imprisonment and two years of supervised release on his conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Keith Komar, age 62.

According to information presented to the court, Komar participated in a fraud scheme that involved the illegal importation of prescription drugs and the illegal sale of those drugs to consumers in the United States. The importation and sale of prescription medication is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Federal laws and regulations require that certain drugs, particularly dangerous drugs, contain certain warnings and only be administered under a doctor's care pursuant to a doctor's prescription. A drug is considered "misbranded" if, for example, the drug is sold without a prescription, if it fails to include the approved warnings, if the drug was not approved by the FDA, or if the drug is manufactured in a facility not approved by the FDA.

Through various websites, Komar advertised for sale to consumers in the United States various dangerous drugs that were sold without a prescription, were not administrated under the care of a doctor, did not provide the appropriate warnings, and were not manufactured in facilities approved by the FDA. The website included a numerous misrepresentations about the drugs and the companies involved in the fraud to make it falsely appear that the sale of these drugs was legitimate and safe. Some of these misbranded drugs were sent through the Postal Service to consumers, including consumers in the Western District of Pennsylvania, directly from India as arranged by Komar.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Komar.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Malik Martinez was sentenced to 72 months in prison for committing heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Martinez, age 22 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab also sentenced Martinez to serve three years of supervised release after his prison term. Martinez was on bond in Pennsylvania state court for a prior drug trafficking crime when he committed the heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes that led to his federal indictment, convictions, and sentence.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Miami, FL pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiring to distribute kilograms of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Sebastian Velasquez, age 29, pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from October 2017 through July 2018, Velasquez and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute between 50 to 150 kilograms of cocaine in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Velasquez’s co-conspirators obtained the supply of cocaine and physically transported kilograms of cocaine via bus from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh roughly twice a month for the nine-month period. In connection with this investigation, the United States seized nearly $8,000,000 in cash and other assets; 42 kilograms of cocaine; 12 kilograms of fentanyl; three kilograms of heroin; and 121 grams of oxycodone.

Velasquez’s co-defendants,Moussa Jabateh and Danny Jackson, both plead guilty in October and are awaiting sentencing.

Senior Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for on March 19, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Mark V. Gurzo are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, which includes the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Wilkinsburg Police Department, and the Allegheny County Adult Probation Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Velasquez

PITTSBURGH, PA - After deliberating one hour, a federal jury of five men and seven women found Frederick H. Banks guilty of five counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Frederick H. Banks, 52, was tried before Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Assistant United States Attorneys Shaun E. Sweeney and Christopher M. Cook, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Banks attempted to defraud Forex, a retail foreign exchange company of at least $264,000 in the scheme. The evidence at trial established that, during a four-week period in 2013, Banks submitted false and fraudulent account applications to Forex in an effort to use those money to kite funds from Forex to Banks’ pre-existing personal bank accounts. As part of the scheme, Banks used the identity information of a former friend in an effort to fraudulently open a Forex account.

Judge Hornak has not yet scheduled the sentencing for Banks. The law provides for a total sentence of 22 years in prison, including a mandatory minimum two years in prison for the identity theft conviction, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Banks will remain in custody. Banks has multiple prior felony convictions.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Frederick H. Banks.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of narcotics trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jaymare Jackson, 29, 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 occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Jaymare Jackson, and other individuals, were identified as members 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. During that time period, intercepted communications confirmed that Mr. Jackson was conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances. The court accepted Jackson’s guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and conspiracy to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019.

The Court was also advised that on June 12, 2019, Jackson illegally possessed two firearms as well as items used to package and distribute controlled substances. Jackson acknowledged that he knew, at that time, that he could not possess the firearms after having been previously convicted of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits anyone who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for April 1, 2020 at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five and not more than 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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. – A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count Superseding Indictment named Derrick Jones, age 34, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, from on or about July 1, 2017, to on or about July 21, 2017, Derrick Jones maintained a drug involved premises. On July 21, 2017, Jones is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Jones is a convicted felon and is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life, a fine of up to $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney 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 leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 16 months’ imprisonment and six years of supervised released on one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Honorable Joy Flowers Conti sentenced Vernon Jackson, 50, after his guilty plea in May of this year. Jackson’s supervised release violation for committing this offense while on federal supervised release is still pending and will be determined at a later date.

According to information provided to the court, on or about March 8, 2018, detectives from the City of Pittsburgh Police Narcotics and Vice Unit executed a search warrant at Vernon Jackson’s residence in Brookline. Jackson was the only occupant at the home at the time of the search. Detectives recovered multiple bags of cocaine, two digital scales, and drug packaging material from the kitchen of the home. Jackson, the former owner of Chauncy’s in Station Square, was on federal supervised release at the time of the execution of the search warrant for a prior federal conviction. Jackson was originally sentenced to 151 months on that offense but his sentence was reduced resulting in his early release.

Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni 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 Jackson. 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, and Pittsburgh Bureau of 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ridgway, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 23 years in jail, lifetime supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,396 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 Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Jesse Porter, 42.

According to information presented to the court, Porter took sexually explicit photos and video of two minor victims. One victim was three years of age when Porter recorded himself sexually abusing her. The other victim was 15 when Porter took sexually explicit surreptitious video of her.

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.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Baxter stated that the defendant’s acts were horrific.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Ridgway Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Porter.

PITTSBURGH – A Plum Boro resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Victoria Mazur, 52, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Mazur was employed as a Controller for Gateway Packaging Corporation, which was located in Export, PA. From December 2012 until December 2017, she issued herself and her husband a total of approximately 189 fraudulent credit card refunds through the company’s point of sale terminal. The total loss from the fraudulent refunds was $190,829.01. The Court also was advised that Mazur fraudulently used the company’s credit cards for personal use for an additional loss of approximately $4,200.00. In order to conceal her fraud, Mazur supplied the owners with false financial statements that understated the company’s true sales figures.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 24, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison for the wire fraud conviction The law also provides for a fine of $250,000.00. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court permitted Mazur to remain out of prison on bond.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mazur.

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

Robert Forbes, also known as "Daniel Kirkpatrick" and "Joe", age 45, Pomona, California, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Forbes conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance from April 2017 through April 2019. The conspiracy involved the shipment of cocaine from California using the United States Mail to various cities throughout the United States, including New Castle, Pennsylvania. The conspiracy also involved the shipment of cash, also through the United States Mail, from the recipients of the cocaine to the suppliers of cocaine. Many of the cocaine distributors were, like Forbes, originally from Jamaica. Forbes is not a United States citizen and will likely face deportation after he serves his sentence.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for February 25, 2020. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, 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 Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balchon are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of two years and three months (27 months) to be followed by two years of supervised release on his conviction for mail fraud, tax evasion, and willful failure to file income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Eugene Traficante, age 44, now of Weirton, West Virginia.

Previously, in connection with Traficante’s guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2006, Traficante was hired to perform billing and bookkeeping work for a commercial refrigeration repair and maintenance business located in Steubenville, Ohio. As part of his duties, Traficante had access to a post office box where the business received payments from customers through the United States mail. In May 2006, Traficante opened a bank account and began depositing into the account checks that he removed from the company’s post office box without authorization. Traficante withdrew fraudulently obtained monies from the account for his own personal benefit. Traficante stole or diverted approximately 168 checks totaling $345,552.59. Additionally, from around January 2011 through April 15, 2012, Traficante willfully attempted to evade income tax due and owing by him to the United States for the 2011 calendar year. Traficante also willfully failed to file income tax returns following the close of the 2012 and 2013 calendar years despite being required by law to do so.

Assistant United States Attorneys James R.Wilson and David Lew prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Traficante.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Donora, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to fourmonths incarceration, followed by three years of supervised release, the first sixmonths of which will be home detention, on his conviction of violating a federal narcotics law and federal firearm law, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Christian B. Drennan, 28, now currently residing in St. Clairsville, Ohio.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around April 2018 and continuing until September 6, 2018, Drennan, an opioid addict, conspired to import less than 40 grams of fentanyl, a controlled substance, from China for his personal use and possessed firearms while an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Pennsylvania State Police as part of the Joint Criminal Opioid Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) initiative for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Drennan.

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

Brianne Dean, 31, 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 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, Dean and her co-conspirators distributed 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and 500 grams or more of powder cocaine in and around the area of the Greenway Projects.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 31, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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 Dean.

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 Ross Township, 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.

Thomas Perry Stultz, age 37, 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 from February 6, 2019 until on or about April 5, 2019, Stultz 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 illegal sexual activity with him. Stultz believed the undercover agent to be a 14-year-old boy and, through his Internet and text communications, attempted to persuade the minor to meet him to engage in illegal sexual activity. Stultz made several arrangements to meet with the purported minor that fell through. Each time, Stultz reinitiated contact with the undercover agent. During one conversation, Stultz reassured the purported minor, texting: "This isn’t pretend at all. I’m actually very interested in meeting you." On April 5, 2019, through text messages, Stultz made plans to meet with the purported minor. The plan was to go back to Stultz’s residence to engage in sexual activity. Law enforcement arrested Stultz as he arrived at the predetermined meeting location.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 30, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of 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 revoked defendant’s bond.

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 Stultz.

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 – Dennis Cercone was sentenced to four years and nine months (57 months) in prison for possessing a firearm after prior felony convictions, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cercone, age 33, of McKees Rocks, was sentenced by United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. Cercone was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. The sentence was a result of Cercone’s arrest on October 13, 2018, by the McKees Rocks Police Department after he possessed and discharged a pistol inside a house in McKees Rocks. Cercone had prior state and federal gun and cocaine distribution felony convictions.

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

The McKees Rocks Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Houston Borough, Washington County (Pennsylvania), has been sentenced in federal court to more than 10 years and 10 months (130 months) in prison on his conviction for violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Vashaun Lasalle Wright, age 30, on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine; possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon; and possession of firearms in furtherance of the charged drug trafficking crimes.

According to information presented to the Court, in March of 2018, investigators with the Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force made a series of controlled purchases of fentanyl from Wright and an alleged coconspirator. Thereafter, investigators executed a search warrant at their residence on Main Street in Houston Borough where agents seized approximately 50 grams of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance (which was packaged for distribution), several ounces of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance (which was packaged for distribution), approximately $24,000 in U.S. Currency, fentanyl packaging materials, and three loaded pistols. Wright, a convicted felon, was prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to his prior felony convictions from Washington County, Pennsylvania, involving his unlicensed possession of concealed firearms in 2008 and 2011.

The Court further ordered that the defendant’s federal sentence is to run consecutively to his June 27, 2019 sentence from the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania), where Wright was sentenced to serve not less than 2 ½ to not more than 5 years of imprisonment in a state correctional facility for violating Pennsylvania’s firearms and narcotics laws. The Court further ordered that Wright be placed on a term of supervised release for four years following his release from incarceration.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wright.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to time served and 12 months home detention on her conviction of violating federal drugs laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Chardonna Lasha Goudy, 24.

According to information presented to the court, the FBI’s Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE), Safe Streets task force conducted an investigation into the drug dealing and violent crime activity of members of a local gang identifying itself as "1800". The court was advised that court authorized intercepts of telephone communications between members of the group and others revealed Goudy was using a cellular telephone in the commission of the drug conspiracy.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Goudy.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 6 years and 8 months (80 months) in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ravone Robert Deberry, 26.

According to information presented to the court, the FBI’s Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement (EAGLE), Safe Streets task force conducted an investigation into the drug dealing and violent crime activity of members of a local gang identifying itself as "1800". The court was advised that court authorized intercepts of telephone communications between members of the group and others revealed Deberry selling crack cocaine in the Erie area. Deberry pleaded guilty to conspiring with his co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distribute the crack cocaine. In a separate case, Deberry possessed a Smith & Wesson, model SW9F, 9mm handgun while being a convicted felon. According to information provided in court, Deberry used that handgun to shoot at rival gang members and the shooting incident was captured in the authorized intercepts of Deberry’s communications.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Deberry.

PITTSBURGH, PA - Scott W. Brady, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, today announced that the number of cases being prosecuted by the district reached an all-time record high in FY 2019.

From October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019, the office filed cases against 665 defendants, an increase of 46% versus 2016. The total number of drug defendants prosecuted reached 309, an 83% increase over 2016. The total number firearms defendants prosecuted was 125, a 19% increase versus 2016. All numbers represent the most defendants prosecuted in any one year in the history of the Western District of Pennsylvania.

"I have made reducing violent crime and attacking the opioid epidemic two of the top priorities for our office, and our efforts are clearly showing results," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "The increase in prosecutions of our district’s most violent offenders and drug traffickers, including those who wear lab coats, is having a direct and positive effect on the declining amount of reported firearms-related violence and deadly opioid overdoses."

According to the FBI Uniform Crime Report, in western Pennsylvania, the 2018 statistics show that firearms-related violence (murders, robberies and assaults committed with a firearm) fell 19% for the 25 counties comprising the Western District of Pennsylvania versus 2017, including a 25% reduction in Allegheny County, a 10% reduction in Erie County, a 39% reduction in Washington County and a 14% reduction in Westmoreland County. Firearms-related violent crime fell 32% in the City of Pittsburgh.

A dramatic decrease in overdose deaths in western Pennsylvania also occurred in 2018. According to data reported by OverdoseFreePA, opioid overdose deaths decreased 37% throughout the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania versus 2017. This includes significant decreases in the counties most impacted by the crisis, including 50% in Beaver and Butler Counties, 47% in Fayette County, 41% in Allegheny County, 37% in Westmoreland County, 35% in Erie County, 30% in Cambria County, and 23% in Washington County.

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

Darren J. Salgado, 34, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on October 17, 2016, Salgado knowingly distributed pictures and/or videos in an individual computer graphic file depicting a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Further, on June 28, 2017, Salgado possessed images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Apr. 2, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.  The law provides for a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years (180 months) in prison and six years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and distribution of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Taurean Potter, age 34, of Ellwood City Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court during his trial, Potter sold cocaine out of Ellwood City bars in 2017 and 2018, and he sold cocaine to other cocaine dealers who would further distribute the cocaine. In addition, on October 14, 2017, Potter sold cocaine to an undercover narcotics agents with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Potter.

PITTSBURGH -A Michigan resident has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years’ imprisonment on his conviction of distribution of carfentanil, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Reginald Davis, age 32, of Detroit, MI.

According to information presented to the court, on December 17, 2016, Davis distributed carfentanil, which the victims believed to be heroin, which caused the overdose death of victim B.L., a Beaver County resident, and caused the non-fatal overdose of victim K.S., also a Beaver County resident, who was later revived with Narcan. Davis also sold carfentanil in a controlled drug buy conducted by the New Brighton Area Police Department the same day and possessed additional quantities of carfentanil which he intended to distribute.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, carfentanil is a synthetic opioid that is 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which itself is 50 times more potent than heroin. Carfentanil is a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act and is used as a tranquilizing agent for elephants and other large mammals.

In addition to the sentence of imprisonment, Judge Fischer ordered the defendant to pay restitution in the amount of $3,775.60 to the family of victim B.L.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Timothy Lanni prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the DEA and the New Brighton Area Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Davis.