Western District of Pennsylvania

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

The two-count Indictment named Ryan Jay Mason, 39, formerly of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on December 20, 2018, and January 25, 2019, Mason possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years in prison and not more than 60 years in prison, a fine of no more than $6,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of not less than 4 years, or a combination thereof. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service, in conjunction with the Greensburg Police Department, the Westmoreland County Sherriff’s Office, and the Latrobe Police Department, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Cambria County has been sentenced in federal court to six years and six months (78 months) in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of securities fraud, wire fraud, and filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Douglas P. Simanski, 54, of Lilly, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, between February 2002 and May 2016, Simanski, an investment advisor and broker, devised and executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $4.5 million from various investors. As part of his scheme, Simanski fabricated "Tax Free Investment" contracts and "fake CDs" which listed guaranteed rates of return and payouts, and used the documents to solicit investors. Simanski used portions of the invested funds to pay "returns" to other investors to make it appear their investments were legitimate. He also used a portion of the funds to purchase personal items and to fund personal home improvement projects, and placed some of the funds into a personal E*Trade account. Also, Simanski filed false income tax returns for 2012, 2013, and 2014.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the United States Secret Service for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Simanski.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has issued three separate, but related, indictments, charging 33 residents of southwestern Pennsylvania with narcotics trafficking and firearm possession, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The first Indictment, unsealed today, contains three conspiracy counts and names the following 25 individuals as defendants in one or more of the drug conspiracies:

• Howard McFadden, 29, of Turtle Creek, PA

• James Wells, 31, of Braddock, PA

• Donald Singleton, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Richard Coto-Wheat, 26, of Duquesne, PA

• Jaymare Jackson, 29, of Braddock, PA

• Dorian Boyd, 24, of Braddock, PA

• Delbert Pate, 26, of Duquesne, PA

• Michael Rose, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Reginald Brown, 29, of East Pittsburgh, PA

• Kreg Williams, 29, of Duquesne, PA

• Keenan Williams, 21, of Duquesne, PA

• Rand Wolford, 31, of Braddock, PA

• Marcel Sewell, 58, of Braddock, PA

• Talen Holmes, 21, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Rodney Dennard, 51, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Bernard Wilkins, 56, of Irwin, PA

• William Kalna, 50, of West Newton, PA

• Justin Law, 30, of Wilkinsburg, PA

• Tyrone Roilton, 28, of Braddock, PA

• Lisamarie Ross, 35, of New Alexandria, PA

• Travis Moore, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Thomas Dwyer, 42, of Homestead, PA

• Gregory Luptak, 51, of North Huntington, PA

• Paula DeBaker, 55, of Braddock, PA

• Philip Matey, 53, of North Braddock, PA

According to this Indictment, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance; 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance; and 280 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, between August 2018 and May 2019. The Indictment seeks forfeiture of the following items: two (2) vehicles – a Jeep Grand Cherokee, associated with McFadden, and a GMC Sierra, associated with Singleton.

The Indictment further alleges that on April 15, 2019, Michael Rose possessed with intent to distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, as well as cocaine and crack, both Schedule II controlled substances. Rose, a convicted felon, who is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm, is also charged with possessing a firearm, and possessing the firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime. As it relates to these counts, the Indictment seeks forfeiture of the following items: $892.00 and a Glock 19x pistol, bearing serial number BHWU068, associated with Michael Rose.

The second Indictment, unsealed today, contains two counts and names the following four individuals as defendants:

• Chadlin Leavy, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA (also charged in the third Indictment)

• Marvin Porter, 48, of Allison Park, PA

• Damien Franklin, 26, of Verona, PA

• Larry Dandridge, 24, of Monroeville, PA

According to this Indictment, the above-named defendants, and others conspired to possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, between April and May of 2019. The Indictment seeks forfeiture of a Mercedes Benz S5A, associated with Leavy.

The third Indictment, also unsealed today, contains two counts and names the following five individuals as defendants:

• Eric Vanderslice, 39, of Phoenixville, PA

• Wayne Barker, 61, of West Mifflin, PA

• William Barker, 63, of Upper St. Clair, PA

• Jared Eck, 28, of Pittsburgh, PA

• Chadlin Leavy, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA (also charged in the second Indictment)

According to this Indictment, these defendants and others conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 100 kilograms of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, between April and May 2019. Additionally, on May 24, 2019, the Barkers and Vanderslice are alleged to have distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute over 100 kilograms of marijuana. The Indictment also seeks forfeiture of the following vehicles: a Dodge Ram 1500, associated with Vanderslice, a Ford F-150, associated with Eck, and a Jeep Wrangler, associated with Leavy. Additionally, the Indictment seeks forfeiture of a total of $518,476 in United States currency, which was seized by law enforcement from Vanderslice ($469,475.00), Wayne Barker ($5,012.00), Eck ($13,989) and Leavy ($30,000).

If convicted, the defendants would face the following penalties. As to the conspiracy counts involving 100 grams or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine, the law provides for a minimum sentence of at least 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prisonand and a fine of not more than $5,000,000. As to the conspiracy count involving 280 grams or more of crack, the law provides for a minimum sentence of at least 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, and a fine of not more than $10,000,000. As to Michael Rose, the law provides for a minimum sentence of at least 5 years in prison and up to life in prison, and a fine of not more than $2,000,000. As to the conspiracy involving 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, the law provides for a minimum sentence of at least 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant.

The Pittsburgh Office of 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 Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Adult Probation, Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Shaler Township Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police 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.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, was sentenced to two years and 10 months (34 months) in federal prison and three years of supervised release as a result of his conviction for cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Walter John Amman, III, 68, was sentenced on Friday by Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Amman’s 77 year-old co-defendant Richard Wright had been purchasing kilogram level amounts of cocaine for over two decades. The co-defendant would process the cocaine by packaging it in smaller quantities and converting some into crack. In more recent years, Walter Amman would help the co-defendant with the processing, packaging and distribution of the cocaine. Two controlled purchases of cocaine were made from Mr. Amman and the DEA, HSI, IRS-CI and Pittsburgh Police obtained search warrants for locations attributable to Amman and the co-defendant. The resulting January 11, 2017 searches resulted in law enforcement locating items which included:

- In the co-defendant’s residence: cocaine prepackaged for sale and color-coded for size; multiple firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition; large amounts of cash; multiple vehicles registered to Amman and his family

- In the co-defendant’s garage: large amounts of powder cocaine; numerous inositol bottles and material to convert cocaine into crack; large amounts of cash; three pistols (including one registered to Amman); and a safe imbedded into the concrete floor

- At Amman’s residence: firearms; prepackaged amounts of crack and cocaine in a jacket with Amman’s name on it; keys to a truck in the jacket; and approximately $1,000 and additional prepackaged cocaine in the truck.

At his plea hearing, Amman admitted that he was responsible for between 700 grams and one kilogram of cocaine, as well as the 5.767 grams of crack cocaine found at his property.

Judge Hornak noted that Amman is a retired Pittsburgh firefighter, that he had recently earned his High School Diploma while incarcerated, and that he had been involved in no misconduct while in jail. In determining the sentence, the Court balanced these facts with the "very serious" drug charges that Amman committed and the defendant’s only prior conviction, a 2006 conviction in Florida for similar charges that also involved Wright.

Wright pleaded guilty in the case but died pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Walter John Amman, III, with valuable assistance from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Larry Malloy was sentenced to 10 years (120 months) in federal prison for distributing Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl, that led to the death of T.C. in April 2016, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Malloy, age 26 of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak. Judge Hornak also ordered Malloy to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Malloy previously pled guilty and accepted responsibility for causing the fatal overdose death of T.C. in April 2016 and acknowledged being responsible for the distribution of at least 100 grams of heroin and at least four grams of fentanyl. As part of the sentence, Judge Hornak directed Malloy to pay $7,917.00 in restitution to T.C.’s family.

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

The Allegheny County Police Department, the Verona Police Department, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

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

The one-count Superseding Indictment named Sean Zachary Horton, age 29, of 301 Washington St., Johnstown, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the Superseding Indictment, on June 7, 2018, Horton was in possession of a firearm and ammunition while having been previously convicted of felonies.

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

Special Assistant United States Attorney Chad R. Parks is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

The one-count indictment named Charles L. McIntosh, 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, in and around April 2019, McIntosh possessed two firearms while being a convicted felon.

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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

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

WASHINGTON – Attorney General William P. Barr today announced the formation of a Domestic Violence Working Group aimed at keeping guns out of the hands of convicted domestic abusers, using the tools of federal prosecution to stop and prevent domestic violence. The group will operate under the auspices of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC) and be comprised of nine U.S. Attorneys from across the country, and chaired by U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

"Too often, domestic abusers start with threats and abuse, and end up committing extreme violence and even homicide, with devastating impact on families and the community around them." said Attorney General Barr. "I have directed this working group to examine this issue and determine the best way to use federal gun prosecutions and other appropriate tools to supplement state, local and tribal efforts to address domestic violence."

"Every day, at least three women in the United States are murdered by their husband or boyfriend," said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. "With domestic violence being the leading cause of injury to women, this working group will bring federal resources to a nationwide problem."

Federal law has long barred convicted felons, as well as individuals subject to certain domestic violence protective orders or convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors, from possessing firearms.

Offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a remarkably high risk of committing a homicide. Research shows that abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners than abusers who don’t have that same access to a firearm. And according to one recent study, more than half of America’s mass shootings are cases of extreme domestic violence.

Keeping guns from domestic abusers legally prohibited from possessing them would significantly reduce violence in America, a major priority of the Justice Department.

However, federal gun cases involving domestic violence present unique challenges. In some states, the federal and state definitions of domestic violence differ, requiring complex legal analysis that varies based on the location of the conviction.

U.S. Attorneys’ offices have worked tirelessly over the years to address these legal challenges with tremendous success. The Working Group will share best practices, legal analysis and guidance on prosecuting abusers who unlawfully possess guns, and will advise U.S. Attorneys across the country on outreach to local law enforcement, judges, and nonprofit groups.

Working Group members include:

• Scott W. Brady, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania

• Robert M. Duncan, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky

• Nicola T. Hanna, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California

• Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio

• Erin Nealy Cox, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas

• Christina E. Nolan, U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont

• Byung J. Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia

• R. Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma

• Timothy J. Downing, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma

 

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

Thomas Poole, 53, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before Senior District Judge Arthur J. Schwab to the one-count Indictment charging Poole with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting cocaine trafficking in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The investigation revealed that from in and around August 2016, to on or about November 30, 2017, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Poole conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 15 kilograms but less than 50 kilograms of cocaine. The court was further advised that on November 30, 2017, investigators seized $144,785 in U.S. currency, jewelry, a Honda Odyssey and approximately six kilograms of cocaine from residences associated with the defendant.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing October 24, 2019 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine not to exceed $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome A. Moschetta and Rebecca L. Silinski are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the plea in this case.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws and making a false statement in an application for a United States passport, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Amaad Maliek Ali, 48, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter.

In connection with the guilty plea on the gun charge, the court was advised that on or about April 7, 2018, Ali falsified his application for the purchase of a firearm and lied about his prior felony convictions. A National Instant Criminal Background Check was made and Ali was rejected for the firearm purchase because of his prior criminal record.

In connection with the guilty plea on the false statement charge, the court was advised that on or about April 18, 2017, Ali made a false statement on a United States passport application by stating that his social security number was 000-00-0000.

Judge Baxter scheduled sentencing for September 26, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the 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 U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigations that led to the prosecution of Ali.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), 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.

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

Rashem Littleberry, 29, 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 Greenway Boy Killas (GBK) street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Rashem Littleberry and his co-conspirators conspired to distribute quantities of heroin.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 9, 2019 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

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

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 – Dr. Nathan Hanflink of Mt. Dora, Florida, agreed to pay $911,136.75 to settle allegations that he received improper payments for making referrals to Greensburg, Pennsylvania drug testing lab Universal Oral Fluid Laboratories, and caused false claims to be submitted to Medicare for drug testing services, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The settlement announced today resolves allegations that Dr. Hanflink referred Medicare patients to Universal Oral Fluid Laboratories (UOFL) for lab tests while engaged in a financial relationship with UOFL. Specifically, UOFL paid Dr. Hanflink to refer patients to the lab for drug tests; UOFL then submitted claims to Medicare for the drug testing services. The United States alleged that the financial arrangement between Dr. Hanflink and UOFL violated the physician self-referral law, commonly known as the Stark Law, and the Anti-Kickback Statute, giving rise to liability under the False Claims Act.

The Stark Law forbids physicians from making referrals for certain designated health services payable by Medicare to an entity with which the physician (or his or her immediate family member) has a financial relationship, unless an exception applies. The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of services covered by federal health care programs, such as Medicare. Violations of the Stark Law or Anti-Kickback Statute may give rise to civil liability for treble damages and penalties under the False Claims Act.

Along with the settlement, Dr. Hanflink also signed an Integrity Agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General that will require, among other things, regular monitoring of his billing practices for a period of three years.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Mamula and Paul E. Skirtich handled the investigation that led to this settlement on behalf of the United States.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today in federal court to 70 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release on his conviction for violating the federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Daelon Hill-Johnson, 21, for the crimes of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to information presented to the Court, on or about April 5, 2017, Hill-Johnson possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Further, on that same date, Hill-Johnson possessed a Glock 9mm pistol in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime.

Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Jerome A. Moschetta prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.

This 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.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of government money, Social Security fraud, and Social Security representative payee misuse, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count Indictment, returned June 4, named John Robert Mahoney, 53, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, from October 2015 to December, 2017, Mahoney, while acting as a representative payee for a beneficiary, converted to his own use over $1,000 in Title XVI Social Security benefits. Mahoney is further alleged to have falsely represented to the Social Security Administration that the beneficiary was residing with him and to have failed to disclose that the beneficiary was not residing with him. Additionally, the Indictment alleges that from October 2015 to April 2018, Mahoney converted Title II Social Security benefits intended for the use and benefit of another.

For the offense of theft of government property, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For each offense of Social Security fraud and Social Security representative payee misuse, the law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jason Gerade Harris, Jr., 25, of pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that FBI agents received a tip from Minnesota that a complainant discovered naked images of her 7-year-old son sent via Skype. The conversations originated on PlayStation and were continued via Skype. Agents also learned, that a 13-year-old Tampa, Florida juvenile was enticed to take explicit pictures of his 6-year-old brother to send using Kik. The investigation led to the defendant at a residence on Wright Street in Wilkinsburg, PA.

On December 6, 2018, agents executed a search warrant on the residence. When they advised that they were at the house because someone used the internet there to coerce minors to send nude photos and/or videos, Harris, Jr. abruptly stated, "It was me," and provided details about his communications with minors. A forensic review of the defendant’s phone revealed two chats of interest in the "TextNow" app, where the defendant requested nude photographs of a minor. The forensic review also revealed 171 images and three videos of apparent child pornography, but nothing from his communications with the children in Minnesota or Florida.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 22, 2019. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Harris’ bond.

Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Patterson, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh to six years’ (72 months’) imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Duane Ferguson, 42.

According to information presented to the court, on or about April 21, 2016, Ferguson and his co-defendant, Andy Brown, possessed with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Andy Brown, of Pittsburgh, PA, who was the more culpable co-defendant and in charge of the drug-trafficking activities, was sentenced previously to 12 years’ incarceration.

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

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

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

The one-count indictment named David Belton, 37, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on May 30, 2019, David Belton possessed a Fabrique Nationale Herstal semi-automatic handgun. It is unlawful for Belton, who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm.

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

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the McKeesport Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Donora, PA pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating a federal narcotics law and federal firearm law, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christian B. Drennan, 28, currently residing in St. Clairsville, Ohio pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around April 2018 and continuing until September 6, 2018, Drennan conspired to import fentanyl, a controlled substance, from China via the internet and possessed seven firearms while an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for September 25, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), 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, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Drennan.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Hermitage, Pennsylvania, and a corporation, also from Hermitage, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Emil Koledin aka Butch, and Koledin Enterprises, Inc. pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud agencies of the United States before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Koledin operated a business out of his Hermitage home called Koledin Enterpsises, Inc., that sold various illegal drugs manufactured primarily in Russia and China though the website awakebrain.com. Koledin sold the drugs as "nootripics", which he described as "Smart drugs, memory enhancers, neuro exchangers, and intelligence enhancements." He falsely represented these drugs as legal to sell in the United States. In fact, these are drugs that were illegally imported into the United States and illegal to sell in the United States because they are not approved for sale by the Food and Drug Administration, the products do not contain the proper labeling, directions for use and warnings, and because they were manufactured in unapproved facilities. Some of the illegal drugs Koledin was selling include the following: Adrafinil, aka Noofon; Bromantane; Coluracetam; Etifoxine, aka Stresam; Noopept; Piracetam, a/k/a Nootropil; Phenylpiracetam, aka Phenotropil; Sunifiram; Theanine; and Tianetine,

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 7, 2019. For the conspiracy charge relating to Emil Koledin, the law provides for a total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the charge against Koledin Enterprises, Inc., the law provides for a total sentence of a fine of $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Koledin and Koledin Enterprises, Inc.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. –  A resident of DuBois, Pa. has been sentenced in federal court to three years and 10 months (46 months) in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Vincent L. Ruchlewicz, 58.

According to information presented to the court, on Mar. 1, 2018, Ruchlewicz was found in possession of numerous firearms.  On Feb. 28, 2011, he had been convicted in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.  Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie L. Haines prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Brady commended the United States Probation Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Ruchlewicz.

This 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.

PITTSBURGH – Dara Haynie was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison for possessing heroin, fentanyl, or butyryl fentanyl with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a playground and a public housing facility, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Haynie, 28, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge David S. Cercone. Haynie was also sentenced to serve six years of supervised release following her prison term.

Haynie was convicted at the conclusion of a jury trial in January 2019. The evidence presented during the jury trial established that she teamed up with her husband, Quinshawn Haynie, to deal fentanyl and heroin in February and March 2017. They did so from public housing and across the street from a playground in Pittsburgh’s Garfield neighborhood.

The Haynies spent at least part of their drug trafficking proceeds on marijuana to smoke together, cigarettes, and alcohol.

Quinshawn Haynie was sentenced to three years and four months (40 months) in prison in April.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Grove City, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 17 years and 6 months in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Matthew Switzer, 33.

According to information presented to the court at the time of Switzer’s guilty plea, Switzer coerced a four-year-old female to engage in sexually explicit conduct on multiple occasions for the purpose of producing at least 13 visual depictions of such conduct. The photographs were later discovered by the victim’s mother and forensically retrieved from his Gmail account by members of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Switzer faces numerous state charges in Mercer County, which allege, among other things, that he also sexually assaulted another minor female.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

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 - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of an analogue of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Trevon Woodson, age 22, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Court Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lynell Guyton is the main target of the investigation. From May 2017 until August 2017, he utilized various individuals to package drugs for him. Guyton purchased large quantities of fentanyl analogues from overseas purveyors to sell locally.

According to information provided to the court, Trevon and his twin brother Drevon are Guyton’s cousins who also packaged narcotics for him. On July 10, 2017, the Woodsons and their friend were subjected to a traffic stop in the City of Pittsburgh. Trevon Woodson was sitting in the back seat, kicking at a blue plastic shopping bag at his feet. After searching the vehicle, officers found the shopping bag that was at Trevon Woodson’s feet, and discovered that it contained 16 bricks plus two stamp bags, marked "Louis Vuitton" in black ink. That was one of the three stamps distributed by Guyton. The substances tested positive for over 10 grams of cyclopropyl fentanyl.

Lynell Guyton and Drevon Woodson are under indictment with pre-trial motions pending.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 1, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the court ordered Woodson to remain detained.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to seven years (84 months) in prison on his convictions of drug trafficking and money laundering offenses, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on James Nelson, 31, of Wellsville, OH.

According to information presented to the court, from January 2015 to February 2016, Nelson conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. He also conspired to launder $60,000 of the proceeds of the heroin trafficking.

Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hopewell Township Police Department, Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, Aliquippa Police Department, and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Nelson.

 

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Aiding or Assisting in the Preparation or Filing of False Federal Income Tax Returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Earlene L. Clancy, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the government advised the court that between 2010 and 2016, Earlene L. Clancy prepared hundreds of false federal income tax returns for other persons while employed as a tax preparer for Cititax Refund Company in Pittsburgh that included false Schedule C information, and which requested hundreds of thousands of dollars in false EITCs refunds for the taxpayer.

Judge Fischer scheduled the sentencing for October 31, 2019 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of three years' imprisonment, a fine of $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation that lead to the prosecution of Earlene L. Clancy.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 1 year and 1 day, to be followed by 2 years of supervised release on his conviction on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Edward Fontenot, 33, formerly of Punxsutawney, PA.

According to information presented to the court, in July 2016, Fontenot straw purchased four firearms from the Mahoning Valley Milling Company, a federally licensed firearms dealer for Peter DiGiacomo. The defendant completed ATF form 4473 and claimed to be the actual buyer of the firearm although he was purchasing the firearms for DiGiacomo. The firearms included: a 5.56 caliber semiautomatic Zastava rifle; a 7.62 caliber semiautomatic CAI rifle; a 7.62 caliber semiautomatic Century Arms rifle; and a 5.56 caliber semiautomatic Bushmaster rifle. DiGiacomo, a convicted felon who under federal law can neither purchase nor possess a weapon, was previously sentenced to 5 years in prison.

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

This 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.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Eurie Nunley, 35, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Nunley illegally possessed a Glock 9mm pistol. Nunley was found in possession of the Glock 9mm pistol just seven months after his release from a 14-year state prison sentence for the unlawful possession of a firearm and the use of a firearm in a drug crime. 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.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for October 2, 2019 at 2 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

This 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Geneva Gore, 49, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Gore conspired with four co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 4, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Gore on bond.

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

The  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Coshocton County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gore.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chardonna Lasha Goudy, 23, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 4, 2019 at 3 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of four years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court continued Goudy on bond.

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

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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Goudy.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Ravone Robert Deberry, 26, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that 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.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 4, 2019 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years years in prison, a fine of $5,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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 conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Deberry.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Braddock, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Bryan Smith, age 24.

According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Bryan Smith and his co-conspirators distributed crack cocaine in and around the area of the Greenway Projects. Smith was the first of the 28 defendants charged in connection with this conspiracy to be sentenced.

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

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

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

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 Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violations of the federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Landon Alexander Gatta, 23, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before Senior District Judge Joy Flowers Conti to the three-count Indictment charging Gatta with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a fentanyl-heroin mixture, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on November 5, 2018, the Pennsylvania State Police searched Gatta’s residence in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pursuant to a search warrant in connection with an ongoing narcotics investigation. There, investigators recovered approximately 50 grams of a heroin-fentanyl mixture, a large sum of U.S. currency, and a loaded, stolen .40 caliber semi-automatic Glock pistol. Federal law prohibits Gatta, a felon previously convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County of the crime of possession with intent to distribute heroin, from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for September 24, 2019, at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $5,500,000, 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 of the defendant.

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

This case was brought 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.

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the plea in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA A resident of Wexford, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ probation on his conviction for willful failure to pay over taxes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on William J. Houser, Jr., 59. The court ordered that the first 24 weekends, and one week each year, of the five-year term of probation be served in a community confinement center. The court also sentenced Houser to pay $1,128,660 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.

According to information presented to the court, Houser, a licensed medical doctor and practitioner in Youngstown, Ohio, was required to withhold monies from the paychecks of his employees to cover their individual income, Social Security, and Medicare tax obligations, referred to as trust fund monies, and to remit the trust fund monies to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on a quarterly basis. He was also required to pay over to the IRS matching contributions for Social Security and Medicare, commonly known as employment taxes. Houser failed to pay over both employment and trust fund taxes during the period September 2009 through December 2014. Houser also failed to file personal tax returns and pay income taxes for the years 2010 through 2014. Failure to pay the required taxes resulted in a total tax loss to the IRS of more than $899,269.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Houser.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 11 years’ (132 months’) imprisonment, followed by 10 years’ supervised release on his conviction of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Robert Bernal, Jr., 29.

According to information presented to the court, on December 3, 2015, Bernal distributed an image depicting the sexual exploitation of a prepubescent female over the Internet using the Skype application. Law enforcement officers were notified of the uploaded image after a report was submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A search warrant was then obtained and executed at Bernal’s residence. A search of a computer and cellular telephones seized during the search revealed hundreds of saved images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bernal, Jr.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years and 10 months (130 months) in prison, followed by eight years of supervised release, on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on David Kendrick, 44, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to information presentenced to the court, from in and around January 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2016, Kendrick conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance.

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

U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady commended the federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of David Kendrick. The task force is headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is comprised of members drawn from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Ambridge Police Department, New Brighton Police Department, Beaver Police Department, Aliquippa Police Department, Moon Township Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne 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.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Vernon Jackson, 49, pleaded guilty yesterday in front of U.S. District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

According to information provided to the court, on or about March 8, 2018, detectives from the City of Pittsburgh Narcotics and Vice Unit executed a search warrant at Vernon Jackson’s residence at on Pioneer Avenue in the City’s Brookline neighborhood. 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 was on federal supervised release at the time of execution of the search warrant for a prior federal conviction for heroin trafficking.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Sept. 10, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,000,000 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. Defendant is detained and will be continued to be detained pending sentence.

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

PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for two hours, a federal jury of nine men and three women found Denver Sangster guilty of one count of Possession with the Intent to Deliver More than 280 Grams of Crack Cocaine, a Quantity of Cocaine, and a Quantity of Marijuana and one count of Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Sangster, 43, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was tried before United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Brian Czarnecki, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on March 30, 2016, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a search warrant at Sangster’s former residence, along with his person and vehicle. During the course of the search warrant, the officers located approximately 340 grams of crack cocaine, 150 grams of powdered cocaine, and more than nine kilograms of marijuana, along with four loaded firearms.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 1, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison and up to life. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

This 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.

PITTSBURGH - Two residents of Butler County, Pennsylvania, previously indicted in Pittsburgh on April 17, 2019, on charges of mail fraud, conspiracy to commit mail fraud, embezzlement from a healthcare benefit program, conspiracy to commit money laundering, money laundering, and making a false statement in a loan application, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on additional charges of conspiracy and filing false tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 42-count Superseding Indictment, returned on May 22, named Stephanie J. Roskovski, 49, and her husband, Scott A. Roskovski, 50, both of Butler, PA, as defendants.

According to the Superseding Indictment, the Roskovskis, during the years 2011 through December 2017, perpetrated a fraud totaling more than $1.3 million on Butler Healthcare Providers, d/b/a Butler Memorial Hospital, where Stephanie Roskovski was employed and, for much of that time, served as the hospital’s Chief Operating Officer. During the time, Scott Roskovski was employed as a detective with the Butler County District Attorney’s Office where he conducted investigations involving fraud and other financial crimes. Counts 1 through 23 of the Superseding Indictment allege that the defendants conspired to and did defraud Butler Healthcare Providers by submitting requests to Butler Hospital for alleged business-related expenses that were used, or intended to be used, for personal expenditures. Those personal expenses included, among others, lavish family vacations, household furnishings, concert and event tickets, and the purchase of, and expenses associated with, a motocross racetrack they purchased in 2015 known as Switchback MX, LLC, located in Butler, Pennsylvania. Counts 24 through 28 charge Stephanie Roskovski with embezzling funds from a healthcare benefit program. Count 29 through 35 charge the couple with conspiring to launder the proceeds of the fraud and with engaging in monetary transactions intended, in part, to conceal their theft, as well as in monetary transactions involving fraud proceeds in excess of $10,000. Counts 36 and 37 allege that in March and July of 2018, the defendants made false statements to S&T Bank in applying for two loans totaling approximately $1.8 million.

Count 38 of the Superseding Indictment charges the couple with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to evade the payment of income taxes. Counts 39 through 42 charge them with filing false income tax returns in each of the years 2013 through 2016, in which they failed to report income from the embezzlement perpetrated on Butler Health System and falsely reported unreimbursed employee expenses and over $85,000 in losses from a purported private investigating consulting business, identified as "Private Investigative Solutions". The Superseding Indictment also includes forfeiture allegations.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $3.1 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual Activity and Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Jason W. Lynn, age 40, as the sole defendant.

According to Indictment, from on or about April 4, 2019 until on or about May 3, 2019, Lynn used a facility and means of interstate commerce, specifically the Internet and a cellular telephone network, to knowingly attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity. The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 3, 2019, Lynn traveled with the intent to engage in illicit sexual contact with a minor.

The law provides for a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years up to a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Shanicka L. Kennedy and Heidi M. Grogan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The FBI conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – AWashington County resident was sentenced today in federal court to seven years' (84 months’) imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release on his conviction for violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on James Roosevelt Leach, 47, of Washington, Pennsylvania, for the crime of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

According to information presented to the Court, on December 14, 2016, the Pennsylvania State Police performed a traffic stop on a vehicle near the City of Washington, Washington County (Pennsylvania) at which time troopers found Leach in possession of a loaded, stolen 9mm caliber Ruger pistol, and a box of 9mm ammunition. Federal law prohibits Leach, a felon previously convicted in the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County, Pennsylvania, of crimes including rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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

This case was brought 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.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Munhall, PA was sentenced to seven years (84 months) in prison and six years of supervised release on violations federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Charles Payne, age 26, for one count of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Payne has been detained since his initial appearance in federal court.

According to information presented to the court, on November 10, 2017, Allegheny County Police assisted by Munhall Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence on Martha Street in Munhall, PA. Payne was discovered in the upstairs bedroom with his girlfriend and infant child. In the first floor of the house, investigators found a large garbage bag filled with bricks of heroin, empty brick wrappers, a Pennsylvania state ID for Charles Payne, and approximately $25,000 in cash. Investigators also found two digital scales, three boxes of ammunition, a laser sight, and a loaded stolen silver handgun in the house. Payne had previously been convicted of a state drug trafficking conviction and is prohibited from possessing any firearms. At the time of the execution of the search warrant, Payne was on state probation for firearms and drug trafficking convictions. A laboratory test revealed that the substances seized during the search warrant were heroin and methoxyacetyl fentanyl, a fentanyl analogue.

This 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.

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

Allegheny County Police – Narcotics Unit conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea in this case.

PITTSBURGH - Kevin Livsey was sentenced to 19 years and two months (230 months) in federal prison for committing fentanyl and heroin trafficking and firearm crimes while on federal supervised release for heroin trafficking crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Livsey, age 32, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by United States Circuit Judge D. Michael Fisher. Livsey was ordered to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

Livsey was convicted of (1) possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, carfentanil, and heroin on May 9, 2018; (2) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime also on May 9, 2018; and (3) distribution of fentanyl and heroin on April 11, 2018. Livsey was on federal supervised release in 2018 following a prison sentence for prior federal convictions for distributing heroin. Livsey was also previously convicted of heroin trafficking in 2010 in Pennsylvania state court.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office 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, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release on his conviction of receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Mukesh Khawas. According to information presented to the court, from June 14, 2016, to June 15, 2016, Khawas engaged in online chat conversations with a female child via the social networking/dating application Skout.com, and during the conversations, Khawas requested and received sexually explicit images, knowing the minor victim had not yet attained 12 years of age.

In addition to his conviction for receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Khawas acknowledged his responsibility for the production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Khawas, who is a citizen of Bhutan but a lawful permanent resident of the United States, has also agreed to be deported to Bhutan upon the conclusion of his sentence without the ability to appeal or reenter the United States.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand and Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Khawas.

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

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Wilmerding, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court on one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Ronnell Lawrence, age 31, pleaded guilty yesterday before United States District Judge David Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 10, 2017, Rondell Lawrence drove his twin brother and co-defendant, Ronnell Lawrence to the Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Pittsburgh. Ronnell Lawrence then boarded a bus bound for New York City. Ronnell Lawrence returned to Pittsburgh after spending only one hour in New York City. On July 11, 2017, Rondell Lawrence returned to the Greyhound Bus Station to pick up his brother. Investigators observed Ronnell putting a large camouflage backpack into the back of the Nissan Pathfinder. Investigators later stopped the Nissan Pathfinder for having an expired registration. A subsequent search of the vehicle and the camouflage bag placed there by Ronnell revealed eight large bags of suspected heroin and fentanyl and a bus ticket to New York City. The Drug Enforcement Administration Laboratory later tested the substances seized from the bag and revealed that the substances were approximately 390 grams of a heroin/fentanyl mixture.

Judge Cercone set sentencing for September 10, 2019 at 1 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Lawrence has been detained since his initial appearance and will remain detained pending sentencing. Co-defendant Rondell Lawrence was previously sentenced to five years (60 months) in prison on the same charge.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET), Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and North Versailles Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today that three individuals were sentenced and three individuals entered guilty pleas in federal court in Pittsburgh this week in cases being prosecuted as part of the District’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative.

"The PSN program was reinvigorated in 2017, as part of the Justice Department’s renewed focus on targeting each community’s most violent criminals," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "PSN brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone."

The following cases are products of PSN’s collaborative effort.

On Monday, May 13, Kedron Kedren Broadus, 34, of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. On November 13, 2017, Broadus, who has a prior felony conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, unlawfully possessed a .40 caliber Glock 23 handgun and ammunition. Broadus was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by Pittsburgh Bureau of Police officers for a traffic violation, and he fled from the scene of the stop. During his flight, Broadus dropped the firearm. The officers eventually caught Broadus, and he had a backpack that contained multiple rounds of ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 28, 2019 at 10 a.m. Also at that date and time, Judge Schwab will sentence Broadus because he violated the conditions of his supervised release by, among other ways, illegally possessing a firearm.

U.S. Attorney Brady prosecuted Broadus in 2005-2006 when Mr. Brady served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. On February 16, 2006, Broadus received a sentence of 10 years in prison for trafficking crack cocaine. Despite the lengthy prison term, Broadus re-engaged in serious criminal activity after being released.

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

Also on Monday, Darby Donta Tigney, 24, of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty before Judge Schwab. On October 14, 2018, Tigney illegally possessed a 9mm Smith and Wesson handgun. Tigney had been convicted of the felony offense of Possession of a Firearm with an Altered Serial Number in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County just three months earlier on July 30, 2018.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 28, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.

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

The Pittsburgh Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigations that led to the prosecution of Kedron Broadus and Darby Donta Tigney.

On Wednesday, May 15, 2019, Herbert Lee Pope, 28, formerly Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to four years (48 months) in prison, five years of supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $3,793.25, on his conviction for violating federal bank robbery and firearms laws. United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence. On February 16, 2016, Pope and another male entered the Sewickley Savings Bank in Sewickley, PA, both utilizing black semi-automatic handguns, vaulted the teller counter, and robbed the bank. The loss to the bank was $3,543.25.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey R. Bengel and Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sewickley Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Ambridge Police Department conducted the investigation.

Also on May 15, 2019, Zackory James Sadler, 34, with former addresses in Monessen and Washington Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose to three years of additional supervision and six months of incarceration, consecutive o all other sentences for escaping his federal sentence.

Sadler was back in federal prison for previously escaping from federal custody. He was back at the Renewal Center halfway house in Pittsburgh on December 19, 2018 and was given permission to meet with his federal Probation Officer (PO). Sadler did not visit his PO and then failed to return to the Renewal Center. The United States Marshals Service Fugitive Unit began an investigation and the Renewal Center contacted Sadler’s friends and family. On December 21, 2019, Sadler finally returned to the Renewal Center. He was subsequently removed from the halfway house and sent back to prison.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. AUSA Lenhardt informed the Court that the current case is the defendant’s 17th conviction in juvenile and adult court. In recent years, Sadler was convicted of multiple cases in adult court, including a prior 2008 Washington County escape for walking away from a halfway house. In 2009, the defendant was charged in federal court with being a felon in possession of a firearm and was ultimately sentenced to five years (60 months) of incarceration. On August 9, 2013, the defendant walked away from the federal halfway house. He was later charged with escape and sentenced in 2014. Thus, the current matter actually involves his conviction for escaping from his escape sentence.

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sadler.

On May 16, 2019, Robert Tippett, 22, of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone. On May 4, 2018, Tippett possessed a loaded .357 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver. It is unlawful for Tippett, who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for September 10, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Tippett remain in custody.

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

On May 17, 2019, Jaimere Erick Dehonney, 22, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced to four years (48 months) in prison and three years’ supervised release. United States District Judge Reggie Walton imposed the sentence. On June 8, 2017, Dehonney conspired with others in the Western District of Pennsylvania to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. The Court was further advised that, on or about June 8, 2017, Dehonney unlawfully possessed two firearms – a 5.56 caliber "AK-style" pistol and a .45 caliber Springfield XD pistol (and ammunition for the same) – while he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm and ammunition by an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation.

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(s).

This 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.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

William Lewis, 30, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Court Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on August 5, 2017, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a search warrant on the defendant’s residence in the Oakland section of Pittsburgh. Inside of the home, police found a quantity of suspected heroin and "cut" which tested positive for 56 grams of cyclopropyl fentanyl. The search also revealed 225 stamp bags of packaged cyclopropyl fentanyl, stamped "Ferrari." Lewis also had 19 stamp bags that tested positive for straight fentanyl. Packaging paraphernalia was also found.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 9, 2019. Judge Cercone ordered Lewis to remain detained pending sentencing. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years to a maximum of 40 years. A fine not to exceed $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lewis.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Greenville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of time served or 200 days, to be followed by two years of supervised release on her conviction on a charge of possession of a controlled substance, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Kristen Shearer, 24.

According to information presented to the court, on August 9, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in the Elliot section of Pittsburgh connected to main target Lynell Guyton. Kristen Shearer and three other individuals, including Guyton were present at the house. Large amounts of narcotics and packaging paraphernalia were visible. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the narcotics recovered contained cyclopropyl fentanyl, an analogue of fentanyl. She admitted to packaging some of the stamp bags.

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

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shearer

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Port Vue, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jarran Bell, 38, formerly of Port Vue, PA, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, this investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts from December 2014 through April 2015 of several different cellular telephones, surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and other investigative techniques, established the existence of a number of overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks at work in the Western District of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Bell and his girlfriend Krystle Barretto were living together during the investigation. Bell and Barretto maintained numerous other residences, which were used as stash houses. Amanda Santiago lived in one of those residences during the investigative period.

In April of 2015, Bell and Barretto orchestrated two large shipments of heroin from Patterson, New Jersey, back to the McKeesport/Port Vue area. On April 19, 2015, a courier, Amanda Santiago, transported approximately 500 bricks of heroin from Patterson, New Jersey back to McKeesport via taxi cab.

On April 20, 2015, several search warrants were conducted. One of the search warrants took place at the primary residence of Bell and Barretto. Agents seized: a loaded firearm, approximately five bricks of heroin and a money counter. All of the aforementioned items were seized from the master bedroom of Bell and Barretto. The loaded gun was located in a dresser drawer along with the five bricks of heroin. Baretto was the lawful owner of the firearm.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for September 11, 2019. Judge Bissoon ordered Bell remained detained pending sentencing. The law provides for a term of imprisonment of not less than 15 years to a maximum of life. A fine not to exceed $20,000,000, 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.

Amanda Santiago pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 2 ½ years (30 months) in prison. Krystle Barretto pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 19, 2019.

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

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

 

PITTSBURGH -A felon from Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Derick Davare, 32, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around 2015, and continuing to on or about October 22, 2018, Davare conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Additionally, on or about October 22, 2018, Davare, being a convicted felon, illegally possessed a F.N. (FN Herstal) Five-Seven, 57 Caliber Pistol, a Sig-Sauer P226 9mm Pistol with an obliterated serial number, 5.7 x .28 ammunition and 9mm ammunition. He also possessed additional rounds of ammunition on August 28, 2018. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year to possess a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for September 20, 2019 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than ten years in prison and not more than life in prison, a fine of $15,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan T. Conway and Marnie Sheehan-Balchon 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 Derick Davare. 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.

PITTSBURGH – Seventeen people in four states have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics, money laundering and postal laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. The three separate, but related, indictments were returned on May 8, 2019 and unsealed this week.

"This is one of the largest cocaine distribution rings in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "Together with our state and local law enforcement partners, we conducted an extensive investigation of this multi-state drug distribution network. My office will continue the fight to dismantle drug trafficking organizations and hold those who pollute our communities with drugs accountable."

"This drug distribution organization threatened the safety of the people of western Pennsylvania and beyond by peddling illegal drugs in their communities," said Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. "I’m grateful for the strong collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement to break up this criminal network. We will continue working together to get these poisons off our streets and hold those who push them into our neighborhoods accountable."

"This was an investigation that started at the local level and we quickly realized we needed the help of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration," said Lawrence County District Attorney Joshua Lamancusa. "Through the cooperation of local, state and federal agencies, we were able to make a substantial impact on drug trafficking in Lawrence County."

According to U.S. Attorney Brady, the indictments follow an 18-month investigation of a multi-state drug distribution network led by Hector Forbes, in which cocaine was sold throughout the country, including in New Castle and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The group used the mail to transport the cocaine and to send cash back to Hector Forbes and Marcia Cunningham.

An eight-count indictment returned on May 8, names:

• Timothy Bonner, 38, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

• Garfield Campbell, aka "Sean Grant," 44, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

• Garfield Campbell, Jr., aka "Theo Campbell," 22, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

• Marcia Cunningham, aka "Elaine Ambersley," "Marcia Headley," 51, of Plantation, Florida;

• Hector Forbes, aka "Michael Ambersley," "Troy Williams," "Desmond Roreric," "Hextor Obian," "Hector Obytan," "Haneen Arrie," "Warren Blake," "Sperm," "Henry," 45, of Pomona, California;

• Robert Forbes, aka "Daniel Kirkpatrick," "Joe," 44, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and

• Anthony Portis, Jr., 36, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

Cunningham and Hector Forbes were arrested in Florida on May 10, 2019. The remaining defendants were arrested in Lawrence and Allegheny counties on Monday, May 13, 2019. Garfield Campbell and Garfield Campbell, Jr. are father and son. Hector Forbes and Robert Forbes are brothers.

According to Count 1 of the Indictment, from in and around April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019, Hector Forbes participated in a continuing criminal enterprise involved in cocaine trafficking. That statute is often referred to as the Drug Kingpin Statute, and calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years of incarceration upon conviction.

At Count 2, the Indictment charges all defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere. That statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years of incarceration upon conviction.

Garfield Campbell is charged at Count 3 with attempting to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in and around June 2017. That statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration upon conviction.

Timothy Bonner is charged at Counts 4 and 5 with possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, on or about February 11, 2019.

Garfield Campbell, Marcia Cunningham, Hector Forbes and Robert Forbes are charged at Count 6 with conspiring to commit money laundering, from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019; and at Count Seven with interstate travel in aid of racketeering.

Marcia Cunningham and Hector Forbes are charged at Count 8 with using false names and addresses to conduct an unlawful business by means of the postal service, from in and April 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2019.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison for all of these defendants.

A second indictment, returned on May 8, and containing 24 counts, names:

• Fawn Cox, 40, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;

• Wesley Cox aka "Michael Deshawn Carter," 37, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;

• Michael Cox, 48, of 811 High Street, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;

• Ronny Daniels, Jr. aka "Moocher," 36, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;

• Sergio Murillo, 45, of Detroit, Michigan;

• Eva Scialabba, 32, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania;

• Dondi Searcy, Jr. aka "Little Dondi," 34, of New Castle, Pennsylvania;

• Quantel Searcy, 45, of New Castle, Pennsylvania; and

• Christopher Shaner, 24, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

All of the defendants  were arrested on Monday, May 13, 2019, except for Wesley Cox and Sergio Murillo who were already in custody.  Fawn, Wesley and Michael Cox are siblings. Dondi Searcy, Jr. and Quantel Searcy are cousins.

According to the Indictment, from in and around 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, defendants Fawn Cox, Wesley Cox, Ronny Daniels, Jr., Sergio Murillo, Eva Scialabba, Dondi Searcy, Jr., Quantel Searcy and Christopher Shaner conspired with each other and others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, each a Schedule II controlled substance. That statute carries with it a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years of incarceration.

Counts 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23 and 24 of the Indictment charge Fawn Cox, Wesley Cox, Ronny Daniels, Jr., Dondi Searcy, Jr. and Quantel Searcy with distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, on various dates from February 2017 to April 2019.

Wesley Cox is further charged at Counts 3 and 9 with distributing and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and fentanyl, each a Schedule II controlled substance, on or about December 8, 2017 and February 28, 2018, respectively.

Count 13 charges Wesley Cox and Michael Cox with conspiring to commit money laundering from in and around 2017, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2019.

Counts 14, 15 and 16 charge Ronny Daniels, Jr. with distributing and possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine, on or about January 10, 2018, January 31, 2018, May 1, 2018, respectively.

Count 21 charges Sergio Murillo and Dondi Searcy, Jr. with attempting to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, on or about September 18, 2018.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison for all of the defendants except for Michael Cox, who faces a maximum total sentence of twenty years of incarceration.

Finally, a third indictment returned on May 8, and containing two counts names:

• Rondell Palmer, 47, of Pontiac, Michigan, as the sole defendant.  Palmer was already in custody.

According to the Indictment, from in and around August 2018, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2018, Palmer conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Additionally, on or about September 17, 2018, Palmer attempted to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years to a maximum of 40 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $5,000,000 or both.

Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant(s).

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 leading to the Indictment in this case. 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.

In this case, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Special Investigations Unit, the New Castle Police Department and the Union Township Police Department provided significant assistance in the investigation.

The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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