Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was sentenced in federal court to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on LaRon Hollaman, 29. Judge Bissoon also required that this sentence must be served consecutive to any state parole violation.

The court was advised that on May 6, 2017, a Robinson Police Officer observed Hollaman engage in suspicious drug activity in the parking lot of the Hilltop Inn. The officer then followed Hollaman to a nearby GetGo gas station where he approached the defendant to investigate further. When asked for his license and registration, Hollaman told the officer, "I just did six up at State," referring to his prior conviction. Hollaman continued to tell the officer, "There are two guns loaded underneath the front passenger seat." Hollaman was removed from the car and handcuffed. Police then recovered two loaded Glock firearms, which were reported stolen out of the City of Pittsburgh. At the time of his arrest, Hollaman was on Pennsylvania State parole for committing a carjacking and two separate illegal firearms possession charges.

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.

The Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Robinson Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the guilty plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation with 180 days of incarceration at Renewal, Inc. along with 180 days of home incarceration, a $15,000 fine and ordered to pay $391,472 in restitution on his conviction of filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Allan W. Clark, M.D.

According to information presented to the court, Clark was the owner and operator of the South Hills Recovery Project (SHRP), a strictly cash-based suboxone clinic. A patient’s first visit fee during the relevant times was $250. The follow-up monthly visits were $150. Over the course of 2011, 2012 and 2013, Clark hired approximately 11 different doctors to work part time at SHRP to assist him in handling the follow up visits. Of the $150 collected from the patient for the follow- up visit, the 11 doctors were paid approximately half, or $75, and SHRP kept the other $75. Clark did not report all of the cash collected, and used some of it for personal expenses such as improvements on his home.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clark.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Canfield, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to probation for a term of five years and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $331,509.00 on his conviction of tax evasion, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Douglas A. Hagy.  

According to the information presented to the court, Hagy earned approximately $982,000 in personal income between 2012 and 2016, which he failed to disclose on federal income tax returns.

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

The U.S. Attorney commended the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Douglas A. Hagy.

PITTSBURGH – Today, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced a dramatic decrease in overdose deaths in western Pennsylvania in 2018. Overdose deaths are down 43% throughout the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This includes significant decreases in the counties most impacted by the crisis, including of 50% in Beaver County, 50% in Butler County, 47% in Lawrence County, 47% in Allegheny County, 44% in Washington County and 37% in Westmoreland County.

"This crisis has impacted every community in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady, calling western Pennsylvania "Ground Zero" for the opioid epidemic. "From day one of my administration, I vowed to fight the opioid epidemic with every tool the Department of Justice has, and to do so with new urgency."

United States Attorney Brady created a new Narcotics and Organized Crime Section and filled it with the office’s most experienced narcotics prosecutors. He appointed an Opioid Coordinator to serve as a point person for the district’s strategic efforts, and obtained funding from the Department of Justice for new federal prosecutors. With the international reach of federal law enforcement, and strong mandatory minimum penalties under federal law, the United States Attorney’s Office brings significant resources to the fight in investigating and prosecuting opioid traffickers.

Additionally, United States Attorney Brady has prioritized cyber investigations into Darknet marketplaces and placed a continued emphasis on health care professionals who abuse their prescribing privileges. Thus far, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Pennsylvania has prosecuted 25 health care professionals for illegal drug distribution.

"Every life is precious—every person addicted to drugs is a son, daughter, mother, father, brother or sister. We will continue to fight for every life," said U.S. Attorney Brady. Brady praised the efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement partners in combatting the epidemic, as well as the crucial role that the health care and treatment communities have played in treating those with opioid abuse disorder.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiracy to launder proceeds of marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christopher Schanck, 36, 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and other agencies conducted a multi-year investigation of the marijuana trafficking conspiracy of Schanck and his co-conspirators. From 2012 through 2017, Schanck and his co-conspirators arranged for marijuana to be supplied from the West Coast and mailed to the Pittsburgh area through the United States Postal Service. Schanck and his co-conspirators would then distribute the marijuana in the Western District of Pennsylvania, primarily on college campuses, such as Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During the operation of the conspiracy, Schanck conspired to distribute from 100 to 400 kilograms of marijuana. He also conspired to launder approximately $258,404 in proceeds from marijuana trafficking.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019, at 11:45 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Indiana Borough Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Schanck. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

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

Phil Bradford, 24, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bradford, an individual with a prior felony drug conviction, knowingly and unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019 at 1 p.m. The law provides for a 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years of probation, including six months of home detention, on her conviction of aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David Cercone imposed the sentence on Talaya Thompkins, 36.

According to information presented to the court, from on or about August 27, 2016, and continuing thereafter to on or about August 7, 2017, Talaya Thompkins unlawfully aided and abetted Vincent Eggleton’s possession of firearms. Thompkins purchased the two firearms in August 2016 and February 2017 and made them available to Eggleton. Thompkins was aware that Eggleton had a prior felony conviction, which prohibits Eggleton from possessing any firearm.

On March 1, 2018, Eggleton pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, as well as conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and a related drug-trafficking charge. On August 1, 2018, Eggleton was sentenced to a total of 10 years and one month in prison on those charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as 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 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.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -A former resident of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of bank robbery and Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Glenn Ford, 60, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior Judge Reggie B. Walton of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on September 15, 2017, Ford robbed the Huntington Bank, on Smithfield St. wearing a long black curly wig, a long leather coat, and a sticker on his face covering his nose and mouth. He demanded $100 and $50 bills and received $2,340. On September 28, 2017, Ford robbed the same Huntington Bank. He attempted to conceal his face as he approached the same teller. Ford demanded $100, $50 and $20 bills and received $2,370. The teller recognized Ford from the prior bank robbery and placed a dye pack with the money, which exploded as he fled.

On September 20, 2017, Ford, wearing a hat, a dress, a trench coat and caramel-colored dress shoes, entered the Citizens Bank located on East Carson St. with a white plastic bag covering part of his face. He demanded money and received $2,950. He discarded his clothing after he exited the bank.

The Court was further advised that on October 4, 2017, wearing a Darth Vader mask and black hoodie, Ford robbed the CoGo’s on East Carson Street with a knife and took $186.

Ford confessed to committing the robberies to support his crack addiction. He told officers about his efforts to clean and use the money damaged from the dye pack explosion. Ford took officers to recover the damaged money, as well as clothing and shoes from an abandoned house in Wilkinsburg, a short distance from his house.

Judge Walton scheduled sentencing for May 2, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Ford remain detained.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Department, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ford.

PITTSBURGH -A resident of Salem, Virginia, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a charge of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Powell, 64, pleaded guilty to one felony count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that during the period from January 2011 through May 2016, Powell agreed to become a member of a money laundering conspiracy. Powell conducted financial transactions affecting interstate commerce, knowing that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Powell knew that each of the financial transactions was designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. As part of the money laundering conspiracy, the defendant and his co-conspirators conducted the following financial transactions: 1) withdrew funds from prepaid debit cards and credit cards; 2) transmitted and received funds via MoneyGram, Walmart and Western Union; 3) cashed checks and money orders; and 4) sent and received wire transfers of funds. The funds involved in these transactions, which totaled thousands of dollars, were the proceeds of wire fraud.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentence, the court released Powell on bond.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the conviction in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa.-A former resident of Pitcairn, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

William Kelly Penn, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on March 27, 2018, agents executed search warrants on Penn and his residence in Pitcairn, PA. From the residence, agents recovered unpackaged heroin/fentanyl, one brick of heroin/fentanyl, packaging materials including blank stamp bags, a stamper, $3,820 in U.S. currency, three cellphones, and a digital scale. Penn also had two bricks of heroin stamped "Hot Shots" on his person. Penn admitted to obtaining drugs from an out of state supplier in order to set up a heroin distribution network in Pittsburgh.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2019. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that Penn remain detained.

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 Penn.

PITTSBUGRH, PA – A former resident of Mount Oliver, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years and seven months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release on his convictions on federal bank robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United Stated District Judge Mark Hornak, imposed the sentence on David Payo, 52. Payo was detained at his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence.

The court was advised that on May 27, 2017, Payo entered the PNC Bank in Homestead wearing a black baseball hat, black hoodie, and approached the teller. Payo stated, "This is a robbery, give me 50s, 100s, 20s, and no dye packs." Payo escaped with $3,460 in cash out of the front door of the bank.

The court was also advised that on June 8, 2017, Payo, wearing an orange sweatshirt, black baseball cap and black sunglasses on top of the hat, approached a teller at the Citizens Bank in Monroeville, PA. He sat down at the desk and told her, "This is a robbery." He then repeated, "This is a robbery, give me your 100s, 50s, and 20s, no 10s, and no dye packs." The teller complied and handed over $1890 in cash and one dye pack. Payo fled from the bank. A search of Payo’s residence recovered dye stained clothes from the exploding dye pack given to him at the Citizens Bank.

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

The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, the Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the guilty plea and sentence in this case.

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

The one-count Indictment, returned on March 5, names Chad Vaughan, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on October 23, 2018, Vaughan robbed the NexTier Bank, located at 226 South Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063.

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

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

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

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

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

The indictment named Jose Juarez-Diaz, 34.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on August 25, 2018, Juarez-Diaz possessed a quantity of marijuana.

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

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Moshannon Valley Correctional Center, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Juarez-Diaz.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of wrongfully disclosing the health information of another individual, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Linda Sue Kalina, 61, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Linda Sue Kalina worked, from March 7, 2016 through June 23, 2017, as a Patient Information Coordinator with UPMC and its affiliate, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers (TRMC) in Mars, Pennsylvania, and that during her employment, contrary to the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) improperly accessed the individual health information of 111 UPMC patients who had never been provided services at TRMC. Specifically, on August 11, 2017, Kalina unlawfully disclosed personal gynecological health information related to two such patients, with the intent to cause those individuals embarrassment and mental distress.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2019, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Kalina remains on bonding pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

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

The indictment named Ryan S. Harris, 35.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on September 28, 2018, Harris possessed a quantity of Buprenorphine.

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

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Correctional Institution, Special Investigative Staff, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Harris.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Veryl Long, 29, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between October 2016 and March 2017, Long participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 23, 2019 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Long.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named Francisco Covias-Lopez, 39.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 1, 2018, Covias-Lopez, an alien who had been deported from the United States on June 22, 2012, was found in Cambria County, Pa. He had unlawfully re-entered this Country without receiving permission to do so from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of two 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 Stephanie L. Haines, is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations 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 Tennessee resident waived indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court in Pittsburgh to conspiracy and transferring counterfeit currency, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cole M. Harris, aka Ink, 23, of Knoxville, TN pleaded guilty to two counts before Chief United States District Judge Mark Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Harris was a reshipper in the United States for the distribution of Ugandan-manufactured counterfeit currency that was being sold online by an individual using the moniker Willy Clock. Harris traveled to Uganda and smuggled the counterfeit currency into the United States.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for July 18, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Secret Service, assisted by U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cole.

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

Ada Johnson, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ada Johnson was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that in June 2016, Johnson traveled to Mechanicsburg, PA to meet with a heroin supplier to attempt to bring nearly 400 bricks of heroin back to Pittsburgh for distribution of the heroin by members of the conspiracy.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 26, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

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. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH -A Pittsburgh man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges regarding his trafficking of cocaine and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Richard Stuart Wright, 76, pleaded guilty to three counts before President United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty pleas of Wright and his co-defendant, 69-year-old Walter John Amman, III, the court was advised that Wright had been purchasing kilogram level amounts of cocaine each month for over two decades. The defendant would process the cocaine by packaging it in smaller quantities and converting some into crack. In more recent years, co-defendant Walter Amman would help the defendant with the processing, packaging and distribution of the cocaine. Two controlled purchases of cocaine were made from Amman, helping the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Branch, Homeland Security Investigations and Pittsburgh Police obtain search warrants for locations attributable to Amman and Wright. The January 11, 2017 searches resulted in law enforcement locating items which included:

- In the 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 defendant’s garage: 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; and

- 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); in the truck was approximately $1,000 and additional prepackaged cocaine.

Wright and Amman both utilized the same color-coded bread-tie system to signify the quantities in the baggies. In this way, the defendant was both a buyer of large quantities and a street-level dealer, keeping all of the middleman profits for himself. The drugs located by police included 5,864.588 grams (5.9 kilos) of cocaine and 289.607 grams (1/4 kilo) of crack cocaine. Wright admitted to all of the drugs, while Amman agreed that he was personally responsible for between 700 grams and one kilogram of cocaine, as well as the 5.767 grams of crack cocaine found at his property.

The court was also advised that Wright and others commonly laundered his drug money by structuring it. In one example, Wright deposited $10,000 in cash into another person’s account, added it to $40,000 of that person’s "legitimate" money and used it to make a $50,000 deposit on a Daytona Beach house. They paid the next $100,000 off by buying multiple postal money orders - for $1,000 each, at multiple different locations, in short periods - and then used them to pay the monthly amount due on the property. They also financed the purchase of vehicles and many other items listed in the Indictment similarly. Wright also cashed paychecks in return for cocaine.

The government forfeited numerous items from the defendants including a residence, automobiles, motorcycles and large amounts of cash.

President Judge Hornak scheduled Wright’s sentencing for July 18, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. and Amman’s sentencing was scheduled for June 7, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 60 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, 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 a defendant.

After considering Wright’s frail health and recent hospitalization, the Court agreed to allow the defendant to remain on Electronic Home Monitoring (with a house arrest bracelet) pending his sentencing. Co-defendant Amman is incarcerated pending his sentencing.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Richard Stuart Wright and Walter John Amman, III.

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

Terry Chase White, 51, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that White received computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 15, 2019 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of White.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six years and ten months in prison and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $1,000 on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Nathan Richard Kosmatine, 31.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jeffrey Vitale, 29, of Ellwood City 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 on or about February 16, 2018, Vitale distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 17, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Vitale. 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 – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dontez Peoples, 27, Duquesne, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about May 2, 2018, Peoples possessed a loaded 9mm caliber Glock pistol and ammunition. It is unlawful for Peoples, who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 25, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Christopher Morrison, 26, of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 20, 2018, Morrison possessed images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were under the age of 12 years.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for July 1, 2019, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Morrison remains on bond pending sentencing.

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

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

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.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Oil City, PA has been sentenced in federal court to two-and-a-half years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 27, 2019, Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Emmett Freshcorn, 30, on one count of possession of firearms by convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 11, 2017, Freshcorn, who is a convicted felon, went into a gun store with another individual. Freshcorn gave that individual money to purchase a BMG, .50 caliber rifle. Freshcorn then carried the rifle out of the store and took possession of it. Further, on March 7, 2018, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Explosives recovered the remaining firearms and ammunition from locations connected to Freshcorn in Oil City, PA.

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 and Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Wheeler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Oil City Police conducted the investigation leading to the plea and sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Oil City, PA has been sentenced in federal court to two-and-a-half years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 27, 2019, Judge Cathy Bissoon sentenced Emmett Freshcorn, 30, on one count of possession of firearms by convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 11, 2017, Freshcorn, who is a convicted felon, went into a gun store with another individual. Freshcorn gave that individual money to purchase a BMG, .50 caliber rifle. Freshcorn then carried the rifle out of the store and took possession of it. Further, on March 7, 2018, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Explosives recovered the remaining firearms and ammunition from locations connected to Freshcorn in Oil City, PA.

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 and Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Wheeler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Oil City Police conducted the investigation leading to the plea and sentence in this case.

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

Darnell James Shipman, 29, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about April 29, 2018, at a residence in Pittsburgh, Shipman, who is a convicted felon, brandished a 9 millimeter semi-automatic Canik pistol at another individual and threatened the individual. The court was further advised that on or about May 2, 2018, the defendant was arrested on outstanding warrants with the Canik pistol and 17 rounds of 9 mm ammunition in his possession, which were found in the center console of a vehicle he was driving. Shipman has 13 prior convictions in seven cases, and is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for August 6, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Shipman will remain under detention pending the sentencing hearing.

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

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

PITTBURGH - A resident of Tarentum, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on February 19 and unsealed today, named David Linder, 40, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Linder participated in a scheme to defraud S&T Bank by opening accounts with a false Social Security number, depositing fraudulent checks into those accounts, and then making transactions drawing on the accounts.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Department of Homeland Security and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – Dorothy McCracken was sentenced to 36 months of federal probation for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

McCracken, 60 of Ambridge, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti. McCracken’s sentence includes a requirement that she perform 300 hours of community service.

McCracken’s indictment and conviction followed a 2016 investigation into the drug trafficking activities of her sons, Sam McCracken and Wayne McCracken. The investigation led to the interception of wiretapped communications over cell phones used by both McCracken brothers. The phone interceptions confirmed that the McCracken brothers were obtaining large amounts of fentanyl between July and December 2016. The phone interceptions, combined with the service of a search warrant in December 2016, confirmed that they were storing illegal drugs at Dorothy McCracken’s residence with her knowledge and consent.

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

A federally administered Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. The task force was headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration and was 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, PA- An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession and distribution of materials depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on February 26, named Michael Moran, 60, South Park, PA.

According to Indictment, from on or about August 16, 2018 through on or about September 2, 2018, Moran distributed visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and on October 24, 2018, Moran possessed images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. A number of the images Moran distributed, as well some of the videos and images he possessed, depicted the sexual exploitation of minors under the age of twelve.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand 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, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

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

The one-count Indictment returned on February 26, named Eric Antoin Johnson, 22, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from on or about January 21 through on or about January 29, 2019, Johnson unlawfully possessed an Intratec model AB10 9 millimeter pistol and 9 millimeter ammunition, after having been convicted of robbery and assault, crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on February 26, named Brandon Winters, 43, of Plum Borough, PA; Eduard Guzman Rijo, 48, of the Dominican Republic; and Erick Alexander Martinez, 33, of Yonkers, NY.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, in January 2019, Winters, Rijo, and Martinez conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than one kilogram of heroin/400 grams of fentanyl. Also according to the Indictment, Winters possessed with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on February 19 and unsealed on February 22, named Jeffrey Judd, 60, Vienna, Ohio, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Judd, on June 1, 2017, knowingly traveled in interstate commerce from Vienna, Ohio, to Hermitage, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with a minor.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hermitage Police Department 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, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

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

Krystle Barretto, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Barretto, who was intercepted over a Title III wiretap, conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed more 100 grams of heroin. The court was further advised that Barretto arranged for approximately 500 bricks (i.e. 25,000 stamp bags) of heroin to be transported from the Patterson, New Jersey area to the McKeesport, Pa. area, which was seized by law enforcement officers. In addition, the court was made aware that Barretto had a loaded, Glock 17, 9mm handgun, an additional five bricks of heroin, and a large money counter in the bedroom of her residence in Port Vue.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for June 19, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation led to the prosecution of Krystle Barretto. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clairton 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.

The investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts from December 2014 through April 2015 of 10 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 afflicted regions, which included Clairton, McKeesport, and Port Vue in Allegheny County, and areas in Washington County, Westmoreland County, and New Jersey.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Roaring Springs, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Glenn P. Rhykerd, 68, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from Jan. 1, 2015, to May 31, 2016, Rhykerd did receive and convert falsely to his own use a total of $50,985.21 in United States Railroad Retirement Board disability payments made to him to which he was not entitled.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2019, at 1 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rhykerd.

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

Bobby Washington, Jr., 35, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on March 17, 2018, Washington distributed a quantity of cocaine base, and on April 24, 2018, he possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as "crack."

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2019, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison and a fine of $6,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Washington.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Shawn R. Kmecak, 37, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on March 15, 2018, Kmecak possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2019, at 2 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kmecak.

PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Turtle Creek, PA has been sentenced in federal court to three years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions on a federal firearms charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Hashim Rashad, age 28. Rashad was detained after his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence. Rashad was on state parole for manslaughter when he committed the offense he was sentenced for today.

Accordingly to information presented to the court, on October 18, 2017, City of Pittsburgh Police executed a search warrant at a home on Larimer Avenue in Turtle Creek, PA while Hashim Rashad was detained in the house. Police recovered an EZ9 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number from the couch of the location. Police then recovered a Bryco Arms Jennings J-22, 22LR handgun, inside a purse in the living room of the house. The Bryco Arms Jennings 22 handgun was previously reported stolen. Prior, to possessing these firearms, Rashad was previously convicted of voluntary manslaughter, a crime punishable by more than one year in jail.

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.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police – Narcotics and Vice Unit conducted the investigation leading to the sentence in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two former residents of DuBois, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy and mail theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 19, names David E. Moore Jr., 26, and Joshua J. Frantz, 25, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, from February through March of 2016, Moore and Frantz stole mail from mail receptacles at an apartment complex in the DuBois area.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the DuBois Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Marvin Dennis was convicted of committing heroin and crack cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dennis, age 23 of Pittsburgh, pled guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin and crack cocaine from September 2017 to April 3, 2018, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy from September 2017 to April 3, 2018. He pled guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab. Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing to occur on June 24, 2019, at 9:00 a.m.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least 5 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $1,250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime 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 Michigan resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Victor Burnett, Jr., 38, of Oak Park, Michigan, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Burnett conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin. Specifically, the court was advised that Burnett, who was intercepted over a Title III wiretap, possessed approximately 1,366 grams of heroin, five firearms, ammunition, a money counter, multiple cell phones, and over $20,000 in US currency in his residence on the date of his arrest on September 1, 2016. In addition, the court was advised that approximately 100 grams of heroin, originally supplied by Burnett, was sent via the United States mail and seized by agents on August 22, 2016 prior to reaching its final destination in the Western District of Pennsylvania where it was to be further distributed.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 18, 2019. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

An OCDETF task force headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution. Substantial assistance was provided by FBI San Juan, Puerto Rico (St. Thomas Resident Agency, U.S. Virgin Islands) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Numerous other FBI field offices, including Detroit, Cleveland, New York, and Atlanta, in addition to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, also assisted with this 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.

This investigation which utilized Title III wiretap intercepts and other investigative techniques that established the existence of a several overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks with tentacles in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Northern District of Ohio, Eastern District of Michigan and the District of the Virgin Islands. The FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets

Task Force’s focus began in early 2015 investigating a drug trafficking organization operating on Pittsburgh’s North Side and thereafter they were able to track drug suppliers beyond the borders of the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Eastern District of Michigan and across the Caribbean Sea.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pembroke Pines, Florida, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 19, named Cassio Orville Donald Slowden, 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about February 11, 2019, Slowden abstracted and removed mail from a United States mail authorized depository in McMurray, PA.

For Slowden’s offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five 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 David Lew is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) 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 Fayette County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on Feb. 19, named Mika Lint aka Mika Baluch, 40, of Perryopolis, Pennsylvania.

According to the Indictment, from September 24, 2014 through July 27, 2016, Lint received $40,517 in Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits from the United States Social Security Administration, to which she knew she was not entitled.

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 Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

Lawrence Morrison, 36, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation, dubbed Operation Gang Green, revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Lawrence Morrison and his co-conspirators possessed with intent to distribute and distributed quantities of cocaine.

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for June 19, 2019, at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Rachael Dizard 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 Morrison.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marvin Younger, age 37, pleaded guilty on February 14, 2019, to two counts before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

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

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for July 2, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses 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 Rachael Dizard 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 "Operation Gang Green", 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 Marvin Younger.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to four years and 10 months incarceration for his convictions of violating federal firearms laws and violating the terms of his supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed a 46-month prison sentence on Deondre Steave, 26, for violating firearms laws. Judge Bissoon also imposed 12-month sentence of incarceration to run consecutively to the 46-month sentence because the defendant violated the conditions of his supervised release in two other federal prosecutions of Steave.

According to the information presented to the court, the court was advised that on or about September 28, 2017, Steave, an individual with prior felony convictions for Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute 100 Grams or More of Heroin and Escaping from Federal Custody, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a Kahr CW .40 caliber pistol and ammunition. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

The United States Attorney commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Steave.

PITTSBURGH – Bryan Campbell, 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years and one month in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release on his convictions for conspiring to rob three area banks, armed bank robbery, attempted armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

On February 13, 2019, United Stated District Court Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Campbell. Campbell was initially charged by criminal complaint on March 8, 2019 and has been detained since his initial appearance.

According to information presented to the court, Campbell with co-defendant Daymon Ottey conspired to rob the S&T Bank in Verona, PA, on March 7, 2017, the First National Bank in Verona, PA, on May 1, 2017, and the Huntington Bank in Baden, PA, on July 22, 2017. Campbell robbed the S&T Bank in Verona, PA, on March 7, 2017 using a silver firearm to hold bank employees at gunpoint. Ottey acted as the getaway driver for this robbery using his girlfriend’s vehicle. On May 1, 2017, Campbell entered the First National Bank in Verona, PA with the same silver firearm and held employees at gun point demanding money. Campbell then scaled the teller station and entered the bank’s vault taking over $84,000 before fleeing. After this robbery, Campbell and Ottey split the proceeds, enabling Ottey to buy a new Jeep Cherokee vehicle. Campbell’s girlfriend also posted photos on social media of lavish meals, jewelry and vacations provided to her by Campbell. This information helped FBI to identify Campbell as a possible suspect. Finally, on July 22, 2017, Ottey drove Campbell in the Jeep Cherokee purchased with the prior bank robbery proceeds to the Huntington Bank in Baden, PA. Campbell entered the bank with the same silver firearm and attempted to rob it but was interrupted when an Economy Police Department vehicle pulled in the driveway. Campbell fled without receiving any money.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

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

The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, with assistance from the Plum Police Department, Verona Police Department, Economy Borough Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, and Shaler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH - A 68-year-old resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges regarding his trafficking of cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Walter John Amman, III, pleaded guilty to two counts before President 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 had been purchasing kilogram level amounts of cocaine for more than two decades. The co-defendant would process the cocaine by packaging it in smaller quantities and converting some into crack. In more recent years, the current defendant would help the co-defendant with the processing, packaging and distribution of the cocaine. Two controlled purchases of cocaine were made from Amman and the DEA, IRS 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: amounts of powder cocaine; numerous inositol bottles and material to convert cocaine into crack; large amounts of cash; 3 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); in the truck was approximately $1,000 and additional prepackaged cocaine.

The co-defendant and Amman both utilized the same color-coded bread-tie system to signify the quantities in the baggies. In this way, the co-defendant was both a buyer of large quantities and a street-level dealer, keeping all of the middleman profits for himself. Amman agreed that he himself 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.

Chief Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2019 at 10:30 am. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The court ordered that the defendant remain incarcerated pending his sentencing and remanded the defendant back to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.

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

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Walter John Amman, III, with the valuable assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

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 Jonathan Dominic Mull, 19, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on December 4, 2018, Mull possessed a firearm which he was precluded from possessing because of an active protection from abuse order.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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.

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 Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives.

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