Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five years in prison and five years of supervised release on his conviction of violations of the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Matthew Smith, 53, of Ambridge, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, Smith conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cociane..

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

This prosecution was part of a long-term investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the other federal, state and local agencies involved, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Smith.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 31 months imprisonment, three years supervised release on each count to run concurrently, and restitution in the amount of $87,307.76 on her conviction of Embezzlement in Connection with Health Care and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Jill Ellen Bowser, aka Jill D’Angelo, 51, formerly of West Mifflin, Pa.

According to the information presented to the court, Bowser embezzled funds in the amount of $87,000 that belonged to a health care business entity, where she was employed. The court was further advised that Bowser used forged prescriptions to acquire controlled substances.

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

The United States Attorney commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jill Ellen Bowser, aka Jill D’Angelo.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Moldova has been sentenced in federal court to time served on his conviction of conspiracy and damaging a computer, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Bissoon imposed the sentence on Andrey Ghinkul, aka Andrei Ghincul, aka Smilex, 31, of Moldova. Ghinkul had been arrested in Cyprus in August of 2015 and extradited to the United States in February 2016.

According to information presented to the court, the defendant was part of a criminal conspiracy that disseminated the Bugat malware, used malware to steal banking credentials, and then used the stolen credentials to initiate fraudulent electronic funds transfers of millions of dollars from the victims’ bank accounts.

This case involves a sophisticated international conspiracy that infects computers with the malware known as Bugat. Bugat, which is also referred to as Cridex and Dridex, is a multifunction malware package. It is specifically designed to automate the theft of confidential personal and financial information, such as online banking credentials, from infected computers through the use of keystroke logging and web injects.

Assistant United States Attorneys Shardul S. Desai and Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – On December 3, 2018, a former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Maurice Tinsley, 37, formerly of McKees Rocks, Penn Hills and the Northside neighborhoods of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July 2016, Tinsley conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin. Specifically, on July 15, 2016, Tinsley possessed with intent to distribute between 40 and 60 grams of heroin. Additionally, on the same date, Tinsley, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2019 at 1:30 pm. The law provides for a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $4,500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain incarcerated.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt of the Major Crimes Section 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. The Department of Justice has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tinsley, with the valuable assistance of multiple state, county and local police departments including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Robinson Township Police Department, the Canonsburg Police Department and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

PITTSBURGH, PA – An Armstrong County resident pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court to charges of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jared T. Wolfe, age 45, of Ford City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing 22 firearms while being an unlawful user of heroin and Suboxone. Federal law prohibits unlawful users of controlled substances from possessing firearms. Wolfe also pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession, sale, or disposal of stolen firearms before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in and around April 2015, to in and around October 2015, Mr. Wolfe unlawfully possessed 22 firearms (eight rifles and 14 pistols) while he was addicted to and unlawfully using heroin and Suboxone, both of which are controlled substances. Mr. Wolfe admitted to the Court that on July 9, 2015, and on July 12, 2015, he possessed, sold, and disposed of one shotgun and three rifles, which he knew or had reasonable cause to know were stolen from a residence in Castle Shannon, Allegheny County.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 9, 2019 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, 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), 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. The Department of Justice has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), detectives from the Allegheny County Police Department, and officers from the Castle Shannon Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the plea in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa - A local man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of attempted possession with the intent to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Farren Mason, 59, of of Pittsburgh, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment presented to the court, on November 9, 2018, Mason attempted to possess a quantity of heroin with the intent to distribute it.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years to a maximum of life 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, of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the North Versailles Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

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

Eric Cansler, 47, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Cansler conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2019 at 3 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

This prosecution is part of a long-term investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department. Homeland Security Investigations also assisted in the investigation.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Scott Township, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of five years, to be followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Court Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence Friday on Charles D. Outcalt, Jr., 26.

According to information presented to the court, on July 29, 2016, Scott Township Police responded to a report of a home invasion in progress. Unbeknownst to police at the time, the reporting party was hallucinating. However, the front door was open and the lights were on inside so officers entered to clear the house for suspects. Officers observed the defendant and another individual in one of the bedrooms. Officers instructed both individuals to put their hands up, but the defendant kept reaching for a black backpack that was sitting on the bed.

Search incident to arrest, officers recovered a small baggie containing crystal methamphetamine from the defendant as well as $175.00 in his right pants pocket. Officers recovered a Cobra Enterprise pistol from the backpack. On the bed, officers saw a clear white pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamine and an electronic scale with white residue. Officers obtained a search warrant and in various places in the bedroom, officers recovered glass bongs, a small plastic baggie that contained several crystal colored pieces of methamphetamine as well as crystal methamphetamine in an ashtray. Officers recovered a total of over 50 grams of pure methamphetamine from the residence.

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

The Scott Township Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to eight years and 8 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

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Thomas Hetrick, 51. Hetrick was detained after his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence.

According to information presented to the court, Hetrick, while armed with either a knife or a gun, robbed the Dollar Bank, located at 1712 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA, on August 21, 2017; the First Commonwealth Bank, located at 2501 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA, on August 24, 2017 and again on August 30, 2017; and the First Commonwealth Bank, located at 500 East Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, on September 25, 2017. Hetrick also attempted to rob, while armed with a knife, the same First Commonwealth Bank, located at 2501 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA, on September 25, 2017.

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 Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thomas Hetrick.

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. The Department of Justice 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, the Attorney General 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.

PITTSBURGH - On November 29, 2018, a former resident of Monessen, Pa, pleaded guilty in federal court to three charges involving dealing crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Dereci Lowe, 28, pleaded guilty to all of the charged counts in his federal Indictment before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arranged to buy crack cocaine from Lowe on May 11, 2017 and August 10, 2017. The agents then obtained a search warrant for his residence and executed it on September 6, 2017. That search revealed documentation that the residence was occupied and utilized by Lowe, as well as additional amounts of crack cocaine and approximately $6,000 in cash. In total, police seized 40.143 grams of crack cocaine from Lowe.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 21, 2019 at 2:15 p.m. Because the government filed a document advising the Court that the defendant had been convicted of a felony drug offense in the past, his potential penalties were increased. As a result, the law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $12,000,000, 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 ordered the defendant to remain incarcerated and remanded him back to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.

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

The DEA conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lowe with valuable assistance from a variety of various federal, state, county and local police departments, including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Monessen Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to four years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions on federal firearms and bank robbery charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United Stated District Judge Cathy Bissoon, imposed the sentence last Friday on Daymon Ottey, 31. Ottey was detained at his initial appearance and will remain detained as he begins to serve his sentence.

According to information presented to the court, Ottey conspired to rob the S & T Bank in Plum, 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 with his co-defendant Bryan Campbell. Ottey acted as the getaway driver for the first robbery and the third attempted bank robbery. Ottey used his girlfriend’s car in the March 7, 2017 robbery and used a Jeep Cherokee bought with the proceeds of the second robbery in order to attempt to rob the Huntington Bank in Baden, Pa.

On March 7, 2017, Campbell, wearing a ski mask and using a silver revolver, robbed the S & T Bank of $7,707.00 dollars and placed the money into pillowcase before fleeing the bank and entering a car registered to Ottey’s girlfriend.

On May 1, 2017, Campbell, wearing a windbreaker with the hood drawn, robbed the First National Bank of $84,200 while using a silver handgun. Campbell hopped the counter of the bank and was able to enter the vault, collecting the $84,200. Campbell filled the pillowcase with money and left the scene, fleeing in the same car used in the March 7, 2017 robbery.

Subsequent to the May 1 robbery, FBI Special Agents discovered that Campbell’s girlfriend posted numerous photographs and videos on social media websites detailing expensive shopping sprees, vacations, and jewelry purchased. FBI Special Agents also discovered that the day after the May 1, 2017 robbery, Ottey purchased a Jeep Grand Cherokee. This Jeep Grand Cherokee was seen leaving the scene of the attempted bank robbery in Baden, Pa., on July 22, 2017. An Economy Borough Police officer entered the drive through portion of the Huntington Bank while Campbell was attempting to rob it, causing Campbell to flee on foot before Ottey picked him up in the Cherokee and drove away from the scene.

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.

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. The Department of Justice 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, the Attorney General 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.

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges stemming from an armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 27 and unsealed today, named Brent Richards, 32, as the defendant at Counts One and Two, and Melissa Kane, 47, as the defendant at Count Three.

According to the Indictment, on or about January 8, 2018, Richards robbed the Citizens Bank at 31 Foster Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15205, of $10,003. Richards is alleged to have brandished a firearm in the commission of the robbery. The Indictment names Kane as an accessory after the fact for helping to protect Richards from apprehension.

For Richards, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the armed bank robbery count. Additionally, the law provides for a minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the firearms offense. For Kane, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 12.5 years in prison, a fine of $125,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Crafton Borough Police Department, the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Russian national has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, computer fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The five-count indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Ilya Kulkov, of Barnaul, Russia, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the Court, between January 22, 2017 and February 2, 2017, Kulkov hacked into a desktop computer located at the Pittsburgh National Golf Course in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, from his home in Russia. Once Kulkov had control of Pittsburgh National’s computer, he engaged in a systematic pattern of internet fraud by buying and exporting products from the United States to Barnaul, Russia.

"Over the past year, we have aggressively investigated and prosecuted cyber criminals, both foreign and domestic," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "The use of computers and the internet is now part of everyone’s daily life. From our prosecution of officers of the Russia intelligence directorate to the hacking of routers in 43 countries to internet fraud targeting our elderly residents, our office will go to the ends of the earth to hold cyber criminals accountable and protect the citizens of western Pennsylvania."

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

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

The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of seven years and three months, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of bank robbery and armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Gregory Magee, 50.

Previously, in connection with Magee’s guilty plea on July 10, 2018, the court was advised that Magee robbed six banks from January through November of 2016:

On the afternoon of January 20, 2016, Magee entered First Niagara Bank located at 20111 Route 19, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, wearing a hooded sweatshirt, cap, sunglasses, gloves, and scarf covering this face. Upon entering the bank, Magee brandished a black handgun and demanded money from several tellers, who gave him $5,526.

On the afternoon of February 29, 2016, Magee entered First Merit Bank located at 2090 West State Street, New Castle, Pennsylvania, wearing a green poncho, sunglasses, gloves, and scarf covering his face. Upon entering the bank, Magee brandished a black handgun, handed plastic bags to several tellers, and demanded money from the tellers, who complied and gave him $10,126. Magee fled the scene of the robbery in his personal vehicle, a black Cadillac ATS with black rims, which was observed on video surveillance and by an eyewitness.

Around noon on March 31, 2016, Magee entered First Niagara Bank located at 4073 Washington Road, McMurray, Pennsylvania, wearing sunglasses and gloves. Upon entering the bank, Magee threatened that he had a gun, gave plastic bags to tellers, and demanded money from the tellers, who complied and gave him $9,133. Magee carried an open umbrella inside the bank while committing this robbery. Magee fled the scene of the robbery in a bronze Cadillac ATS, which he was driving as a loaner vehicle. This vehicle was captured on surveillance video and observed by an eyewitness.

In the late morning on June 8, 2016, Magee entered First Commonwealth Bank located at 5847 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, wearing a hooded sweatshirt, sunglasses, and gloves. Upon entering the bank, Magee threatened that he had a gun, handed out plastic bags to several tellers, and demanded money from the tellers, who complied and gave him $3,709. Magee again held an open umbrella during this robbery.

On the afternoon of August 11, 2016, Magee entered Citizens Bank located at 2537 Constitution Boulevard, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, wearing a hooded sweatshirt, baseball cap, sunglasses, gloves, and scarf covering his face. Upon entering the bank, Magee threatened to have a bomb, handed plastic bags to several tellers, and demanded money from the tellers, who complied and gave him $12,559. Magee again carried an open umbrella in the bank while committing this robbery. Magee’s hat was left at the scene of the robbery. DNA was recovered from the hat and found by the FBI laboratory to match a DNA sample from Magee. Magee was observed fleeing the scene in a Buick Regal, which he was driving as a loaner vehicle that day.

Finally, around noon on November 8, 2016, Magee entered S&T Bank located at 4580 Broadway Boulevard, Monroeville, Pennsylvania, wearing a hooded jacket, sunglasses, and gloves. Upon entering the bank, Magee threatened to have a bomb and displayed a bag with protruding wires. Magee handed plastic bags to several tellers and demanded money from them, and they complied. Magee also demanded access to the bank’s vault. The bank manager opened the vault and gave cash from the vault to Magee. Magee stole $78,643 during this robbery. Magee was apprehended by law enforcement shortly after the robbery hiding in a drainage pipe in a wooded area near the bank. Magee was in possession of the stolen currency and bag with protruding wires, later determined to be Ethernet cables. Magee had driven a loaner Cadillac vehicle, which was located near the scene of the robbery.

After his arrest, a 9mm Kel-Tec handgun loaded with nine rounds of ammunition was recovered from Magee’s personal vehicle.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cranberry Township Police Department, Union Township Police Department, Peters Township Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Chippewa Township Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Magee.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Jeffrey Porch, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, in April and May 2017, Porch attempted to and did employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce two female child victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. Additionally, in February 2018, Porch knowingly possessed visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $750,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Western Pennsylvania Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A McKeesport, Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced in federal court to five years of probation, together with four months of home detention, and restitution of $19,289.00 on her conviction relating to Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Kristin Lucas, aka Kristin Hope Iarrusso, 45, on her conviction of one count of theft of government funds.

According to information presented to the court, between November 2012 and October 2014, Lucas received and converted approximately $19,289.00 in Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled. Additionally, on or about April 10, 2013, Lucas knowingly made a false statement material to her right to receive Supplemental Security Income benefits, by falsely stating that she had used $8,400 in Supplemental Security Income benefits paid to her from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013 for the care and support of a minor child.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kristin Lucas.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Thornton, 42, pleaded guilty to four counts before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose. Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for April 2, 2019.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the FBI received information that Thomas Thornton conspired to distribute drugs with another individual, and that he was also purchasing fentanyl and had several guns. Agents executed a search warrant at Thornton’s McKeesport residence on May 22, 2018. Agents recovered: a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, with a loaded magazine; a .45 caliber handgun, with a loaded magazine; a holster; ammunition; two Airsoft vests; heroin; cocaine; scales and other materials indicative of drug sales; a case of cough syrup; two cellphones; and indicia of residency for Thornton and his co-conspirator.

Thornton admitted to selling drugs after being fired from a good paying job. He admitted that he initially purchased marijuana from a source in California. He later started purchasing cough syrup from Texas after realizing it would be easier for him to sell bottles of cough syrup for a profit. Thornton also admitted that he has purchased heroin, cocaine and ecstasy pills from Texas. Thornton admitted to receiving the 9mm firearm in exchange for 50 stamp bags of heroin.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Western Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

PITTBURGH , PA - One resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Quinyahta Rochelle, 32, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Rochelle participated in a scheme to defraud Chase Bank by purchasing online credit card account information stolen from Chase customers, using that information to pay for goods and services, and making counterfeit credit cards for others.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 32 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, 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, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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

• Indictment

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years and three months in prison, followed by three years supervised release, and was ordered to pay $16,000 in restitution after being convicted on wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on U-Majesty Williams, 22, of Pittsburgh.

According to information presented to the court, Williams participated in a conspiracy to violate various federal identity theft laws. In summary, conspirators obtained the personal identification information a various individual victims, and members of the conspiracy, including Williams, used that information, along with counterfeit credit cards and counterfeit Ohio driver licenses, to rent vehicles, to apply for credit, and to make purchases, all without the authorization of those victims. Specifically, Williams and a conspirator applied for credit in a victim’s name at a Kay’s Jewelers in Ross Park Mall, using that victim’s name, date of birth, and social security number, along with a counterfeit Ohio driver license in the victim’s name but with Williams’ picture. With the credit, Williams and a conspirator obtained more than $7,000 in jewelry.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service, in conjunction with the multiple police departments in Pennsylvania and Ohio, including police departments from Columbus, Ohio, Canfield, Ohio, Bucks County, Ohio, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ross Township, Pennsylvania, and Wilkins Township, Pennsylvania for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.

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

Shellie Neighbors, 59, pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2016, Neighbors conspired with others to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019 at 2:30 p.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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shellie Neighbors 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, PA – An individual from El Salvador, present in the country illegally, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegally re-entering the United States after removal, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Jose Roberto Ordonez-Ramos, 25, formerly of El Salvador, as sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Ordonez-Ramos, an alien who was previously removed from the United States on May 3, 2018 and February 9, 2018, was again found in the United States in Allegheny County on October 26, 2018.

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, if any, of the defendant.

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 resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to seven years and 10 months in prison, followed by six years’ supervised release, on his conviction of conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Kevin Jackson, 35.

According to information presented to the court at the time he entered a guilty plea, Jackson purchased one or more grams of heroin on a daily basis from his codefendant, Skyler Carter, for further distribution in the Clairton area. Jackson and 20 other individuals were charged in the drug-trafficking conspiracy, and he was held personally responsible for the distribution of between 100 and 400 grams of heroin.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. 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 Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 13 years, to be followed by six years of supervised release on his conviction on charges of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States Circuit Court Judge D. Michael Fisher imposed the sentence on Andrew Edwards, 32, formerly of Johnstown, PA.

According to information presented to the court, on April 11, 2016, Edwards was a passenger in a vehicle stopped for traffic violations in Middlesex Township, Butler County. The driver gave the officer permission to search the vehicle. In the backseat of the vehicle, where Edwards had been seated, officers observed a jacket and a backpack. From the jacket, officers recovered 528 bags of heroin, and a plastic baggie containing crack cocaine. From the backpack, officers recovered a Springfield XD 45 caliber semi-automatic handgun with six rounds in the magazine. Personal items including a towel, hairbrush and a toothbrush were also in the backpack. The FBI laboratory determined that there was support for the inclusion of Edwards as a contributor to the DNA found on the toothbrush.

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

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

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

The two-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Pattie Lou Smith, 56, of Connoquenessing, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, between December 30, 2013 and February 28, 2017, Smith knowingly received and converted Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, in an amount exceeding $1,000.00. In addition, over the same time period, Smith concealed and failed to disclose her husband’s continued presence in her household to the Social Security Administration, with the intent fraudulently to secure SSI benefits.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – Two Armstrong County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges relating to Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Tara Jo Frain, age 33, and Danny Ray Alexander, age 45, both Apollo, PA, as defendants.

According to the Indictment, between November 29, 2013 and December 30, 2016, Frain and Alexander each knowingly received and converted Supplemental Security Income benefits to which they knew they were not entitled, in an amount exceeding $1,000.00 each. In addition, on or about September 10, 2016, Frain and Alexander each made a false statement material to their right to receive SSI benefits by falsely stating that they were not married.

As to both Frain and Alexander, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against a resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The three-count Indictment, returned on Nov. 27, named Landon Alexander Gatta, 23, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on November 5, 2018, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Gatta possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture containing fentanyl and heroin. Gatta, a felon, also is charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition on November 5, 2018, and possessing that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 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.

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. 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. The Department of Justice has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Ten residents of Western Pennsylvania, a resident of Georgia, and a resident of South Carolina were charged by a federal grand jury in a 22-count indictment related to a years-long conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Arlinda Moriarty, Daynelle Dickens, Julie Wilson, Tamika Adams, Tony Brown, Terry Adams, Terra Dean, Tionne Street, Keith Scoggins and Larita Walls, all residing in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, along with Tia Collins, a resident of South Carolina, and Luis Columbie-Abrew, a resident of Georgia, are charged with one count each of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and health care fraud. Moriarty, Dickens, Wilson and Tamika Adams are also charged with one count of concealing material facts in relation to a health care matter. In addition, Moriarty, Tamika Adams and Columbie-Abrew each are charged with multiple counts of aggravated identity theft.

According to the Indictment, between January 2011 and April 2017, home health care companies owned and operated by the conspirators received more than $87,000,000 in Medicaid payments. During that time, all 12 of the defendants, along with other individuals, participated in a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy to defraud the Pennsylvania Medicaid program which resulted in the payment of millions of dollars in illegal Medicaid payments. The Indictment sets forth dozens of fraudulent acts by the defendants, including making false claims for services that were never provided, creating fake employees, improperly using consumers’ personal identifying information, and falsifying documentation during state audits of the companies. In some instances, the Indictment alleges that the defendants were actually working at other jobs or living out of the area. In other instances, Medicaid claims were submitted for services for consumers who were actually hospitalized, incarcerated, or deceased.

"Home health care programs are critical to the ability of patients with serious physical limitations, especially the elderly, to receive the care they need while remaining independent. Those who provide home health care are expected to deliver services honestly," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "When criminals cheat and steal from these programs, they not only steal from the taxpayers, but they steal from the most vulnerable members of our community."

"Health care fraud diverts taxpayer dollars and lines the pockets of dishonest health care providers," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones. "The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate these cases and work with our state and federal partners to ensure those who commit Medicaid fraud are prosecuted."

"Ensuring the safety of Medicaid beneficiaries is of the upmost importance," said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in Philadelphia. "We will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all our fellow law enforcement partners, to aggressively investigate allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse in HHS programs."

"Criminals who commit Medicaid fraud are stealing tax dollars that cannot be put to use caring for vulnerable Pennsylvanians who need assistance," said Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. "That’s why my Medicaid Fraud Control section worked closely with U.S. Attorney Brady and other federal law enforcement partners on this investigation. We’ll investigate and prosecute health care fraud wherever we find it."

Tommy Coke, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division stated, "This investigation was an excellent example of partnership among the law enforcement agencies, working together to bring down a health care fraud conspiracy. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing the individuals in this scheme to justice."

"This indictment is the byproduct of a joint investigative effort and is the first step toward holding these individuals accountable for their actions", said Guy Ficco, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "The Agents of IRS-CI will continue working with our fellow law enforcement partners on these types of investigations by using our financial expertise to trace the flow of money."

In addition to the 12 defendants charged in the Indictment, four other defendants—Travis Moriarty, Tiffhany Covington, Brenda Lowry and Autumn Brown—have been charged in separate criminal Informations for their involvement in the conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

The conspiracy and health care fraud charges each carry a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The concealment of material facts in relation to a health care matter charge carries a maximum total sense of not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The aggravated identity theft charges carry a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to run consecutively with any sentence imposed on any other charge and a fine of no more than $250,000. 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 defendants.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of San Antonio, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months incarceration on his conviction of Threatening Interstate Communications, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Yuttana Choochongkol, aka Jason Manotham, age 41.

According to the information presented to the court, on January 10 and 11, 2018, Choochongkol made three threats against the athletes and attendees of the National Football League Divisional Playoff Game on Sunday, January 14, 2018. Choochongkol used the internet to send threats to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania through the KDKA.com and Heinzfield.com "contact us" portals that he was going to engage in mass shootings and suicide at the game.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. In imposing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the offense of sending internet communications threatening to harm fans and players participating in a public event.

U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Yuttana Choochongokol.

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

Laron Harvey, 35, pleaded guilty before Chief Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around November 2015, and continuing thereafter to in and around May 2016, Harvey and others conspired with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.

Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2019 at 3:30 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 would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung 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 successful prosecution of Grace. 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, PA – An illegal alien found in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court to time served and one year supervised release on his conviction of illegal re-entry after deportation, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Rolando Tabora Fuentes, age 40, of Honduras. Judge Hornak further ordered that, following service of the sentence of imprisonment, Tabora Fuentes be remanded to the custody of federal immigration authorities for commencement of deportation proceedings.

According to information presented to the court, Fuentes was formally removed from the United States by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 9, 1998, September 8, 2009, and September 20, 2013. Fuentes was found by federal agents to be illegally present in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 29, 2018. Law enforcement also determined that Fuentes did not receive permission to re-enter the United States.

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

U.S. Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fuentes.

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

Mukesh Khawas, 31, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 14, 2016, to June 15, 2016, Khawas engaged in online chat conversations with a minor female via the social networking/dating application Skout.com, and during the conversation requested and received sexually explicit images, knowing the minor victim had not yet attained 12 years of age. In addition to the guilty plea, Khawas acknowledged his responsibility for the production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2019. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000.00, and a term of up to a lifetime of supervised release. 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. 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. Khawas remains detained pending the sentencing hearing.

Assistant United States Attorneys Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting 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 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 resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months’ imprisonment, followed by 3 years’ supervised release, on his conviction of distribution and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Warren Worthy, age 21.

According to information presented to the court, on March 3, 2016, Worthy sold a bundle of heroin (10 stamp bags) to a female who used the heroin that day and overdosed. The female was taken to the hospital, where she died a few days later. An autopsy confirmed that the cause of death was heroin toxicity. The Allegheny County Police Department thereafter conducted a lengthy investigation, which confirmed that Worthy had distributed the lethal heroin to the female victim.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Worthy.

PITTSBURGH, PA -A New York state resident has been sentenced in federal court to six years and five months in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence yesterday on Waverly Primm, 31, of Buffalo, NY.

According to information presented to the Court, in 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other agencies joined forces in a long-term wiretap investigation of drug trafficking in New Castle, Pa. The investigation revealed that Waverly Primm conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was transported from Buffalo, NY, to the New Castle area for further distribution.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.

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

U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police Department, and the Lawrence County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Primm.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of three years and five months, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction on a charge of armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Gary White, 21, formerly of Fredericktown, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on September 20, 2017, White robbed the PNC Bank on Saw Mill Run Blvd with a knife. White instructed one of the two tellers to open the glass partition separating the tellers from the public. When the teller could not remove the glass, White removed the window. He then climbed through the window and ordered the tellers to open several safes located behind the teller counter. He also advised the tellers that he had a gun while motioning towards his hip. The tellers backed away and White removed piles of cash from each safe and placed them into a red drawstring bag that he was carrying. He took $111,409 before fleeing the bank in his vehicle. Authorities were able to identify White from surveillance video as well as his vehicle’s registration. Law enforcement executed search warrants on his apartment and car. The search warrant on the car revealed the red Under Armour bag, containing $103,309, as well as the clothing worn during the robbery and the knife. White turned himself in a few days later and confessed to the robbery.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Brentwood Police Departments, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of this case.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former New Jersey resident has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of seven years, to be followed by five years of supervised release on his conviction on charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence yesterday on Shawn Robinson, 36, formerly of Newark, NJ.

According to information presented to the court, on October 14, 2015, one of Robinson’s co-conspirators made arrangements to sell 100 bricks of heroin for $14,500 to another individual. Robinson’s co-conspirator also agreed to advance an additional 50 bricks of heroin. Robinson and another of his co-conspirators arrived at the Hyatt Place in Robinson Township to deliver the heroin. When they arrived, Robinson was carrying a black plastic shopping bag. Inside of the shopping bag, officers recovered a clear plastic vacuum-sealed bag containing 150 bricks of heroin, weighing 185.92 grams.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Robinson.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and 1 day in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $324,817.00 on his conviction of violating federal income tax laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Roderick M. Jones, 54.

According to information presented to the court, Jones prepared and presented approximately 1,015 false and fraudulent individual income tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service. On each return, Jones falsely claimed the individual earned household help income which qualified them for the Earned Income Tax Credit and other credits increasing the refund paid to the individuals. Jones was paid $1,000 for his services and electronically filed the false returns with the IRS.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jones.

ERIE, Pa. - A local man has been sentenced in federal court to six months probation and six months home detention on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jason Edward Moyer, 33, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Moyer conspired with four co-defendants to possess with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Coshocton County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Moyer.

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Foster City, California, has been sentenced in federal court to 24 months in jail on his conviction of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Robert Masaki Taylor II, 39. 

According to information presented to the court, from in and around September 2013 to in and around January 2015, Taylor and three co-defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute one hundred kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Taylor.

PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison followed by eight years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Christopher Butler, 32, of Twinsburg, Ohio.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2016, and continuing thereafter to in and around September 2016 in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Butler conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the 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 for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Christopher Butler. 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 on a drug trafficking organization operating on Pittsburgh’s North Side and thereafter they were able to track drug suppliers beyond the borders of the aforementioned districts and across the Caribbean Sea.

PITTSBURGH- A former North Carolina resident has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on David Charles Smith, 44, of Denver, North Carolina.

According to information presented to the court, Smith, who operated a business named DCS Auto Consulting that acted as a broker for the sale of high-end vehicles, devised a scheme to defraud his customers. Smith ultimately used DCS Auto Consulting much like a Ponzi scheme in which Smith, through a series of misrepresentations, solicited and obtain money from vehicle purchasers. Smith would then fraudulently use the monies from the vehicle purchasers to repay other customers who had previously provided Smith with money to purchase vehicles, or to purchase vehicles that Smith intended to sell to other customers. As a result of Smith’s illegal activities, a Murrysville business suffered a loss of $270,000, and Smith was ordered to pay $339,000 in restitution.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of East Orange, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of felony heroin trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Marvin Anthony pleaded guilty to the sole count of the indictment before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, in March of 2018, the defendant brought 475 "bricks" of heroin to Western Pennsylvania from out of state in order to sell them. A "brick" is a common street term for a group of 50 stamp bags containing opiates, such as heroin, meaning that the defendant brought nearly 24,000 stamp bags with him. The prosecutor noted that the lab determined that the heroin in the stamp bags weighed 430 grams.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for March 26, 2019 at 11 a.m. Because the government filed a document detailing the defendant’s prior felony drug conviction, the law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Rather than incarcerate the defendant at the time of his plea, Judge Ambrose agreed to permit the defendant to turn himself in to United States Marshals on January 2, 2019 following a scheduled surgery.  At that point, Anthony is expected to remain in custody until the conclusion of his sentence.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a federal prosecutor in the Major Crimes Section, is the lead prosecutor for this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Anthony, with the valuable assistance of many different federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Monessen Police Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of sex trafficking of a child and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Patrick Petoff, 31, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from March 2015 to October 2015, Petoff and a co-defendant, Devonte Lucas, knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, advertised and maintained two minor victims who engaged in commercial sex acts at the behest of Petoff and Lucas. Petoff’s illegal activity was ultimately stopped when members of the Millcreek Police Department observed Lucas transport a minor female to a Millcreek motel after the Millcreek officers, acting in an undercover capacity, had set up a meeting at the motel with the victim via an Internet advertisement that had been placed by Petoff.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.. The law provides for a total sentence of life 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. As part of his plea, Petoff has agreed to a sentence of fourteen years in jail to be followed by ten years of supervised release.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Millcreek Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Petoff.

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

Nathan Richard Kosmatine, 31, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

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

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 March 18, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, 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 continued Kosmatine on bond.

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 Kosmatine.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of North East, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years in jail and 10 years supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Wesley Chase, 34.

According to information presented to the court, Chase distributed, received and possessed computer images depicting 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.

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, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Chase.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A prescribing physician with SKS Associates, an opioid treatment facility located in Johnstown, Pa., waived indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of distribution of controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and health care fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Ruth D. Jones, 57, of Bedford, Pa., pleaded guilty to three counts before Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Jones illegally distributed prescriptions for buprenorphine, a Schedule III controlled substance. She also pleaded guilty to a conspiracy with co-defendant Dr. Michael Cash to create and distribute illegal prescriptions for buprenorphine. In addition, Jones pleaded guilty to health care fraud for allegedly submitting fraudulent claims to Medicare, for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine.

According to the government, Jones and Cash saw on average 43 patients every day for periods lasting no more than three to five minutes. Moreover, the government advised the court that upon execution of a search warrant, investigators located more than 2,000 blank, pre-signed prescriptions with Jones’ or Cash’s signatures.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019 at 10 a.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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court placed Jones on bond.

Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Michael L. Ivory are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, which combines personnel and resources from the following agencies to combat the growing prescription opioid epidemic: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.

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

George Retos, Jr. 70, of Washington, Pa., pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Retos agreed with another individual to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by failing to pay over to the IRS payroll and employer taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc. and Plastic Power, Inc., two companies controlled by Retos. Specifically, to avoid ongoing collection efforts by the IRS related to unpaid taxes of Prime Plastics, Inc., Retos and his co-conspirator arranged for employees of Prime Plastics, Inc. to be transferred to Plastic Power, Inc., which, in turn, also failed to pay employer and payroll taxes to the IRS. The unpaid employer and payroll taxes totaled more than $250,000.

At Retos’ direction, Prime Plastics, Inc. filed for bankruptcy and, in its court filings, stated that there had been no withdrawals from the entity outside the normal course of business during the preceding two years. In fact, Retos was responsible for numerous such expenditures, including thousands of dollars belonging to Prime Plastics, Inc. spent by Retos at casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada and elsewhere.

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

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentence, the court released Retos on bond.

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

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

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

The three-count indictment, returned on Nov. 13 and unsealed today, named Samuel A. Cheeks, 31, as the sole defendant.

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

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

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Ellwood City Police Department, and the New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

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. The Department of Justice has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Hopewell Township, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court to 7 years’ imprisonment on his conviction of distribution of fentanyl, which he acknowledged caused the death of a victim identified as L.K., United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Corey Bargerstock, 43.

According to information presented to the court, on July 6, 2016, Bargerstock sold stamp bags of fentanyl to L.K., which caused L.K. to fatally overdose.

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

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office Detectives Bureau, and the Hopewell Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bargerstock.

PITTSBURGH – Dylan Michael Poole, 24, of McCandless, Pa., has been charged by criminal complaint with robbing three area banks and attempting to rob a fourth bank, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Poole was arrested on Nov. 15, 2018 after entering the PNC Bank in Latrobe, Pa. FBI investigators found on his person a robbery demand note that stated, "I have a gun this is a robbery empty the drawer no funny business no one gets hurt." According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, this note was similar to ones Poole left at the scene of two of his prior bank robberies: Nov. 9 in Donegal, Pa., and Nov. 13 in Wexford, Pa.

Additionally, the complaint alleges that on Nov. 8, 2018, Poole entered the WesBanco Bank in McCandless, Pa., and handed the teller a note that read, "This is a robbery, give me all the 100s, 50s and 20s. No funny stuff and nobody will get hurt." Poole received approximately $2,030 from the teller and fled the bank.

On Nov. 9, 2018, Poole entered a PNC Bank located in Donegal, Pa. He approached the teller and handed the teller a note that read, "I have a gun empty all your 100s, 50s, 20s from the drawer. No funny business and no one gets hurt." Poole received approximately $2,388 from the teller and fled the bank. During his flight, Poole left the note behind. Pennsylvania State Police collected the note when responding to the scene.

On Nov. 13, 2018, Poole entered a First National Bank in Wexford, Pa. Poole approached the teller and handed the teller a note that read, "This is a robbery empty the drawer I have a gun that I don’t want to use no funny business no one gets hurt." Poole received $1,028 from the teller and fled the bank. Poole also left this note in the bank during his flight and it was recovered by Allegheny County Police.

FBI investigators were able to track a vehicle leaving the Nov. 13, 2018 bank robbery that was captured on video surveillance. The car was registered to Poole. On November 15, 2018, FBI investigators set up surveillance on Poole at his home in McCandless. Poole drove to the PNC Bank in Latrobe and entered the bank. Once Poole entered the bank he was arrested by FBI investigators. Located on the person of Poole was a note that read, "I have a gun this is a robbery empty the drawer no funny business no one gets hurt."

After Poole was detained, investigators searched his vehicle and recovered money stolen from the November 13, 2018 robbery in Wexford.

Poole made an initial appearance today in federal court. U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisa Lenihan scheduled a detention hearing for Poole on Nov. 20 at 11:30 a.m.

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

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

The FBI Pittsburgh’s Violent Crimes Task Force, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police, Northern Regional Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, McCandless Police Department and Shaler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 18 months, 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.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Douglas Means, 35, formerly of Brockway, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, in August of 2016, Means stole a .380 caliber semiautomatic Smith and Wesson pistol from his father’s residence in Brockway, PA. Means kept the firearm for a few weeks before selling it to his drug source for $400 and 1 gram of cocaine. The firearm was transferred to a drug dealer in New York, so that it could be resold for more money. The gun was later recovered in New York with the serial number intact. Means wrote a voluntary statement confessing to his conduct.

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

This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with a detective from the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.