Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania was sentenced on April 19, 2018 to 33½ months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervision by the United States Probation Office, for drug dealing and illegal gun possession charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy M. Bissoon imposed the sentence on Nigel Macaya Broadus, aka Little Nige, 22, of Wilkinsburg, PA.

According to information presented to the court, Broadus sold heroin on April 30, 2015, May 4, 2015, and June 3, 2015. Broadus was in custody on other charges from September of 2015 through February of 2017. But then, starting in February of 2017, the defendant was involved in a drug conspiracy where others aided him in his drug activity, including running drugs for him, renting him vehicles, and obtaining guns for him. On April 25, 2017, Broadus was caught by law enforcement in possession of a loaded 9mm pistol purchased by his girlfriend, as well as heroin and fentanyl that he intended to sell. Federal law prohibited Broadus from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to his two separate August 30, 2016 Allegheny County convictions for Illegal Possession of a Firearm.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Bissoon noted that Broadus had spent the majority of his juvenile and adult life in the criminal justice system and stated that Broadus had to make "serious and significant changes" in his life.

Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt, a prosecutor in the Major Crimes section, prosecuted this case.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Monroeville Police Department, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Broadus.

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

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

Kevin Grace, 36, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District 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, Grace and others conspired with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine. Kevin Grace specifically pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 280 grams or more of crack cocaine, and a quantity of fentanyl. Also, Grace pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine on May 13, 2016.

Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for July 30, 2018 at 3:30 p.m. The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison to up to life in prison, as well as a mandatory minimum sentence starting at ten years in prison. The law also provides for fines ranging from $250,000 to up to $10,000,000. In addition, the United States is seeking to forfeit $11,124 in United States currency, which was seized from Kevin Grace. 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 –A resident of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 120 months’ incarceration, followed by three years’ supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Jamal Eddings, age 36.

According to information presented to the court, Eddings was involved in a large-scale drug distribution ring in the Uniontown area. He conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 100 grams of cocaine.

United States Attorney Brady commended the multi-agency investigation of this case, which was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and included the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fayette County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Eddings. Assistant United States Attorneys Heidi M. Grogan and Troy Rivetti prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

Glaudis Lawrence, 45, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around January 2016, and continuing until in and around July 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Lawrence conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Lawrence has a prior federal felony drug-trafficking conviction that also involved heroin.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 16, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $8,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Organized Crime and Drug Task force (OCDETF), comprised of members drawn from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, the Baldwin Borough Police Department, the Duquesne Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Munhall Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Scott Township Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department, along with assistance from the Borough of McKees Rocks Police Department, the Borough of Ambridge Police Department, the Borough of Sewickley Police Department, the Crescent Township Police Department, the City of Aliquippa Police Department, the Borough of New Brighton Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lawrence.

PITTSBURGH, PA –A New York resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit bank, mail, and wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Svetlana Kapralova, 30, of Astoria, New York, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Kapralova was involved in a complex fraud that involved fraudulently processing credit card payments. The credit card companies will not allow their products and services to be used to pay for certain precluded activities, including the on-line sales of pharmaceutical drugs and of products violating trademark infringement laws. Kapralova participated in the conspiracy designed to conceal from the credit card companies the fact she and her co-conspirators used their products and services to pay for precluded activities and to subvert the internal controls the credit card companies had in place to detect and prevent this type of activity. The fraud involved establishing shell corporations and web sites associated with the shell companies that falsely claimed that they sold a product other than pharmaceutical drugs or products that violated trademark infringement laws. The conspirators then applied for merchant accounts from the credit card companies in the names of the shell corporations and the fake web sites. Once the merchant accounts were established, they were used to process payments for pharmaceutical drugs or products that violated trademark infringement laws. Additionally, the conspirators arranged for the credit card statements sent to the consumers to have the names of the shell corporations and telephone numbers. The conspirators set up a telephone bank to receive calls from customers questioning billings on their credit card statements, and the conspirators explained to the customers the true nature of the transactions in hopes of avoiding charge-backs that could cause the credit card companies to question the legitimacy of the transactions.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for August 31, 2018 The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Kapralova.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A felon from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to six months’ imprisonment, followed by three years’ supervised release, on his conviction of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Aaron Lyons, 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, on or about August 27, 2015, Lyons, a convicted felon, was in possession of a .40 caliber Taurus pistol. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA. – A former resident of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of carjacking, armed robbery of a pharmacy and violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Joshua Williams, age 37, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on May 29, 2017, Williams climbed through the open passenger window of a Chevrolet Malibu vehicle and attempted to poke the driver with a knife. The driver of the car was able to jump out of the vehicle and crawl onto the sidewalk as the defendant fled in the vehicle.

Shortly thereafter, Onstar tracked the vehicle to Noblestown Road. When police responded to the area, they learned that the defendant had just robbed a Rite Aid pharmacy. The defendant jumped over the counter, pointed a large serrated knife at the pharmacist, and demanded Oxycodone, Fentanyl and Adderall. Williams fled the pharmacy with a trashcan full of medications with a street value of nearly $200,000. Onstar continued to track the vehicle and the defendant was apprehended minutes later with the prescription pill bottles stolen from the pharmacy, as well as a knife.

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

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pa. pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of filing false income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

James E. Book, Sr., pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Book knowingly filed false income tax returns for 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, in which he understated his income and overstated his expenses, for a total tax loss of $239,940.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2018, at 1 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 12 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 Stephanie L. Haines is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count indictment named Kenneth L. Blanks, 36, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Blanks 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.

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

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

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Erie 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 North Versailles, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 44 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release and was ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 on his conviction of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Antoine Walls, age 24.

According to information presented to the court, on August 25, 2016, Walls possessed a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol, a Glock 27 .40 caliber pistol, and numerous rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. It is unlawful for Walls, who has previously been convicted of a felony offense, to possess a firearm and ammunition.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leet Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Antoine Walls.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics and unlawful possession of firearms, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Elliot Page, 37, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring with 20 other individuals, between March and August of 2017, to distribute narcotics and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Page supplied fentanyl to his codefendants, Skyler Carter and Cecil Shields, and others, for further distribution in the Clairton area, and that approximately one kilogram of fentanyl and three firearms were seized during the execution of a federal search warrant at Page’s residence on July 6, 2017. Page has three prior felony drug offenses and was forbidden from possessing a firearm. He is the 14th of 21 defendants charged in the case to plead guilty.

Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 19, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years to life imprisonment, a fine of $20,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Page remains on incarcerated the sentencing hearing.

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 Beaver County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Rance Vaughn, age 22, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2016, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other agencies joined forces in a multi-agency wiretap investigation of drug trafficking, including fentanyl trafficking, in various areas of Western Pennsylvania. The interception of wire and electronic communications began in March 2017, and Rance Vaughn was intercepted over the wire conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 16, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Caitlin A. Loughran are 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, which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The FBI, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Vaughn.

PITTSBURGH - Scott W. Brady, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, today named the Office’s new executive leadership team and announced a restructuring of the Office’s Criminal Division that will allow the office to best effectuate the Administration’s priorities.

"This is an outstanding leadership team," stated United States Attorney Brady. "These men and women are the finest our District has to offer – incredibly accomplished attorneys, highly respected among their peers and by the bench, and possessing the highest standards of character and integrity. They will serve the people of western Pennsylvania with great honor and distinction."

Mr. Brady named Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman as his First Assistant U.S. Attorney. Mr. Kaufman has served as the Chief of the Criminal Division since 2010. In his 25 years as a federal prosecutor, Mr. Kaufman has handled a wide variety of violent crime, narcotics, child exploitation and white collar cases. Notable cases include the successful eight-week trial of the Pittsburgh La Cosa Nostra organized crime family on RICO charges, the prosecution of the distributors of China White, a deadly synthetic form of heroin which caused the overdose deaths of 17 individuals in 1988, the prosecution of Michael Carlow, owner of Pittsburgh Brewing and Clark Candy, for perpetuating a $31 million dollar check kiting scheme against PNC Bank, and more recently obtaining the conviction of and an 11-year prison sentence for Dr. Oliver Herndon, a physician who was the most prolific illegal distributor of oxycodone in the Pittsburgh area prior to his arrest. Mr. Kaufman is a graduate of Allegheny College and Harvard Law School.

Mr. Brady named former Assistant U.S. Attorney Tina O. Miller as Chief of the Criminal Division. She returns to the office today from Farrell & Reisinger, LLC, where she was a trial lawyer whose practice focused on criminal defense, corporate internal investigations, mediation and representing victims of crime in both criminal and civil cases. Ms. Miller has jury trial experience as both a federal prosecutor and defense counsel in a wide variety of cases, including fraud, arson, public corruption, arms trafficking, carjacking, narcotics trafficking and sex offenses. In her prior stint as a federal prosecutor, Ms. Miller successfully prosecuted Jelani Solomon, a major drug trafficker who also ordered the murder of a family member of someone he suspected of cooperating, and Scott Tyree, a Virginia man who met a 13-year-old Pittsburgh girl on the internet, drove her to his home in Virginia, and held her captive for three days until the FBI rescued her. Ms. Miller is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University School of Law.

Jennifer Andrade, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Civil Division since January 2008, has been named Chief of the Civil Division. Prior to joining the office, Ms. Andrade served as a federal law clerk to the Hon. Ila Jeanne Sensenich for two years, and as a litigation associate in private practice for three years. Ms. Andrade’s experience also includes serving in her second three-year term as a Pennsylvania District IV Senior Hearing Committee member, where her responsibilities include conducting hearings and making recommendations to the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board on petitions for attorney discipline brought by the Pennsylvania Office of Disciplinary Counsel. Ms. Andrade has served as an instructor at the National Advocacy Center in Columbia, South Carolina, and has also served in several leadership capacities for the Allegheny County Bar Association and Foundation, most recently as the Allegheny County Bar Foundation Vice President. Ms. Andrade is a graduate of Boston University and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Ross Haywood will continue to serve as Appellate Division Chief. Ms. Haywood has been an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Appellate Division since 2005. In this capacity, Ms. Haywood has successfully defended over 100 criminal and civil appeals, including a heath care fraud conviction of the owner and operator of a nursing home specializing in the care of Alzheimer’s patients and the 45-year sentence of a medical student convicted of child pornography offenses. Ms. Haywood will remain responsible for coordinating and reviewing all of the appellate filings emanating from the Western District of Pennsylvania. She has previous service as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Civil Division dating from 1997. Ms. Haywood is currently Vice-Chair of the Third Circuit Lawyers Advisory Committee, which works with the Court of Appeals to improve the administration of justice. Ms. Haywood is a graduate of Princeton University and the University of Michigan Law School.

Barbara Bacvinskas, a Department of Justice employee since 1983, will continue to serve as the Administrative Officer for the District.

In addition to naming his leadership team, Mr. Brady announced a reorganized Criminal Division. The Criminal Division will have four Sections: 1.) Cyber/National Security, 2.) Economic Crimes, 3.) Major Crimes, and 4.) Narcotics. The new Criminal Division sections will be overseen as follows: Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles A. "Tod" Eberle will supervise the Cyber/National Security Section; Nelson P. Cohen, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Office and former U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska, will supervise the Economic Crimes Section; Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney will supervise the Major Crimes Section; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti will supervise the Narcotics Section. Additionally, former Acting U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song will serve as the Head of National Security.

"These structural and leadership changes will allow us to maximize efforts to attack the deadly opioid crisis, reduce violent drug and gun crime, root out public corruption, prosecute cyber criminals, and prevent incidents of terrorism, all with a determination to protect the citizens of western Pennsylvania," Mr. Brady stated.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania prosecutes civil and criminal matters on behalf of the United States of America and its agencies and defends claims against the United States in the 25 counties that make up the western part of the Commonwealth. The office currently employs 59 Assistant U.S. Attorneys across the Criminal, Civil and Appellate Divisions, and 57 support staff, in offices in Pittsburgh, Erie and Johnstown.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 42 months of probation and 10 months of home confinement on her conviction of conspiring to possess and distribute opiate painkillers, oxycodone and oxymorphone, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Tevina Harris, 23.

According to information presented to the court, Harris participated in a criminal network of drug dealers that obtained opiate pain killers and then illegally distributed them to users in the Pittsburgh area. Harris took orders for opiate pills on behalf of one of the dealers, and she arranged for delivery of the pills to users. She was originally charged by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. While on bond for that charge, she continued to participate in the conspiracy.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Butler County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to one year and one day incarceration on his conviction of conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Gino Cordisco, 48, of Mars, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, the Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy prohibits pharmacists from restocking medications that have left the pharmacy’s control. These medications must be destroyed. According to the FDCA, if a prescription or a container of stock drugs falsely describes the lot numbers, expiration dates or manufacturers, then the drugs are rendered/deemed misbranded. For example, when pills that left the pharmacy are returned and comingled with stock drugs instead of being destroyed, and the required labeling on stock containers does not accurately state the actual manufacturer, date of expiration and lot number, then the drugs in the stock container or prescription package are misbranded. Misbranded drugs are illegal contraband and cannot be sold.

Cordisco, a pharmacist, was the supervisor over a chain of several pharmacies known as MedFast Pharmacies. He reported directly to its owner, Doug Kaleugher, not a defendant herein. Most of the conduct that supports the charges occurred at MedFast Institutional Pharmacy, 2003 Sheffield Road, in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.

MedFast Institutional Pharmacy supplied nursing home chains with individualized medication packages for the patients/residents. If the nursing home had unused pills from prescriptions filled by MedFast or other pharmacies from, for example, a resident passing or a change in medications, MedFast delivery drivers were instructed to collect the unused medications and return them to MedFast. Once these drugs were returned to MedFast, the drugs would be removed from their packaging and returned to stock. As a result, pills with different lot numbers, different expiration dates and different manufacturers were comingled. These comingled pills were thereafter used to fill new prescriptions. The defendant was the leader and organizer of this criminal conduct. The immediate supervisor of the MedFast Institutional Pharmacy, Correna Pfeiffer, who reported directly to the defendant, was responsible for carrying out this policy on a day-to-day basis. She was previously sentenced to a term of probation.

The Court was also made aware that in October 2011 the defendant arranged for a surveillance technician to focus a hidden camera on an employee suspected of stealing drugs. Upon reviewing the video and doing an inventory, the defendant realized that Jade Gagianas had stolen 100 Opana ER 40 mg. The defendant took Gagianas to a back room and questioned her about the theft. She eventually admitted to this theft as well as additional thefts that had taken place in the past. She told the defendant that she gave the Opana to her boyfriend, David Best. The defendant told Gagianas that he wanted the drugs back and told her to call Best to ask him to return them. Gagianas made the call, but Best would not bring them back for fear of getting arrested. The defendant told Best he would contact the police if Best did not agree to return the stolen Opana. After about two hours, Best showed up at the pharmacy but did not have the drugs in his possession. Best told Gagianas where he had hidden the drugs down the street. The defendant took Gagianas and drove to the location where Best said he had hidden the drugs. The drugs were recovered by Gagianas from a bush in front of a convent. The defendant took the Opana pill vial from Gagianas and observed that the seal had been broken on the prescription vial. He returned to the pharmacy with it. The drugs had been out of the possession of the pharmacy from between 2 and 6 hours. Knowing that the drugs had been stolen, had been in the hands of a drug dealer, that they were recovered from a bush after being gone from the pharmacy from between 2 and 6 hours, the defendant thereafter ordered another pharmacist to restock the Opana. The Schedule II log of the pharmacy reflected that 79 Opana pills were restocked. Jade Gagianas was fired that day by the defendant for stealing Opana.

The defendant was interviewed by DEA Special Agent Vijay Nemani on May 29, 2013. SA Nemani asked the defendant if there had ever been any diversion of pharmaceutical or disciplinary problems of any current or former employees. The defendant stated there were "none that he knew of." This statement was not true.

SA Nemani then asked the defendant about any former employees and he stated Jade Gagianas worked there as a Pharmacy Technician for a while and that her boyfriend had drug issues. The defendant stated Gagianas quit awhile back claiming she was "stressed out." The defendant stated Gagianas quit her job but was not fired or let go. This statement was not true.

SA Nemani asked the defendant pointedly if there were any instances of any current or former employees, at the Baden pharmacy, where the employee had stolen controlled substances and then was asked to return the controlled substances to the pharmacy. The defendant stated that he was not aware of any instances. This statement was not true.

SA Nemani also asked if there were any current or former employees that had been fired or asked to resign as a result of the diversion of controlled substances and the defendant stated, "no." This statement was not true.

The government had no evidence that any patient was harmed in any way as a result of any of the conduct described herein.

Assistant United States Attorney Nelson P. Cohen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Attorney commended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-OCI, the Drug Enforcement Administration-Diversion Investigators and the U.S. Health and Human Services-OIG for the investigation that led to a successful prosecution of Gino Cordisco.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 70 months’ imprisonment on a charge of conspiracy to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer accepted the guilty plea and imposed the sentence on Jenkins Everett, 28.

According to information presented to the court, Jenkins Everett was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that Everett and others conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute heroin between January and September 2016.

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

The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jenkins Everett.

ERIE, Pa. – A federal grand jury in Erie, Pennsylvania, has returned separate indictments charging two Erie residents with violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

"To combat the deadly opioid epidemic, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will use every lawful tool in our arsenal to identify and prosecute drug traffickers whose products poison our citizens," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "The federal statute pertaining to drug distribution resulting in serious bodily injury or death carries a 20-year mandatory minimum sentence and up to life in prison. Severe penalties are warranted when drug dealers knowingly distribute drugs that kill our fellow citizens."

Erie County District Attorney Jack Daneri added, "Local law enforcement in this county will continue to work closely with our federal partners to put maximum effort at addressing the opioid overdose epidemic. We will continue to work with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Attorney, and we will make referrals for federal prosecution where the facts warrant."

A seven-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Damon Dupree Henderson, aka Dee, aka Db, age 28, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Henderson sold a quantity of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine that caused the death of R.R.T. on June 15, 2017. The indictment also charges Henderson with possessing with intent to distribute various amounts of heroin, fentanyl, a heroin/fentanyl mixture, cocaine, and crack cocaine on or about June 20, 2017.

A three-count indictment, also returned yesterday, named Derrick Lamont Hemphill, Sr., aka G, aka Shelly, age 27, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Hemphill sold fentanyl that caused the death of K.A.J. on November 26, 2017. The indictment also alleges that on November 26, 2017, Hemphill possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and a heroin/fentanyl mixture.

For Henderson, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $12,000,000, or both. For Hemphill, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $3,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office County Detective Bureau, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force, the Millcreek Township Police Department, and the Erie Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in these cases.

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

PITTSBUGRH, PA. - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal robbery laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Thomas Hetrick, age 50, pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Judge Schwab.

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

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 26, 2018. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not more than 25 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.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered Hetrick remain in custody.

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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Meadville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count superseding indictment named Dennis Michael Kerr, 27, as the sole defendant.

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

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

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 70 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 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 leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of false income tax return and aid or assist false or fraudulent document, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The fourteen-count indictment named Andrea Jones as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Jones prepared false federal income tax returns for herself and others who used her as their return preparer for calendar years 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 42 years in prison, a fine of $3,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal 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.

ERIE, Pa. – The founder of an Erie non-profit organization and current Erie City Council President has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of wire fraud, theft of government property and false writing or document to the government, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 33-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Sonya Arrington, 51, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

"When public officials and those who seek donations for charitable purposes commit dishonest acts, public confidence suffers," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "We will root out and prosecute corrupt individuals whenever we find them engaging in fraudulent acts while serving in a public position or using charitable contributions to their nonprofit organizations for private gain."

According to the indictment presented to the court, Arrington diverted funds donated to Mothers Against Teen Violence, a non-profit organization she created to help prevent violence among teenagers, to pay for her gambling and personal expenses. Specifically, the indictment alleges that from December 2011 to March 2018, Arrington engaged in a scheme to defraud MATV of at least $70,000. She allegedly solicited donations from individuals and entities in person and by email; received donations to MATV in cash and checks payable to MATV and deposited a portion of the donations into MATV bank accounts and kept a portion in cash for herself; and did not deposit cash but kept donations for herself. She also allegedly used the debit card for the MATV bank accounts to make purchases unrelated to the organization’s purposes, for things like personal items of clothing, groceries, car washes and food at restaurants; used the debit card for MATV to pay personal bills for T-Mobile, State Farm, First Energy and others; and deposited checks to MATV into personal bank accounts and kept a portion for personal use. The indictment alleges that on 113 occasions from April 2012 to January 2018, Arrington used the MATV debit card to withdraw MATV funds at Presque Isle Downs & Casino. The indictment also alleges that Arrington fraudulently received approximately $29,558 in Social Security disability benefits and submitted a document to the Social Security Administration that contained a false statement.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 635 years in prison, a fine of $7,750,000, 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 Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and 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 - Two Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of damaging railroad signals and equipment, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on April 3 and unsealed yesterday, named William Curry Brown, 24, of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, and Brandon Edward Peck, 24, of Glassport, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, Brown and Peck damaged and impaired signal cables by severing them and further damaged and impaired bond strand wire connectors that were connected to the rail line. The indictment also alleges that Brown removed and detached railroad antennas and otherwise impaired the operation of a railroad signal system, including a train control system that engaged in interstate commerce. Peck is charged with aiding and abetting Mr. Brown.

For each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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 Attorney Soo C. Song is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, CSX Police Department and Amtrak 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 Texas pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Cameron Ranson, 43, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring with 20 other individuals, between March and June 2017, to distribute narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ranson, traveled from Texas to Clairton, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of distributing quantities of heroin to his codefendant, Skyler Carter, and others. He accepted responsibility for the distribution of between 20 and 40 grams of heroin. He is the twelfth of 21 defendants charged in the case to enter a plea of guilty.

Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Ranson remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.

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 – Darwin Good was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for heroin trafficking and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of heroin trafficking in July 2016, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Good, age 31, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Good to 18 months in prison for violating the terms of his federal supervised release from a prior federal conviction for heroin trafficking. In addition, Judge Conti imposed six years of supervised release for Good to serve when he is released from prison.

Good was on federal supervised release as of July 2016 following a prior conviction and 87-month prison sentence for conspiring to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin. Good previously violated his supervised release terms and received a 16-month prison sentence for recklessly fleeing at high speed from pursuing police cars and striking several other cars while doing so.

On July 26, 2016, detectives with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted a traffic stop on Good and his car. As the detectives approached the car, Good reached toward the glove box of the car. A young child was sitting in front of the glove box. A subsequent search of the glove box, that was conducted after Good attempted to flee from the car on foot, resulted in the discovery of stamp bags of heroin that Good intended to distribute, as well as Good’s .40 caliber Glock pistol that was loaded with 16 rounds including one in the chamber. The heroin and the loaded pistol were within arm’s reach of the young child.

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

The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentences in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute violent crimes.

A federal grand jury sitting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, returned an indictment yesterday charging a Pittsburgh-area certified registered nurse anesthetist with five counts of tax evasion and four counts of failure to file federal income tax returns and pay federal income tax, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, Loren Pulliam earned over $500,000 in income between 2002 and 2005, and over $1.2 million in additional income between 2008 and 2016, working as a nurse anesthetist at medical facilities in the Pittsburgh area.  Pulliam allegedly evaded her tax obligations for the years 2002 through 2005 and 2011 through 2014 by establishing a nominee entity and directing her employers to pay compensation to that entity and then using a bank account opened in the nominee’s name to pay personal expenses.  

The indictment further alleges that Pulliam failed to timely file federal income tax returns and pay the taxes due for the years 2011 through 2014, despite having an obligation to do so.

If convicted, Pulliam faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of tax evasion and one year in prison for each failure to file count.  Pulliam also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.  An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed.  A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Brady thanked agents of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorney Brittney N. Campbell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam N. Hallowell, who are prosecuting the case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.  

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A citizen of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court in Johnstown on his conviction of re-entry of an illegal alien, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Yovani Escalante-Escalante, 32, of Blair County, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, on Oct. 12, 2017, Escalante-Escalante, an alien who had been deported from the United States on May 13, 2009 was found in Blair County, Pa. He had unlawfully reentered this Country without receiving permission to do so from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for Aug. 14, 2018, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Escalante-Escalante.

PITTSBURGH, PA – A Washington County resident was sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, the first six months of which is to be served on home detention, and to pay a $2,500 fine upon her conviction of embezzlement and theft of labor union assets, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Marianne Rodacy, 64, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court at the time of the guilty plea proceeding, Rodacy was formerly the Financial/Recording Secretary of United Steelworkers, AFL-CIO, Local 10-53-G, and from October 1, 2012 to June 24, 2015, she embezzled union funds totaling $21,539.93 for her personal use. In addition to a three-year term of probation and a $2,500 fine, Judge Bissoon ordered that Rodacy be barred from working for a labor union for 13 years. At the time of sentencing, Rodacy had already paid full restitution to the union for the misappropriated funds.

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

The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Marianne Rodacy.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to maintaining a drug-involved premises, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jalea Carter, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of using or maintaining a drug-involved location, between March and June 2017, as a place for the storage, packaging and distribution of narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Carter occupied the residence located at 804 Third Street, Clairton, Pennsylvania, and made her residence available for her brother, codefendant Skyler Carter, to store and distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine. In connection with the guilty plea, Carter acknowledged her responsibility for the intended distribution of the 4.5 grams of heroin seized by federal agents from her home on June 28, 2017. She is the eleventh of 21 defendants charged in the case to enter a plea of guilty.

Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Carter remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

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. - One resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of Bank Robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named Jonathan Owens, age 55, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about March 19, 2018, Owens robbed Key Bank, located at 300 6th Avenue, in downtown Pittsburgh. Key Bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - One resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of Bank Robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named Darryl Leon Wilson, age 60, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about February 22, 2018, Wilson robbed Key Bank, located at 300 6th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Key Bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Conspiracy, Access Device Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count indictment named Terry Porterfield, 42, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Porterfield participated in an identity theft ring, through which he broke into unoccupied vehicles and stole means of identification and access devices of individuals, including driver licenses, credit card, debit cards, and social security cards. Porterfield and other members of the conspiracy used the stolen means of identification and access devices to make and attempt to make fraudulent purchases at various retail establishments, including Target and Best Buy.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than two years and not more than of 37 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, Allegheny County Police, Ross Township Police, and Pittsburgh 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. – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The one-count indictment named Tory Bryant, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to indictment, on March 13, 2018, Bryant possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Wilkinsburg 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 former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of trafficking cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Johnny Lee Jones, 46, of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, on March 13, 2017, Jones knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for September 6, 2018, at 2:15 p.m.  The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, a maximum fine of $5,000,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bethel Park Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones. 

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - Five Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 15-count indictment, returned on April 4 and unsealed today, named:

Brad Reed, age 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

Greg Reed, age 26, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

Justin McBride, age 26,  of Munhall, Pennsylvania;

Antoinette McBride, age 29, of Munhall, Pennsylvania; and

Richard Ruby, age 31, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Brad Reed and Greg Reed are twin brothers. Richard Ruby and Justin McBride are both cousins of the Reed twins. Antoinette McBride is married to Justin McBride.

"This indictment charges these five individuals for their roles in a criminal heroin/fentanyl trafficking organization that is responsible for causing two overdose deaths and four non-fatal overdoses in which the victims needed to be revived with naloxone," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "My office will continue to be relentless in our mission to identify and prosecute drug dealers, reduce overdoses and protect the people of Western Pennsylvania."

According to the indictment presented to the court, from in and around January 2014, and continuing until in or around December 2017, Brad Reed, Greg Reed, Justin McBride, Antoinette McBride, and Richard Ruby conspired to distribute and possess with the intent distribute heroin and fentanyl. The indictment further alleges that on or about October 3, 2016, Justin McBride distributed fentanyl which caused serious bodily injury and the death of a user of fentanyl; on or about December 8, 2016, Brad Reed caused serious bodily injury to a user of heroin and fentanyl; on or about December 31, 2016, Greg Reed caused serious bodily injury to a user of heroin and fentanyl; on or about January 30, 2017, Justin McBride caused serious bodily injury to and the death of a user of heroin and fentanyl; and on or about July 1, 2017, Justin McBride caused serious bodily injury to a user of heroin and fentanyl.

The indictment also alleges that on or about December 16, 2016, Brad Reed possessed with intent to distribute and distributed a quantity of heroin and fentanyl. The indictment further alleges that on or about January 31, 2017, Brad Reed, Justin McBride, and Antoinette McBride possessed with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine and, on that same date, Justin McBride also possessed with intent to distribute crack cocaine. The indictment further alleges that on or about February 21, 2017, Brad Reed and Greg Reed possessed with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl and Brad Reed unlawfully disposed of property for the purpose of preventing the government from taking the narcotics into its lawful custody. The indictment also alleges that on January 31, 2017, Justin McBride and Antoinette McBride possessed a firearm, a black Taurus .380 caliber pistol, in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy.

Further, during various times between January 2014 and December 2017, the five defendants maintained and used various premises for manufacturing and distributing heroin and fentanyl. Specifically, the indictment alleges Greg Reed and Brad Reed used and maintained 5116 Lytle Street in Hazelwood; Justin McBride and Antoinette McBride used and maintained an apartment at 1813 West Street in Munhall; and Richard Ruby and Justin McBride used and maintained 5108 Glenwood Avenue in Hazelwood, all for the purpose of manufacturing and distributing heroin and fentanyl.

With respect to the charges against Justin McBride, Brad Reed, and Greg Reed, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both. For Antoinette McBride and Richard Ruby, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Jeffrey Allen Burgess has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, to include the following special conditions: four months of home detention; continued alcohol treatment through Pyramid Healthcare, Inc., or as directed by the U.S. Probation Office; 50 hours of community service; full participation in a restorative justice program administered by Center for Victims; and restitution in an amount to be determined by the Court at a later date, on a charge of violating the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Allen Burgess, age 56. 

According to information presented to the Court, on or about November 22, 2016, Burgess violated the Hate Crimes Prevention Act by willfully causing bodily injury to A.M. because of A.M.’s actual and perceived race, color, and national origin.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cindy K. Chung and Rachael L. Dizard of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Tona Boyd prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bethel Park Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Burgess.

PITTSBURGH, PA -- A Fayette County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges alleging that he committed mail fraud, tax evasion, and willful failure to file income tax returns, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on April 4, named Eugene Traficante, 42, of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment, Traficante was charged with one count of mail fraud, one count of tax evasion, and two counts of willful failure to file an income tax return, all based on his having embezzled more than $340,000 from his employer, Doyle Refrigeration Inc., a commercial refrigeration repair and maintenance services provider.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the mail fraud offense, up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for tax evasion and up to one year in prison and up to a $100,000 fine for each count of conviction of failure to file tax returns. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Internal Revenue Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Bryan Campbell, age 27, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been charged with conspiring to rob three area banks, armed bank robbery, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

According to the April 4 indictment, Campbell conspired to rob the S&T Bank in Verona, PA, on March 7, 2017; the First National Bank in Verona, PA, on May 1, 2017; and the Huntington Bank in Baden, PA, on July 22, 2017. Additionally, Campbell is charged with the March 7, 2017 armed bank robbery of the S&T Bank in Verona, PA, on March 7, 2017; the armed bank robbery of the First National Bank in Verona, PA, on May 1, 2017; and the attempted armed bank robbery of the Huntington Bank in Baden, PA, on July 22, 2017. Campbell is also charged with brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for using a silver revolver during the March 7, 2017 robbery.

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

Assistant United States 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.

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

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

Dalton Douglas Duschl, 22, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to all six counts in the indictment against him before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between January 3, 2017, and February 13, 2017, Duschl knowingly possessed and sold four firearms (a .45 caliber Kahr Arms pistol, a 9mm Taurus pistol, a 20-gauge shotgun, and a .380 caliber Bryco Arms pistol) to undercover law enforcement agents.  Federal law prohibits Duschl from possessing a firearm due to his 2015 convictions in Allegheny County for the crimes of receiving stolen property and criminal conspiracy.  The court was further advised that on two of those occasions, Duschl knowingly possessed and sold the .45 caliber Kahr Arms pistol and the 9mm Taurus pistol, both of which he knew or had reasonable cause to believe were stolen. 

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for August 3, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 60 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.  Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known

Special 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.   Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.   In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and detectives from the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the Indictment in this case.

PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Jojuan Bray, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring with 20 other individuals, between March and June 2017, to distribute narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Bray purchased cocaine from his codefendant, Skyler Carter, for further distribution in the Clairton area, and is responsible for the distribution of approximately 230 grams of cocaine during the relevant period. He is the tenth of 21 defendants charged to enter a plea of guilty.

Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 13, 2018, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Bray remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.

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 Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of failure of to register as a sex offender and failure to surrender for service of sentence, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Daniel Teed, age 56, of Wexford, PA, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

According to information presented to the Court, from October 23, 2017, and continuing until February 13, 2018, Teed, who was required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act after having been convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking of Children on June 14, 2017, knowingly failed to register, as required by the SORNA. In addition, Teed, after having been released, while awaiting his surrender for service of sentence after conviction, and having been directed by the Court to surrender for service of sentence to the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Loretto in Western Pennsylvania on January 2, 2018, knowingly and willfully failed to surrender as ordered by the Court.

Teed was arrested on February 12 in Flagstaff, Ariz., following a nationwide manhunt led by the U.S. Marshals Service. Teed, a convicted sex offender, was wanted for failing to surrender to serve a 10-year prison term. Deputy Marshals were dispatched to multiple states and eventually developed information that Teed had traveled to Flagstaff. Investigation revealed that Teed was employing an alias and had disguised his appearance to avoid capture.

United States District Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 13, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years imprisonment, fine of $500,000.00, a term of supervised release for no more than three years, or any or all of the above. 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 Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Teed.

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.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Portage, Pa., has been sentenced in federal court in Johnstown to 72 months in prison and three years’ supervised release on her conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Dawn M. Strayer, 36.

According to information presented to the court, on May 18, 2016, Strayer distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

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

Mr. Brady commended the Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Strayer.

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

Daniel Culmer, 50, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on June 7, 2016, Culmer distributed less than 100 grams of heroin.

Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 2, 2018, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

The one-count indictment, returned on April 3, named Tre Goins, age 23, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on June 23, 2017, Goins possessed a firearm and ammunition after having previously been convicted in state court of two separate cases involving firearms.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and the forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PA - An illegal alien found in Ross Township, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry after deportation, and has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months’ imprisonment, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Hilario Garcia-Miranda, a/k/a Francisco Xavier Hernandez-Garcia, age 39, of Mexico. Judge Schwab further ordered that, following service of the sentence of imprisonment, Garcia-Miranda be remanded to the custody of federal immigration authorities for commencement of deportation proceedings.

According to information presented to the court, Hilario Garcia-Miranda, a Mexican national who had been previously deported from the United States on March 28, 2003, after conviction of an aggravated felony in the State of Oregon, was found to be present on December 29, 2017, working as a cook at the Cheesecake Factory at Ross Park Mall in Ross Township, Pennsylvania, without first receiving permission from the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security to reenter the United States.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the U.S. Immigration, and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Invesitgations (HSI) for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Garcia-Miranda.

PITTSBURGH, PA - After deliberating twenty minutes, a federal jury of twelve men and women found Leonard Gibbons guilty of five counts of violating federal bank robbery and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Gibbons, age 55, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was tried before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Shardul Desai, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that on or about July 17, 2015, Gibbons stole $7,828.00 from the Compass Federal Savings Bank located at 111 Westinghouse Avenue, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania; and on or about November 19, 2015, Gibbons used a firearm to steal $3,971.00 from the First Commonwealth Bank located at 1527 Lincoln Way, White Oak, Pennsylvania. It is unlawful for Gibbons, who has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, to possess a firearm. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a crime punishable by in excess of one year imprisonment from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for July 30, 2018 at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 22 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the McKeesport Police Department, the North Versailles Police Department, the White Oak Police Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gibbons.

PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Blair County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of tax evasion and wire fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

The 23-count indictment named Patrick S. LaMarsh as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, LaMarsh defrauded TracFone and Walmart by selling fraudulently obtained Straight Talk airtime cards on Amazon.com.

The law provides for a total sentence of five years imprisonment for each count of conviction for tax evasion, and 20 years imprisonment for each count of conviction for wire fraud, a fine of $4,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations and 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.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months in prison on his conviction of violating federal drug and firearms laws in two separate cases, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Ramon Martinez-Silva, 38.

According to information presented to the court, in the case at Criminal No. 14-26 Erie, from on or about May 16, 2013, to on or about August 26, 2013, Martinez-Silva and a co-defendant conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Martinez-Silva sold cocaine on four occasions in the vicinity of 915 West 16th Street and other locations in Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, at Criminal No. 15-20 Erie, Martinez-Silva possessed a firearm while being a convicted felon. According to information provided to the court, Martinez-Silva obtained a Marlin 9mm semi-automatic rifle from an individual at a residence at 529 East 13th Street in Erie and was then caught by law enforcement officers after selling that gun. Martinez-Silva was prohibited from firearm possession because of two prior felony convictions.

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

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

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years probation and ordered to make $23,051 in restitution on his conviction of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Dhia Almaleki, 47.

According to information presented to the court, Dhia Almaleki and three co-defendants were engaged in exchanging food stamps for cash on a regular basis at The Lotto World, also known as Samir’s and Lotto World Convenience, a convenience store located at 832 State Street in Erie. The four defendants also allowed customers to pay off store credit with food stamps.

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

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the Erie Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Almaleki.

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

Jesse Lee Anderson, 37, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Anderson unlawfully possessed ammunition while being prohibited from firearm possession because he is a convicted felon. In addition, Anderson possessed an improvised firearm device utilizing two pipes capable of discharging a shot, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 16, 2018 at 12:45 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Marshal’s Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Anderson.

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

Marco Antonio Melchor, 37, pleaded guilty to one count at Criminal No. 15-02 Erie and one count at Criminal No. 15-04 Erie before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around June 2013 and January 2015, Melchor and his co-defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute approximately 50 kilograms of cocaine.

According to the information provided to the Court in support of the guilty pleas, the investigation revealed that Melchor, the owner of the El Toro Loco restaurant in Erie, Pennsylvania, was engaged distributing cocaine and laundering the drug proceeds made by the selling of those drugs. The investigation revealed that the drug trafficking conspiracy involving Melchor was being sourced cocaine from individuals in Texas associated with organizations in Mexico. The drugs were imported into the United States and were then brought into Houston, Texas. Once in Houston, co-conspirators coordinated for the drug loads to be brought into Ohio and Pennsylvania. The cocaine was then transported to Erie, Pennsylvania and elsewhere using vehicles rigged with hidden compartments. Once the drugs arrived in Erie they were further distributed initially by Melchor and co-conspirator Maria Urrutia, who then further distributed most of the cocaine from their locations in Erie, Pennsylvania.  Melchor also conspired with a co-conspirator in Lawrence, Massachusetts, to install a hidden compartment in a new vehicle, to expand their cocaine distribution efforts with the co-conspirator suppliers in Houston, Texas.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for July 16, 2018 at 3 p.m.  The law provides for a total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both for each count at Criminal No. 15-02 Erie and Criminal No. 15-04 Erie.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Organized Crime Section, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Melchor.