Western District of Pennsylvania

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions of false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Keyshawn Savory, 25.

According to information presented to the Court, on four different occasions between April and August 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Savory acted as a straw purchaser when buying firearms from several federally licensed firearms dealers by stating that the firearms were being purchased for himself, when he actually was purchasing the firearms on behalf of another person.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Savory.

This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to three months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction for escape from custody, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Ryan Gainer, 44.

According to information presented to the Court, on October 17, 2024, following a 48-hour home pass, Gainer knowingly and without authorization failed to return to the residential reentry center where he was serving a federal sentence.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gainer.
 

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Mexico who had been previously removed from the United States seven times between 2013 and 2017 pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of illegal reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to time served on his conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Dario Fortunato-Torres, 38, on April 28, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, on October 8, 2024, Fortunato-Torres was arrested by the Moon Township Police Department and charged with several traffic violations, which, according to the public docket, have since been withdrawn. Following this encounter, immigration officials determined that Fortunato-Torres was illegally present in the United States and arrested him on November 19, 2024. Fortunato-Torres had been removed from the United States on seven prior occasions between 2013 and 2017. Fortunato-Torres has been in custody since his November arrest and will be returned to immigration custody.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fortunato-Torres.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of illegal reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to 60 days of imprisonment on his conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Juan Antonio Lopez-Mauricio, 34, on April 28, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, on January 30, 2025, immigration officials encountered Lopez-Mauricio and determined that he was illegally present in the United States. Lopez-Mauricio was previously removed from the United States four times between 2012 and 2015 following convictions in federal courts in the Southern District of Texas and the District of Arizona for illegally entering the United States. Lopez-Mauricio has been in custody since his January arrest and will remain detained pending his deportation from the United States.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lopez-Mauricio.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Hudson, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal fraud laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Paul Andrew Gulbronson, 59, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around May 2017 to in and around June 2019, Gulbronson conspired to commit mail and wire fraud. Gulbronson operated Citrona Homes LLC, which had offices located in Holliday, Florida, and in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and solicited investments. The purported business plan of Citrona Homes LLC, as represented to some of the investors, was to purchase low value, distressed, or vacant properties; renovate the properties, ensuring that they complied with applicable building code; rent the properties, and sell the properties to investors at or under market value. Investors were told that Citrona Homes LLC would manage the properties, provide no-cost maintenance and repairs for the first two years, and pay the utilities for a small monthly fee, thus generating a stream of guaranteed passive income for the investors. In reality, Gulbronson used Citrona Homes LLC as a mechanism for enriching himself by defrauding investors into purchasing unrenovated properties at prices far above the fair market value of the properties through a series of false pretenses, representations, and promises.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for September 9, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Brendan T. Conway are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Gulbronson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal law regarding the sexual exploitation of minors, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Justin Darby, 37, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about October 28, 2021, Darby knowingly altered and destroyed records associated with an application on his cellular telephone with the intent to impede and obstruct an investigation of him for offenses involving the sexual exploitation of children. The Court also was advised that, on February 6, 2024, as well as on three additional occasions with three additional minor victims, Darby attempted to and did induce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for August 25, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Darby remained detained.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Darby.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on April 25, 2025, to one count of production and attempted production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Matthew Trax, 25, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about November 30, 2023, Trax employed, used, and enticed a 14-year-old female to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purposes of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, knowing that the visual depiction would be transported in and affect interstate commerce or created using a means and facility of interstate commerce. Specifically, Trax sent the minor nine images and one video of himself engaged in sexual intercourse with the minor, which Trax had recorded on his phone.

Judge Hardy scheduled Trax’s sentencing for August 21, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Trax remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Mt. Lebanon Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Trax.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Ten individuals from Arizona, Ohio, Washington, and Mexico—including a member of the Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) Cártel de Sinaloa and one person illegally residing in the United States—pleaded guilty in federal court this week to charges of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws in relation to an international drug trafficking organization (DTO), Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendants were among 35 individuals charged through a Second Superseding Indictment unsealed in January 2024 for their participation in a domestic and international narcotics and money laundering conspiracy involving substantial quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine (read the Second Superseding Indictment news release here).

Pleading guilty this week before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan were:

Plea Date

Defendant

Age

Residence

April 21

25

27

26

April 22

23

24

23

24

April 23

29

24

36

In connection with the guilty pleas, the Court was advised that, on various dates from in and around August 2021 to in and around June 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and/or methamphetamine. Specifically, Arredondo-Soto, Ledesma (who was residing in Phoenix illegally), Ortiz, Aguirre, Lopez, Rivera, and Monarrez each conspired to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, with all except Monarrez also having conspired to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Similarly, from in and around August 2021 to in and around March 2023, Collins and Fentanes conspired to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine, with Collins also having possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on March 2, 2023, while Kariye conspired to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The defendants were intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that they distributed to others. Further, from in and around April 2022 to in and around March 2023, Aguirre conspired to commit money laundering, packaging drug proceeds and delivering large amounts of U.S. currency to couriers to smuggle into Mexico to pay for re-supplies of drugs.

Arredondo-Soto, a Mexican national with ties to the Sinaloa Cartel, was the source of supply for the DTO and was responsible for trafficking millions of fentanyl pills and hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine that the DTO distributed. Numerous military-grade firearms were trafficked into Mexico for Arredondo-Soto as payment from members of the DTO for the drugs. In coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, Arredondo-Soto was arrested in Mexico in November 2023 by Mexican law enforcement authorities and extradited to the United States in February 2024.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencings for November 3-5, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both, or, for Kariye, not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant.

With this week’s 10 guilty pleas, 19 of the 35 defendants charged in the Second Superseding Indictment have now pleaded guilty in the case, with six defendants having been sentenced thus far. Included among those sentencings is Mark Camacho, 26, of Phoenix, Arizona, who Judge Ranjan sentenced this week to 57 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy.

Assistant United States Attorneys Arnold P. Bernard Jr. and Tonya S. Goodman are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition from Mexico of Arredondo-Soto.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh returned a Superseding Indictment against three residents of the Pittsburgh area on charges of conspiracy, defacing and damaging a religious building, making false statements in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Executive branch of the United States, and possession of destructive devices, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The nine-count Superseding Indictment named Mohamad Hamad, 23, of Coraopolis, Tayla A. Lubit, 24, of Pittsburgh, and Micaiah Collins, 22, of Pittsburgh, as defendants. Hamad and Lubit were previously indicted for their roles in defacing Jewish religious property with pro-Palestinian and anti-Zionist graffiti (read the Indictment news release here).

According to the Superseding Indictment, Hamad enlisted with the United States Air Force, Pennsylvania Air National Guard (PAANG) in 2023. Hamad was assigned to the 171st Maintenance Squadron of the PAANG, stationed in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, near the Pittsburgh International Airport. The 171st Maintenance Squadron is a part of the 171st Air Refueling Wing, the primary mission of which is to provide in-flight refueling to Department of Defense (DoD) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) aircraft.

In connection with his enlistment, Hamad sought a Top-Secret security clearance. The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) investigated Hamad to determine if he should be granted that clearance. Hamad had three in-person interviews as part of his background investigation and, as alleged in the Superseding Indictment, made a series of false statements as part of that process.

The Superseding Indictment also alleges that, during this same time period, Collins conspired with Hamad to manufacture and possess a destructive device, and discussed the potential uses for the devices that they were building and testing. After Hamad and Collins detonated a device, Hamad built additional destructive devices, including two pipe bombs, and detonated those as well.

“As alleged in the Superseding Indictment, Mohamad Hamad lied about his loyalty to the United States, among other false statements, in an attempt to obtain a Top-Secret security clearance,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “During that time, he openly expressed support for Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Hamas. In addition to his previously charged role in defacing Jewish religious property, he also conspired with others named in this Superseding Indictment to manufacture and detonate destructive devices. Our office remains resolute in its commitment to working alongside federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate crimes like these and to safeguard both the Jewish community and the public at large.”

“Protecting the American people is spelled out in the Mission of the FBI. That includes all our communities,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The FBI and our partners are committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals who reportedly choose to lie about being loyal to this country and instead engage in dangerous, menacing, and illegal activities.”

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of, for Hamad, 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; for Collins, five years in prison and a $250,000 fine; and for Lubit, one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. 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 Nicole Vasquez Schmitt and Carolyn J. Bloch are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government, with assistance from the Department of Justice National Security Division, Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment.

A Superseding Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Hobbs Act robbery and violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The three-count Indictment named Yamin A. Harris, 31, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on December 29, 2024, Harris committed a Hobbs Act robbery at a Monroeville, Pennsylvania, fast food restaurant, carrying and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of the robbery, and unlawfully possessing that firearm as a previously convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Monroeville Police Department, and Pitcairn Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 252 months in prison, to be followed by ten years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Leon Ford, Sr., 58, stating that Ford’s conduct placed the “Greater Pittsburgh community at substantial risk of harm and that the community deserves to be protected.”

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around March 2021 to in and around September 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ford conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Further, on or about September 16, 2021, Ford possessed with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Ford was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of cocaine and fentanyl that he distributed to others.

“Thanks to the diligent and collaborative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, McKeesport Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement, a recidivist trafficker of fentanyl—a lethal substance—has been removed from our streets for a significant period of time,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rivetti. “Our communities are much safer as a result.”

DEA Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett stated: “The sentencing of Leon Ford should send a powerful message: justice will prevail against those who threaten the safety and stability of our communities. This investigation was a testament to the commitment and collaboration between federal and local law enforcement.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine Jordan and Jonathan Lusty prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. On September 23, 2024, following a jury trial, Ford was found guilty of all counts of the Superseding Indictment.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ford. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the McKeesport Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Penn Hills Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Daniel Alejandro Benzor Mora, 31, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on March 19, 2025, Benzor Mora was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States on or about January 3, 2024.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Guatemala has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Juan Manuel Secaida, 35, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on April 1, 2025, Secaida was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States in January 2020.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Coraopolis Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Wampum, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Thomas Hyatt-Baney, age 21, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on June 25, 2023, from 12:30 p.m. ET to 12:37 p.m. ET, Hyatt-Baney, using his iPhone, produced three video clips depicting the sexual exploitation of a toddler.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for August 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court continued Hyatt-Baney’s detention.

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

The Pennsylvania State Police and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hyatt-Baney.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on April 22, 2025, to 252 months of incarceration, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, on his conviction of coercion and enticement of a minor, and production and receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Shayne A. Clapper, 31.

According to information presented to the Court, in January 2023 through February 2023, Clapper initiated a sexual relationship with a minor known to him. Clapper provided the minor with a cell phone that he used to communicate with the minor, including requesting and receiving nude images from the minor. Clapper also induced the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Ellwood City Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clapper.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of access device fraud and aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Tai Jauna Jones, 29, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Jones, through the dark web, obtained credit card numbers and other personal information of numerous individuals, and then was one of several co-defendants who provided the fraudulently obtained credit card numbers to a manager at a Monroeville car rental location. The manager rented the vehicles knowing that the true owners of the credit card numbers did not authorize the car rentals, renting a total of more than 140 vehicles in this manner to cause losses of more than $500,000.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for August 14, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than two years and up to 12 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The United States Secret Service, in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to five years of imprisonment on his conviction for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on James Louis Peronis, 61, on April 15, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, beginning in May 2021, Peronis was the subject of a joint investigation by local, state, and federal law enforcement related to cocaine trafficking. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that Peronis would obtain kilogram quantities of cocaine in Ohio and then distribute the cocaine in Pennsylvania. On July 1, 2021, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Peronis as he entered the Western District of Pennsylvania from Ohio. During the traffic stop, law enforcement conducted a consensual search of the vehicle, which resulted in the seizure of nearly two kilograms of cocaine.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program of Beaver County for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Peronis.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Mineral Springs, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 181 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Brian Gidney, 51.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2019 to in and around June 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Gidney conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Further, on or about June 9, 2020, Gidney possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and also possessed a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime. Gidney was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gidney. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Scott Township, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 151 months of imprisonment, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, on his conviction of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on James France, 62, on April 15, 2025. A federal jury found France guilty of the charge in March 2022.

According to information presented to the Court, France was a lawyer with an Ivy League degree who worked for several Pittsburgh-based law firms before turning to a life of methamphetamine distribution. On March 16, 2015, France was arrested in Illinois after a search of his car revealed approximately 1,344 grams of methamphetamine along with scales, packaging material, syringes, and more than $4,700 in U.S. currency. In May of 2016, an arrest of one of France’s conspirators by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Rochester, New York, led to the identification of France as a major methamphetamine supplier from the Pittsburgh area.

In late June of 2016, the DEA effectuated a controlled purchase of $2,000 worth of methamphetamine from France at France’s Scott Township residence. A laboratory analysis of the drugs following the controlled purchase found it to be 55 grams of methamphetamine.

At approximately 1:38 a.m. on July 29, 2016, Scott Township Police responded to a report of a home invasion in progress at France’s residence. When the police arrived, they encountered an individual who appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance and reported that six armed men attempted to break into the residence. The officers called out for anyone inside the house to come to the door and, when no one responded, officers entered to clear the residence.

Based on the condition of the home, officers believed that the residence could be a methamphetamine laboratory and contacted the DEA, who determined that the house was not a methamphetamine laboratory and obtained a search warrant for the residence. During the search, officers recovered what later laboratory analysis determined was approximately 430 grams of pure methamphetamine, approximately $8,000 in U.S. currency, and other evidence of methamphetamine distribution.

France was on bond for other offenses when local police officers arrested him on June 30, 2017, after executing another search warrant at his residence. That search resulted in the seizure of a methamphetamine smoking apparatus, syringes, scales, packaging material, large sums of U.S. currency, and quantities of methamphetamine.

Throughout the judicial proceedings, the defendant attempted to obstruct justice by lying to the Court, violating the conditions of his bond, threatening to beat a person’s grandparents “to within an inch of their lives,” and verbally abusing his court-appointed counsel.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Scott Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of France.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 12 months of incarceration on his conviction of assault by striking, beating, or wounding, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Quintin Owens, 28, also ordering Owens to pay a $5,000 fine.

According to information presented to the Court, on or about October 11, 2022, Owens violently assaulted his girlfriend, also a resident of Western Pennsylvania, by punching her, throwing her to the ground, and strangling her in a choke hold while the two were aboard a cruise ship. The federal district court has jurisdiction over the assault in part because the crime was committed on the high seas.

In imposing the sentence, Judge Stickman spoke to the severe impact domestic violence crimes have on victims and promised that such crimes will be taken seriously in federal court.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Owens.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Euclid, Ohio, pleaded guilty in federal court on April 14, 2025, to charges of sex trafficking of a child and coercion and enticement of an adult with the intent that they engage in commercial sex, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Donte Lashawn Cole, 40, pleaded guilty to the two counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Cole transported the minor and an adult from Ohio to a hotel in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, to engage in commercial sex. Investigators located condoms, lubrication, cleaning wipes, pregnancy tests, and only a few pieces of clothing in the room used by the minor and similar items in the room used by the adult.

The investigation determined that Cole used online advertisements to market the victims for commercial sex services in Western Pennsylvania and elsewhere from April 2023 to October of 2023. Cole directed the victims to engage in these acts and then, immediately afterwards, report all amounts of money earned to him. Cole also controlled access to food, refusing to provide the minor anything beyond fast food if she did not earn him enough money.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert Schupansky and Special Assistant United States Attorney Summer Carroll (Assistant Chief Deputy Attorney General) are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

This case was investigated by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Section and Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh, with valuable assistance also provided by the Monroeville Police Department and Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.

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

If you are the victim of human trafficking or may have information about a potential trafficking situation, please call the FBI, local law enforcement, or the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year related to potential trafficking victims, suspicious behaviors, and/or locations where trafficking is suspected to occur. To submit a tip to the NHTRC online, please visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org/report-trafficking.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Honduras has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Julian Alberto Rios-Andasol, 31, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on August 17, 2024, Rios-Andasol was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States on or about May 30, 2019.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $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 Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Carnegie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of tax evasion and willful failure to file a tax return, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The seven-count Indictment named Caesar Tavoletti III, 42, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Tavoletti evaded taxes for tax years 2018-2020 and willfully failed to file tax returns for tax years 2018-2021.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss of the offense, or both, on each of the tax evasion counts. 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 William Guappone is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

Shawn Monper, 32, a resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with making threats to assault and murder President Donald J. Trump, other U.S. officials, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

“I want to applaud the outstanding and courageous investigative work of the FBI and the Butler Township Police Department, who thankfully identified and apprehended this individual before he could carry out his threats against President Trump’s life and the lives of other innocent Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Rest assured that whenever and wherever threats of assassination or mass violence occur, this Department of Justice will find, arrest, and prosecute the suspect to the fullest extent of the law and seek the maximum appropriate punishment.”

Acting U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania joined Attorney General Bondi in making today’s announcement.

According to the federal criminal complaint, on April 8, the FBI National Threat Operations Section (NTOS) received an emergency disclosure regarding threats posted to YouTube by user “Mr Satan.” Federal agents determined that the threatening statements occurred between Jan 15 April 5. The subsequent federal investigation affirmed that the internet activity associated with “Mr Satan” corresponded with Monper’s residence.

The investigation further established that Monper sought and obtained a firearms permit shortly following President Trump’s inauguration. In February 2025, Monper commented using his “Mr Satan” account: “I have bought several guns and been stocking up on ammo since Trump got in office.” Further, in March 2025, Monper commented using his account: “Eventually im going to do a mass shooting.” One week later, Monper commented: “I have been buying 1 gun a month since the election, body armor, and ammo.”

The criminal complaint identified the following threatening statements regarding President Trump, other United States officials, and ICE agents:

February 17, 2025: “Nah, we just need to start killing people, Trump, Elon, all the heads of agencies Trump appointed, and anyone who stands in the way. Remember, we are the majority, MAGA is a minority of the country, and by the time its time to make the move, they will be weakened, many will be crushed by these policies, and they will want revenge too. American Revolution 2.0”

March 4, 2025: “im going to assassinate him myself.” This threat was made in a YouTube video titled “Live: Trump’s address to Congress.”

March 18, 2025: “ICE are terrorist people, we need to start killing them.”

April 1, 2025: “If I see an armed ice agent, I will consider it a domestic terrorist, and an active shooter and open fire on them.”

On April 9, the FBI, with the assistance of the Butler Township Police Department, arrested Monper on the federal criminal complaint. On April 10, Monper was ordered detained pending preliminary and detention hearings scheduled for April 14, at 1:00 pm.

The FBI and Butler Township Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced in federal court to 72 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and crack, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Deangelo Ward, 35, on April 10, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2022 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ward conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine, 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and a quantity of a mixture of crack. Ward was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ward. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on April 10, 2025, to a charge of violating a federal firearms law, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Desmond Dontae Lee, also known as Desmond Donte Lee Belton, 46, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer to a one-count Indictment charging Lee with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on March 1, 2023, Lee and his son were both part of a group of individuals congregating outside of an apartment in a McKeesport apartment complex. When the resident of the apartment confronted the group and asked them to leave, one of the group members approached the resident and struck him with a closed fist, which led to the resident shooting and killing his attacker. Lee entered and proceeded through the apartment next to the resident’s, exiting that apartment from the rear, and then approached the rear of the resident’s apartment, firing five rounds from a 9mm semi-automatic pistol into the apartment before fleeing the scene. At that time, Lee’s son shot back at and killed the resident at the front of the apartment. The firearm used by Lee was never recovered, but investigators with the Allegheny County Police Department Homicide Unit collected the shell casings fired from Lee’s gun. Lee was previously convicted on state drug trafficking and firearms offenses. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Fischer scheduled Lee’s sentencing for July 15, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Allegheny County Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lee.

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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Shawn Monper, 32, a resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with making threats to assault and murder President Donald J. Trump, other United States officials, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

“I want to applaud the outstanding and courageous investigative work of the FBI and the Butler Township Police Department, who thankfully identified and apprehended this individual before he could carry out his threats against President Trump’s life and the lives of other innocent Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Rest assured that whenever and wherever threats of assassination or mass violence occur, this Department of Justice will find, arrest, and prosecute the suspect to the fullest extent of the law and seek the maximum appropriate punishment.”

According to the federal criminal complaint, on April 8, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Threat Operations Section (NTOS) received an emergency disclosure regarding threats posted to YouTube by user “Mr Satan.” Federal agents determined that the threatening statements occurred between January 15, 2025, and April 5, 2025. The subsequent federal investigation affirmed that the internet activity associated with “Mr Satan” corresponded with Shawn Monper’s residence in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

The investigation further established that Monper sought and obtained a firearms permit shortly following President Trump’s inauguration. In February 2025, Monper commented using his “Mr Satan” account: “I have bought several guns and been stocking up on ammo since Trump got in office.” Further, in March 2025, Monper commented using his account: “Eventually im going to do a mass shooting.” One week later, Monper commented: “I have been buying 1 gun a month since the election, body armor, and ammo.”

The criminal complaint identified the following threatening statements regarding President Trump, other United States officials, and ICE agents:

February 17, 2025: “Nah, we just need to start killing people, Trump, Elon, all the heads of agencies Trump appointed, and anyone who stands in the way. Remember, we are the majority, MAGA is a minority of the country, and by the time its time to make the move, they will be weakened, many will be crushed by these policies, and they will want revenge too. American Revolution 2.0”

March 4, 2025: “im going to assassinate him myself.” This threat was made in a YouTube video titled “Live: Trump’s address to Congress.”

March 18, 2025: “ICE are terrorist people, we need to start killing them.”

April 1, 2025: “If I see an armed ice agent, I will consider it a domestic terrorist, and an active shooter and open fire on them.”

On April 9, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Butler Township Police Department, arrested Monper on the federal criminal complaint. On April 10, 2025, Monper was ordered detained pending preliminary and detention hearings scheduled for April 14, 2025, at 1:00 pm.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Butler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint against Monper.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on April 9, 2025, to five years in prison on his conviction of money laundering and conspiracy in connection with the sale and interstate transportation of stolen goods, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Durrell Waters, 41, also ordering him to serve three years of federal supervised release following his imprisonment. A federal jury found Waters guilty on four counts of money laundering and one count of conspiracy in August 2024 (read the verdict news release here).

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the evidence presented against Waters was extensive, and that the victims of this crime included people experiencing addiction, retail establishments, and all consumers. Judge Hornak noted that, unlike some crimes that take place in a single event, Waters’s criminal conspiracy took place over the course of years and “required [Waters] to decide every day to keep doing this.” Judge Hornak emphasized the need for members of the public to be deterred from similar conduct and remarked that “a sentence without substantial imprisonment would be insufficient.”

According to information presented to the Court, Waters was one of the primary owners of a series of Pittsburgh and surrounding area second-hand or resale businesses called Trader Electronics, Last Call Entertainment, and The Outlet. From 2013 through 2016, Waters conspired with others to use these businesses as a front for a criminal fencing operation that sold over the internet a wide variety of health and beauty aids and over-the-counter medications like teeth whiteners, vitamins, hair and skin care products, makeup, and other similar items.

Waters’s stores and similar stores in the area knowingly engaged in high-volume purchases of stolen brand-new retail health and beauty aids and other products, such as new-release DVDs, from walk-in sellers who had shoplifted, or “boosted”, the items. Store records reflected that Waters and his businesses purchased hundreds of thousands of brand-new items, sometimes for less than 10% of their value, from a group of repeat shoplifters. Waters and his businesses then resold that stolen property online via several Amazon and eBay storefronts, with the proceeds from the stores’s main Amazon account totaling over $4.3 million during the conspiracy.

Evidence presented at sentencing highlighted the widespread and diverse economic and public health harms caused or aggravated by this conduct. Ripple effects from high-volume retail theft harm consumers by imposing more and more restrictive anti-theft measures in stores and costs every consumer hundreds of dollars per year. Additionally, many of the boosters were people experiencing drug addiction who used the money paid to them by Waters to finance their dependency and feed the drug epidemic.

Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin C. Dobkin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Waters. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township, and Shaler Township also assisted in the investigation.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 120 months of imprisonment on his convictions for shooting at a mail carrier and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Martinel Humphries, 30, on April 9, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, Humphries fired four shots from a semi-automatic pistol at a mail carrier on January 5, 2023, for no apparent reason. The bullets missed the mail carrier, who fell to the ground upon seeing the defendant’s gun, but entered a nearby home, shattering the glass front door. Humphries fled and was apprehended soon after by law enforcement. Humphries has a lengthy criminal history, including two separate firearms convictions in 2015 relating to arrests in 2013 and 2015, and a 2021 conviction for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, for which he still was serving a term of federal supervised release at the time he shot at the mail carrier. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

“Federal employees must be able to work without fearing for their personal safety,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s violent act, shooting at a mail carrier who was in the middle of his route. Our office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners at all levels to prioritize combating violent crimes such as committed by this defendant.”

“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to its core mission of protecting postal employees,” said Lesley Allison, Inspector in Charge of the Pittsburgh Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Thankfully, the letter carrier escaped being physically hurt in this crime, and, with the assistance of our local law enforcement partners, Humphries was quickly apprehended to prevent further harm to the public. Postal Inspectors will always strive to keep our employees safe while delivering mail to our communities. And we take pride in working with our law enforcement partners to ensure justice is served to those like Humphries, who bring violence to our communities.”

Assistant United States Attorney William B. Guappone prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Postal Inspection Service, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Ross Township Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Humphries.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Morgantown, West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Zachary Vincent Velling, 26, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment and public information from the Allegheny County Police Department, on November 12, 2024, Velling entered airport security at the Pittsburgh International Airport and placed his carry-on luggage through the x-ray machine. Representatives with the Transportation Security Administration noticed a suspicious object within Velling’s luggage, which officers from the Allegheny County Police Department ultimately determined to be a MK24 MOD 0,6 Bang/Flash diversionary hand grenade. The grenade is a firearm and destructive device under federal law that was not registered to Velling in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Velling was previously charged in relation to this incident in the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas with possession of an offensive weapon and criminal attempt. Those charges have been dismissed as a result of this federal Indictment.

“Attempting to pass through airport security with any firearm or destructive device poses an unacceptable risk of harm to the innocent traveling public,” said Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “This danger is heightened when, as in this case, the destructive device is possessed illegally. We are steadfast in our commitment to work with our partners at the FBI, ATF, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and Transportation Security Administration to ensure safe air travel.”

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

Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Allegheny County Police Department; Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; and Transportation Security Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Cheswick, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 240 months of incarceration, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, on his conviction of receiving material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Cam John Zmenkowski, 28.

According to information presented to the Court, from August 2022 through September 2022, during online chats, Zmenkowski induced a minor to send to him nude and sexually explicit images and videos that law enforcement recovered from Zmenkowski’s personal cell phone.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Pittsburgh and FBI Pittsburgh Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, including the Allegheny County Police Department and Sharpsburg Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Zmenkowski.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Alonzo Henry Griffin Jr., 24, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan to a three-count Information charging Griffin with possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of crack cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 13, 2024, following the execution of a federal search warrant at Griffin’s residence, law enforcement recovered over 1,200 bricks of fentanyl, crack cocaine, two stolen and loaded semi-automatic pistols, and an AR-style semi-automatic rifle. Law enforcement also seized $4,500 in U.S. currency from the residence along with drug trafficking paraphernalia. Griffin was previously convicted on a state drug trafficking offense and for aggravated assault. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for July 28, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10,500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division’s Southwest Strike Force Unit and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Griffin.

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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Guatemala pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of illegal reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to time served on his conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Anastacio Hernandez-Us, 46, on April 4, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, on February 7, 2025, immigration officials encountered Hernandez-Us, and determined that the defendant was illegally present in the United States. Hernandez-Us had been previously removed from the U.S. on September 23, 2010, after encountering immigration officials in Louisiana. Hernandez-Us has been in custody since his February arrest, and will remain detained pending his deportation from the United States.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hernandez-Us.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 120 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Derik Carothers, 29, on April 3, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, on or about October 20, 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Carothers possessed numerous firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. Carothers was previously convicted on November 7, 2013, in the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas of burglary and carrying a firearm without a license, and, on March 20, 2017, of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

On October 20, 2019, Carothers led the Pennsylvania State Police on a high-speed chase on State Route 28, resulting in a violent roll-over crash. Investigators recovered crack-cocaine, a digital scale, and $290 from Carothers’ person. Additionally, four loaded firearms including a Colt Model Official Police .38 caliber revolver; Ruger Model AR-556 rifle; Glock Model 23, .40 caliber handgun; and a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber handgun, as well as extended magazines and a bulletproof vest, were recovered from in or near the vehicle. Two of the recovered firearms had been reported stolen, one of which had an obliterated serial number.

Assistant United States Attorneys Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennsylvania State Police, and Johnstown Police Department for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Carothers.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on April 2, 2025, to 46 months’ imprisonment for violating federal firearms laws and an additional 8 consecutive months of imprisonment for violating conditions of his federal supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Keith Harris, 25, and also ordered Harris to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.

Harris previously pleaded guilty in this case to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon on June 11, 2024. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Additionally, Harris admitted to violating several conditions of his supervised release following a 2022 conviction for possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearm and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Harris.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - After deliberating for one day, a federal jury found Charles W. Lantzman guilty of 5 counts of wire fraud and 3 counts of money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Lantzman, 51, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was tried before United States District Judge William S. Stickman in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The evidence presented at trial established that Lantzman defrauded customers of his snow removal business by billing them for services that were never performed. Lantzman made three mortgage payments in excess of $10,000 using the proceeds from the fraud.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for August 11, 2025. The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain from the offense, or both for each of the wire fraud counts, and a sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine on the money laundering counts. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys William B. Guappone and Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Internal Revenue Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lantzman.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 72 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Keith Hurst, 48.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around August 2022 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Hurst conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Hurst was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of cocaine that he distributed to others.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hurst. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Four individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Defendant Yonel Burnett, 28, of Jamaica, was charged in a two-count Indictment with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Defendants Omar McKenzie, 34, of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida; Shemeca Shields, 29, of East Hartford, Connecticut; and Nicole Lamont, 30, of Eastham, Massachusetts, each were charged in a one-count Indictment with conspiracy to commit money laundering. Burnett and McKenzie were both arrested in Florida, on March 14 and March 27, 2025, respectively. Lamont was arrested in Massachusetts on March 23, 2025. Shields was arrested in Connecticut on March 26, 2025. The Indictments are related to those announced in December 2023 naming seven other co-conspirators, three of whom were extradited from Jamaica. (Read the release regarding the earlier Indictments here.)

According to the Indictments, the defendants and their co-conspirators executed a fraud scheme that stole more than $4.5 million from elderly and vulnerable victims in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the United States. As part of that scheme, conspirators, including Burnett, contacted the victims and falsely told them that they had won a million- or multi-million-dollar sweepstakes, but needed to pay certain taxes and fees before they could claim their prize. These claims were often reinforced with forged documents purporting to describe the sweepstakes winnings and required taxes and fees, some of which bore the seals of government agencies. The conspirators then directed the victims to send money, including cash, checks, and money orders, to people designated by the conspirators. Some of these people were earlier victims of the lottery scam who had been unwittingly fooled into accepting and moving money on behalf of the members of the conspiracy. Others, including McKenzie, Lamont, and Shields, were themselves members of the conspiracy. After being laundered through a network of bank accounts and money mules, victim money was withdrawn by members of the conspiracy living in Jamaica.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to twice the pecuniary loss to any victim, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictments.

The charges stem from the Department of Justice’s wide-ranging efforts to protect older adults from fraud and financial exploitation. Last week, for example, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania also announced the Indictment of a Dominican Republic man living in Cleveland, Ohio, for his participation in an organized crime group operating across Pennsylvania and Ohio to defraud victims out of tens of thousands of dollars through a grandparent fraud scam. As part of that scheme, scammers called a grandparent and impersonated their grandchild in a crisis such as an accident or arrest, and then asked the grandparent to send immediate financial assistance, which conspirators arranged to be picked up in Pennsylvania and delivered by Lyft and Uber drivers to the defendant in various locations in Northern Ohio. (Read the grandparent fraud scam release here.)

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Honduras has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal immigration and fraud laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The nine-count Indictment named Jose Antonio Mejia-Sarmiento, 66, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Mejia-Sarmiento was found in the Western District of Pennsylvania after being deported and removed from the United States three times between 1996 and 2016, including after having been convicted of a felony on the latter occasion. The Indictment further charges Mejia-Sarmiento with making false statements to the Social Security Administration on four different dates between May 2024 and February 2025 by possessing and using the identification of another person.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $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 of the defendant.

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

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 70 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and crack, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Barry Baker, 46.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around December 2021 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Baker conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of crack. Baker was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to other members of the drug organization in Johnstown.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Baker. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Clearfield, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 80 months in prison, to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Toby Coker, 50.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2019 to June 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Coker conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Further, in or around February 2020, Coker distributed a quantity of methamphetamine. Coker was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Coker. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to five years of probation on her conviction of theft of government funds, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Patty Merlo, 66.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around May 2016 to in and around January 2022, Merlo embezzled and converted for her own use approximately $91,300 in Social Security payments to which she knew she was not entitled.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Merlo.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 45 months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon and attempting to take action to prevent seizure, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Javon Pope, 36.

According to information presented to the Court, on the morning of November 19, 2019, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation discovered Pope inside a Wilkinsburg residence at which another individual had just been arrested and officers had observed several firearms in plain view. The agents detained and searched Pope, finding a digital scale, a small amount of marijuana, and a cellular telephone. Upon the execution of a search warrant for the residence, agents found four firearms, but in different locations from where they had been initially observed by officers. A search warrant for Pope’s cellular telephone revealed an internet search for “how long does it take to get a search warrant” during the morning of November 19 while the FBI would have had the house secured pending the warrant, as well as a picture of the defendant with several of the firearms found in the residence. Pope has a prior felony conviction, and federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

The cell phone also revealed several telephone calls between Pope and a resident of the home beginning around the time the Pittsburgh S.W.A.T. Team arrived at the residence, during which Pope was informed that federal agents were at the home and intending to search it. It is a violation of federal law to attempt to take action to prevent seizure of items pursuant to a federal search warrant.

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

Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh S.W.A.T. Team for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pope.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 102 months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on charges of violating federal drug trafficking laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Jervey Shackelford, 45, on March 25, 2025.

According to information presented to the Court, Shackelford delivered or attempted to deliver fentanyl and mixtures of heroin and fentanyl to an undercover officer on six separate occasions between February 2022 and June 2022 on Pittsburgh’s North Side. In October 2023, City of Pittsburgh officers executed a search warrant on Shackelford and his vehicle and recovered over 60 grams of fentanyl and 10 grams of cocaine, along with drug packaging materials. Additionally, in August 2024, City of Pittsburgh officers executed a search warrant on an apartment utilized by Shackelford, during which officers recovered 11 bricks of fentanyl and heroin and approximately 100 grams of fentanyl and a fentanyl analogue. Shackelford possessed with an intent to distribute a total of over a quarter kilogram of mixtures of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and heroin across the various incidents.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, originally from the Dominican Republic has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Receipt of Stolen Money that Crossed a State Border, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The five-count Indictment names Luis Alfonso Bisono Rodriguez, 34, as the sole defendant. Rodriguez was previously charged on March 21, 2025, by way of Criminal Complaint, and was arrested last week in the Cleveland area.

As alleged in the Complaint Affidavit, Rodriguez is a member of an organized crime group operating across Pennsylvania and Ohio to defraud victims in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere out of tens of thousands of dollars pursuant to a grandparent fraud scam. As part of that scheme, scammers call a grandparent and impersonate their grandchild in a crisis such as an accident or arrest, and then ask the grandparent to send immediate financial assistance. Money from the victims was picked up in Pennsylvania and delivered by Lyft and Uber drivers to various locations in Northern Ohio, where Rodriguez was captured on surveillance videos from various retail establishments meeting the drivers and receiving the stolen money. Rodriguez then sent much of the fraud proceeds to the Dominican Republic via wire transfers, as well as deposited portions of the fraud proceeds into bank accounts.

As alleged, between October 2024 and January 2025, at least five elderly individuals from Western Pennsylvania were victimized by the scam and defrauded out of a total of more than $50,000. The investigation has revealed that there are likely many more victims in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and other states. The Federal Bureau of Investigation asks that individuals with information about this scam and/or who believe that they or others they know may have been a victim of the scam report that fraud through the Bureau’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

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

The Pittsburgh and Cleveland offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Criminal Complaint and Indictment, with the assistance of the Parma Police Department in Northern Ohio and numerous police departments in Western Pennsylvania, including the Millcreek Township Police Department, Grove City Police Department, Scott Township Police Department, Fox Chapel Police Department, Finley Township Police Department, and Hermitage Police Department.

An indictment and a criminal complaint are accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 24, 2025, to federal drug and firearm charges, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Marques Coffey, 21, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone to two counts of violating federal law: knowingly possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and knowingly possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on March 4, 2023, Coffey was found to be in possession of fentanyl and a loaded firearm upon being detained after allegedly breaking the window on the back door of a Bellevue, Pennsylvania, area residence.

Judge Cercone scheduled Coffey’s sentencing for August 5, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Coffey remains detained pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Bellevue Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Coffey.

PITTSBURGH, Pa - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Tracey Smith, age 56, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2023, Smith was hired as a comptroller at a Pittsburgh engineering firm where she embezzled company funds for her personal use by issuing herself additional payroll checks to herself, making unauthorized credit card transactions with company credit cards, and by falsifying expense reports, all totaling approximately $673,556.80 in embezzled funds.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both as to each count. 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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of both Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal law regarding the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Ashok Panigrahy, age 53, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from on or about November 21 through November 22, 2022, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Panigrahy knowingly possessed images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Homeland Security Investigations (Pittsburgh and Chicago) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Panigrahy.

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 Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Timothy Mollett, 34, pleaded guilty to Counts One, Six, Thirteen, and Fourteen of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan on March 19, 2025.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Mollett conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine, 28 grams or more of a mixture of crack, and quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Mollett was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others. Further, in and around July 2021, Mollett unlawfully possessed a firearm as a convicted felon, and did so in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2025. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Mollett. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.