Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has pled guilty to the charge of theft of government money, stemming from her receipt and use of social security benefits to which she knew she was not entitled, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, to which she pled guilty before United States District Court Judge David Cercone on August 9, 2017, named Rosemary Thomas, 64, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment and the evidence summarized during the plea proceeding, from January 2001 to February 2014, Thomas converted to her own use $98,949 in Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits of another individual to whom she was not related, to which benefits she knew she was not entitled.

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

The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment and guilty plea in this case.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of sex trafficking of a child, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Ronald Kyle Hartman, 28, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, from August 14, 2016, to August 16, 2016, Hartman knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained by any means, in and affecting interstate commerce, a female minor under the age of 18 years, and did benefit financially or by receiving anything of value from participation in a venture engaged in commercial sexual acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact, and having had a reasonable opportunity to observe Minor A, that Minor A had not attained the age of 18 years and that Minor A would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak scheduled sentencing for December 7, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release for any term of years not less than five, and up to life, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Grove City Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hartman.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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 better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

PITTSBURGH – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Melvin Russaw, age 35.

According to the Indictment, on or about June 6, 2017, Russaw illegally possessed a firearm. Russaw has previously been convicted of a felony and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to ten (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 of the defendant.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Covington, Georgia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

William D. Gossett, 22, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on July 23, 2016, William D. Gossett, a convicted felon, was in possession of a Phoenix Arms, .25 caliber, semi-automatic handgun, that had been reported stolen from Columbiana, Ohio, and ammunition. On July 23, 2016, officers from the Center Township Police Department were called to the Cinemark Theater where their attention was drawn to a young male wearing full length and full sleeved army fatigues and carrying a large backpack. It was approximately 94 degrees outside that day. The young man had been wandering around the theater for about two hours. As officers began to approach him, he quickly ducked into the restroom. An officer was able to make contact with him there, and to obtain consent to search his backpack. The male, who identified himself as William Glanton, but was later identified by Law Enforcement as William Gossett, had a ticket for the movie, “The Purge”, which was to begin in 20 minutes. The officer pulled out all of the items in the backpack and located the following: a firearm, a box of .25 caliber ammunition, four knives, a painter’s respirator mask, multiple handkerchiefs, two first-aid kits, paracord rope, gloves, black spray paint, multiple small rations of food, and a few articles of clothing. Gossett stated that he found the box of ammunition “on the road” and that he received the firearm from his uncle four weeks prior. Gosseet has a prior felony conviction for Identity Theft Fraud. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing ammunition or firearms.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for December 14, 2017 at 9 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Center Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of William D. Gossett.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three residents of Pittsburgh, Pa., and one resident of Mercer County, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charges of violating the federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four-count indictment named Lynell Guyton, age 27, of Pittsburgh; Calvin Armstrong, age 31, of Pittsburgh; Anthony Lozito, age 38, of Pittsburgh; and Kristen Shearer, age 22, of Mercer County.

According to the indictment, Guyton, Armstrong, Lozito and Shearer conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of an analogue of fentanyl, from August 8, 2017 to August 9, 2017, and possessed with intent to distribute the same. According to a criminal complaint filed prior to the indictment, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant at 7 Bond Street in Pittsburgh’s West End. Upon arrival, Pittsburgh SWAT made entry into the home and observed Anthony Lozito attempting to exit the residence through a back window. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne.

In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the “Ferrari” stamp and the “Louis Vuitton” stamp.

In addition, the indictment charges that Guyton possessed with intent to distribute a fentanyl analogue on July 20, 2017, and that he attempted to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue on June 1, 2017.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. All four individuals are currently detained pending resolution of these charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has entered a plea of guilty to charges of food stamp fraud and theft or conversion of government funds, and in the process causing a loss to the federal food stamp program of $85,000, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.  In the course of the proceeding Imran also indicated that he had entered into a civil settlement agreement with the United States and had agreed to make restitution of $85,000.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone presided over the plea proceeding involving Atif Imran, 41, of Monroeville, Pa. 

According to information presented to the court, Imran was the owner and operator of A to Z Convenience Store, Inc., a gas station and convenience store located on West Street in Homestead.   A to Z participated in the United States Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as the Food Stamp Program.  Food stamp recipients could purchase eligible food items at A to Z using food stamp benefit cards. The defendant was aware that Food Stamp Program rules prohibited the exchange of food stamp benefits for cash.  Despite this knowledge, on multiple occasions, Mr. Imran and employees of his exchanged food stamp benefits for cash on a discounted basis, usually giving his customers only 50 cents on the dollar for food stamp benefits.  A typical exchange would involve the customer purchasing a bottled drink and a snack food item and then providing $100 in food stamp benefits for which he would receive $50 cash.

Assistant United States Attorney Colin Callahan litigated the case on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney's Office.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Office of the Inspector General for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Imran.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Seattle, Washington, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distribution of quantities of 4-ANPP and furanyl fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The five-count indictment, returned on August 1 and unsealed today, named Christina M. Arias, aka Wasabisauced, 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about April 5, 2017, Arias distributed a quantity of 4-ANPP. The indictment also states that, on or about April 24, 2017, on or about May 15, 2017, on or about June 7, 2017, and on or about June 15, 2017, she distributed quantities of furanyl fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 100 years in prison, a fine up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Substantial assistance was provided by the United States Attorney’s Offices in the Western District of Washington.

The United States Postal Inspection Service, Bellevue Police Department in Washington State, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH- A Squirrel Hill psychiatrist has been sentenced in federal court to a year and a day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release including 12 months of community confinement, six months of home detention and 500 hours of community service, and was ordered to pay $13,000 in restitution, on charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, and health care fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Dr. Kenneth M. Stanko, 68, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to information presented to the court, Stanko, a medical doctor, illegally distributed a controlled substance, Oxycodone, for cash. Further, Stanko submitted false claims to be submitted to UPMC Health Plan and AETNA for prescriptions which were outside the usual course of practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Stanko.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of passing and uttering counterfeit money, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The eight-count indictment, returned on August 8 and unsealed today, named Peter A. Maiolo, Jr., 42, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the indictment, on or about July 6, 2015, July 10, 2015, August 2, 2015, August 18, 2015, August 22, 2015, August 25, 2015, August 30, 2015, and September 7, 2015, Maiolo passed counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes at the Mt. Nebo Target store in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 160 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A business located in Erie, Pennsylvania and three residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The thirteen-count superseding indictment named Rick Weaver Buick GMC, Inc., of Erie, Pennsylvania; Adam James Weaver, 41, of Fairview, Pennsylvania; Douglas Alan Grooms, 46, of Edinboro, Pennsylvania; and Adam Brayton Coover, 35, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, from in and around May 2015, to in and around March 2016, Coover, Grooms and Weaver engaged in a scheme to defraud auto loans providers by utilizing two straw purchasers to buy vehicles in their own names from Rick Weaver Buick GMC. The vehicles would then actually remain in Coover’s possession. The three facilitated the scheme by falsifying the loan applications to make the straw purchasers appear more credit worthy and by not revealing that the straw purchasers were buying multiple vehicles at the same time. The value of many of the vehicles was also inflated to increase the funds received by the co-conspirators.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 340 years in prison, a fine of $8,500,000, or both for each defendant. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Laquan Sims, age 38, of Pittsburgh, PA.

According to the indictment, on May 1, 2017, Sims possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm.

The law provides for a total combined sentence of not less than 10 years in prison up to a maximum of life in prison and a fine of not more than $8,500,000. 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 Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Nicky Evans, age 37, of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on July 23, 2017, Evans illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition. Evans has previously been convicted of three felonies and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to ten (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 of the defendant.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of harboring illegal aliens, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The court imposed a term of imprisonment of one day, a term of supervised release of three years, with 24 weeks of intermittent confinement and home detention, followed by an additional three months of home confinement and a fine of $30,000. During the period of intermittent confinement, the defendant shall serve two days a week at a jail or a community confinement center designated by the Bureau of Prisons.

Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Xing Zheng Lin, aka Steve Lin, age 44, of McKees Rocks, PA.

According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2009, until on or about January 10, 2014, Lin harbored illegal aliens who were employed at Saga Restaurant in Monroeville, Robinson, and Bethel Park, all of which were owned by Lin.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lin.

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on August 8 and unsealed today, named Cleo Maurice Bronaugh, 40, of Coraopolis, PA as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on March 5, 2017, Bronaugh possessed with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl that caused the serious bodily injury and death of a person who used that fentanyl.

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

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Coraopolis Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Lamont Willis, age 45, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about March 8, 2017, Willis possessed with the intent to distribute quantities of cocaine and cocaine base, commonly known as crack, Schedule II controlled substances. Further, on that same date, Willis possessed a Smith & Wesson .357 caliber revolver, a Harrington & Richardson .22 caliber revolver, a Remington .22 caliber rifle, a .308 caliber Mauser rifle, and numerous rounds of ammunition in furtherance of said drug trafficking crime. It is unlawful for Willis, who has previously been convicted of a felony offense, to possess a firearm or ammunition.

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

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and North Strabane Township Police Department, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.

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

PITTSBUGRH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating the federal robbery laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on August 8, named David Payo, age 52, of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 27, 2017, David Payo robbed the PNC Bank, located at 420 W. Waterfront Drive, in Homestead, PA 15120, of $3,460.00. On June 3, 2017, Payo robbed the Eat N Park, located at 3987 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA, of $5,396.83. On June 8, 2017, Payo robbed the Citizens Bank, located at 4010 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146, of $1,890.

Payo faces a total maximum sentence of not more than 60 years in prison, a fine of not more than $750,000, 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 Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Homestead Police Department, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – Four Pittsburgh-area residents have been arrested and charged in federal court with violating conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The criminal complaint charges Lynell Guyton, 27, Calvin Armstrong, 31, Anthony Lozito, 38, and Kristen Shearer, 21, with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance on or about August 9, 2017.

“Fentanyl exposure is an all too real risk to law enforcement as we learned this morning,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “During the search of the Bond Street residence pursuant to the search warrant, a table where the drugs were being bagged was overturned causing the suspected fentanyl to become airborne. Several SWAT operators experienced dizziness and numbness. In all, 18 officers were transported to UPMC-Mercy for evaluation before being medically cleared. Quick and professional action by first responders helped avert a potential catastrophe.”

According to the complaint, on August 9, 2017, at 6 a.m., U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE)/ Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), assisted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, including the Pittsburgh Police SWAT Team, executed a federal search warrant in Pittsburgh’s West End. Upon arrival, Pittsburgh SWAT made entry into the home and observed Anthony Lozito attempting to exit the residence through a back window. During the entry, a table located near where the individuals were present inside the residence was overturned causing the powder narcotics to become airborne.

In the kitchen of the residence, law enforcement located a plate with a significant quantity of white power on it and a number of packaged stamp bags and empty stamp bags. Officers observed stamp bags bearing both the “Ferrari” stamp and the “Louis Vuitton” stamp. On August 2, 2017, Pittsburgh Police arrested and charged Lynell Guyton locally for possession of both Louis Vuitton and Ferrari stamp bags. Guyton was also charged via criminal complaint on August 8 with attempting to possess with intent to distribute 10 grams of more a detectable amount of an analogue of fentanyl on or about June 1, 2017. In that instance Guyton attempted to receive a package shipped from Hong Kong containing approximately 100 grams of two fentanyl analogues.

The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court in Pittsburgh on Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cynthia R. Eddy. The government is seeking detention of the defendants.

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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Rachel L. Dizard is prosecuting this case. U.S. ICE/HSI, with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, conducted the investigation that led to the complaint against these individuals.

A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant may not be prosecuted unless, within 30 days, a grand jury has found probable cause to believe that he is guilty of an offense.

ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Grand Valley, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The two-count indictment named Thomas John Cox, 59, of Grand Valley, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Cox received and possessed computer images and movies depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

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

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Terence Starr, 44, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about July 12, 2017, Starr possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Operation NightStalker is a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Brandi Law, 33, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on or about July 12, 2017, Law possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Operation NightStalker is a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.

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

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

The indictment named Edward R. Harris, 42.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on January 9, 2017, Harris possessed a quantity of marijuana.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzling from a federally insured bank, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Keith A. Simpson, 60, of Butler, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on Monday to one count of embezzling from a federally insured bank before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from around April 2014 until around April 2016, while serving as Chief Accounting Officer of West View Savings Bank, Simpson embezzled approximately $41,806.90 from his employer.

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for December 6, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys David Lew and Lee J. Karl are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Simpson.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pa. was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on charges of distribution and possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The superseding indictment named Kenneth Scott Boyd, 34, of Altoona, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, on June 2, 2016, Boyd distributed material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, and on June 17, 2016, he knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The computer graphic files were shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr., is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Altoona Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

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 better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Columbus, Ohio has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his convictions for burglary of a pharmacy and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on William Dishman, 35.

According to information presented to the court, on September 4, 2015, Foughty used a crowbar to break into the Spartan Pharmacy in Bethel Park, Pa., and proceeded to steal over 6,000 Schedule II pills from the pharmacy.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bethel Park Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dishman.

PITTSBURGH - A Florida resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of carfentanil, and distribution of quantities of methamphetamine, carfentanil, and ecstasy, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The four-count indictment, returned on August 1 and unsealed Friday, named Robert M. Gilner, a/k/a Gman19635, 30, of St. Petersburg, FL, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Gilner conspired with others, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of carfentanil. Additionally, the indictment charges that, on March 10, 2017, he distributed a quantity of methamphetamine and, on March 22, 2017, he distributed a quantity of carfentanil and a quantity of ecstasy.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $13,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - Three residents of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and a resident of New Jersey pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of criminal contempt of court, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Khayri Battle, 36, of Newark, New Jersey, Shane Brooks, 30, Victoria Morgan, 32, and Bobby Rodgers, 48, all of Duquesne, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count each before United States District Judge Reggie B. Walton.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers refused to testify at the trial of Anthony Pryor and Lance Yarbough, for charges that included conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, despite a written order compelling them to testify pursuant to a grant of immunity from United States District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton.

Judge Walton scheduled sentencings for all four of the defendants for September 8, 2017. The law provides for an indeterminate prison sentence, an indeterminate fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the prosecutions of Battle, Brooks, Morgan and Rodgers.

PITTSBURGH – Demetrius Brown was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin while on state parole following prior convictions for trafficking crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Brown, age 29, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Judge Fischer ordered that the prison sentence be served consecutively to any state parole revocation sentence. Judge Fischer also ordered that Brown serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.

Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pittsburgh Police Department led the multi-agency investigation of this case that also included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security/Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scott Township Police Department, the Munhall Police Department, the Baldwin Police Department, and the Pleasant Hills Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., was sentenced to 24 months in prison for conspiring to distribute cocaine as part of a group that operated in several locations throughout the country, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Brenda Mendez, 37, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Mendez to serve four years of supervised release following her prison sentence.

Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine A. King and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

A task force led by the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the conviction and sentence in this case. The task force also included several other federal, state, and local agencies from multiple states, including the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Penn Hills Police Department, the Monroeville Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Darby, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh for the distribution of furanyl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The 4-count indictment named Henry Koffie, a/k/a NarcoBoss, 32, of Darby, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment and associated criminal complaint, Koffie used the name NarcoBoss on the Dark Net marketplace AlphaBay to sell fentanyl products. Additionally, the indictment charges that on or about March 27, 2017; April 7, 2017; April 24, 2017, and May 15, 2017, Koffie distributed a quantity of furanyl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance to an address in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 80 years in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Substantial assistance was provided by the United States Attorney’s Offices in the District of Oregon and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

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

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clover, South Carolina pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate stalking, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Nathaniel Earl Dunlap, 29, of Clover, South Carolina pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Dunlap placed false and fraudulent food delivery orders online, using the identity of other individuals, whereby placing the victim under substantial emotional distress.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Secret Service and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dunlap.

PITTSBURGH – One Beaver County resident and one Allegheny County resident have each been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictments, returned on July 25, named Nathanael Nyamekye, 34, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, and Ismail Shitu, 35, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictments, on or about June 29, 2016, Shitu caused Citizens Bank to reissue a $48,000 official bank check which Nyamekye deposited into his Huntington Bank account, both knowing that the funds were derived from a criminal offense, when in fact the funds were derived from a wire fraud scheme.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Pittsburgh Field Office and Baltimore Cyber Task Force, with the assistance U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Chippewa Police and Aliquippa Police, conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A citizen of Venezuela pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to time served for conspiring to defraud the United States, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Maritza Maxima Soler Nodarse pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2014, Soler Nodarse conspired with others to file approximately 935 false form 1040 tax returns using identities belonging to hundreds of UMPC employees whose personal information was stolen in an intrusion into UPMC’s database in Pittsburgh in 2014. Nodarse and others obtained illegal tax refunds in the form of Amazon.com gift cards which they used to purchase hundreds of thousands of dollars of electronic merchandise at Amazon.com and have shipped to locations in Venezuela where Nodarse and others lived. Approximately $156,000 in merchandise was ordered by and shipped to Nodarse. Nodarse was arrested in Colombia in March, 2015, and then extradited to the U.S. to face criminal charges in November, 2016.

According to the terms of her plea, Judge Hornak sentenced Soler-Nodarse to a “time served” sentence, which represented approximately 16 months incarceration. She also agreed to be immediately deported back to Venezuela.

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

The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Maritz Maxima Soler Nodarse.

PITTSBURGH - A Washington County resident convicted at trial in February on charges of mail fraud and forging a Federal Judicial Order has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison, followed by a term of three years of supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Steven P. Grados, 51, of Monongahela, Pa. Grados was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $300 and a fine of $7,500.

According to information presented at trial, Grados created, and twice mailed to the PA State Employees Retirement System (“PA SERS”), the state agency that administers pensions for State Employees, a fraudulent Court Order directing PA SERS to stop paying Grados’s ex-wife a portion of Defendant Grados’s pension. In creating the fraudulent Court Order, Grados forged the signature of the late Gary L. Lancaster, a United States District Court Judge for the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Judge Gibson also made a finding at sentencing that Grados had lied under oath at trial when he denied ever receiving or possessing a genuine order of court that had been entered by Judge Lancaster dismissing a civil suit that Grados had filed.

Assistant United States Attorneys Colin J. Callahan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grados.

PITTSBURGH - After deliberating for two hours on Tuesday, July 20 and for less than one hour on Friday, July 21, a federal jury of seven men and five women found Andrew M. Jones guilty of one count of a federal firearms violation, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Jones, age 39, was tried before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

According to Assistant United States Attorneys Rachael L. Dizard and Katherine A. King, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that, on January 31, 2016, Jones, a convicted felon, knowingly possessed a loaded firearm.

Chief Judge Conti will issue a written order scheduling a dare for sentencing. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. 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.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – Nineteen Western Pennsylvania residents have been charged with violations of the federal narcotics laws in three separate, but related, indictments returned on July 11, 2017 and unsealed today, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced.

“Through this prosecution, we are identifying and holding accountable individuals responsible for distributing fentanyl and carfentanil, two particularly deadly controlled substances,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Song. “These dangerous, powerful narcotics are being mixed with heroin to increase potency and profit, often with deadly consequences.”

“These arrests were the result of a year-long investigation conducted by the FBI's Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force targeting a large-scale drug trafficking organization with roots in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Johnson of the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office. “Federal penalties for drug trafficking are severe, and the FBI will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to stop the flow illegal drugs and to dismantle the violent criminal enterprises that facilitate the flow, as we have done here today. We are extremely grateful to our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly with us throughout this investigation and who are equally committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe.”

An eight-count indictment named:

• Shawn Hendrix, 41, of Cranberry Township, PA;
• Nikia Perkins, 42, of Monaca, PA;
• Adrian Jordan, 27, of Braddock, PA;
• Leroy George, 48, of Johnstown, PA;
• Khalifa Cochran, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Lawrence Devenshire, 49, of Aliquippa, PA;
• Thomas Hannon, 35, of Aliquippa, PA;
• Rance Vaughn, 21, of Beaver Falls, PA;
• Aleece Bowser, 31, of Monaca, PA;
• Ashley Miller, 32, of Aliquippa, PA;
• Carlisha Williams, 27, of Aliquippa, PA; and,
• Sheila Alford, 60, of Aliquippa, PA.

According to the Indictment, from in and around September 2016, continuing until in and around July 2017, the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of heroin. In addition, on various dates during the course of the conspiracy, defendants Shawn Hendrix, Nikia Perkins, Adrian Jordan, Khalifa Cochran, Aleece Bowser, Ashley Miller, Carlisha Williams, and Sheila Alford are charged with the crimes of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl or carfentanil, and/or attempts to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.

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

A three-count indictment named:

• Matthew Smith, 51, of Ambridge, PA;
• Che Turner, 38, of Aliquippa, PA;
• Timothy Protho, 41, of Monaca, PA;
• Eric Cansler, 46, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
• Rickee Dawkins, 50, of Aliquippa, PA; and
• Donte Williams, 44, of Aliquippa, PA.

According to the Indictment, from March 2017 to May 2017, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Smith, Turner, Protho, Cansler, and Dawkins conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. Smith is also charged with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base on May 3, 2017. Williams is charged with possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base on April 8, 2017.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

A four-count indictment charged Ahmad Flannigan, 26, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, with violating federal controlled substances and firearms laws.

According to the Indictment, on or about June 2, 2017, Flannigan, a convicted felon, was in possession of firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The Indictment also charges Flannigan with possessing two of these firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Further, the Indictment charges that on or about June 2, 2017, Flannigan possessed with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine.

For the controlled substances charges, federal law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. For the felon in possession charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. For the possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.

Operation NightStalker is a 12-month investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United Sates Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department.

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

PITTSBURGH – Two Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The five-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Jamiek Moore, 21, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Jaimere Dehonney, 20, of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, as defendants.

According to the indictment, on or about June 8, 2017, Moore and Dehonney conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. Further, Moore is charged with possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and marijuana, both Schedule I controlled substances, on or about May 15, 2017. The indictment further charges Moore and Dehonney with possessing a firearm in furtherance of said drug trafficking crimes.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 5 years to a maximum of life in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Houston, Texas, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to import prescription drugs, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Manuel Martin Pena, 65, of Houston, Texas.

According to information presented to the court, in and around November 2013, to in and around January 2015, Pena conspired to misbrand, smuggle, and import drugs that were exported from India and received in the U.S. by Pena.

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

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Food and Drug Administration - Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pena.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of opening mail matter by postal service employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Andrew J. Dickey, 24, of Sewickley, PA, as the sole defendant.

According to the information presented to the court, Dickey engaged in the rifling of first class letters and their valuable contents from the U.S. mails. Specifically, the indictment alleges that on or about October 23, 2015, Dickey, being an employee of the United States Postal Service, did detain, delay, and open three greeting card type letters (pink, blue and red colored envelopes), which had been entrusted to him and had come into his possession intended to be conveyed by mail.

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

Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH, PA – A Georgia resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The three-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Khambrel Coleman, 31, of Johns Creek, Georgia, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Coleman used and attempted to use counterfeit credit cards in in-person transactions at bank locations to obtain unauthorized cash advances on credit card accounts of other individuals. The Indictment additionally charges that, on or about January 10, 2017, Coleman unlawfully possessed and used the credit card number of another person to obtain an unauthorized cash advance at a Citizens Bank branch in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 42 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of embezzlement and theft of labor union assets, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Charles Hill, 51, of Avonmore, Pa., as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, Charles Hill was the Financial Secretary of Glass Molders, Pottery, Plastics, and Allied Workers (GMP), AFL-CIO Local Union 46. The indictment alleges that from November 3, 2014, to May 10, 2016, Hill embezzled approximately $7,000.00 of union funds for his own use.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

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

PITTSBURGH – A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment, returned on July 18, named Laron Hollaman, 25, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment, on May 6, 2017, Hollaman illegally possessed a firearm. Hollaman has previously been convicted of three felonies and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Robinson Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Erick Lamont Griffin, Jr., a/k/a Ericc Bucc, age 23, of Penn Hills, Pa, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge David Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Griffin was previously convicted of felony drug dealing charges on November 18, 2013. Although federal law prohibits persons with a conviction for a crime punishable by more than 1 year of incarceration from possessing firearm or ammunition, Griffin accompanied a purchaser of firearms to a gun dealer on four separate dates: March 24, 2016; June 4, 2016; June 11, 2016; and June 13, 2016. In a scenario law enforcement officers call a “straw-purchase” of firearms, Griffin took possession of the two 9 mm and two 40 caliber semiautomatic pistols the same day that they were purchased and kept them until they were recovered by police.

On July 13, 2016, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a federal search warrant at Griffin’s house and located items which included manufacturer’s boxes (complete with the serial numbers of the firearms), extra magazines for two of the pistols, a holster, ammunition, and indicia of residency for Mr. Griffin. Federal agents had previously located a picture of a Taurus pistol that Griffin illegally purchased just two weeks earlier when checking his Facebook page.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for Friday, November 17, 2017, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of his crimes and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court remanded Griffin to the custody of the United States Marshal Service noting that Griffin was on probation in Allegheny County at the time of his crimes.

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

The ATF conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Griffin.

ERIE, Pa. - Five residents of Erie, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal drug and money laundering laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The six-count superseding indictment named Adelfo Rodriguez-Mendez, 38, Geneva Gore, 48, John Edward Moyer, II, 35, Jason Edward Moyer, 32 and Guadalupe Cortez Beserra, 29, as defendants.

According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine. In addition, Rodriguez-Mendez, Gore and the Moyers possessed with intent to distribute and distributed less than five hundred grams of cocaine. Rodriguez-Mendez and Beserra conspired to commit money laundering by transferring and delivering approximately $932,000.00 in U.S. currency representing the proceeds of the buying, selling and otherwise dealing in controlled substances. According to the superseding indictment, the approximately $932,610.00 in drug proceeds seized by the investigators is subject to forfeiture.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 80 years in prison, a fine of $3,500,000, or both for Rodriguez-Mendez; 80 years in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both for Gore; 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both for John Moyer and Jason Moyer; and 40 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both for Beserra. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

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

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Coshocton County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Warren, Ohio has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of providing contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Malinda Penezich, 47, of Warren, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, on or about November 27, 2016, Penezich provided a quantity of marijuana to an inmate at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Officers of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A federal prisoner at McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Bradford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of assaulting a federal officer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Rogelio Muniz-Valdez, 41, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Muniz-Valdez assaulted a federal officer who was engaged in his official duties.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 8 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Office of the McKean Federal Correctional Institution conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Smethport, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of theft of government property, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

The one-count indictment named Gary Herzog, 75, of Smethport, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.

According to the indictment presented to the court, Herzog represented himself to be property owner for a tenant in the Housing Choice Voucher program. He failed to inform the McKean County Redevelopment and Housing Authority that he transferred ownership of the property where the tenant was living back in 2007.

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

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

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.

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

PITTSBURGH - A Butler County resident convicted at trial in February on child exploitation charges has been sentenced in federal court to 30 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on James Mark Leroy, 55, of Renfrew, PA. Leroy was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $400, restitution of $25,000 and a fine of $125,000.

According to information presented at trial, Leroy, on two separate occasions, transported minor boys, aged 10 and 13, to Florida and Michigan with the intent to engage in illegal sexual conduct. During these trips, Leroy engaged in criminal sexual acts and plied the minor boys with alcohol and prescription pills. The government also presented evidence at trial and at sentencing that the defendant had historically sexually offended against two other victims when they were children between the age of 10 and 13.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab remarked that the defendant “must serve a significant custodial sentence for this most reprehensible pattern of criminal conduct.” He also found that a sentence of less than 360 months would create sentencing disparities among others charged with similar crimes.

Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song and Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. In court, Acting U.S. Attorney Song emphasized the aggravated nature of the defendant’s crimes referring to “the sinister drugging and incapacitation of children, overtly and surreptitiously by crushing up pills and putting them on the food of a 10-year-old child.” Attorney Song credited the child survivors of the defendant’s crimes, “This defendant underestimated the will and courage of these boys to speak out, to speak up and their determination to make sure that he did not offend against other children.”

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Depart of Justice. Led by 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 better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Butler County District Attorney’s Office and the Penn Township Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Leroy.

PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to charges of violating federal drug and firearm laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Janay Brown pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Mark Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in July of 2016, multiple individuals began overdosing on stamp bags marked “CEO.” A local law enforcement agency arrested an individual with some of these stamp bags and alerted the DEA. That person agreed to cooperate and identified Brown as the source of the heroin and fentanyl. The DEA investigation led to a search warrant which was issued for Brown’s residence. There, federal agents located Brown, over 100 “bricks” of heroin and fentanyl, firearms, ammunition, cellphones and a large amount of cash. Brown had a prior 2009 conviction for Forgery and a prior 2011 conviction for a drug offense. Each of these offenses precluded her from lawfully possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for November 9, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brown with valuable assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police and other local police departments.

PITTSBURGH - A resident of Stone Mountain, GA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Keon D. Butler, 34, of Stone Mountain, GA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about July 1, 2015, Butler transported a stolen Range Rover supercharged, valued at $93,000, from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania across state lines into the State of West Virginia.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Butler.

PITTSBURGH -A former resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court, on July 7, 2017, to charges of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.

Raymond Zwibel pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge S. David Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on August 19, 2013, the First Commonwealth Bank in New Alexandria, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. On August 23, 2013, the Citizens Bank in Latrobe, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. On January 30, 2014, the First Commonwealth Bank in West Mifflin, Pa. was robbed by a white male with a note and no observable firearm. Zwibel was identified by police from bank surveillance footage as the robber on January 30, 2014. After waiving Miranda, Zwibel confessed to committing the robberies on August 19, 2013 and January 30, 2014 and to using his girlfriend’s vehicles. Zwibel previously pleaded guilty to the January 30, 2014 bank robbery in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for November 6, 2017, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court returned Zwibel to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Zwibel, with valuable assistance from many state and local police departments including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Latrobe Police Department and the West Mifflin Police Department.