Western District of Pennsylvania

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 206 months in prison, to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his conviction of cocaine trafficking while on federal supervised release, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Richard Jasek, 43.

According to information presented to the Court, Jasek engaged in cocaine trafficking between December 2024 and February 2025, including possessing with intent to distribute, and distributing, quantities of cocaine on both December 17, 2024, and January 29, 2025, and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base on February 20, 2025. Jasek was on federal supervised release for a previous conviction during the time he committed these offenses. This is Jasek’s third federal drug trafficking conviction during the last 15 years, with Jasek also having been on federal supervised release at the time he engaged in the criminal conduct that led to the second of those convictions.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and West Mifflin Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jasek.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Youngstown, Ohio, has been sentenced to 144 months in federal prison on his conviction of cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Wade Shaw, 51, also ordering Shaw to serve six years of supervised release after his prison term.

According to information presented to the Court, on September 14, 2023, Shaw possessed with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine. This conviction was Shaw’s third drug trafficking conviction since 2012, with Shaw having been incarcerated or under court supervision for nearly all of the past 14 years.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Sharon Police Department, the Farrell Police Department, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shaw.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Ardit Kutleshi, 28, a Kosovar national, has pleaded guilty to charges related to his creation and operation of Rydox, an illicit website and marketplace for cybercriminals to buy, sell, and trade stolen personal information, and to access devices and other tools for carrying out cybercrime and fraud.

“Cybercriminals Ardit Kutleshi and his brother Jetmir—who pleaded guilty and was sentenced in December 2025 prior to his deportation back to Kosovo—operated the Rydox marketplace for their own gain, making hundreds of thousands of dollars from the marketplace where cyber criminals could purchase information and tools to effect and further their online crime,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti of the Western District of Pennsylvania. “These types of cybercrimes cause not only financial loss, but also ongoing psychological harm to the victims who lose both money as well as trust in institutions and the online market infrastructure. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to find and prosecute individuals who attempt to profit from the illegal sharing and sale of other people’s personal information and access devices, and related cybercrime.”

“Rydox turned stolen information and criminal tools into a marketplace, making it easier for criminals to convert someone else’s loss into their next crime,” said FBI Pittsburgh Assistant Special Agent in Charge Amie Loos. “Dismantling this platform was about more than taking a website offline—it was about disrupting the criminal infrastructure that fueled fraud and identity theft against thousands of victims. The FBI, together with our international partners, will continue to impose risk, consequences, and accountability on criminals who believe they can hide behind anonymity.”

According to court documents, since at least 2016, Rydox conducted over 7,600 transactions involving stolen personally identifiable information (PII), stolen access devices, means of identification, and cybercrime tools and services, receiving at least $232,000 in revenue. These transactions involved the sale of PII stolen from victims located in the United States. Kutleshi pleaded guilty on September 22, 2026, before the Honorable Mark R. Hornak in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania to aggravated identity theft and money laundering conspiracy. He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 9, 2027, and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft count and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the money laundering conspiracy count. Judge Hornak will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Kutleshi was arrested by Kosovo law enforcement in December 2024 and extradited from Kosovo to the United States in 2025. In December 2024, the United States also judicially seized the domain www.Rydox.cc, which hosted and facilitated access to the Rydox website. The seizure of this domain prevented the owners and third parties from using the site to continue to buy and sell cybercrime tools and stolen personal identifying information of U.S. citizens.

“The guilty plea of Ardit Kutleshi for operating the Rydox marketplace exposes a sophisticated scheme to profit from stolen identities and cybercrime tools,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This guilty plea sends a strong message to all cybercriminals that the Justice Department will identify, arrest, and prosecute cybercriminals regardless of where they are in the world through international cooperation, technical expertise, and cutting-edge law enforcement.”

“Rydox put cybercriminal tools and sensitive data up for sale, including the stolen identities and logins of thousands of people,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “The FBI and its foreign partners shut the marketplace down, and now the man who created it and ran it pleaded guilty. We will continue to use every legal tool at our disposal to extradite cybercriminals and take down their infrastructure.”

The FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office investigated this case in coordination with the Kosovo State Prosecutor’s Special Prosecution Office, the Kosovo Police’s Cybercrime Investigation Directorate, the Albanian Special Anti-Corruption Body (SPAK), the Royal Malaysia Police’s Commercial Crime Investigation Department, and the Attorney General’s Chambers of Malaysia.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Stockey of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Senior Counsel Thomas Dougherty of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance.

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime and intellectual property crime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cyber and IP criminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.
 

Ardit Kutleshi, 28, a Kosovar national, pleaded guilty to charges related to his creation and operation of Rydox, an illicit website and marketplace for cybercriminals to buy, sell and trade stolen personal information, and to access devices and other tools for carrying out cybercrime and fraud. 

“The guilty plea of Ardit Kutleshi for operating the Rydox marketplace exposes a sophisticated scheme to profit from stolen identities and cybercrime tools,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This guilty plea sends a strong message to all cybercriminals that the Justice Department will identify, arrest, and prosecute cybercriminals regardless of where they are in the world through international cooperation, technical expertise, and cutting-edge law enforcement.” 

“Cybercriminals Ardit Kutleshi and his brother Jetmir — who pleaded guilty and was sentenced in December 2025 prior to his deportation back to Kosovo — operated the Rydox marketplace for their own gain, making hundreds of thousands of dollars from the marketplace where cyber criminals could purchase information and tools to effect and further their online crime,” said U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti of the Western District of Pennsylvania. “These types of cybercrimes cause not only financial loss, but also ongoing psychological harm to the victims who lose both money as well as trust in institutions and the online market infrastructure. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to find and prosecute individuals who attempt to profit from the illegal sharing and sale of other people’s personal information and access devices, and related cybercrime.”

“Rydox put cybercriminal tools and sensitive data up for sale, including the stolen identities and logins of thousands of people,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “The FBI and its foreign partners shut the marketplace down, and now the man who created it and ran it pleaded guilty. We will continue to use every legal tool at our disposal to extradite cybercriminals and take down their infrastructure.” 

According to court documents, since at least 2016, Rydox conducted over 7,600 transactions involving stolen personally identifiable information (PII), stolen access devices, means of identification, and cybercrime tools and services, receiving at least $232,000 in revenue.  These transactions involved the sale of PII stolen from victims located in the United States. Kutleshi pleaded guiltyin the District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania to aggravated identity theft and money laundering conspiracy. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 9, 2027, and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft count and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the money laundering conspiracy count. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Kutleshi was arrested by Kosovo law enforcement in December 2024 and extradited from Kosovo to the United States in 2025. In December 2024, the United States also judicially seized the domain www.Rydox.cc, which hosted and facilitated access to the Rydox website. The seizure of this domain prevented the owners and third parties from using the site to continue to buy and sell cybercrime tools and stolen personal identifying information of U.S. citizens.  

The FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office investigated this case in coordination with the Kosovo State Prosecutor’s Special Prosecution Office, the Kosovo Police’s Cybercrime Investigation Directorate, the Albanian Special Anti-Corruption Body (SPAK), the Royal Malaysia Police’s Commercial Crime Investigation Department, and the Attorney General’s Chambers of Malaysia.

Senior Counsel Thomas Dougherty of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Stockey for the Western District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance. 

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime and intellectual property (IP) crime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cyber and IP criminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Phoenix, Arizona, pleaded guilty in federal court on September 22, 2026, to a charge of violating federal racketeering laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Ashley Aguilar, 27, pleaded guilty to Count Two 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 July 2023 through in and around October 2023, Aguilar conspired to commit money laundering. Aguilar acted as a facilitator in racketeering activities by sending and receiving payments on behalf of inmates at the Cambria County Prison for smuggled contraband.

Aguilar is among 10 residents of Pennsylvania and Arizona indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025 for their alleged participation in the racketeer-influenced corruption organization (RICO) conspiracy. Read the Indictment news release here.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for February 10, 2027. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, and the Cambria County Prison conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Aguilar.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 212 months in prison, to be followed by six years of supervised release, on his conviction of trafficking fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine while on federal supervised release, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Melvin Dorsey-Pace, 33.

According to information presented to the Court, on February 12, 2025, Dorsey-Pace possessed with intent to distribute a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, as well as a mixture of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. Dorsey-Pace was on federal supervised release at the time, following a 2024 release from prison for a prior drug trafficking conviction. The instant offense was Dorsey-Pace’s third federal drug trafficking conviction during the last 10 years, with the defendant also having been on federal supervised release when he engaged in the criminal conduct that led to his second federal drug trafficking conviction. Additionally, Dorsey-Pace was on Pennsylvania state parole following a prison sentence for a drive-by shooting when he engaged in the criminal conduct that led to his first federal drug trafficking conviction.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Lawrence County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dorsey-Pace.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A Dominican Republic resident illegally living in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of money laundering conspiracy in connection with a grandparent fraud scheme, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Elvys Nicanor Nunez Valerio, 33, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer on September 14, 2026.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Valerio was a participant in a sophisticated grandparent fraud scheme operating out of the Dominican Republic in which an organized crime group impersonating a grandchild—or other close relative—in a crisis contacted elderly victims and asked for immediate financial assistance. The scammers arranged for a rideshare driver to pick up cash from the elderly relative and deliver the money to a member of the criminal group. From there, portions of the money were deposited into bank accounts or sent back to the Dominican Republic via money transfer services. Specifically, Valerio’s role in the conspiracy was to receive the fraud proceeds from the rideshare drivers, to further launder the money, and ultimately to transfer the money to the Dominican Republic.

On July 12, 2025, an elderly resident of the Western District of Pennsylvania was contacted as part of the grandparent scheme and was deceived into providing $10,000 to a rideshare driver who came to his home to pick up the funds. Subsequently, the victim's family learned of the fraud and contacted the Pennsylvania State Police. The victim was still in contact with the scammer, who instructed the victim to pay another $12,000 so that his daughter could be released from prison. A driver picked up the second package, which did not contain any fraud proceeds. The Pennsylvania State Police initiated a traffic stop on the rideshare driver, who was an unknowing participant in the fraud. Authorities then allowed the driver to deliver the package to its destination address in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The driver provided the second package to Valerio, who was stopped by the Pennsylvania State Police before he was able to drive away.

A search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of the second package as well as fraud proceeds associated with the first package. Further investigation revealed that Valerio was involved in the larger conspiracy, and had traveled around the country participating in the fraud. Activity in a bank account in Valerio’s name was determined to be consistent with involvement in the scheme, including, between January and July 2025, more than 40 cash deposits totaling more than $65,000. The financial records also showed payments to and from other members of the conspiracy and transfers of the fraud proceeds to the Dominican Republic.

Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2026. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 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 offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Two of Valerio’s co-conspirators, Luis Alfonso Bisono Rodriguez and Engels Guillermo Almengot Valerio, both also of the Dominican Republic and illegally residing in the U.S., each were sentenced by Judge Fischer earlier this month to two years of prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on their convictions for money laundering conspiracy in relation to the grandparent fraud scheme.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police, in conjunction with numerous other police departments throughout the United States, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Valerio.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Altoona, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of embezzlement and falsification of an annual financial report, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

On September 15, 2026, Nicole DeStefano, 52, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines to one count of embezzlement of labor union assets and one count of falsifying an annual financial report filed by a labor union.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from 2015 through 2022, DeStefano served as the secretary-treasurer for the American Postal Workers Union Local 776 in Altoona. As the secretary-treasurer, she was responsible for maintaining all financial records, preparing annual reports, and issuing payments on behalf of Local 776. In September 2022, a member of Local 776 determined that the union’s 2021 annual financial report reflected abnormal disbursements from prior years. DeStefano had signed the financial report as both the treasurer and president, but had not provided notice either that she would be signing the report as the president or permitting union members to examine the financial records. The Blair Township Police Department opened an investigation, and law enforcement obtained a search warrant for DeStefano’s bank records.

Those bank records document that DeStefano wrote checks to herself from the union accounts—including, between December 2019 and August 2022, approximately 42 unauthorized checks totaling $30,411.68—as well as to “cash.” An audit of the union bank accounts also identified 43 unauthorized debit transactions, totaling almost $20,000. DeStefano omitted disbursing money to herself in annual financial reports that she filed with the Secretary of Labor for three consecutive years. In September 2022, DeStefano transferred $8,500 from her account into the union bank account and resigned her position with the union.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for January 19, 2027. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of the greater of $10 million or twice the gross pecuniary gain to DeStefano, 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. By virtue of her felony conviction of embezzlement, DeStefano will be precluded from holding union office for a 13-year period.

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

The Blair Township Police Department and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor- Management Standards conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of DeStefano.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months of imprisonment, to be followed by 48 months of supervised release, on his conviction for possession with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of fluorofentanyl, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and a quantity of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Anthony Johnson, 37.

According to information presented to the Court, in the spring of 2022, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General opened a drug investigation into Anthony Johnson. The investigation established that Johnson resided in Pittsburgh and stored distribution quantities of controlled substances within a stash house located in Verona, Pennsylvania. On May 10, 2022, authorities executed a search warrant upon Johnson’s stash house, where they seized $57,239, drug packaging material, and controlled substances. A forensic scientist weighed and analyzed the controlled substances, and determined that the substances included 21 grams of a fluorofentanyl and fentanyl mixture, 100 grams of fentanyl, 544 grams of cocaine, and 14 grams of cocaine base in the form commonly known as crack.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 90 months of imprisonment on his convictions for possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and heroin, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Darion Ethridge, 26, on September 14, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, on June 24, 2021, state and local law enforcement conducted a drug suppression detail in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, after authorities received information that a male operating a black Jeep Cherokee with tinted windows would be bringing 10 bricks of heroin to a hotel. Upon the arrival and parking of the vehicle, a detective positioned his car with lights and siren activated behind the Jeep and exited his vehicle, identifying himself as police and directing the driver to exit. The driver reacted by starting his vehicle, reversing the Jeep into the detective’s vehicle, and driving through the parking lot until law enforcement boxed in the Jeep. At that point, the driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot, with officers pursuing and arresting the driver.

A search incident to arrest resulted in the seizure of approximately $3,952. From the vehicle, authorities seized 991 bags of a fentanyl and heroin mixture, a loaded .40 caliber handgun which was determined to have been reported stolen, and a medical marijuana card and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections card both bearing Ethridge’s name. Ethridge had previously been convicted of four felonies in the Court of Common Pleas in Allegheny County. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Monroeville Police Department and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ethridge.

Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). FBI agents interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.

“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”  

“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS — engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric — all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started — as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTO’s. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”

“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”

“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our communities from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”

“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.” 

According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, his ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”   

On Sept. 12, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter. 

Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants on Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here. 

Kramer made his initial appearance on Sept. 14. The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

The FBI, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a Federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.

“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”

“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our community from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”

“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.”

According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, the defendant’s ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”

On September 12, 2026, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag, and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter.

Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants upon Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here.

“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS – engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric – all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started – as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTOs. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”

“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”

The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community. During his initial appearance on September 14, 2026, Kramer waived a detention hearing but requested a preliminary examination hearing on the complaint, which is scheduled for September 16, 2026.

Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania today announced the conviction of two defendants as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.

“Small Business Administration-related fraud harms not only U.S. taxpayers, but the many small businesses and owners who play by the rules and are legitimately entitled to these funds,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “As demonstrated by this nationwide enforcement surge, this type of fraudulent activity was prevalent and is still being uncovered and prosecuted years after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that this extremely serious criminal conduct continues to be prosecuted to the fullest extent in our district.”

“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications—but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

In the Western District of Pennsylvania, United States Attorney Rivetti announced that two defendants have been convicted—one by jury trial—for PPP-related fraud during the takedown period, involving a total of nearly $1 million in alleged losses.

On July 8, 2026, April Jones-Munnerlyn, 51, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, with the help of a co-conspirator, Jones-Munnerlyn caused the filing of false employment tax returns for her business and a business owned by her husband. The returns falsely reported that the businesses paid wages to employees when they did not, and that the businesses were accordingly entitled to the employee retention credit, even though they were not. As a result, the defendant received more than $400,000 in fraudulently obtained refunds.

Jones-Munnerlyn also caused the submission of a false and fraudulent PPP loan application on behalf of her business, in response to which she received $20,833 to which she was not actually entitled. The defendant faces a sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine, or both, and agreed-upon restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of $411,731.18 and to the SBA of $20,833. The IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones-Munnerlyn.

On August 28, 2026, Jason Youngdahl, 44, of Brockway, Pennsylvania, was convicted on all charges—two counts of wire fraud, two counts of money laundering, and one count of theft of government money—by a federal jury in the Western District of Pennsylvania pertaining to his pandemic fraud. The evidence presented during the two-day trial established that Youngdahl fraudulently obtained more than $540,000 from the United States SBA in Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were funds intended to provide small businesses with relief from the COVID-19 pandemic. Youngdahl fraudulently obtained loan funds on five different occasions, each time representing that he would use the money for the small business he operated when, in fact, he planned to and did use the funds for personal purchases, including a personal vehicle and residence. The defendant faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Youngdahl.

“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”

“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”

“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Hermitage, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possessing a firearm after a felony conviction, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Marryon Hopson Savage, 28, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on January 15, 2025, Hopson Savage possessed a firearm after previously having been convicted of a felony. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for January 26, 2027. 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 is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

The Hermitage Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Hopson Savage.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 37 months of imprisonment on his conviction of possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Aquay Mitchell, 26, on September 10, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, on September 24, 2024, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police detectives observed and attempted to stop Mitchell, suspecting that he possessed a firearm. Mitchell fled and was ultimately located hiding in a stairwell, with officers also finding a firearm, keys, and a cell phone along Mitchell’s flight path. The firearm was a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number that had been reported stolen, and the cellular telephone and keys belonged to Mitchell, who has multiple felony convictions. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Mitchell was indicted in connection with the incident and a warrant issued for his arrest.

On February 4, 2026, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police officers were conducting a proactive patrol of Pittsburgh’s Knoxville neighborhood when they observed Mitchell at a convenience store and took Mitchell into custody on the federal arrest warrant. In a search incident to arrest, officers recovered from Mitchell’s person a loaded semi-automatic pistol that also had been reported stolen, a knotted plastic baggie containing 11 grams of crack cocaine, a digital scale, and a cellular telephone.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of drug trafficking and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Tyree Saunders, 21, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that that an undercover officer made a purchase of various controlled substances, including crack cocaine, directly from the defendant. Based on that and other information, the Federal Bureau of Investigation obtained authority to intercept Saunders’ communications, which revealed that Saunders was regularly selling crack cocaine and used a firearm to threaten a co-conspirator. The investigators obtained a warrant to search the defendant’s home, where authorities found crack cocaine and a firearm.

Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for January 13, 2027. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,250,000, 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 Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Saunders.

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

Jiemaliahl Cleveland, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on December 23, 2025, Cleveland possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and also possessed a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for January 6, 2027. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $1,250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Mercer County Drug Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cleveland.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Two Dominican Republic residents illegally living in the United States each have been sentenced in federal court to two years of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on their convictions for money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentences on Luis Alfonso Bisono Rodriguez, 35, and Engels Guillermo Almengot Valerio, 26. Rodriguez had been living in Cleveland, Ohio, and Valerio in Paterson, New Jersey.

According to information presented to the Court, Rodriguez and Valerio participated in a conspiracy in which they laundered proceeds obtained from a sophisticated grandparent fraud scheme operating out of the Dominican Republic. The scammers contacted elderly victims impersonating a grandchild or other close relative in a crisis and seeking immediate financial assistance. The scammers then arranged for rideshare drivers to pick up cash from the grandparents and deliver the money to a member of the organized crime group, with both Rodriguez and Valerio having received cash directly from drivers. Portions of the money were deposited into bank accounts and other portions were sent via money transfers back to the Dominican Republic. Valerio also ordered the rides used to pick up the cash, including some rides that delivered fraud proceeds to Rodriguez.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which worked with many law enforcement departments throughout the United States, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutions of Rodriguez and Valerio.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment on his conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Charles A. Richardson, 45.

According to information presented to the Court, Richardson was employed as an information technology professional with the Pittsburgh-based philanthropic foundation The Heinz Endowments. Between 2016 and 2024, Richardson embezzled nearly $1 million in funds from his employer through a shell corporation Richardson controlled by authorizing payment for fraudulent invoices that billed the foundation for work not performed either by Richardson’s shell corporation or other vendors.
Assistant United States Attorney William Guappone prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Richardson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Morgantown, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possessing an unregistered firearm, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Zachary Velling, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak on September 2, 2026.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 12, 2024, Velling entered 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.

Judge Hornak scheduled Velling’s sentencing for January 7, 2027. 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 V. Joseph Sonson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Allegheny County Police Department, and Transportation Security Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Velling.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 72 months in federal prison on his conviction of violating federal firearm and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Bruce Lindsey, 47. Judge Schwab also ordered Lindsey to pay a $10,000 fine and to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.

According to information presented to the Court, on March 20, 2025, Lindsey—who served state prison sentences for prior Pennsylvania state convictions for homicide and robbery—engaged in the armed trafficking of crack cocaine in Sharon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Lindsey pleaded guilty in April 2026 to (1) possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, (2) possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and (3) possessing a firearm after a felony conviction.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lindsey.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Westover, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 84 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury or death, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on James Gill, 41, who pleaded guilty to the charge in March 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, in and around February 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Gill and co-defendant Mandi Litzinger distributed a quantity of fentanyl that resulted in serious bodily injury and death. In July 2026, a federal jury convicted Litzinger on charges of distribution of fentanyl, which the jury also determined resulted in the serious bodily injury and death of another individual, and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Litzinger is scheduled to be sentenced on November 19, 2026.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gill.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to four years of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for his conviction on charges related to his threats to assault and murder United States President Donald J. Trump, other United States officials, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Shawn Monper, 33. Monper pleaded guilty in April to two counts of threatening to assault and murder United States officials and federal law enforcement officers with the intent to impede, intimidate, interfere with, and retaliate against the officials and agents on account of, and while engaged in, the performance of official duties. As part of his plea agreement, Monper also accepted responsibility for the other counts for which he was charged.

“The United States Attorney’s Office and law enforcement within this district take threats against public servants and law enforcement very seriously,” said United States Attorney Rivetti. “The speed with which Monper was identified, charged, arrested, and detained before he had the opportunity to act on his violent threats demonstrates our joint commitment to protecting those who serve our country. The sentence imposed not only ensures that Monper will be in prison and under judicial supervision for years to come, but also sends a strong message to deter others from making such threats.”

“Serious offenses will be met with serious consequences. Today’s sentencing proves anyone threatening elected officials and law enforcement will not be able to hide behind a profile name,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “When speech crosses a line into threats, FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will use every available resource to track down those responsible and hold them accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

According to information presented to the Court, on April 8, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Threat Operations Section received an emergency disclosure regarding threats posted to YouTube by user “Mr Satan.” A subsequent federal investigation confirmed that the internet activity associated with “Mr Satan” corresponded with Monper’s residence in the Western District of Pennsylvania and revealed 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.”

Investigators determined that Monper posted several threatening statements regarding President Trump, other United States officials, and ICE agents during the period between January 15, 2025, and April 5, 2025, including, in February: “Nah, we just need to start killing people, Trump, Elon, all the heads of agencies Trump appointed, and anyone who stands in the way;” in early March: “im going to assassinate him myself” during a YouTube video titled “Live: Trump’s address to Congress;” in mid-March: “ICE are terrorist people, we need to start killing them;” and then, in early April: “If I see an armed ice agent, I will consider it a domestic terrorist, and an active shooter and open fire on them.”

In imposing sentence, Judge Hardy described Monper’s actions as “extremely serious criminal conduct” and stated that the sentence demonstrates that “such conduct will not be tolerated and will be answered with serious consequences.”

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Butler Township Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Monper.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to making threats to murder U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents, and a special agent and two task force officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced.

Dale Ankney, 72, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand to three counts of retaliating against federal law enforcement officers by threat.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that a review of Ankney’s publicly available social media account revealed posts in which Ankney advocated acts of violence against federal law enforcement, specifically, ICE and IRS agents. On June 17, 2026, an FBI special agent and two FBI task force officers attempted an interview of Ankney at his residence. After displaying FBI credentials, identifying themselves as associated with the FBI, and indicating that they wanted to speak to Ankney regarding his threatening statements online, Ankney became agitated and instructed the FBI to leave, including telling the agents “I will cap your ass.” as they returned to their vehicle. The following day, the FBI arrested Ankney at his residence on a federal criminal complaint. Ankney waived his rights and clarified that “cap” meant that he was threatening to shoot the FBI. In conjunction with the arrest, the FBI executed a federal search warrant upon Ankney’s residence, from which they seized 21 firearms, two firearm silencers, firearm magazines, and ammunition.

Judge Wiegand scheduled Ankney’s sentencing for January 7, 2027. The law provides for a maximum total sentence on each count 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, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ankney.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Ambridge, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on August 27, 2026, to one count of possession of a machinegun and was sentenced to 60 months of incarceration on his conviction, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Nasean Hunt, 21.

According to information presented to the Court, on July 9, 2023, Hunt was found in possession of a loaded Glock 17 pistol equipped with a “switch” or auto-sear that rendered the semi-automatic handgun capable of fully automatic fire. Hunt had gunshot residue on his hands at the time of his apprehension. Hunt is already serving a sentence of 15 to 40 years of imprisonment for a conviction in Beaver County for conspiracy to commit murder of the third degree in connection with his possession of the machinegun on this date. Hunt’s federal sentence will run concurrently with the sentence he currently is serving.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Ambridge Borough Police Department, and the Beaver County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hunt.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - After four hours of deliberation, on August 26, 2026, a federal jury in Pittsburgh found Jason Youngdahl guilty of two counts of wire fraud, two counts of money laundering, and one count of theft of government money, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Youngdahl, 44, of Brockway, Pennsylvania, was tried before Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.

The evidence presented during the two-day trial established that Youngdahl fraudulently obtained more than $540,000 from the United States Small Business Administration in Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were funds intended to provide small businesses with relief from the COVID-19 pandemic. Youngdahl fraudulently obtained loan funds on five different occasions, each time representing that he would use the money for the small business he operated when, in fact, he planned to and did use the funds for personal purchases, including a personal vehicle and residence.

“Jason Youngdahl’s conduct demonstrates a complete disregard for the law and is exactly the type of fraud that the Department of Justice is committed to combating through its national efforts,” said United States Attorney Rivetti. “This verdict recognizes and holds Youngdahl accountable for his greed and egregious criminal activity. Our office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute opportunistic fraudsters who seek to enrich themselves through taxpayer-funded programs.”

Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for January 26, 2027. 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 up to 10 years in prison and a fine on each of the money laundering and theft of government money counts. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer L. Peresie and Morgan A. Camerlo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Youngdahl.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within federal benefit programs.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon and was sentenced to 88 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Jayvon Turner, 24.

According to information presented to the Court, on August 16, 2025, members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police’s Violence Prevention Unit encountered the defendant on Pittsburgh’s South Side carrying a loaded, stolen 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Turner had previously been convicted on a state robbery charge. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

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

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 Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years of prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $15,000 to his victims for his conviction on charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Robert Bookshar, 49, on August 24, 2026. Bookshar pleaded guilty in March 2026 to two counts of production and attempted production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children.

According to information presented to the Court, from in and around September 2021 through in and around June 2023, Bookshar communicated with an online criminal organization offering child sexual abuse material for sale through a social media app. Specifically, on August 23, 2022, and May 12, 2022, Bookshar purchased live video calls with two different female minors, during which the defendant requested that each minor “get naked” and engage in sexual conduct. Bookshar secretly recorded the video calls and saved them to a folder labeled under each girl’s name on an external hard drive. Bookshar paid for these calls and other child sexual abuse material with gift cards and various mobile payment apps.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman condemned the defendant’s criminal conduct and expressed significant concern regarding Bookshar’s claim that he did not realize that he was harming real girls.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Tampa (Florida) and Colorado Springs (Colorado) police departments for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bookshar.

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, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of four years on his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a machinegun, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Andrew Rocco, 22.

According to information presented to the Court, Rocco’s residence was searched on February 2, 2024, and police found three firearms, along with magazines and ammunition. One of the firearms was equipped with a mechanism – frequently referred to as a “switch” or auto-sear – that renders it capable of fully automatic firing. That is, one of the firearms was a machinegun. All three pistols were outfitted with loaded, extended magazines.

This is not Mr. Rocco’s first conviction for unlawfully possessing firearms. Less than two years prior to the execution of the search warrant in this case, the defendant was arrested in 2022 with a stolen firearm on his person after attempting to flee from police. His conduct in this case violates the probation to which he was sentenced for possessing the stolen firearm. Moreover, a year before his 2022 arrest, the defendant was adjudicated delinquent in another illegal firearm possession case. The instant matter is, therefore, the third time Mr. Rocco has been convicted or adjudicated delinquent for a gun-related crime.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Horan indicated that the type of weapons involved in this case, as well as the defendant’s repetitive unlawful firearm possession, present a concern for the safety of the public.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release, on his conviction of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Court Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Chaz Mitchell, 36, on August 21, 2026.

According to the information presented to the Court, on July 5, 2025, following the issuance of a state arrest warrant for Mitchell on unrelated charges, officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police observed Mitchell in possession of an assault rifle and sawed-off shotgun and attempted to execute the state warrant. Mitchell refused to exit a residence until the SWAT unit arrived. Upon Mitchell’s surrender and being taken into custody, officers obtained and executed a state search warrant for the residence, from where they recovered an assault rifle, sawed-off shotgun, pistol, and ammunition. Mitchell had previously been convicted of felony state firearms offenses. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

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

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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on August 20, 2026, to charges of attempted murder and assault of a federal agent, drug trafficking, and use of a firearm in connection with those crimes, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Drew Gordon, age 24, of the Overbrook section of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty to five counts before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

“As today’s hearing makes clear, Drew Gordon is a violent and dangerous drug dealer,” said United States Attorney Rivetti. “He not only placed the community at risk through his fentanyl trafficking, but he also attempted to murder a federal agent who happened to travel too close to Gordon’s drug stash. His abhorrent conduct is a reminder not only of the violence associated with drug trafficking, but also of the risks to which state, local, and federal law enforcement officers are exposed on a regular basis as they work to keep our communities safe. As a result of the quick response and thorough investigation by the FBI and numerous other law enforcement agencies, Gordon was quickly apprehended and detained before he could inflict any more harm on the community. And because of this extensive, thorough, and collaborative investigation, Gordon pleaded guilty to all charges against him, including attempted murder of a federal agent and discharging a firearm in connection with that crime.”

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on August 30, 2024, a DEA agent was conducting surveillance in an unrelated investigation, which took the agent onto the street where the defendant lived. As the DEA agent traveled through the neighborhood in his vehicle, the defendant began to follow him in his own vehicle. Based on the defendant’s actions, the agent decided to leave the area. The defendant caught up with the agent’s vehicle and opened fire on the agent as he was leaving the area. The defendant fired a total of 18 rounds. Fortunately, the agent was not hit, although his vehicle was struck multiple times. Later that evening, the FBI executed a search warrant at the defendant’s house, and recovered over $10,000 in cash, over $37,000 worth of fentanyl, crack cocaine, and powder cocaine, and two guns, including the gun used in the shooting.

Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for December 23, 2026 at 1:30 PM. The law provides for a total sentence of at least 20 years in prison and up to life, a fine of up to $6,000,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the Court ordered that the defendant remain detained.

DEA Philadelphia Division, Special Agent in Charge Timothy S. Flaherty said, “The message here is clear; if you shoot at one of our Special Agents, we will find you, arrest you, and bring you to justice. The successful conclusion of this investigation could not have been possible without the assistance of our law enforcement partners at the FBI, the ATF, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the US Marshals Service, the PA Office of the Attorney General, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania.”

“Assault on a federal officer is an assault on everyone who takes an oath to protect our communities. This kind of violence directly threatens the safety of our partners, and the FBI will be there every time with every resource possible to hold those responsible accountable for their actions,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “Protecting our communities is a mission shared by all law enforcement. FBI Pittsburgh is proud to ensure our local, state, and federal partners can carry out this mission safely.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan J. McKenna and Douglas C. Maloney are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Drew Gordon, with significant assistance from and collaboration with the Allegheny County Police Department, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

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 Farmington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 70 months of imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release on his convictions of distribution of a visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Nathan Fike, 41, on August 20, 2026.

According to the information presented to the Court, on or about October 4, 2023, Fike distributed a video depicting a prepubescent minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct to an undercover agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in Jacksonville, Florida. Then, on February 9, 2024, the FBI executed a federal search warrant on the defendant’s residence and discovered he was in possession of approximately 156 images and 63 videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were prepubescent or minors who had not attained 12 years of age.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

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

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, has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $30,471.80 on his convictions for uttering counterfeit obligations or securities and theft of government property, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Andre Pitts, 21.

According to information presented to the Court, on June 12, 2023, Pitts deposited an altered version of a U.S. Treasury check in the amount of $62,211. The check had been issued in February 2023 to another individual related to that person’s income tax return, with the memo line of the check identifying both the individual and tax year of 2021. The payee information and memo line of the deposited check had been altered to identify Pitts, his residence, and a tax year of 2022. Following his deposit of the altered check, Pitts quickly made several transactions, including withdrawing $500 in cash and having a $25,000 cashier’s check issued to himself.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Office of Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pitts.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Apollo, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal voting laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Jeffrey Pope, 65, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Pope—who has been registered to vote in Pennsylvania since 1999 but purchased property in Alaska in 2023—voted twice in the November 2024 general election, including for the office of President of the United States. The Indictment specifically alleges that, on or about October 18, 2024, Pope completed and submitted a mail-in ballot casting a vote for the office of President in Alaska, and then, on or about October 22, 2024, completed and submitted a mail-in ballot casting a vote for this same federal office in Pennsylvania. As part of his Pennsylvania ballot submission, Pope knowingly and willfully signed a false declaration stating that he was qualified to vote by the enclosed ballot and had not already voted in the election.

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, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation 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 resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 60 months of incarceration, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Brandon Watson, 20.

According to information presented to the Court, on April 9, 2025, during a traffic stop, Watson was found to be in possession of approximately 45 grams of crack and small quantities of other narcotics consisting of heroin, fentanyl, and medetomidine, as well as a firearm and $1,100 in cash.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hardy stated that Watson’s crime was extremely dangerous and that the crack cocaine that Watson intended to distribute has the ability to wreck lives, families, and communities.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Watson.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of government property, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The two-count Indictment named Curtis John Shupe, 61, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, from in and around September 2021 until in and around July 2025, Shupe stole and knowingly converted to his personal use more than $1,000 in Social Security benefits belonging to someone else. Shupe did so through his role as representative payee for the benefits.

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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General 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 resident of Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of distributing, receiving, and possessing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The three-count indictment named Drew Michael Kozlowski, 45, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, on or about March 27, 2026, Kozlowski received and attempted to receive material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, with the Indictment also charging Kozlowski with distributing and attempting to distribute material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor on or about March 28, 2026. The Indictment further alleges that, in June of 2026, Kozlowski possessed material which depicted prepubescent minors or minors who had not attained 12 years of age engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

As to the receipt and distribution charges, the law provides for a sentence of not less than five years and up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. As to the possession charge, the law provides for a 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, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $18,467 on her convictions for Supplemental Security Income fraud and theft of government property, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Dana Nicole Johnson, 56, of the Eastmont neighborhood of Pittsburgh.

According to information presented to the Court, Johnson applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits through the Social Security Administration. Because SSI is a monthly, needs-based benefit afforded to people with disabilities and the elderly who have little or no income, applicants for the program are required to report their wages, assets, and living arrangements for consideration by the Social Security Administration in determining eligibility for SSI. Investigators determined that Johnson, while receiving SSI, worked for both a home healthcare business and as a federal employee at a Veterans Affairs medical center and that Johnson concealed her wages from the Social Security Administration, resulting in the theft of over $18,000. This was the second time Johnson concealed income while obtaining SSI.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Johnson.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within federal benefit programs.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug and firearm charges, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Darion Ethridge, 26, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV to one count of possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and heroin and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on June 24, 2021, state and local law enforcement conducted a drug suppression detail in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, after authorities received information that a male operating a black Jeep Cherokee with tinted windows would be bringing 10 bricks of heroin to a hotel. Upon the arrival and parking of the vehicle, a detective positioned his vehicle with lights and siren activated behind the Jeep, exited his vehicle, identified himself as police, and directed the driver to exit. The driver responded by starting his vehicle, reversing the Jeep into the detective’s vehicle, and driving through the parking lot until law enforcement boxed in the Jeep, at which point, the driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot, with officers pursuing and arresting the driver.

A search incident to arrest resulted in the seizure of approximately $3,952. From the vehicle, authorities seized 991 bags containing a fentanyl and heroin mixture, a loaded .40 caliber handgun which was determined to have been reported stolen, and a medical marijuana card and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections card both bearing Ethridge’s name. Ethridge had previously been convicted of four felonies in the Court of Common Pleas in Allegheny County. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for September 14, 2026. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both for the drug trafficking crime and not less than five years and up to life in prison to be served consecutively to the drug trafficking sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, or both on the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime count. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the Court ordered Ethridge remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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

The Monroeville Police Department and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ethridge.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Youngstown, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of possessing a firearm as a felon and carrying a weapon on an aircraft, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Luis Rojas Cay, 29, on July 29, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, on or about April 26, 2024, Rojas Cay was attempting to travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico, from the Pittsburgh International Airport on a commercial airline when agents discovered in his checked luggage a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, an unloaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, an unloaded 40 SW caliber semiautomatic handgun, and approximately 204 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearms and ammunition were concealed in packages wrapped in multiple layers of foil-backed tape and contained inside a metal briefcase that was also lined with sheet metal. The briefcase was then placed inside a suitcase that Rojas Cay checked with the airline. Rojas Cay was previously convicted in Kansas on robbery and attempted kidnapping charges. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rojas Cay.

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 Washington, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

The one-count Indictment named Gina Marie Mullen, 58, as the sole defendant.

According to the Indictment, Mullen used a deceased person’s bank debit card to steal Social Security funds, with a total calculated loss to the Social Security Administration of $24,236.91.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the loss from the offense, 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 Eleni F. Skezas is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within federal benefit programs.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 150 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possessing child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Michael Thomas Pritchard, 49, on July 23, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, while on parole for a series of Pennsylvania child exploitation convictions, Pritchard was found to be in possession of hundreds of digital images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Erie Police Department, and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pritchard.

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. - Sixteen residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on cocaine trafficking charges, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The one-count Indictment was unsealed following the arrests of the defendants today.

According to the Indictment, from in and around November 2025 to in and around July 2026, the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute various quantities of cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack, as well as mixtures or substances containing cocaine, with the amount of drugs attributable to the lead defendant in the case, DeConta Harrison, including 280 grams or more of crack cocaine. A list of the defendants and the amount of drugs attributable to each through the conspiracy is included below.

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 for Harrison, and not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both for the other defendants. 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 Jonathan D. Lusty is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

Defendants:

Age

Drugs Attributed

48

47

54

45

65

65

45

50

65

35

50

41

44

32

39

44

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 360 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of sex trafficking of a child and the production and attempted production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on James Clark, 39, of the Carrick neighborhood of Pittsburgh on July 20, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, Clark provided housing to a female runaway minor, and produced images of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, Clark trafficked the girl to another individual in exchange for, among other things, allowing the child to maintain shelter at his residence.

Judge Wiegand sentenced Clark to 360 months in prison on one count of sex trafficking of a minor and 360 months in prison on six counts of sexual exploitation of children, with the sentences running concurrently. Clark will also have to comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Allegheny County Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clark.

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.
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PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty in federal court to trafficking fentanyl and cocaine, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Michael Appleton, 44, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy to possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine on May 19, 2023.

Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 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 will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Mercer County Drug Task Force, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Appleton.

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two residents of Clearfield, Pennsylvania, have been sentenced in federal court to life imprisonment on their convictions of conspiracy to maliciously destroy property by explosive or fire and possession of an unregistered destructive device in relation to a targeted bombing that resulted in the death of a woman who owed one of the defendants a drug debt, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentences on Clint Addleman, 49, and Kris Nevling, 49. The defendants were found guilty of the crimes through separate jury trials in August 2025 (Nevling) and March 2026 (Addleman), with the jury also finding Addleman guilty of malicious destruction of property by explosive or fire resulting in death and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Both juries also determined the death of the victim—34-year-old Shanna Carlson, who was also known as Shawna—to be a result of the commission of the conspiring to maliciously destroy property by explosive or fire offense and, in Addleman’s case, the malicious destruction of property by explosive or fire offense.

“Clint Addleman and Kris Nevling callously took the life of Shanna Carlson—someone who Nevling later testified in court was among his best friends—in one of the most violent and brutal manners imaginable, all over a small drug debt,” said United States Attorney Rivetti. “They were convicted of their crimes by two separate juries. Today’s sentencings ensure that Addleman and Nevling will both spend the rest of their lives in prison for their ruthless, violent conduct. Our office remains resolute in working closely with our law enforcement partners at the local, state, and federal levels to prosecute those who seek to commit such heinous crimes in our communities.”

“Kris Nevling and Clint Addleman are brutal murderers,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Together they staged a deadly explosion to try to hide their crime. Working methodically with our federal, state, and local partners, and applying ATF’s unique forensic tools, we exposed their conspiracy and they now face long sentences in federal prison for their crime.”

The evidence presented during the trials established that, in and around early October 2019, Addleman and Nevling aided and abetted one another in the construction and possession of a destructive device—a bomb—which was subsequently concealed inside a package addressed to Carlson using her nickname. At approximately 4:30 a.m. on October 4, 2019, the package containing the bomb was delivered and left outside of the door to Carlson’s first floor apartment in a multi-unit rental property on East Market Street in Clearfield. Later that morning, the bomb detonated inside Carlson’s apartment, killing her and causing a fire that destroyed the building. Trial evidence established that the victim owed Addleman an outstanding drug debt of approximately $1,000.

Assistant United States Attorneys Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Samantha A. Stewart and Special Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clearfield Regional Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecutions of Addleman and Nevling.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of St. James parish in Jamaica was sentenced in federal court on July 21, 2026, to 78 months of incarceration on his conviction of violating federal wire fraud and money laundering laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

United States District Judge Robert J. Colville imposed the sentence on Troy Williams, 41, of Montego Bay.

According to information presented to the Court, from approximately January 2019 to October 2023, Williams conspired to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering by defrauding elderly victims through a lottery scam. As part of the scam, members of the conspiracy called elderly victims and informed them that they had won a lottery but needed to pay taxes and fees to receive their prize. The victims would send the money as directed but never received the prize money. The conspirators used a network of other conspirators and victims, as well as bank accounts opened in victims’ names, wire transfers, purchases of physical goods, and ATM withdrawals in Jamaica to execute and obfuscate their scheme.

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

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from Jamaican authorities and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs in the arrest and extradition of the defendant, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 76 months of incarceration and ordered to pay $1,172,209.80 in restitution to two former employers on her convictions for bank fraud, as well as violations of federal supervised release and a bond order, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Tracey Smith, 58, on July 21, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, while on federal supervised release for a prior wire fraud conviction for which she was sentenced in February 2023, Smith was hired as a comptroller by a Pittsburgh engineering firm and embezzled company funds for her personal use. As sentencing on those charges was pending, Smith was hired by another company as comptroller and embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars by creating unauthorized checks and misusing a company credit card.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon observed that the defendant had a serious criminal history for embezzlement.

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

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

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – After deliberating for one hour, a federal jury on July 20, 2026, found Mandi Litzinger, 44, of Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania, guilty on charges of distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury and death and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Litzinger was tried before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

The evidence presented during the week-long trial established that, on or about February 12, 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Litzinger distributed a quantity of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, which the jury also determined resulted in the serious bodily injury and death of another individual. Further, in and around February 2021, Litzinger conspired to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.

Judge Haines scheduled sentencing for November 19, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $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.

Assistant United States Attorneys Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Hillary M. Weaver prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Ross Township, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his convictions of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ralph Talerico, 46, on July 15, 2026.

According to information presented to the Court, in and around June through July 2023, Talerico produced videos of two children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, on or about June 6, 2024, Talerico possessed videos and still images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were prepubescent and under 12 years of age.

Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Talerico.

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.