Monessen resident and 37-year-old Steven Mensah Yawson has pleaded guilty to charges of money laundering in a federal court in Pittsburgh. In a brazen scheme, Yawson conspired with others to steal identities in 2012, which were later used to open credit cards and purchase merchandise and gift cards in Western Pennsylvania.
As part of the scheme, Yawson wired proceeds from the fraud to an individual in Accra, Ghana. The guilty plea was made before United States District Judge Gustave Diamond, who has scheduled the sentencing for February 18, 2015, at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison and $500,000.
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 Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF) conducted this investigation, a collaborative, multi-agency effort to effectively combat financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partnering in this effort are the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 18, 2015, at 10 a.m. before Judge Diamond. The court will determine the actual sentence imposed based on the severity of the offenses and Yawson’s prior criminal history.
As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that Yawson’s actions had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only individuals in Western Pennsylvania but also those in Accra, Ghana. The guilty plea serves as a warning to those who engage in similar schemes, and the task force remains committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
The case is a prime example of the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in Western Pennsylvania to combat financial crimes. The task force’s work will continue to ensure that those who engage in such activities are held accountable for their actions.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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