Scranton Reporter

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Scranton has honored ten individuals for their notable contributions to public safety. United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam acknowledged these individuals for their exceptional performance and significant impact on the office's efforts to enforce federal laws and protect society.

FBI Special Agent Timothy K. O'Malley received recognition for his nearly 25-year career, which included time with the Secret Service before joining the FBI. His work involved investigating homicides, violent crimes, bank fraud, and white-collar crimes, notably contributing to a major fentanyl analogue distribution case.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Smulktis from the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General was awarded for his legal support in drug trafficking trials. His role was pivotal in securing convictions in cases involving oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl, leading to life sentences for key defendants.

FBI Resident Agent in Charge Special Agent Joseph Noone was commended for fostering collaboration between law enforcement agencies and achieving numerous convictions related to public corruption, drug trafficking, fraud, child exploitation, and violence over more than a decade.

Six individuals were recognized with the United States Attorney’s Award for Distinguished Service as Law Enforcement Officers:

- FBI Task Force Officers Shane Yelland and Daniel Spath

- DEA Task Force Officer Francis A. Carito

Their commitment was highlighted through large-scale investigations into serious drug offenses involving repeat offenders and those trafficking deadly substances like fentanyl.

FBI Special Agent Eric Bailey received an award for his work against child exploitation, resulting in successful prosecutions of multiple offenders.

IRS Special Agent Eric Conahan was acknowledged for his involvement in high-profile white-collar crime investigations including tax frauds and pandemic-related frauds.

IRS Resident Agent in Charge Carmine Pellegrino and IRS Special Agent Jeff Decker were honored for their work on a complex case against EthosGen LLC CEO Abrams who defrauded investors out of $1.1 million during the COVID-19 pandemic.

United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam expressed gratitude: “We are pleased to recognize the achievements of our colleagues who have made outstanding contributions to promoting public safety... On behalf of the entire U.S. Attorney’s Office, I congratulate them and thank them for their service.”