ATF Arrests Ex-Steeler Terry Long, Arson, Mail Fraud

ATF Arrests Ex-Steeler Terry Long on Arson and Mail Fraud Charges

PITTSBURGH - Mark W. Potter, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Mary Beth Buchanan, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, announced today the arrest of former Pittsburgh Steeler Terry Long, 45, in connection with an alleged mail fraud scheme and the alleged malicious destruction of property by fire. The 2003 fire destroyed Long’s business, Value Added Foods, at 1112 Galveston Avenue in Pittsburgh.

The 18-month investigation led to a federal indictment charging Long, of Sewickley, Pa., with seven counts of mail fraud in which false information was allegedly provided on business loan applications to both private and government lenders. As a result of these misrepresentations and an alleged fraudulent insurance claim stemming from the losses incurred from the fire, Long received more than $2.3 million in illegal proceeds. Long is also charged with the arson of his poultry processing business.

After negotiations between ATF and Long’s attorney, the defendant turned himself in to ATF today.

“Arson presents a danger to the citizens of a community and the on-scene firefighters,” said Potter. “ATF will continue in its dedication to combating arson, one of the most costly of public safety problems.”

The indictment and arrest are the culmination of a complex, time-consuming investigation conducted by investigators and forensic auditors from ATF, as well as the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Arson Unit and the City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Safety, Fire and Arson Investigation Division.

SOURCE: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ##### Contact: PIO/Special Agent John Hageman (412) 395-0540 – Pittsburgh (215) 717-4700 – Philadelphia (609) 743-2987 - Cellular For Immediate Release March 29, 2005