Eastern District of Arkansas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
West Memphis Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A West Memphis man has been sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky sentenced Deterrius Wilson, 36, Thursday afternoon in Little Rock. In addition to the ten-year sentence of imprisonment, which is the maximum allowed by law for this crime, Judge Rudofsky sentenced Wilson to three years of supervised release.
In March of 2018, West Memphis police officers initiated a traffic stop of a blue Ford Escape SUV. The vehicle refused to stop and instead sped up, resulting in a vehicle pursuit. During the chase, officers observed Deterrius Wilson turn toward them and point a handgun directly at them. After several minutes, the vehicle lost control and ran off the road.
Wilson exited the vehicle and fled on foot through an alley, wearing camouflage body armor and carrying a handgun in his right hand. Officers told Wilson to drop the gun, and he did, but he continued to flee while removing his body armor. When officers caught up to Wilson, they found two magazines fully loaded with 9mm ammunition. Officers also recovered his body armor, which contained 14 more rounds of 9mm ammunition. Wilson admitted ownership of the vest.
In the vehicle, officers found a Taurus .45 caliber handgun, and they also recovered the Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun Wilson had dropped during the pursuit. Both firearms were loaded, and the investigation revealed the 9mm handgun had been reported stolen. Wilson’s sentence was based on the offense as well as his criminal history, which included prior convictions for fleeing as well as numerous convictions for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and multiple firearms convictions.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the West Memphis Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie Peters.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Former Craighead County Clerk Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Former Craighead County Clerk Jacob Kade Holliday pleaded guilty today to taking more than $1.5 million in county money for his personal use. Holliday, 33, of Jonesboro, entered his guilty plea before United States District Court Judge James M. Moody, Jr., who will sentence Holliday at a later date.
In June 2020, Craighead County officials reported that a theft had occurred from the Craighead County Clerk’s office. The bank that managed the Clerk’s office account had flagged suspicious activity, and auditors concluded that approximately $1,579,057.03 was missing and had been moved to Holliday’s personal banking accounts.
Law enforcement interviewed Holliday, who admitted to taking the money to fund his businesses: Holliday Development and Management, LLC, and Total Healthcare, LLC, both of which operated restaurants and coffee shops in Jonesboro. Holliday told investigators he planned to pay the money back, but once the COVID-19 pandemic caused most of his businesses to close, he could not replace the money.
At today’s hearing, Holliday acknowledged that his method was to make a transfer from the county account to one of his personal accounts and then get a cashier’s check from his personal account for the same amount. He pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the indictment, which charged him with wire fraud for his first fraudulent transfer of $101,782.97 on January 29, 2020. In his plea agreement, Holliday agreed to pay $1,579,057.03 in restitution to Craighead County.
The indictment, which was returned by a grand jury on December 1, 2020, charged Holliday with 11 counts of wire fraud. In exchange for Holliday’s guilty plea to Count 1, the remaining charges were dismissed. The full loss amount of over $1.5 million will be submitted to the court for consideration at Holliday’s sentencing hearing.
Judge Moody will sentence Holliday at a later date. The FBI, Arkansas State Police, and Craighead County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Allison W. Bragg is prosecuting the case.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Man Sentenced to over 11 Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock man was sentenced late Thursday on one count of possession of child pornography. United States District Court Judge Kristine Baker sentenced Bryan Shannon, 54, to 135 months in federal prison.
In February 2019, an undercover FBI agent posted an online advertisement targeted at people seeking children for sexual purposes. The FBI agent received a response through an online messaging platform from an individual with the username “taboojunkie,” later identified as Bryan Shannon. The FBI agent and Shannon engaged in sexually explicit conversation, and Shannon told the FBI agent that he had engaged in sex acts with a five-year-old and an eight-year-old child.
The FBI learned that Shannon was a registered sex offender with prior convictions for lewd or lascivious act in the presence of a child in 1995, lewd or lascivious molestation in 1999, unlawful possession of a photograph or representation of sexual conduct by a child in 2000, and knowingly showing obscene materials to minors in 2000. The FBI executed a federal search warrant at Shannon’s residence, where they located Shannon’s phone and laptop computer, both of which contained videos and images of child pornography.
In May 2019, Shannon was charged in a one-count indictment with possession of child pornography. The defendant pleaded guilty to the indictment on July 15, 2020.
In addition to the prison term, Shannon was sentenced to a lifetime of supervised release following his imprisonment. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Former Little Rock School District Administrator Pleads Guilty to Mail FraudRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A former Little Rock School District (LRSD) administrator pleaded guilty to mail fraud this afternoon after spending over $230,000 of school district funds on personal online shopping. Karen James, 48, of Little Rock, who had been the Director of Early Childhood Education and Elementary Literacy for LRSD since 2010, entered her guilty plea today before United States District Court Judge Kristine Baker.
James managed procurement for LRSD’s early childhood education programs. As part of that job, she was issued two credit cards to make purchases for the early childhood programs throughout the district. These credit cards were funded by state and federal grants. James was required to read and sign several agreements that stated the cards could not be used for personal purchases or for the purchase of gift cards. LRSD also prohibited shipping items purchased with an LRSD credit card to one’s home residence. The district required James to document each credit card purchase by logging each transaction and providing a receipt or other confirmation of the purchase.
In August 2018, LRSD discovered that James was submitting fabricated receipts and false transaction logs. The receipts and logs were altered to reflect authorized purchases, but LRSD obtained the original receipts from vendors, which showed her actual purchases were for personal use. Many purchases were shipped to her home residence in violation of LRSD policy.
From August 2014 until she was detected in August 2018, James used her LRSD credit cards to shop online for herself. She spent over $4,000 at Wayfair on bath rugs, a recliner, and other home goods. She made 83 unauthorized purchases through PayPal totaling more than $27,000. She purchased 2,462 items on Amazon, spending over $199,200 on items such as clothing, makeup, housewares, knitting materials, pet products, and gift cards. The investigation has revealed $230,635.86 of fraudulent purchases. James’ plea agreement requires her to pay that amount in restitution back to the Little Rock School District.
Judge Baker will sentence James at a later date. The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Jegley is prosecuting the case.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Conway Man Pleads Guilty to Importation and Possession of Illegally Taken WildlifeRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Conway man has pleaded guilty to importing and possessing illegally taken wildlife. Jackson Roe, 27, entered his guilty plea Wednesday afternoon before Chief United States District Judge D. Price Marshall, Junior.
In August 2015, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service received an anonymous tip about the illegal activity of a reptile hobbyist who sold and smuggled various animals into the United States. Through undercover conversations with this individual, located in China, agents learned that he was shipping rare and endangered animals to various buyers, including one individual in Arkansas named Jackson Roe. Wildlife inspectors intercepted a package addressed to Roe that contained two live Chinese giant salamanders—an endangered species, in plastic jars, with wet moss. There were no holes in the box for air and no documents in the package.
In August of 2017, a search warrant was executed by US Fish and Wildlife Service on the home of Roe’s parents. A consent search of Roe’s home was also performed. Roe admitted to investigators that he had illegally purchased several live amphibians and reptiles from a Chinese dealer he met on Facebook. He stated he paid $450 for each salamander, and that he knew they were protected and expected to become extinct in the next ten years. Roe admitted that he knew what he did was wrong. In total, Roe received seven packages shipped from Hong Kong, which included six Chinese giant salamanders, a Vietnamese leaf turtle, an Indian roofed turtle, and a Chinese big-headed turtle. Roe also informed agents that he owned a Nile crocodile, a Morelet’s crocodile, and an American alligator, all of which were seized later that day by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Approximately two years later, in October of 2019, the US Fish and Wildlife Service received information that Roe was again in possession of Chinese giant salamanders illegally smuggled into the United States from China. On November 14, 2019, USFWS executed a search warrant on Roe’s home and discovered, among other animals, two live Chinese giant salamanders and four deceased Chinese giant salamanders. Roe admitted to law enforcement that he had illegally purchased the six Chinese giant salamanders within the two previous years from China.
Judge Marshall will sentence Roe at a later date. Importation or Possession of Illegally Taken Wildlife is punishable by not more than five years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000, and not more than three years supervised release. The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward O. Walker.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Justice Department Awards More Than $17.5 Million to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—The Department of Justice announced today that it has awarded more than $17.5 million in grants to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. Funding will support efforts across the country to address violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration was awarded $142,193 to administer PSN grant funds in the Eastern District of Arkansas.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance, part of the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will administer the 88 grant awards, which are being made to designated fiscal agents to support local PSN projects that work in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.
“This latest Project Safe Neighborhoods grant is critical to addressing the violent crime threatening cities and towns all across our country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Ensuring the safety of all Americans is the highest priority for the Department of Justice, but when it comes to violent crime, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to work closely with local public safety agencies as well as community organizations to craft individual strategies unique to each community’s needs. Programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods and the funding it provides allow us to do just that.”
Since the mass shooting crime at the Power Ultra Lounge in Little Rock on July 1, 2017, our office has made the PSN initiative one of our highest priorities,” said Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “Since that time, we have focused much of our resources to protect public safety through adopting cases originated by state authorities as well as working with our federal law enforcement agency partners to investigate and prosecute defendants who are armed career criminals, career offenders, or who have committed significant violations of federal gun laws. This award to the Eastern District of Arkansas will enable law enforcement agencies to enhance community outreach in communities significantly impacted by violent crime to further the effectiveness of our efforts to combat violent crime.” Ross further stated, “It is my belief that community outreach will help to foster dialogue and build trust between law enforcement and the communities it serves, resulting in increased safety and effective policing.”
Grant funds will support enforcement-related activities to reduce firearms violence in cities and towns in the Eastern District of Arkansas. Projects will also support efforts to reduce the recidivism, training, and community outreach.
“Investing in our communities, supporting victims and building a justice system that both keeps people safe and earns their trust – these are mutually reinforcing goals that stand at the heart of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon for OJP. “The Office of Justice Programs is pleased to join with our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, and with jurisdictions across the country, as we work together to meet the challenges of crime and violence and achieve our shared aspirations of public safety and community trust.”
In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime issued by Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
This fall, U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country have enhanced their violent crime reduction efforts to ensure alignment with the department’s comprehensive violent crime reduction strategy. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices have engaged in outreach to law enforcement and other agencies and organizations serving communities to identify the most significant drivers of violence in their districts. Working together with a broad coalition of stakeholders, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices are addressing the most pressing violent crime issues in their district to make our neighborhoods safer for all.
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies, community stakeholders and other agencies and organizations that work to reduce violent crime.
For a list of all grantees, please visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/FY21-Project-Safe-Neighborhoods-Awards.pdf.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Helena-West Helena Man Sentenced to 226 Months in Prison for Federal Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Helena-West Helena man is expected to remain in prison until at least 2053 after possessing of a firearm following a felony conviction and for brandishing a firearm during the armed robbery of a local convenience store. On Thursday, United States District Judge James M. Moody sentenced Nicholas Dismuke, 27, to 226 months in federal prison.
Dismuke pleaded guilty on January 15, 2020, to an indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a federal crime of violence following his involvement in a robbery in Helena-West Helena. In September 2015, Dismuke entered the Dollar General with a silver revolver. He demanded money from the cashier at the register, who could not open it, but the store manager was able to open the register at gunpoint. Dismuke grabbed all of the money from the register, which was approximately $169.
Later that month, law enforcement located Dismuke at an apartment in Jonesboro. A search of the apartment revealed a Smith & Wesson .50 caliber revolver and an AA Arms 9mm pistol, both loaded, tied in a plastic grocery bag in the toilet tank. Prior to his possession of these firearms, Dismuke had been convicted of Aggravated Assault as well as Attempted Escape First Degree. Dismuke pleaded guilty on January 15, 2020.
During the hearing, evidence was presented reflecting Dismuke’s criminal history, which included the death of an officer at the Pine Bluff Juvenile Detention Center when Dismuke assaulted the officer while escaping. Dismuke was also convicted of aggravated assault after a 2012 escape attempt when he assaulted three officers at the Independence County Judicial Detention Center. He was also convicted of aggravated assault in 2018 after assaulting a guard at a facility in Lincoln County, Arkansas.
In addition to Dismuke’s violence against correctional officers, evidence at the hearing indicated he committed five armed robberies in September 2015: one in St. Louis, Missouri; one in Jonesboro, and three in Helena-West Helena.
Dismuke will be held in custody until 2038 as a result of his Missouri conviction for the September 5, 2015, armed robbery of a pawn shop during which he shot at an employee’s head and foot. Judge Moody ordered Dismuke to serve 46 months’ imprisonment on Count 1, concurrent to his Arkansas and Missouri state sentences, and 180 months’ imprisonment on Count 2, consecutive to all three of the other sentences. Dismuke is expected to remain in custody until 2053.
“This case exemplifies why it is so important to keep guns out of the hands of convicted felons,” stated Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “This defendant put two hardworking Arkansans in fear for their lives by robbing their workplace at gunpoint. The question at sentencing today was not how much jail time would be sufficient, but how soon is too soon to release this violent offender back into the community. We appreciate the work of our partners at FBI and the Arkansas State Police to keep this violent offender behind bars.”
"The astoundingly violent record of this defendant speaks for itself," said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge James A. Dawson. "His historically vicious crimes coupled with his current criminal convictions warranted a stiff sentence in prison, and we are pleased with today's court decision. As always, we are grateful to our partners at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas for their work in prosecuting this brutal career criminal."
In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Moody sentenced Dismuke to five years of supervised release. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Arkansas State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie Peters.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Justice Department Announces $139 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—The Department of Justice today announced more than $139 million in grant funding through the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The awards provide direct funding to 183 law enforcement agencies across the nation, allowing those agencies to hire 1,066 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. In the Eastern District of Arkansas, the City of Helena-West Helena was awarded funding totaling $1,019,756.
“We are committed to providing police departments with the resources needed to help ensure community safety and build community trust,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The grants we are announcing today will enable law enforcement agencies across the country to hire more than 1,000 additional officers to support vitally important community oriented policing programs.”
U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross states, “This award to the City of Helena-West Helena will have a profound impact in the community and the Helena-West Helena Police Department.” Ross further stated, “An award of this magnitude enables the police department to hire ten additional officers to further enhance their community policing efforts and allow for a more proactive approach in the prevention of crime.”
CHP is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Of the 183 agencies awarded grants today, approximately half will use the funding to focus on building legitimacy and trust between law enforcement and communities; 41 agencies will seek to address high rates of gun violence; 21 will focus on other areas of violence; and 19 will focus CHP resources on combating hate and domestic extremism or supporting police-based responses to persons in crisis. The complete list of awards can be found here.
Since its creation in 1994, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 135,000 officers. CHP, COPS’ flagship program, continues to be in demand today: In FY21, COPS received 590 applications requesting nearly 3,000 law enforcement positions. For FY22, President Biden has requested $537 million for CHP, an increase of $300 million.
To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/.
The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Department of Justice agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Two Little Rock Men Plead Guilty in Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK – Two Little Rock men have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a 6-year-old child. Demarcus George, 27, entered his guilty plea Wednesday afternoon before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller. George joins his codefendant, Mario Waters, 33, who pleaded guilty last week. The guilty pleas effectively cancel George and Waters’ upcoming jury trial, which was scheduled to begin on November 15.
In February 2018, a 6-year-old child was taken to Arkansas Children’s Hospital due to symptoms that were later determined to be caused by several sexually transmitted diseases. The child was interviewed by an FBI forensic interviewer and disclosed that a man, later determined to be Demarcus George, had raped her. The child also disclosed that another man, later determined to be Mario Waters, had also raped her. The child told interviewers that the rape occurred in a hotel room with a curtain in the middle of the room, and she described a picture hanging on the wall in the hotel room.
Law enforcement was able to locate a hotel in Little Rock that matched the description provided by the minor, including the picture on the wall and the curtain in the room. Financial records from the hotel showed that the minor’s mother had rented a room at the hotel in March 2018 and paid with a credit card. The child has since been removed from the mother’s custody.
Doctors at Arkansas Children’s Hospital determined that it was unlikely the child had obtained each sexually transmitted disease from the same offender and that there were likely multiple offenders. Officers obtained search warrants for George and Waters’ blood and urine. Results indicated that George and Waters tested positive for sexually transmitted diseases that the minor had contracted. Both George and Waters admitted in court that they had sexual contact with the minor and were involved in trafficking her with others.
“The unspeakable crimes committed against this child remind us how vitally important it is to have law enforcement officers willing to investigate and put a stop to these horrific actions,” stated Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “These guilty pleas will spare the young victim from having to relive her experience on the witness stand at a trial. Our law enforcement partners work hard every day to protect children from this abuse, and our office will continue to aggressively pursue those who commit these deplorable crimes.”
Judge Miller will sentence George and Waters at a later date. Conspiracy to commit human trafficking of a minor is punishable by any term of imprisonment up to life and not less than five years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Little Rock Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Allison W. Bragg.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
"Operation Hartbreak Kid" Results in Thirteen ArrestsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Thirteen people will appear in federal court today after being arrested Tuesday morning as part of “Operation Hartbreak Kid.” Named after lead defendant Derrick Hart, 27, of North Little Rock, this operation targeted drug distribution in the North Little Rock area.
In December 2020, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation into a methamphetamine and cocaine distribution ring based in the McAlmont neighborhood of North Little Rock. During the investigation, Hart and Tetus Jenkins, 43, of North Little Rock, were identified as the sources of supply to more than eight other individuals. During the investigation, DEA covertly purchased approximately two pounds of methamphetamine from various co-conspirators and seized more than a pound of methamphetamine and several firearms during the execution of search warrants. During Tuesday’s arrests, officers recovered an additional AR-15 rifle.
The distribution ring operated from a parking lot at the corner of Zinnia Street and Cotton Road in McAlmont, as well as a local McAlmont club at 410 Mimosa Street. Local authorities reported receiving citizen complaints about drug trafficking and gunshots at these locations.
The defendants arrested include Hart, Jenkins, Justin Cross, 29, of North Little Rock; Jonathan Dunigan, 23, of Austin; Andre Graves, 44, of Little Rock; Bianca Lavonda, 33, of North Little Rock; Prince Strong, 37, of Jacksonville; Steven Taylor, 64, of Jacksonville; Daniel White, 34, of North Little Rock; and Dayton Wiggins, Jr., 47, of Jacksonville. In addition to those arrested on Tuesday, seven others have been charged and arrested in separate indictments in connection with this operation.
“Drug trafficking brings violence and fear to our communities, and we will do everything we can to protect our streets from these crimes,” stated Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “We appreciate the dedication and commitment of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners who conducted this investigation and made these arrests.”
“Methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl are insidious, addictive drugs that consume all who abuse them,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jarad Harper. “With this investigation, DEA, working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, has taken down a drug trafficking organization responsible for bringing significant amounts of these illegal dangerous drugs into Arkansas through the U.S. Postal Service. This organization used the mail system to evade detection in order to facilitate their operation. These arrests are indicative of our commitment to rid our communities of these criminals determined to profit on the backs of addiction. DEA is committed to its partnerships with all of our law enforcement allies in our ongoing efforts to make our communities safer and a better place for our families and children. “
“These arrests represent the commitment of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) to find and dismantle groups who misuse the U.S. Mail,” said Thomas Noyes, Inspector in Charge of the Fort Worth Division of the USPIS. “This investigation involved the seizure of various illegal drugs ranging from marijuana to fentanyl, along with several firearms. This achievement was made possible by a collaborative effort with our many local and federal law enforcement agencies. We will continue to identify and bring to justice offenders like these to protect our communities and the U.S. Mail.”
Operation Hartbreak Kid was conducted by the DEA with assistance from the USPIS, United States Marshals Service, Arkansas State Police, North Little Rock Police Department, Arkansas Community Corrections, Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office, Lonoke Police Department, Little Rock Police Department, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, and Jacksonville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anne Gardner.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
An indictment contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Oklahoma Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Firearms Parts Through Arkansas to MexicoRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—An Oklahoma man has pleaded guilty to his role in a conspiracy that resulted in the trafficking of firearms to Mexican cartels as part of “Operation Thor’s Hammer,” an effort to disrupt cartels’ access to firearms. Andrew Scott Pierson, 47, of Jay, Oklahoma, entered his guilty plea today before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller, who will sentence Pierson at a later date.
In May 2017, an Arkansas resident received a shipment of firearm components that had been sent to him for cerakoting, a process in which a polymer-ceramic coating is added to a firearm or its parts to improve durability. The parts were 80% Colt lower receivers, and this individual recognized these firearm parts as counterfeit. He contacted law enforcement. The counterfeit receivers were traced to an organization in Laredo, Texas, which was transporting firearm parts to Pierson in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Peirson assembled the parts into functioning automatic weapons for the Cartel Del Noreste (CDN) and Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG).
Pierson self-surrendered at the port of entry to United States authorities on December 10, 2018. Pierson admitted to ordering and receiving firearm parts from the United States and manufacturing automatic weapons in Mexico for the CDN and CJNG cartels. Law enforcement later confirmed cartel firearm availability was impaired following Pierson’s arrest.
On September 3, 2019, a federal grand jury indicted Pierson and seven others for their involvement conspiracies to traffic in counterfeit goods and to violate the Arms Export Control Act. Five codefendants have previously pleaded guilty, and one co-defendant remains a fugitive in Mexico. Today, Pierson pleaded guilty to Count 2 of the Fourth Superseding Indictment, conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act.
“This case is the first successful prosecution in the country of the exportation and manufacturing of Mexican cartel firearms,” stated Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “We are proud that this investigation made it more difficult for violent cartels to obtain firearms, and we intend to prosecute any case that will help keep guns out of the hands of these criminal organizations.”
“The cooperation among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and the government of Mexico is the foundation for combating cross-border firearms trafficking,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “ATF works relentlessly to keep guns out of the hands of drug trafficking organizations and their violent associates. Stemming the flow of illegal guns to Mexico remains a high priority for ATF.”
“This plea is another significant moment in an investigation highlighting the dangers facing our communities. With numerous accounts of atrocities attributed to cartels, it’s unconscionable to think someone would conspire to provide them weapons. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is proud to have worked with so many fellow law enforcement agencies in helping bring this case to fruition,” said Thomas Noyes, Inspector in Charge of the Fort Worth Division. “We will vigorously pursue those who misuse the U.S. Mail, and we thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Arkansas for their commitment in prosecuting these cases.”
Pierson’s crime is punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, and not more than three years supervised release. The case was investigated by ATF and USPIS with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anne Gardner.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Green Forest Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking in Joint Prosecution between the Western District of Arkansas and the Eastern District of ArkansasRead the Press Release
FORT SMITH, Ark. – A Green Forest man was sentenced yesterday to 180 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release on one count of Using Facility of Interstate Commerce to Entice Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and one count of Sex Trafficking of Children. The Honorable Judge P. K. Holmes, III presided over the sentencing hearing in the U.S. District Court in Fort Smith.
According to court documents, in August of 2020, Berryville Police Department was notified that, Jason Daniel Vasquez, 22, had contacted a 14-year-old girl via Snapchat and had met with the minor on different occasions to engage in sexual acts. Days later Vasquez was arrested by Berryville Police Department after he arrived at a set location under the belief he was there to engage in sexual acts with the minor. Subsequent to Vasquez’s arrest, law enforcement located messages on Vasquez’s phone with another minor female. In the messages Vasquez offered to provide the minor tobacco products in exchange for sexual acts.
Acting U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas and Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ross of the Eastern District of Arkansas made the announcement.
The Berryville Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations Fayetteville investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Marshall and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Bryant prosecuted the case for the United States.
This case was a joint prosecution by the Western District of Arkansas and the Eastern District of Arkansas. The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Justice Department Settles Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Arkansas Housing AuthorityRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced Thursday that the White River Regional Housing Authority in Melbourne, Arkansas, has agreed to pay $70,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that it and its former employee, Duane Johnson, violated the Fair Housing Act (FHA) when Johnson sexually harassed an applicant who sought a Housing Choice Voucher from the Housing Authority.
The settlement, which must still be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, will resolve the United States’ lawsuit, also filed Thursday, under the Fair Housing Act. The lawsuit alleges that in 2020, a woman who was living with her two minor children at a shelter for survivors of domestic violence and abuse applied to the Housing Authority for a Housing Choice Voucher in Cleburne County, Arkansas. The Housing Authority assigned the application to Duane Johnson, a Housing Authority employee who, among other duties, served as the Housing Choice Voucher coordinator for Cleburne County.
“All people deserve equal access to critical housing benefits, including vouchers, without being subjected to sexual harassment,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Housing assistance programs are designed to help people when they need it the most. The Justice Department will not tolerate officials who abuse their power by sexually harassing housing voucher applicants and will continue to use the law to hold perpetrators accountable.”
“Thursday’s announcement demonstrates that officials who use their control over the grant of public assistance programs in order to exploit sexual acts from those in need of assistance will be held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “Our office will continue to work with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to investigate and hold accountable all who similarly abuse their positions of public trust.”
“Renters whose names rise to the top of coveted Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists should not have to submit to unwelcomed sexual harassment before obtaining housing assistance,” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Demetria McCain of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD applauds Thursday’s settlement and remains committed to working with the Justice Department to ensure that everyone in a position to control access to housing meets their responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act.”
The lawsuit alleges that Johnson sexually harassed the applicant. Specifically, the suit alleges, Johnson touched the applicant without her consent, requested that she provide him with full-frontal nude photographs in exchange for his assistance in finding housing, made graphic descriptions of the poses he wanted for the photographs, made other unwelcome sexual advances and threatened to post nude photographs of the applicant on Facebook if she reported him. Although the Housing Authority later notified the applicant that she could receive a Housing Choice Voucher, the lawsuit alleges that she chose not accept a voucher because she was afraid of Johnson and did not want him to know where she lived. The lawsuit also alleges that the Housing Authority is vicariously liable for Johnson’s unlawful conduct.
The applicant filed a complaint against the Housing Authority and Johnson with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After an investigation, HUD determined that the Housing Authority and Johnson had discriminated against the applicant in violation of the Fair Housing Act and it issued a charge of discrimination. After the applicant chose to have the matter decided in federal court, the HUD referred the matter to the Department of Justice.
Under the settlement, the Housing Authority will pay a total of $70,000 in monetary damages to the applicant, adopt and maintain an anti-discrimination policy with a complaint procedure, and provide training on the Fair Housing Act to its employees. The settlement also permanently bars Johnson from participating in the management of residential rental property and from participating in any public housing program.
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys' Offices across the country. The goal of the initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the Initiative in October 2017, the Department of Justice has filed 23 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $4.1 million for victims of such harassment. HUD also has developed a Sexual Harassment Training Initiative with training sessions and educational resources about preventing and addressing sexual harassment, and launched a public awareness campaign – Call HUD: Because Sexual Harassment in Housing is Illegal.
If you think you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or other forms of housing discrimination, you may contact the Justice Department by calling the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-833-591-0291, e-mailing the Justice Department at [email protected], or submitting a report online. Individuals may also report such discrimination by contacting HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.
DEA, IRS Dismantle Eastern Arkansas Methamphetamine and Money Laundering OrganizationRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—The final defendant in a multi-person indictment was sentenced to federal prison on Thursday, effectively bringing to a close the significant criminal activities of an eastern Arkansas drug trafficking and money laundering organization.
On Thursday, United States District Judge James M. Moody sentenced Termaine Ontario Slaughter, 36, of Parkin, to 90 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release. On November 18, 2020, Slaughter pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Slaughter is the fourth and final defendant to be sentenced in an Indictment that was filed on June 6, 2018. Three of the defendants received federal prison sentences.
“Our office and our federal partners will use every resource available to dismantle and disrupt drug trafficking organizations in Arkansas,” said Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “In this case, we tracked the money, and it led us to straight to criminals who were trying to poison our communities. As these drug traffickers learned, if you choose this line of work, enjoy the money while you can, because it won’t last nearly as long as your prison sentence.”
Beginning in 2014 and continuing through 2018, Slaughter, Demario Smith, 40, of Southaven, Miss., Elliott Davis, 41, of Colt, Montana Smith, 45, of Parkin, and others were involved in the distribution of methamphetamine in the Forrest City area. Slaughter and Demario Smith used drug proceeds to fund a trucking business called Prudent Transport and a rental property business called Upscale Properties. Evidence showed that Slaughter and his associates imported methamphetamine from the Dallas area using couriers who rode the Megabus from Memphis to Dallas and back. The organization also imported methamphetamine from California using the United States mail and other mailing services.
An extensive analysis of records from the trucking business and rental properties showed that from 2013-2017 Slaughter’s personal and business accounts had $733,811 in deposits coming from unidentified sources. Analysis showed that there were $877,359.60 in cash expenditures on vehicles and other items that did not come from the accounts, including the purchase of tractor trailers for the trucking business. Bank records revealed that cash deposits in amounts under $10,000 were systematically made at bank branches in Memphis, Mississippi, and Arkansas, with corresponding amounts of cash being withdrawn from other bank locations on the same date or close in time.
“This investigation is an extraordinary example of thorough and methodical financial exploitation in order to disrupt and dismantle the financial infrastructure of these methamphetamine drug trafficking organizations,” Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jarad Harper said. “The DEA will relentlessly pursue, exploit, and seize these illicit assets drug traffickers intentionally and nefariously conceal to circumvent reporting requirements. Working with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we will continue to combine our resources in order to identify these ill-gotten funds used to facilitate drug trafficking and violent crime in our region. By depleting these drug traffickers of their proceeds and eliminating their ability to continue distributing this poison in Arkansas and beyond, we are saving lives.”
“The defendants in this case created a drug distribution and money laundering enterprise that spread methamphetamine throughout eastern Arkansas, and beyond,” stated Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus, Jr., IRS-Criminal Investigation, Dallas Field Office. “The IRS special agents used their financial expertise to trace the profits of this criminal activity through numerous bank accounts across multiple states. I commend my agents for effectively shutting down this devastating pipeline of poison into eastern Arkansas and the surrounding communities.”
On November 19, 2020, Demario Smith pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and on May 26, 2021, was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment. On November 19, 2020, Davis pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and on June 8, 2021, he was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment. On November 19, 2020, Montana Smith pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony, and on June 9, 2021, he was sentenced to five years’ probation.
During Thursday’s sentencing hearing, in addition to receiving his prison sentence, Slaughter agreed to forfeit numerous firearms and five vehicles, including four over-the-road trucks used by Prudent Transport and a Dodge Challenger.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was primarily investigated by the DEA-Little Rock Field Office and IRS-Criminal Investigation, along with assistance from the Little Rock Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Anne Gardner prosecuted the case.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Pope County White Supremacist Operative Convicted of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A two-week federal jury trial has resulted in the conviction of the financial backer of a white supremacist gang for his involvement in a racketeering and drug conspiracy. Marcus Millsap, 54, of Little Rock, was found guilty on all counts when the jury returned their verdict late Friday afternoon. United States District Judge Brian S. Miller presided over the trial, and Judge Miller will sentence Millsap later.
Millsap was indicted in September 2019 for his involvement in a white supremacist prison gang known as the “New Aryan Empire,” or NAE. NAE’s slogan is “to the dirt,” referring to the fact that members must remain in the organization until they die. Millsap was charged with, and ultimately convicted of, conspiracy to violate racketeering influenced corrupt organization laws, or RICO, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, and drug conspiracy. Evidence at trial established that Millsap and others used the NAE as a corrupt organization to conduct racketeering activities including drug distribution, solicitations of murder, and attempted murder.
At trial, the prosecution presented evidence that in May 2014, Millsap sold methamphetamine to an individual named Bruce Hurley, who was working as a confidential informant. Once Hurley completed the controlled purchase of methamphetamine and reported back to law enforcement, a traffic stop located more methamphetamine in Millsap’s vehicle. Millsap was convicted in the methamphetamine case, and while on an appeal bond, Millsap solicited members and associates of NAE to kill Hurley for his work in cooperating with law enforcement against Millsap. In January 2016, other NAE members attempted to murder Hurley. That attempt failed, and NAE members and associates continued attempting to arrange Hurley’s death. This conduct resulted in Millsap’s conviction Friday for attempted murder in aid of racketeering.
Another 54 defendants were indicted in the case, all of whom have pleaded guilty except for Millsap and Troy Loadholt, who is currently a fugitive. While some defendants are still awaiting sentencing, the highest sentence so far has been given to Wesley Gullett, who was the President of the New Aryan Empire. Gullett was sentenced to 35 years imprisonment.
“The United States will not tolerate the vile and outrageous crimes committed by members and associates of the New Aryan Empire or any other white supremacist group,” said Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “If you are a member or associate of this or any other violent criminal organization, know that the United States will stop at nothing to dismantle and disrupt those who pose a threat to our communities and the future of our children.”
The statutory penalty for conspiracy to violate racketeering laws is up to life imprisonment. The statutory penalty for attempted murder in aid of racketeering is up to 10 years imprisonment. The statutory penalty for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, based on the amount of methamphetamine involved in the case, is a minimum of 15 years and up to life imprisonment.
The investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Pope County Sheriff’s Office; the Russellville Police Department; the U.S. Marshals Service; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Arkansas State Police; 5th Judicial Drug Task Force; the Conway Police Department, and the Arkansas Army National Guard’s Counterdrug Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Liza Brown and Stephanie Mazzanti.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Two Drug Dealers Convicted of Conspiring to Murder Federal WitnessRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—After almost two weeks of trial, a federal jury has found two drug dealers guilty of their involvement in conspiracy that resulted in the murder of a federal informant. Don Smith, 38, of Malvern, Arkansas, and Samuel Sherman, 38, of Batesville, Arkansas, were found guilty when the jury returned their verdict late Tuesday evening. Chief United States District Judge D. Price Marshall, Jr., presided over the trial, and Judge Marshall will sentence Smith and Sherman later.
Both Smith and Sherman were convicted of conspiracy to cause witness tampering resulting in death. Smith was also convicted of witness tampering resulting in death, conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in first degree murder.
Smith and Sherman were originally charged in September 2019 in connection with the death of Susan Cooper, who had bought methamphetamine from Sherman but had begun working as an informant for law enforcement. In May 2016, Sherman was arrested and charged with selling methamphetamine to Cooper. As his case progressed, Sherman was released and permitted to work as an informant himself.
Though Sherman was supposed to be working as an informant, he had not provided enough information to help his case, and in September 2016, Sherman learned he was facing a significant federal prison sentence. Evidence at trial showed that upon learning this, Sherman called Smith, who was a methamphetamine dealer in the Malvern area. Smith had sold drugs to Rachael Cooper, who was Susan Cooper’s sister-in-law (they were married to brothers).
Cellular tower data presented at trial showed that shortly thereafter, Smith drove from Malvern to Batesville, where Sherman lived, and stayed in Batesville for approximately 40 minutes before returning to Malvern. On the way back to Malvern, Smith called Rachael. Rachael had been communicating with Susan about making arrangements for Susan to trade some hydrocodone pills for methamphetamine. Susan did not know the trade was with Smith.
That night, Rachael picked Susan up and drove her to meet Smith for the drug exchange. Rachael testified at trial that as they waited, she heard a gunshot followed by Susan crying out “I’m shot—get me out of here!” Rachael jumped in the driver’s seat and saw Smith shoot Susan several more times. Smith pulled Susan from the truck as Rachael sped away.
For a year and a half, Susan Cooper’s body had not been found. In July 2018, Smith was charged in state court with the murder, and after his arrest, a witness came forward to disclose Smith had demanded he help bury the body. This witness took federal agents to the location of Cooper’s body.
“Rest assured that any attempt to harm a federal witness will be met with swift and forceful justice,” said Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “Our entire system of justice is based on the ability of witnesses to speak truthfully in open court. Any attempt to prevent a witness from doing so—especially an attempt that results in a witness’s death—will be investigated and prosecuted. We appreciate the work of the many agencies who collaborated to bring this brutal crime to a resolution.”
“The conviction of Sherman and Smith sends a clear message to all who conspire to commit murder in our district: we will work together with our federal, state, and local and law enforcement partners to see that anyone involved in this type of horrific crime is brought to justice. This case highlights the impact multiple agencies can have when they join forces,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jarad Harper.
“Smith and Sherman callously planned the brutal execution of Susan Cooper in an effort to protect their criminal activity,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge James Dawson. “In response to the murder of a federal informant, FBI agents joined forces with DEA investigators, Malvern police detectives, and Hot Spring County Sheriff’s deputies to bring Smith and Sherman to justice. This case highlights the value of law enforcement partnerships and proves that the FBI and our partners will use every available resource to investigate and pursue criminals who harm or intimidate federal witnesses.”
The statutory penalty for conspiracy to cause witness tampering resulting in death is life imprisonment, as is the penalty for witness tampering resulting in death. Neither Smith nor Sherman will be eligible for release.
The investigation was conducted by the Hot Springs County Sheriff’s Office, Malvern Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the FBI. The case involved significant collaboration between the Hot Spring County Prosecutor’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anne Gardner and Bart Dickinson.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Maumelle Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Flight Attendant En Route to Little RockRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK – A Maumelle man has pleaded guilty to assaulting a flight attendant. Leon Anderson, 40, entered his guilty plea Wednesday afternoon before United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
On October 6, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted Anderson with one count of abusive sexual contact on an aircraft. Yesterday, he pleaded guilty to a Superseding Information charging him with one count of interference with a flight attendant.
Anderson was a passenger on PSA Airlines flight 5686 from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Little Rock on February 11, 2020. Prior to takeoff, a flight attendant was walking through the aisle of the plane when a passenger grabbed his leg. Startled, the flight attendant turned around, and the passenger—Anderson—apologized and said it was a mistake. Moments later, Anderson put one arm around the flight attendant’s shoulder and attempted to put a hand around his waist while apologizing again. The flight attendant told Anderson he did not need to apologize further.
The flight attendant continued his duties, but Anderson made inappropriate, sexual comments to the flight attendant and ultimately grabbed the flight attendant two more times in a sexual manner. The flight attendant notified the captain, who notified law enforcement.
Judge Moody will sentence Anderson at a later date. Anderson’s crime is punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000, and not more than three years supervised release. The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Benecia Moore.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
http://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Federal Inmate Sentenced to 5 Additional Years in Prison for Bribing Guard to Bring Drugs into JailRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A federal prison inmate has been sentenced to five more years in prison for his role in a drug conspiracy at the Dallas County jail. Tuesday afternoon, United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker sentenced Terry McClendon, 32, of Sherwood, to 60 months’ imprisonment, which he will serve in addition to the prison sentence he was already serving for possessing a stolen firearm.
In August and September of 2017, McClendon was a federal inmate being held at the Dallas County Detention Center to await the resolution of his federal criminal case, in which he was charged with a firearms offense. While at this jail, McClendon approached Laron Williams, a guard working at the jail, and offered to pay Williams to bring contraband into the jail. With the help of two other inmates, McClendon directed other individuals to deliver tobacco, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin to Williams, who then passed these contraband items to McClendon within the jail.
Williams accepted deliveries on September 4 and 8, 2017, and a jail employee noticed Williams making a transfer to McClendon’s cell. Security video from September 9, 2017, shows Williams getting out of his car with an object wrapped in a blanket, which he later passed to McClendon. A search of McClendon’s cell revealed a pillowcase containing two square objects, which were examined by the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory and determined to be 764.4 grams of cocaine and 739.6 grams of heroin.
On November 7, 2017, McClendon was sentenced to five years in prison for possessing a stolen firearm. Yesterday, Judge Baker sentenced McClendon to an additional five years’ imprisonment on the contraband conspiracy, which is the maximum penalty allowed by law. Judge Baker also ordered this additional five years to run consecutive to McClendon’s original five-year sentence for possessing a stolen firearm, which means McClendon now faces a total of 10 years in prison.
Williams and the two inmate co-conspirators, Michael Brewer and Antonio Fowler, have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. A fifth co-conspirator, Dekimberol Brewer, has also pleaded guilty to conspiracy for her role in bringing drugs into the jail through her husband, Michael Brewer.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julie Peters and Amanda Jegley.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Felon Who Possessed Firearm Sentenced to 17 1/2 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Dominic Session, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 17½ years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down Monday by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
Session, 31, of Little Rock, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition on May 10, 2019. That conviction was based on an April 2017 incident in which Session fled from a traffic stop and dropped a black object as he ran. During a search of the area where Sessions was running, police located a Ruger 9mm handgun.
At Monday’s sentencing hearing, Judge Moody heard evidence regarding Session’s six prior felony convictions, including three convictions that qualified Sessions as an Armed Career Criminal—second degree battery, robbery, and residential burglary. The Armed Career Criminal distinction increased Sessions’ potential penalty from a maximum of 10 years in prison to a minimum of 15 years. Judge Moody also sentenced Sessions to five years of supervised release to follow his prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
The investigation was conducted by the Little Rock Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
http://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Memphis Medical Sales Rep Admits Misleading FBIRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Florida man pleaded guilty to misleading federal agents investigating his promotion of expensive compounded prescription drugs. Steve Hill, 57, of Port Orange, Florida (formerly of Memphis), entered his plea to making false statements to the FBI today before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller.
A veteran of the medical sales industry based in Memphis, in 2014 Hill began to promote compounded prescription drugs covered by TRICARE. His compensation equaled a fixed percentage of sales generated. When a healthcare provider to whom Hill marketed the drugs went on to prescribe them, Hill earned a share of whatever the insurer reimbursed for the drugs.
Among the healthcare providers Hill solicited was Doctor 1. Unbeknownst to TRICARE, Hill shared his commission on Doctor 1’s prescriptions with Doctor 1’s wife, Spouse 1. Specifically, of the more than $500,000 in commission he earned from Doctor 1’s prescriptions, Hill paid $147,325.25 to Spouse 1 and kept the remaining $345,727.15 for himself.
Around 2016, federal agents began to investigate Hill’s promotion of compounded drugs as well as his financial relationship with Spouse 1. In August 2017, a Special Agent of the FBI travelled to Hill’s Tennessee home to speak with him directly. During that interview, Hill denied having paid Spouse 1, which he knew to be false.
Under the terms of his guilty plea, Hill agreed to forfeit $345,727.15 in illicit proceeds. He will be sentenced at a later date. Making a false statement to the FBI is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment.
Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, and Miranda Bennett, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and HHS-OIG. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Morgan.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Ninth Defendant Pleads Guilty in TRICARE SchemeRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A ninth defendant has pleaded guilty in connection with a $12 million scheme to generate prescriptions for expensive compounded drugs paid for by TRICARE. Kenneth Myers Jr., 43, of Alpharetta, Georgia (formerly of Little Rock), pled guilty to conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute today before United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.
Myers collected nearly $70,000 for recruiting TRICARE beneficiaries to receive expensive compounded drugs, for which TRICARE paid over $340,000. Myers acknowledged offering TRICARE beneficiaries money to receive the drugs and that medical providers, including co-defendant Joe David May a.k.a. Jay May, 40, of Alexander, rubber stamped prescriptions without consulting the TRICARE beneficiaries.
Upon learning a federal agent planned to interview a TRICARE beneficiary about his prescription, Myers instructed the man to lie by claiming he had been examined by a doctor before getting his prescription. When Myers was later interviewed, he lied to the FBI by claiming he played no role in securing prescriptions and instead directed beneficiaries to consult their own doctor.
In pleading guilty to the kickback conspiracy, Myers joins Albert Glenn Hudson, 40, of Sherwood; Derek Clifton, 39, of Alexander; Donna Crowder, 66, of North Little Rock; Jennifer Crowder (formerly Bracy), 38, of Little Rock; Keith Benson, 50, of North Little Rock; Keith Hunter, 52, of Little Rock; Angie Johnson, 50, of North Little Rock; and Blake Yoder, 40, of Scott.
Conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute is punishable by up to five years in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Trial of the 10th and final defendant, May, is set for December 6, 2021, before Judge Baker. May faces charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, violating the anti-kickback statute, aggravated identity theft, lying to the FBI, and falsifying records in a federal investigation.
Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, and Miranda Bennett, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and HHS-OIG. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Morgan.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Three Federal Trials: Three Guilty VerdictsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—The week of July 26, 2021, brought three guilty verdicts in separate federal trials. A combination of pandemic-related delays and a significant increase in caseload resulted in four simultaneous jury trials in federal court last week. One trial is expected to last several weeks, and the other three concluded last week with the convictions of three defendants.
The week’s first trial began Monday morning with a case in which Sparkle Hobbs, aka Sparkle Bryant, 33, of Little Rock, was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. She was also charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and misprision (concealment) of a felony.
The evidence at trial indicated that Hobbs sold methamphetamine to an informant, which led to a search warrant at her residence in February of 2018. Law enforcement located five firearms, approximately $29,000 in cash, 103 grams of fentanyl, 497 grams of methamphetamine, and .049 grams of heroin in the residence. The jury returned their guilty verdict Tuesday evening. The Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation, which is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anne Gardner and Amanda Jegley and tried before United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.
The second guilty verdict of the week was returned on Friday morning. A jury convicted Darby Leroy Williams, 30, of North Little Rock, of being a felon in possession of two firearms and ammunition. Williams has prior felonies for distribution of drugs and is on parole because of those convictions. Law enforcement received information that Williams was dealing drugs from his residence. In March of 2018, North Little Rock Police Department (NLRPD) and Arkansas Community Corrections (ACC) conducted a parole search of Williams’ home and located two handguns, a Glock and a Ruger, both of which were loaded, as well as ammunition, methamphetamine, and marijuana. The case was investigated by NLRPD, ACC, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Cameron McCree and Lauren Eldridge and was also tried before Judge Baker.
The final guilty verdict arrived late Friday evening, when jurors deliberated for only 20 minutes after hearing the evidence against Ryan Kinsey, 35, of Beebe, who was charged with one count of Social Security fraud and one count of making materially false statements to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Kinsey was initially approved for Social Security Disability benefits in 2013 and had those benefits continued in June 2018. Part of the paperwork that Kinsey filled out in May 2018 to extend his benefits included sections where he affirmed that he was not working and was physically incapable of working based on his disability. But also in June 2018, a SSA employee with the Searcy field office noticed that, based on the physical appearance of Kinsey and the fact that he arrived at the office driving a truck with a large horse trailer attached, Kinsey appeared as if he had been working. A subsequent SSA-OIG investigation revealed that Kinsey had been working as a horse rancher on his family farm in Beebe. At trial, the United States called numerous witnesses who all testified that during the time periods alleged they had either bought horses or hay from Kinsey or had Kinsey transport livestock. In the 15 months prior to indictment, Kinsey received more than $100,000 in payments for his ranching activities. During that same time period, he fraudulently received more than $20,000 from SSA. The case was investigated by SSA-OIG, prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Bart Dickinson and Chris Givens, and tried before United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
The fourth trial that began last week, United States v. Gilbert Baker, is expected to last several weeks and has been paused due to a positive COVID-19 test from one of the trial participants. It is scheduled to resume Tuesday morning pending negative COVID-19 test results from the remaining trial participants.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Federal Charges Brought in Fentanyl CasesRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A federal grand jury has charged two Little Rock men with crimes involving fentanyl. Jemel Foster, 31, and Russell Stacks, 49, were indicted on July 6, 2021, in separate cases that both include charges of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Foster, who was previously charged in January 2021, faces a new charge: distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. At a bond hearing on February 16, 2021, prosecutors presented information about the overdose death of an individual referred to as K.W., and Foster was detained to await his trial.
Stacks, who faces a charge of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in addition to the fentanyl and gun charges, was initially charged in a complaint on June 7, 2021, and indicted yesterday. While conducting surveillance during the course of investigating Stacks, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) special agent encountered an individual who collapsed from a fentanyl overdose. The agent conducted CPR, issued Narcan, and resuscitated the individual, who had stopped breathing.
Foster and Stacks will appear for arraignment later this month before United States Magistrate Judge Jerome Kearney. The DEA is conducting the separate investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Givens is prosecuting the cases.
An indictment only contains allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
http://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
"Operation Ceasefire" Results in over 60 ArrestsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Law enforcement authorities have announced the results of a targeted effort to curb violent crime in Little Rock. “Operation Ceasefire” took place each day last week and resulted in 61 arrests of some of Little Rock’s most wanted. These efforts are part of a series of law enforcement actions that combine federal, state, and local resources to reduce gun crime.
Beginning on June 7 and continuing through the rest of last week, law enforcement identified the most violent targets in the Little Rock area, focusing on individuals who had active warrants for their arrests. The United States Marshals Service, Little Rock Police Department (LRPD), and the FBI’s Gang Enforcement Task Force—known as GETROCK—combined their resources to identify, locate, and arrest 61 wanted individuals in the Little Rock area.
Those arrested were wanted for crimes including capital murder, rape, aggravated assault, battery, terroristic act, aggravated robbery, and various drug and other charges. Approximately 10 of these targets were arrested for federal indictments charging them with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The 61 people who were arrested have been charged with 78 total felonies and 27 total misdemeanors. During the arrests, authorities seized 12 firearms and $16,095 in cash associated with criminal activity.
Statistics collected by LRPD indicate violent crime has increased 16% from 2020 to 2021. These arrests are part of a continued effort to combat violent crime in the Little Rock area and were conducted by the United States Marshals Service, the FBI GETROCK task force and their participating agencies: LRPD, Arkansas State Police, North Little Rock Police Department, Arkansas Department of Community Corrections, Pine Bluff Police Department, and Arkansas Air National Guard Counter Drug Unit.
An indictment contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Defrauding Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock man was sentenced for collecting over $250,000 in Social Security Disability payments when he was not actually disabled. Levell Baltimore, Jr., 45, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
In 2005, Baltimore applied for Social Security benefits and claimed to be disabled. He filled out a form stating he could not work or leave his house. He cited seasonal allergies, migraines, asthma, physical limitations, and fatigue as the reasons for his disability. Social Security initially denied his claim, but in further attempts to convince Social Security that he was disabled, he reported that he had not performed any substantial gainful activity in recent years. The Social Security Administration (SSA) eventually approved Baltimore’s claim, and he began receiving benefits in 2007.
Although Baltimore informed the SSA he had no income, he created and operated at least six businesses during the time he received disability benefits. Two of his businesses obtained contracts with the State of Arkansas. Though he was required to report any income to the SSA, he did not; rather, he continued telling the SSA he was unable to work.
Baltimore received fraudulent benefits from 2007 through June of 2018 totaling $284,862.25. Judge Moody sentenced Baltimore to pay that money back in restitution and also sentenced Baltimore to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.
Baltimore was charged in May 2018 with one count of theft of government funds and three counts of making false statements. In December 2020, he pleaded guilty to theft of government funds in exchange for dismissal of the other counts.
“This defendant stole from a system that is designed to support those who truly need help,” stated Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “This sentence shows that jail time awaits those whose greed and dishonesty embolden them to commit frauds such as these.”
“This sentencing sends a strong message that we are committed to protecting the Social Security disability programs and will hold accountable those who obtain benefits by fraudulent means,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General of the Social Security Administration. “For over a decade, this individual willfully concealed his ability to work to collect federal benefits. I thank the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their efforts in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary prosecuted the case for the United States.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Gang Leader Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A former Little Rock gang leader of the Wolfe Street Crips has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for his role in a marijuana conspiracy as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Thursday afternoon, United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker sentenced Machita Mitchell, Jr., aka “Frog”, 45, to 180 months’ imprisonment.
The case is the result of an investigation by the Little Rock Police Department (LRPD) with assistance from Arkansas Community Corrections into a drug conspiracy involving members of the Wolfe Street Crips. In June 2017, probation officers and LRPD conducted a home visit at Mitchell’s residence. Mitchell was on active supervision with a search waiver on file. Officers located four firearms, a gallon size bag of marijuana, and several trash bags full of marijuana. Mitchell admitted the marijuana was his and that he possessed the firearms to protect the marijuana and the money he made from it.
Mitchell was charged in January 2018 with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In exchange for his October 2019 plea to the conspiracy and the firearm charge, the possession of marijuana charge was dropped.
In February 2016, Mitchell was accused of making threats to kill two individuals and brandishing a firearm. Testimony from a LRPD detective indicated that Mitchell had made these threats over allegations that someone had stolen cash and marijuana. Mitchell was charged and arrested, and further investigation revealed he bribed the two individuals he threatened to drop their complaints against him in exchange for cash.
Mitchell also faces state charges of capital murder and aggravated robbery, to which he had pled not guilty and which he contests, stemming from the shooting death of a 14-year-old boy who was present in an apartment that allegedly contained marijuana.
In addition to the 15-year prison sentence, Judge Baker sentenced Mitchell to serve three years of supervised release. The investigation was conducted by the FBI GETROCK Task Force and the Little Rock Police Department with assistance from Arkansas Community Corrections.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
VA Employee Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Veterans' Personal InformationRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A former program analyst for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was sentenced to prison on Thursday afternoon after stealing personal information from veterans and VA employees. Phillip Hill, 35, of Malvern, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.
In the fall of 2017, federal agents learned that Hill, who worked at the North Little Rock VA Medical Center, had access to veterans’ and current VA employees’ personal information to include names, dates of birth, and social security numbers.
Agents learned that Hill had contacted another individual and attempted to sell personal identifying information to a buyer for approximately $100,000. Multiple recorded conversations with this individual and Hill were monitored by agents. Throughout one monitored conversation, Hill repeatedly acknowledged the illegality of his conduct. Hill explained that he was offering to sell the personal identifying information for any veteran who had received VA compensation or a pension, visited a VA medical center, or had completed a VA financial assessment. Hill also offered to sell personal identifying information for VA employees, explaining the employees data would be particularly valuable to identity thieves, as it would include personal identifying information and personal account information for employees who were earning over $50,000 a year.
Hill was arrested on December 17, 2017, at the VA Regional Office by agents. As part of the investigation, his phone was searched. Records found on the phone indicated that a VA database spreadsheet containing personal information had been loaded onto Hill’s Google drive account had been accessed by Hill on his phone days prior to his arrest.
“This defendant took advantage of his position of trust within the VA healthcare system,” stated Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “His fraudulent scheme had the potential to create financial chaos for those whose information he stole. This sentence demonstrates our office’s commitment to prosecuting those who would defraud the heroes who have served our country.”
“This sentence sends a clear message that those entrusted with the protection of the personal information of our nation’s veterans and VA employees will be held accountable should they violate that trust,” said U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA OIG) Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Breen, South Central Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners at the United States Secret Service for their joint efforts to achieve justice in this case.”
Hill was indicted in January 2018 with attempted trafficking in access devices, aggravated identity theft, and possession of access device-making equipment. In September 2019, he pleaded guilty to attempted trafficking in access devices in exchange for dismissal of the remaining charges. In addition to 46 months in prison, Judge Baker sentenced Hill to two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment. The case was investigated by the VA OIG with assistance from the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jana Harris.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Teacher's Assistant Charged with Multiple Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— A teacher’s assistant has been arrested and charged with production of child pornography. Augustus “Gus” Shenker, 21, was charged in a criminal complaint on May 19, 2021. He was arrested today and will be arraigned this week before United States Magistrate Judge J. Thomas Ray.
On May 18, 2021, FBI agents arrested Shenker on a criminal complaint alleging transportation of child pornography and possession of child pornography. Through the course of the investigation, law enforcement learned that Shenker has been employed as a teacher’s assistant at Miss Selma’s School in Little Rock since 2017. On May 18, 2021, Shenker was released on conditions of bond, but the investigation continued, and based on new information, federal prosecutors filed a second criminal complaint charging him with production of child pornography.
The FBI is seeking to identify potential victims in this case. Anyone with additional information to report about Augustus Shenker can call the FBI at 501-221-9100.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joan Shipley and Kristin Bryant.
A criminal complaint only contains allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
White Supremacist President Sentenced to 35 Years in Violent Racketeering CaseRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Wesley Gullett, the president of a white supremacist organization which sold multiple kilograms of methamphetamine and committed numerous violent acts—including attempted murder—will spend the more than three decades in federal prison.
On Wednesday, United States District Court Judge Brian S. Miller sentenced Gullett, 31, of Russellville, to 35 years imprisonment, with five years of supervised release to follow, for Gullett’s leadership role in a violent drug conspiracy. There is no parole in the federal system. Gullett was president of New Aryan Empire (NAE), a white supremacist group founded by inmates in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Gullett was originally charged in October 2017, and a federal grand jury charged him along with 51 other defendants in a Second Superseding Indictment in September 2019. On February 3, 2021, Gullett pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit racketeering and conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute. In his plea agreement, Gullett admitted to solicitation to commit murder and attempted murder, among other violent acts.
At Wednesday’s hearing, before imposing the sentence, Judge Miller heard details of how Gullett attempted to murder Bruce Wayne Hurley, an individual who had purchased methamphetamine from NAE associates. Gullett attempted to murder Hurley because he believed Hurley was acting as an informant for law enforcement. Gullett also solicited other NAE members to murder Hurley.
In addition, the NAE, under the direction of Gullett, carried out other retaliatory acts against those who they believed had provided information to law enforcement. Members of NAE retaliated against one alleged witness by kidnapping him, having people take turns beating him, branding his face with a hot knife, and having a dog bite him. Another alleged witness was kidnapped twice, beaten, and stabbed. For violating NAE’s code, the organization physically assaulted and battered, “X’ed” them out (also referred to as taking their patch), or killed violating members.
“This defendant used his corrupt white supremacist organization to commit heinous crimes of violence,” said Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “These despicable acts, which included trying to murder a witness, will now appropriately be punished with 35 years in prison, where this defendant can no longer wreak havoc and poison our community.”
In addition to the violent acts, law enforcement officials investigated the NAE’s methamphetamine trafficking organization. During the coordinated federal and state investigation, law enforcement agents made 59 controlled purchases of methamphetamine, seizing more than 25 pounds of methamphetamine, as well as 69 firearms and more than $70,000 in drug proceeds.
Three remaining defendants of the original 51 charged are awaiting trial, which is currently set for September 7, 2021. One defendant is still a fugitive, and all other defendants have pleaded guilty.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ross, together with Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jarad O. Harper, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Acting Resident Agent in Charge Clayton Merrell, announced today’s sentence.
The investigation was conducted by FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, in partnership with the Pope County Sheriff’s Office, Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force, Russellville Police Department, Arkansas State Police, Conway Police Department, and United States Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in the Eastern District of Arkansas with assistance from the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“We in the Eastern District of Arkansas would like to express our sincere gratitude to the law enforcement officers for their commitment and sacrifice to protect the citizens in our District,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “While we expressly honor each of you during National Police Week, that honor extends to every day of the year. Thank you for making our communities safer while oftentimes working under difficult and dangerous conditions.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Here in the Eastern District of Arkansas, four officers died in the line of duty.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Malvern Residents Charged in Fraudulent Puppy ScamRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK-Two Malvern residents have been charged with fraudulently selling purebred, registered puppies that did not actually exist. Helda Verla Berinyuy and Thierry Assoueesoh Ekwelle, both 31, are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and 22 counts of wire fraud in an indictment handed down by a federal grand jury on May 4, 2021, that became public today.
The indictment alleges that Berinyuy and Ekwelle were Cameroon citizens who came to the United States and attended college in Arkansas, with Ekwelle eventually becoming a naturalized American citizen. According to the indictment, Berinyuy and Ekwelle were neighbors and students at Arkansas State University Three Rivers in Malvern.
Allegedly, from August 2018 through November 2020, Berinyuy and Ekwelle used websites to advertise the sale of purebred, AKC registered puppies such as French Bulldogs, Boxers, Toy Poodles, English Bulldogs, and others, when in fact, they did not have any puppies for sale.
In order to collect money from purchasers, the indictment claims, the defendants promised to deliver the puppies via airplanes. After receiving the initial purchase money, the defendants would request added fees to cover costs such as puppy crates, extra handling fees due to COVID-19, and pet insurance, among other things.
The indictment alleges that each purchaser sent the defendants an amount of money ranging from $500 to $5,000. The defendants would use various aliases to pick up the money, which was sent via Western Union and Walmart transfers at various locations throughout Arkansas. As a result of the scheme, according to the indictment, Berinyuy and Ekwelle “sold” puppies to approximately 153 victims from multiple states and received approximately $110,691.50.
Berinyuy and Ekwelle will appear for arraignment later this month before United States Magistrate Judge Thomas Ray. The FBI is conducting the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Pat Harris is prosecuting the case.
An indictment only contains allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Jury Finds Convicted Felon Guilty of Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—After a two-day trial, a federal jury has found Jack Lee Guffey, 60, guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The jury returned their verdict following 45 minutes of deliberating on Tuesday afternoon after trial began on Monday and continued with testimony on Tuesday. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr., presided over the trial, and Judge Moody will sentence Guffey, of Shirley, at a later date.
On January 21, 2018, Guffey was driving his black Dodge pickup truck in Clinton when he almost struck the unmarked vehicle of a Van Buren County Sheriff’s Deputy with his truck. That deputy radioed for help, and other officers arrived behind the truck and observed Guffey cross the center line seven times. Officers initiated a traffic stop and conducted field sobriety tests, which Guffey failed. Guffey was arrested for driving while intoxicated, and during an inventory search of his vehicle, officers located a loaded High Point 9mm handgun in the truck as well as drug paraphernalia. Guffey was a convicted felon at the time of the incident, and at trial, his longtime friend testified that she had given him the firearm.
Because Guffey is a felon, it is illegal for him to possess a firearm. A grand jury indicted Guffey on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm in November 2020. He has prior convictions for aggravated robbery, second degree battery, escape, commercial burglary and theft of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and residential burglary.
The statutory penalty for being a felon in possession of a firearm is not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, not more than three years of supervised release, and not more than a $250,000 fine. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office and the Clinton Police Department.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Two Pulaski County Men Convicted After Cocaine Conspiracy TrialRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—After a three-day trial, a federal jury has found two Pulaski County men guilty of their involvement in a cocaine distribution conspiracy. James “Richie Rich” Richards, 52, of Wrightsville, and Isaac May, 42, of Sweet Home, were found guilty on all counts when the jury returned their verdict late Wednesday evening. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr., presided over the trial, and Judge Moody will sentence Richards and May at a later date.
Both Richards and May were charged with and convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and several counts of using a phone to facilitate a drug trafficking crime. Richards was also convicted of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, and one count of distribution of cocaine.
Richards and May were originally charged in August 2018 with nine other defendants, all of whom have already pleaded guilty. The investigation revealed that in December 2017, Richards began supplying May with cocaine that Richards obtained from supplier and codefendant John Garner. In January 2018, Garner began dealing with May directly. Garner supplied May with cocaine two to three times per week until April of 2018.
Garner had a longer relationship with Richards and began using Richards’ home in Little Rock as a base of distribution in 2010. Garner supplied Richards with cocaine on a daily basis, in significant amounts large enough for Richards to distribute to other sellers, including kilogram and ounce quantities. A confidential informant recorded transactions in which he bought cocaine from Richards, and Richards discussing his cocaine distribution activities, and those recordings were played at trial.
At trial, Garner testified against his former customers. He stated that the approximately seven kilograms of cocaine found in his home and at his storage unit during the execution of a search warrants in June 2018 was part of the supply he was using to distribute to Richards and May, among other customers. Had Garner not been arrested, he would have continued distributing to Richards and May from this supply.
In July 2020, Garner was sentenced to 180 months in prison. Other codefendants who have been sentenced in the case include Larry Clark, Jr. – 262 months, Antwan Hardaway – 12 months and 1 day, and Bridgette Williams – 36 months. All remaining defendants, including Richards and May, are awaiting sentencing.
The statutory penalty for conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine is not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10 million, and not less than five years of supervised release. The statutory penalty for distribution of less than 500 grams of cocaine is not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1 million, and not less than three years of supervised release. The statutory penalty for using a phone in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is not more than four years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000, and not more than one year of supervised release. The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Arkansas State Police and Arkansas National Guard Counter Drug. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julie Peters and Chris Givens.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Former Greene Co. Sheriff’s Lieutenant Sentenced to Two Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A former Greene County Sheriff’s Lieutenant has been sentenced to two years in prison after stealing over $30,000 used in a ruse undercover drug operation. Allen Scott Pillow, 56, of Paragould, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
Pillow pleaded guilty on December 21, 2020, to one count of theft of government funds. In addition to the term of 24 months’ imprisonment, Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Pillow to two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment as well as a $15,200 fine.
After receiving information that former Lieutenant Pillow might be abusing his role with the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Special Agents and Task Force Officers conducted a ruse narcotics investigation and sought Pillow’s help with the investigation. Pillow had previously retired from Arkansas State Police, where he was suspected to be involved with multiple instances of theft. On November 4, 2019, FBI task force officers parked a rental vehicle in a commercial parking lot in Paragould and staged a glass drug pipe in the vehicle along with a red backpack containing $76,000. The cash was divided into ten bundles of $7,600 each, and investigators recorded the serial numbers.
After staging the vehicle, two FBI Task Force Officers contacted Pillow on his cell phone and asked him to respond to the scene. The officers relayed to Pillow that they began a narcotics investigation in Tennessee and now needed Pillow’s help as the target had traveled into Arkansas. Pillow traveled to the scene in his Sheriff’s Department vehicle, searched the staged rental vehicle, and recovered the glass pipe, backpack, and currency.
Later that day, Pillow called the officers and informed them that the backpack had contained $45,600, leading agents to believe Pillow had taken four bundles of $7,600 each, totaling $30,400 of stolen FBI funds. Agents obtained a search warrant for Pillow’s residence and found $2,300 in his possession and $27,820 in a safe in his attic. The serial numbers on the discovered currency matched the original FBI serial numbers. The remaining $280 in stolen funds was not located.
Pillow was indicted in November 2019, and the case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
20 Months in Prison for Memphis Area Man Offering KickbacksRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK-United States District Judge Brian S. Miller sentenced Bradley Fly, 36, of Germantown, Tenn., to 20 months in federal prison for violating the Anti-Kickback Statute. In July 2019, Fly pleaded guilty to offering two TRICARE beneficiaries money in exchange for signing up to receive expensive compounded drugs.
At sentencing, the United States introduced evidence that Fly bribed two people: his longtime friend (then a Marine reservist), plus an Army National Guardsman, whom Fly solicited while seated courtside at a Memphis Grizzlies game. Fly then facilitated prescriptions for both men and their wives, for which TRICARE paid over $500,000, earning himself over $180,000 in commission.
Judge Miller heard testimony from the Marine reservist and from a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) that the prescriptions were part of a larger network of prescription generation, including recruiters whom Fly paid for TRICARE beneficiary information and a group of doctors whom Fly used to sign prescriptions without consulting patients.
“There is no room for kickbacks in the healthcare marketplace,” said Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “Serious penalties and prison await those, like Mr. Fly, who fail to abide by the law. This office and its partners at the FBI and HHS-OIG are committed to rooting out such criminal conduct.”
“Mr. Fly paid kickbacks generating fraudulent claims to line his pockets without concern for the health and welfare of the patients,” said Miranda L. Bennett, Special Agent in Charge of the HHS-OIG Dallas Region. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to pursue individuals defrauding federal health care programs.”
“By defrauding TRICARE, Mr. Fly disgracefully cheated U.S. veterans, their families, and American taxpayers,” said FBI Little Rock Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Van Goor. “We are grateful for our state and federal partners who help us both investigate these cases and protect the financial integrity of our nation’s health care systems.”
In addition to the 20-month prison sentence, Fly was sentenced to three years of supervised release. The investigation was conducted by HHS-OIG and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Morgan.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
DeWitt Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for Threats Made to Federal Law Enforcement Agents and a Former United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Multiple death threats, including repeated threats to FBI agents and a former United States Attorney, earned a Dewitt man 40 years in federal prison. Clayton Jackson, 35, whose legal address is in Minnesota but who was living in Dewitt when the original threats were made, received the 480-month sentence from United States District Court Judge Susan Webber Wright on Wednesday.
Jackson originally pleaded guilty on November 2, 2020, to all five counts of an indictment that charged him with three counts of threatening to assault and murder a federal official and two counts of mailing threatening communications. Each of the five counts carried a maximum 10-year sentence. On Wednesday, Judge Wright sentenced Jackson to the maximum 10 years on each count, and then ran the sentences for counts 1 through 4 consecutively, and count 5 concurrently, to arrive at the 40-year sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
At his change of plea hearing, Jackson admitted that he mailed two letters to the FBI headquarters in Little Rock, one in February 2020 and one in March 2020, which threatened to kill multiple FBI employees who he believed were involved in an unrelated criminal matter. Both letters were signed by Jackson. After the FBI received and reviewed the correspondences, an FBI special agent not named in the letters interviewed Jackson. During the interview Jackson admitted that he sent the letters and reiterated his intention to kill the people named in the letters. During the interview, Jackson said that the letters were “not a threat, but a promise,” and acknowledged that he knew it was a crime to send those letters, but said “I can’t be sentenced forever” when emphasizing his desire to kill the FBI employees. Jackson was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 4, 2020.
At the sentencing hearing on Wednesday, an FBI special agent testified that after indictment, Jackson continued to write letters threatening to kill the same people named in the original letters, as well as additional civilians not originally named. The FBI received three letters that Jackson wrote while in custody, which stated his intention to escape from prison and kill additional people, including former United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas Cody Hiland. According to testimony on Wednesday, the most recent letter, in which Jackson stated there was a “price tag” on two civilians, was dated March 11, 2021, and addressed to the “White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan.” Additional testimony Wednesday detailed an unsuccessful escape attempt by Jackson from Prairie County jail on March 7, 2021, in which Jackson assaulted a local prison guard.
“This defendant’s repeated threats against law enforcement were a failed attempt to intimidate those who have sworn to protect and serve,” said Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “This lengthy sentence should serve as a warning: threats like these will not be tolerated and will not prevent law enforcement from doing their important work of protecting our communities.”
“We are pleased with the Court’s decision regarding Clayton Jackson today,” said FBI Little Rock Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Van Goor. “We take any threat against law enforcement seriously, and we believe Mr. Jackson’s 40-year sentence will serve as a warning to anyone thinking about threatening federal agents and officers. As always, we are grateful to our partners at the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas for their tremendous work on this case.”
In explaining her sentence, Judge Wright highlighted Jackson’s continued criminal conduct after indictment and his lack of remorse.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Givens.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Russellville Woman Sentenced to More Than 21 Years in Prison for Kidnapping in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Russellville woman was sentenced today for her role in two kidnappings carried out on behalf of a white supremacist gang. Amanda Rapp, 40, was sentenced to 262 months, or 21.8 years, in federal prison by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller.
Rapp pleaded guilty on October 29, 2020, to two counts of Kidnapping in Aid of Racketeering. In addition to the term of 262 months’ imprisonment, Judge Miller also sentenced Rapp to five years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment.
The investigation began in 2016, when local and federal agencies initiated a joint investigation to identify, infiltrate, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations in Russellville. Agents identified multiple individuals who were trafficking methamphetamine in the Pope County area. The investigation revealed that Rapp was an associate of the New Aryan Empire (NAE), a white supremacist organization that began as a prison gang and functioned as a drug trafficking organization.
In May 2017, Rapp and other NAE members and associates kidnapped two individuals who they suspected of cooperating with law enforcement, which violated the rules imposed by leaders of NAE. The two victims were held against their will for over 24 hours, during which time NAE members and associates restrained the victims and assaulted them. During the kidnapping, one of the assailants heated a knife with a torch and placed the hot knife on the face of one of the victims, causing severe and permanent disfigurement.
“Today’s sentence in Operation ‘To The Dirt’ is an important step in pushing back against the turmoil brought about by gang activity in the River Valley,” said Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “We will continue to investigate the violent activities that stem from drug trafficking in this as well as other corrupt organizations.”
“This case was a joint effort with our state, local and federal partners and stands as a great example of a cooperative and complimentary investigation,” stated Clayton R. Merrill, Resident Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “ATF continues to remain committed to stopping those who use firearms to further their criminal activities and who are preying on our communities.”
“Our neighborhoods deserve to exist without fear and intimidation inflicted by violent drug gangs like the New Aryan Empire,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley. “The unprecedented collaboration between all law enforcement agencies represented in this region exemplifies the continuing unified goal of keeping our neighborhoods safe and secure. The sentencing of this individual will undoubtedly convey a strong and unified message to those who continue to engage in criminal activities, threatening the safety of our citizens.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will always prioritize cases involving violent crimes and narcotics. We are proud to have investigated this case with our federal and local law enforcement partners to achieve this end,” said Thomas Noyes, Inspector in Charge of the Fort Worth Division. “We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their dedication to this case as well. Working together, we will continue to identify, and bring to justice, those who threaten our communities.”
“I greatly appreciate the cooperative investigative effort of our investigators in conjunction with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners that resulted in successful resolution of these cases,” said David Ewing, Chief of the Russellville Police Department. “The teamwork displayed by those involved shows that our cumulative efforts reinforces our commitment to safeguarding our respective communities from this type of criminal behavior.”
Rapp was charged on September 3, 2019, in a federal indictment that charged more than 50 people from the Pope County area with violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering, and numerous gun and drug violations. The case is named “To The Dirt,” a reference to the NAE slogan referring to the rule that members must remain in the NAE until they die. The charges allege acts involving attempted murder, kidnapping, maiming, and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Of the 55 total defendants charged in “Operation ‘To The Dirt,’” 49 defendants have pleaded guilty, and nine of those defendants have already been sentenced to prison terms: Jared Dale, 84 months; Britanny Conner, 120 months; Keith Savage, 120 months; Joseph Pridmore, 150 months; Daniel Adame, 262 months; Justin Howell, 155 months; James George, 70 months; Amos Adame, 121 months; and Skippy Don Sanders, 262 months. The remaining defendants are awaiting trial.
The investigation was conducted by ATF, DEA, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pope County Sheriff’s Office, Fifth Judicial Drug Task Force, and the Russellville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Crittenden County Felon Who Possessed Firearm Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Flando Selvy, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 10 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down Tuesday afternoon by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
Selvy, 42, of Turrell, Ark., pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm on January 7, 2020. That conviction was based on a July 2017 incident in which Selvy shot Dewayne Aikens with a Taurus 9mm handgun, resulting in Aikens’ death. During a search of the crime scene, a 9mm shell casing was found that matched the ammunition found in Selvy’s 9mm firearm.
Selvy was charged with Aikens’ murder in state court, but after a trial resulted in a hung jury, the state charges were dismissed. At Tuesday’s federal sentencing hearing, Judge Moody heard evidence regarding the shooting that resulted in Aikens’ death that led him to conclude Selvy should be sentenced to 10 years in prison for the firearm conviction—the maximum sentence allowed by law. Judge Moody also sentenced Selvy to three years of supervised release to follow his prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
"This case is a perfect example of why our increased focus on gun violence is so important," said Acting United States Attorney Ross. "Taking violent offenders off the streets has been and will remain a top priority of our office, and we appreciate the work of the Crittenden County Sheriff's Department and all of our local law enforcement partners who make these cases possible."
The investigation was conducted by the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Crews.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Woman Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock woman was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison after fraudulently obtaining nearly $2 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans intended to provide relief for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Diane Upchurch, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, announced the sentence of Ganell Tubbs, 41.
Tubbs pleaded guilty to bank fraud in December 2020 and admitted that she purported to own two businesses: The Little Piglet Soap Company, LLC, and Suga Girl Customs, LLC. According to the Arkansas Secretary of State, neither business is in good standing, and both businesses list Tubbs’ residence and personal phone number as the business contact information.
On April 30, 2020, Tubbs submitted a PPP application representing that Suga Girl Customs had paid $1,385,903 in wages and compensation during the first quarter of 2020. She was approved for a PPP loan of $1,518,887 and received the funds on May 5, 2020, but two days later, she used the proceeds to make an $8,000 payment on her personal student loan. The following week, Tubbs spent approximately $6,000 in online purchases at retailers including Apple, Michael Kors, Sephora, North Face, Nike, and others.
Similarly, on May 5, 2020, Tubbs submitted another PPP application, this time regarding The Little Piglet Soap Company. Based on the false representations she made in the loan application, The Little Piglet Soap Company received a PPP loan for $414,375.
The indictment, which was returned by a grand jury on July 7, 2020, charged Tubbs with two counts of bank fraud, two counts of making a false statement on a loan application, and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction with proceeds of unlawful activity. Tubbs’ earlier guilty plea to one count of bank fraud was received in exchange for dismissal of the remaining charges.
United States District Judge Brian S. Miller imposed the sentence, which included two years of supervised release in addition to the 41 month prison sentence. Judge Miller also ordered Tubbs to pay $14,000 restitution, as the rest of the nearly $2 million was able to be recovered previously. The FBI, the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Pat Harris and Jamie Dempsey prosecuted the case.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Gang Activity in White County Results in Dozens of Federal ArrestsRead the Press Release
SEARCY, ARKANSAS—Seventeen individuals were arrested Thursday morning as part of a sweeping law enforcement operation that targeted associates of a drug organization responsible for the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine in Searcy and the White County area.
The investigation, named Operation Central Sweep, began in April 2020 to combat the growing violent crimes associated with gang-related activity traced to the “Gangster Disciples,” a drug distribution organization operating in the Searcy area. Numerous indictments, which were returned by a Grand Jury on March 5, 2020, and unsealed today, named 33 defendants who are charged with various drug and firearm offenses. Law enforcement officers arrested 17 individuals, and eight defendants were already in state custody prior to today’s operation. Eight defendants are currently considered fugitives (see defendant list).
Prior to today’s arrests, the investigation had resulted in the seizure of 105 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.3 pounds of cocaine, and 44 firearms. During arrest operations on Thursday, agents recovered four additional firearms.
“Our neighborhoods deserve to exist without fear and intimidation inflicted by violent drug gangs like the Gangster Disciples,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley. “The arrests today are an example of DEA’s relentless pursuit to target individuals and organizations that plague and pollute our communities with their drug trafficking and violence. DEAs continued pledge to the people of Arkansas is to continue to continue to work with all our law enforcement partners to pursue these violent criminals and drug traffickers.”
“The focus is on the community,” said Thomas Noyes, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service Fort Worth Division. “It is fulfilling to see an array of departments working together to take criminals, drugs, and guns off the streets, but the real reward is restoring a sense of safety to the community. It is an honor to have worked with so many towards that end, and we thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their commitment to seek the maximum prosecution for criminals who have posed such grave danger to our towns.”
“As today’s operation demonstrated, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), along with our state and federal law enforcement partners, continues to enhance our ability to disrupt deadly narcotics and weapons trafficking,” said HSI New Orleans acting Special Agent in Charge Jack Staton. “This operation sends a strong message to drug dealers that HSI will use every available resource to prevent and dismantle the flow of dangerous and addictive substances into our communities.”
ATF is proud to stand with our state, federal and local partners against violent drug and gang crime in our communities,” said William McCrary, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “This case is a great example of cooperative law enforcement at its best. We will continue to work together to address these serious crimes.”
The investigation was conducted jointly with DEA, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, Searcy Police Department, 17th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, White County Sheriff’s Office; and the Central Arkansas Drug Task Force.
Additional agencies assisting in the arrest operation included Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Highway Police, Arkansas Department of Corrections, Arkansas National Guard Counterdrug Unit, 20th Judicial District Drug Task Force, Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office, Prairie County Sheriff’s Office, White County Sheriff’s Office, United States Marshals Service, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and United States Probation Office.
The charges in today’s unsealed indictments include conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; felon in possession of a firearm; and unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm.
The maximum penalty for the drug charges is not less than 10 years in prison and up to life imprisonment and a $10,000,000 fine. The maximum penalty for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime is not less than five years in prison and up to life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for being a felon or an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm is 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The defendants arrested today will appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe J. Volpe on March 15, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. for plea and arraignment. Defendants who were already in custody will have arraignments scheduled later. Trial dates will be announced at plea and arraignment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Fields. The defendants charged include:
Juan Ahumada, 26, Searcy (*)
Christopher Barefield, 28, Conway
Cory Birdwell, 34, Searcy (*)
Rodney Bishop, 46, Judsonia (&)
Benjamin Blue, 44, Searcy (*)
Dennis Boatman, 29, Searcy (&)
Albert Cates, 57, Searcy (&)
Aaron Cromwell, 29, Searcy (*)
Justice Cunningham, 23, Searcy (%)
Athena Delancey, 40, Augusta
Sigmond Donelson, 47, Searcy
Kayla Haggins, 26, Helena-West Helena (*)
Kenny Isom, 32, McRae (*)
Keith Johnson, 38, Helena-West Helena (*)
Lyron Johnson, 57, Searcy
Timothy Johnston, 58, Searcy (*)
Rickey Jones, 34, Searcy (&)
Christopher Koser, 19, Judsonia
Earl Lockhart III, 44, Augusta
Felicia Mason, 25, Searcy
Michael Matthews, 39, Bald Knob (*)
Anthony Miles, 55, Judsonia (*)
Donald Patterson, 33, Helena-West Helena (*)
Branden Priddy, 29, Searcy (&)
Cynthia Rainey, 35, Searcy (*)
John Rayburn, 30, Searcy (*)
Roderick Roberson, 43, Searcy
Andre “Smoke” Smith, 21, Searcy (*)
Nathaniel Stipes, 28, Judsonia (*)
Marcus Trouten, 35, Searcy (*)
Terry White, 26, Searcy
Keith Williams, 47, Augusta (&)
Evander Young, 32, Searcy (*)
* arrested Thursday
& in state custody
% fugitive
An indictment contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Sherwood Man Detained Pending Trial on Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Sherwood man will remain in custody to await trial after being indicted on federal firearm charges. Noah Shoemaker, 37, appeared for a bond hearing on Monday afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Patricia S. Harris.
Shoemaker was charged in January 2021 with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing a machine gun. When FBI agents arrested Shoemaker on January 30, 2021, they discovered he had fled to Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Upon locating Shoemaker, agents found a firearm on his person and another firearm in his vehicle as well as numerous rounds of ammunition. Additionally, Shoemaker was equipped with camping gear, bottled water, cash, fire supplies, and other survival gear.
Judge Harris determined that Shoemaker poses a risk of flight as well as a risk of danger to the community and remanded him to the custody of the United States Marshals. He will remain in custody until his trial, which is currently scheduled for March 29, 2021, but is expected to be continued due to the Court’s Administrative Order 11.
Shoemaker was initially charged in January on a federal complaint, and subsequently indicted on three charges—two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing a machine gun—on Feb. 3, 2021. Being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a machine gun are both punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. This case is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacy Williams.
An indictment contains only allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Eighth Defendant Pleads Guilty in Tricare SchemeRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—An eighth defendant has pleaded guilty in connection with a $12 million scheme to generate prescriptions for expensive compounded drugs paid for by TRICARE. Blake Yoder, 39, of Scott, entered his guilty plea Wednesday afternoon before United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.
Yoder joins seven others who have pleaded guilty: Albert Glenn Hudson, 40, of Sherwood; Derek Clifton, 39, of Alexander; Donna Crowder, 66, of North Little Rock; Jennifer Crowder (formerly Bracy), 38, of Little Rock; Keith Benson, 50, of North Little Rock; Keith Hunter, 52, of Little Rock; and Angie Johnson, 49, of North Little Rock. Remaining defendants Joe David May a.k.a. Jay May, 40, of Alexander, and Kenneth Myers, Jr., 42, now of Alpharetta, Georgia, await trial on December 6, 2021, also before Judge Baker.
Charges were first filed in January 2020. A superseding indictment followed in September 2020. Hudson admitted paying Benson, Hunter, Johnson, Myers, and Yoder to recruit TRICARE beneficiaries to receive expensive compounded drugs and then paying Bracy and Clifton to get Crowder and May to rubber stamp medically unnecessary prescriptions. Hudson, Bracy, and Crowder admitted Crowder’s signature was secured by payments to her daughter (Bracy). Additionally, Clifton admitted giving cash to May in exchange for his signature, a fact also known to Hudson. After federal agents began investigating, Hudson and Clifton acknowledged helping Crowder and May fabricate medical records to make it seem as if patients were examined before receiving prescriptions.
May and Myers are charged with conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, violating the anti-kickback statute, and lying to the FBI. May faces additional charges for falsifying records and aggravated identity theft, while Myers faces additional charges for witness tampering and obstruction of justice. An indictment contains only allegations; May and Myers are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
All eight co-conspirators pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, which is punishable by up to five years in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Together they agreed to forfeit over $3.2 million in illicit proceeds. Sentencing will follow at a later date.
Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Diane Upchurch, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, and Miranda Bennett, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and HHS-OIG. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Morgan.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
White Supremacist Leader Pleads Guilty in Racketeering CaseRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK-A Russellville man pleaded guilty today to his involvement in a racketeering and narcotics conspiracy based on his role as president of a white supremacist organization. Wesley Gullett, 31, was president of New Aryan Empire (NAE), a white supremacist group founded by inmates in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Gullett entered a guilty plea today before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller.
Prosecutors alleged that from 2014 to 2016, Gullett and NAE associate Marcus Millsap repeatedly offered money to other NAE associates to kill Bruce Wayne Hurley, an individual who had purchased methamphetamine from Millsap. According to the charging document, NAE members believed Hurley had provided information about Millsap to law enforcement, and NAE members allegedly carried out other retaliatory acts against those who they believed had provided information to law enforcement.
In addition to the violent acts, law enforcement officials investigated the NAE’s methamphetamine trafficking organization. During the coordinated federal and state investigation, law enforcement agents made 59 controlled purchases of methamphetamine, seizing more than 25 pounds of methamphetamine, as well as 69 firearms and more than $70,000 in drug proceeds.
Gullett was originally charged in October 2017, and a federal grand jury charged him along with 51 other defendants in a Second Superseding Indictment in September 2019. Gullett pleaded guilty today to two counts of the Second Superseding Indictment: conspiracy to commit racketeering and conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
After Gullett’s plea, six remaining defendants are awaiting trial, which is currently set for September 7, 2021. All other defendants have pleaded guilty. As part of Gullett’s plea, he and prosecutors agree to jointly request a sentence of 35 years in the Bureau of Prisons. Judge Miller will determine whether to accept the plea agreement and sentence Gullett at a later date. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, together with Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Thomas M. Fisher and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Acting Resident Agent in Charge Clayton Merrell, announced today’s guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, in partnership with the Pope County Sheriff’s Office, Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force, Russellville Police Department, Arkansas State Police, Conway Police Department, and United States Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in the Eastern District of Arkansas with assistance from the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Texas Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Defrauding the Internal Revenue Service:Read the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK-A Dallas area tax preparer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after his participation in a scheme that rerouted more than $11.5 million that was intended to benefit farmers who had been discriminated against. Jerry Green, 40, pleaded guilty today before Chief United States District Judge D. Price Marshall, who will sentence Green at a later date.
Green admitted preparing at least 82 false tax returns as part of a scheme to defraud the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In 1997, a group of Black farmers filed a class action lawsuit alleging they had been discriminated against when they applied for farm credit, credit servicing, or farm benefits from USDA. A similar lawsuit alleged that Hispanic and women farmers also experienced discrimination in USDA farm benefit programs. Both lawsuits were settled and resulted in a claims process where farmers could make a claim for financial relief by showing they had applied for participation in a USDA benefit program and had been denied. Successful claims resulted in an award of $62,500. Of that, $50,000 would be made payable to the claimant, and $12,500 would be transferred directly to the IRS as a tax withholding.
Green worked for First Choice Taxes, a tax preparation service. At today’s hearing, Green admitted that he was hired by co-defendant Rosie Bryant to assist with filing false tax returns for Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation claimants. In November 2013, Green opened his own tax preparation business, Jiffy Tax, and met with Rosie Bryant and her sisters, Lynda Charles, Delois Bryant, and Brenda Sherpell, all of whom are now co-defendants in the case. According to statements made at the plea hearing, Green and the four sisters reached an agreement in which Jiffy Tax would prepare fraudulent tax returns for Hispanic Women’s Farmers and Ranchers claimants in exchange for a payment of $550 per fraudulent return. The false returns Green filed totaled $4,615,009.
Green and his co-defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2019. In addition to the charges against Green and the four Bryant sisters, the indictment alleges that Little Rock attorney Everett Martindale also worked for the sisters by depositing claim checks into his law firm trust account, issuing a check from that trust account to the claimant, and withholding his attorney fee—which he would then split with the sisters. The sisters and Martindale are awaiting trial, which is scheduled for February 7, 2022.
“Today’s guilty plea is the first step towards resolving this complex fraud investigation,” stated Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross. “We appreciate the work of IRS Criminal Investigation in their efforts to bring this matter to justice.”
“Today, Mr. Green admitted to using his tax return business, Jiffy Tax, to make a fast buck with a scheme where he conspired with others to prepare false client tax returns,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation Dallas Field Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Pearson. “Let this be a reminder to others seeking to enrich themselves illegally - IRS-CI will continue to work diligently to identify, investigate and recommend prosecution of abusive return preparers to protect the American tax system.”
In October 2019, the United States government filed a civil case to forfeit several properties that were purchased using money traceable to the crimes charged in the indictment. The USDA – Office of Inspector General and the IRS, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service, conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Cameron McCree, Amanda Fields, and Bart Dickinson are prosecuting the case.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Little Rock Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Extortion and Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— A Little Rock man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for extortion and production of child pornography. Devion Cumbie, 25, was sentenced today by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. The sentencing is announced by Acting United States Attorney Jonathan D. Ross and FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Diane Upchurch.
In June 2020, in the first federal criminal jury trial in the state since the coronavirus pandemic began, a federal jury found Cumbie guilty on all seven counts for which he was indicted: production of child pornography, two counts of attempted production of child pornography, and four counts of extortion.
Testimony during the trial established that in late 2018, a 16-year-old girl in Colorado sent a Facebook message to “Chink Capone,” the online persona of an actor named Alex Drummond. However, the Facebook page actually belonged to Cumbie, posing as Drummond’s online persona. The two began talking, and Cumbie told the minor he might like to meet her soon but would first need to see some photographs of her in her underwear. Cumbie eventually convinced the minor to send him a partially nude photograph. Cumbie then threatened the minor that he would post the photo to her Facebook page unless she sent him a video of herself naked. The minor told her mother, and they reported the conduct to police.
Investigation revealed that Cumbie had conducted a similar scheme with numerous other victims, some of whom were minors. Additionally, Cumbie was on pretrial release awaiting trial on federal gun charges while he engaged in the conduct that led to the child pornography and extortion charges. Cumbie was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2019, and his first trial in February 2020 ended in a hung jury. His second trial resulted in his October 2020 conviction. Cumbie is still awaiting trial on the separate firearms charge.
In addition to the 300 month prison sentence, Judge Moody sentenced Cumbie to 15 years of supervised release. The statutory penalty for production of child pornography, as well as attempted production of child pornography, is not less than 15 years imprisonment, not more than 30 years imprisonment, and not less than five years of supervised release. The statutory penalty for extortion is not more than two years imprisonment and not more than one year of supervised release. All offenses of conviction include a potential penalty of not more than a $250,000 fine.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Erin O’Leary.
# # #
This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Roland Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in SexRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A Roland man has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity after exchanging messages with an undercover investigator.
Jonathan D. Ross, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced today that Patrick Karl Tate, 57, was sentenced today to 120 months imprisonment. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr., who presided over Tate’s two-day jury trial in October 2019, imposed the sentence.
Testimony during the trial established that in April of 2017, an undercover investigator with the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office saw an ad posted on Craigslist. The ad was located in a section of the website titled Casual Encounters, which an investigator testified is known for sex solicitations. The ad specified it was looking for “mother/daughter,” and it asked for responses to be sent through KIK messenger, an online messaging service. The ad provided a KIK username: karlpatrick69. This was later identified to be the defendant, Patrick Karl Tate.
The undercover investigator sent a message to the KIK account, and the undercover exchanged messages with karlpatrick69 from April 9 to April 16, 2017. The messages, all of which were introduced at trial, indicated that the undercover officer was posing as an adult male with access to his girlfriend’s daughter, a 13-year-old child. In the messages, and in two recorded phone conversations that were played at trial, the undercover investigator and Tate made plans to meet so that Tate could have sex with the 13-year-old child. In the messages, the undercover investigator told Tate that he should bring at least three condoms. The two agreed to meet at a location in Greenbrier on April 16, 2017, which was Easter Sunday.
Evidence at trial further indicated that on April 16, 2017, Tate arrived at the agreed-upon location. He had three condoms. He was met by investigators from the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office, who arrested him. Tate was transported back to the major crimes unit, where he was read his rights and gave a statement. In his statement, Tate admitted to posting the Craigslist ad, admitted to having the conversations on KIK, admitted that karlpatrick69 was his screenname, and admitted that he knew the child involved was 13 years old.
The statutory penalty for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity is not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, not more than a $250,000 fine, and not less than five years of supervised release. In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Moody sentenced Tate to five years of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Crews and Allison W. Bragg.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
United States Attorney Cody Hiland Announces ResignationRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— United States Attorney Cody Hiland, 48, of Conway, has announced his resignation as United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, effective 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2020. After his resignation, he plans to pursue opportunities in the private sector.
Hiland, a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, had previously served as the elected Prosecuting Attorney for the 20th Judicial District of Arkansas.
Hiland makes the following statement about his departure:
The opportunity afforded me to represent the exceptional people of this great nation as a United States Attorney has been the highest honor and most fulfilling duty of my public career. I can think of no higher calling nor any greater responsibility in the legal community than the privilege of bearing the burden of seeking justice. It is a sobering responsibility that requires discipline of emotion, sharpness of mind, and a love for both the people you serve and the Constitution that protects us all. The pursuit of that purpose is, in itself, a great reward. But doing so alongside the committed public servants that work in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and possess those rare qualities is a gift that I will always cherish. That the Assistant U.S. Attorneys in this small district have the sixth largest caseload out of 94 districts is nothing short of remarkable and is a testament to their commitment and work ethic. Any success attributable to this office over the last three years belongs to each and every member of our staff. I am simply proud to be associated with their tireless efforts.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Former Greene Co. Sheriff's Lieutenant Pleads Guilty to Stealing FBI MoneyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—A former Green County Sheriff’s Lieutenant has pleaded guilty to stealing over $30,000 used in a ruse undercover drug operation. Allen Scott Pillow, 56, of Paragould, pleaded guilty today to one count of theft of government funds. Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Diane Upchurch, Special Agent in Charge of the Little Rock Field Office of the FBI, announced the guilty plea. Pillow entered his plea earlier today before United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
After receiving information that former Lieutenant Pillow might be abusing his role with the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Special Agents and Task Force Officers conducted a ruse narcotics investigation and sought Pillow’s help with the investigation. On November 4, 2019, FBI parked a rental vehicle in a commercial parking lot in Paragould and staged a glass drug pipe in the vehicle along with a red backpack containing $76,000. The cash was divided into ten bundles of $7,600 each, and investigators recorded the serial numbers.
After staging the vehicle, two FBI Task Force Officers contacted Pillow on his cell phone and asked him to respond to the scene. The officers relayed to Pillow that they began a narcotics investigation in Tennessee and now needed Pillow’s help as the target had traveled into Arkansas. Pillow traveled to the scene in his Sheriff’s Department vehicle, searched the staged rental vehicle, and recovered the glass pipe, backpack, and currency.
Later that day, Pillow called the FBI officers and informed them that the backpack had contained $45,600, leading agents to believe Pillow had taken four bundles of $7,600 each, totaling $30,400 of stolen FBI funds. Agents obtained a search warrant for Pillow’s residence and found $2,300 in his possession and $27,820 in a safe in his attic. The serial numbers on the discovered currency matched the original FBI serial numbers. The remaining $280 in stolen funds was not located.
“The vast majority of law enforcement officers are honorable men and women who put their lives on the line every day to preserve our liberty and safety,” United States Attorney Cody Hiland said. “On the very rare occasion that we encounter corruption within law enforcement, we will take every action necessary to root it out. Our office will hold accountable any officer who violates the public trust so that we may uphold the integrity of a profession that deserves our gratitude and respect.”
“The appalling criminal actions of former Lt. Scott Pillow revealed his lack of integrity and greed,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Diane Upchurch. “Quite simply, he betrayed his brothers and sisters in law enforcement. Officers who are sworn to protect and serve are held to a higher standard, and FBI Little Rock will continue to uphold Arkansans’ trust in law enforcement.”
Pillow was indicted in November 2019, and Judge Rudofsky will sentence Pillow at a later date. Theft of government funds is punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $250,000, and not more than three years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Four Defendants Facing Federal Charges After Fire Bombings of Police Vehicles:Read the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— A federal investigation resulted in charges against four people for their alleged involvement in fire bombings of police vehicles in Little Rock and North Little Rock in August 2020. Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn announced today’s arrests of Brittany Dawn Jeffrey, 31; Emily Nowlin, 27; Renea Goddard, 22; and Aline Espinosa-Villegas, 24; all of Little Rock.
According to the Criminal Complaint filed on December 14, 2020, numerous incidents of vandalism occurred after protests were held at local police stations earlier this year. On August 25, 2020, a large group of protestors held a demonstration at the Little Rock Police Department 12th Street Substation. The following morning, officers arriving for duty noticed that several police vehicles in their parking lot had punctured tires. Officers also saw two green glass bottles with fluid inside that smelled like gasoline. The bottles were examined and found to be consistent with improvised incendiary devices, commonly referred to as Molotov cocktails.
The Complaint explains that a Molotov cocktail is typically made by using a container filled with an ignitable liquid and placing a wick in the opening of the container. If the Molotov cocktail functions as designed, the container will break, spreading ignitable liquid, which will be lit by the flaming wick.
According to the Complaint, surveillance footage reflected that two individuals were moving near the parking lot after the protests, and a flaming object can be observed being launched into the parking lot area. Cooperating witnesses stated that the Molotov cocktails were assembled at Brittany Dawn Jeffrey’s residence.
The Complaint states that on August 28, 2020, an Arkansas State Police vehicle was vandalized and burned while stored in a fenced parking lot at Arkansas State Police Headquarters in Little Rock. One vehicle had been set on fire, one had been vandalized with spray paint, and several others had punctured tires. Investigators discovered a detonated Molotov cocktail made from a bottle of brandy.
Surveillance video from that incident shows three people entering the vehicle storage area wearing dark clothing and backpacks. The video shows them bending down in a motion consistent with slashing vehicle tires as well as throwing a lighted object into a police vehicle. The Complaint states that witnesses informed law enforcement that Renea Goddard, Emily Nowlin, and Aline Espinosa-Villegas were responsible for the incident. Federal search warrants were executed to obtain the locations of their cell phones, and cell site data confirmed that their cell phones were in the location of Arkansas State Police Headquarters on August 28, 2020.
“Today’s arrests send a message that violence targeted toward law enforcement will not be tolerated,” stated U.S. Attorney Hiland. “Breaking into a police compound and fire bombing a police vehicle with a homemade explosive device is clearly not a peaceful protest. Those who would target law enforcement with violent acts will not do so in the Eastern District of Arkansas without the full resources of the federal government being deployed to assist our state and local partners in bringing those responsible to justice. They will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“We worked methodically on each of the scenes, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and following leads to help us solve these cases,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “We were able to narrow in on particular individuals who we identified responsible for the law enforcement vehicle fires in the Little Rock area. We appreciate the assistance the public was able to provide in order to bring these individuals to justice.”
The charges in today’s unsealed Complaint include malicious destruction of property belonging to an entity receiving federal funding, conspiracy to commit those acts, and possession of a destructive device.
The defendants arrested today will appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe J. Volpe at 4:00 p.m. this afternoon for their initial appearance. The investigation was conducted by ATF, Arkansas State Police, North Little Rock Police Department, and Little Rock Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacy Williams.
A complaint contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
ComplaintU.S. Attorney Cody Hiland Announces Departure of Veteran Department Employee, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael JohnsonRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the departure of Assistant United States Attorney Michael Johnson from service to the Eastern District of Arkansas U.S. Attorney’s Office today.
Mr. Johnson previously retired in 2010 after serving the Department of Justice continuously for 37 years. However, in 2018, after determining that the office could benefit from Mr. Johnson’s expertise related to prosecuting racketeering, white collar and public corruption offenses, U.S. Attorney Hiland asked Mr. Johnson to return to the office for a two-year term to guide and train career prosecutors related to that expertise. Mr. Johnson agreed to do so and has provided a great public service to the office during these past two years.
During his previous tenure with the office, Mr. Johnson developed an expertise in the investigation and prosecution of public corruption, white collar crime and racketeering offenses. Mr. Johnson was the architect behind seventeen racketeering cases including the prosecution of former Arkansas Legislator Nick Wilson; former Sheriff Cooledge Conlee; former prosecuting attorneys T.J. Hively and Dan Harmon; the prosecution of white supremacists Chevy Kehoe and Danny Lee; Bruce Nabors and Craig Keltnor; Don Pennington; Ron O’Neal and others. During his current two year association with the office, Mr. Johnson was extensively involved in the investigation and indictment of a case involving a multi-million dollar scheme to defraud the federal government.
Mr. Johnson graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Washington State University and received his J.D. with Honors from the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington. He then began his storied career with the Department of Justice, where he served as a trial attorney and senior trial attorney in the Civil Rights Division at the Department of Justice from 1973 through 1984. During that time, he investigated and prosecuted criminal cases involving racially motivated violence and criminal police misconduct. He was also responsible for civil litigation involving complex enforcement of voting rights cases pursuant to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and discrimination in places of public accommodation.
In 1984, Mr. Johnson was the 34th person in the history of the U.S. Department of Justice named as Senior Litigation Counsel, a meritorious designation reflecting his advocacy skills in complex litigation. That same year, Mr. Johnson became an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Arkansas, where he served as the Senior Litigation Counsel until becoming the Criminal Chief and First Assistant U.S. Attorney from 1993 until 2000. After the departure of U.S. Attorney Paula Casey in 2001, he served the office as Acting U.S. Attorney until the appointment of U.S. Attorney Bud Cummins in December of 2001.
From August 2003 through October 2004, Mr. Johnson was on assignment to the Republic of South Africa, where he was responsible for overseeing the development of organized crime and racketeering prosecutions. Since 2004, Mr. Johnson has returned to South Africa on a regular basis to continue his work with the South African government as a legal advisor on organized crime and racketeering matters, including conducting three Judicial Colloquiums for trial court and appellate court judges on the principles of racketeering and money laundering.
In 2004, he returned to his role as a line prosecutor with the Eastern District of Arkansas until 2007, when he became the Senior Legal Advisor to Acting U.S. Attorney Jane Duke. He retired from the Department in 2010 and began devoting his full attention to teaching others.
In addition to his public service as a career prosecutor, beginning in 1985, Mr. Johnson served as an adjunct professor at the William H. Bowen School of Law at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock, where he taught Evidence, Criminal Law, White Collar Crime, Trial Advocacy and Advanced Trial Advocacy. He also coached the National Trial Advocacy Competition Team.
In August 2010, he became Counsel for National Programs for the National Center of Justice and the Rule of Law (NCJRL) and Visiting Professor at the University of Mississippi Lamar School of Law. He designed and taught seminars on Fourth Amendment and trial issues to judges and taught White Collar Crime at the Bowen School of Law.
In 1987, Mr. Johnson became a faculty member for National Institute of Trial Advocacy and continues to teach there. In 2010, he became the Program Director for the National Session in Louisville, Colorado, and has served as Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, and faculty member for the National Session on numerous occasions. He has also served as Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader and faculty member for the Southern Regional in Dallas, Texas; the North Central Regional in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota; the Western Regional in San Francisco, California; the Northwest Regional in Seattle, Washington; and programs in Dublin, Ireland and Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mr. Johnson has also been the Program Director and faculty member for numerous in-house custom programs for both public agencies and private firms. He has also been a core faculty member for NITA’s on-line deposition training program. He participated as a faculty member in the pilot on-line program for the Exceptional Advocacy Training Program conducted by NITA January-April 2010.
During Mr. Johnson’s time with the Department of Justice, he has received the following awards from the Department: Award for Outstanding Litigation of Complex Financial Crime; Commendation by the Attorney General; Appreciation by the Attorney General; Commendation by Assistant Attorney General; Appreciation by Assistant Attorney General; Special Achievement, Special Commendation and Appreciation by the Attorney General’s Advocacy Institute, the United States Attorneys for the Eastern District of Arkansas, the Eastern District of Louisiana, and the Middle District of North Carolina.
He has also received achievement awards from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Drug Enforcement Administration; United States Customs Service; United States Secret Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; United States Postal Inspection Service; and the Internal Revenue Service. These awards include Exceptional Service in the Public Interest, Special Recognition, Outstanding Achievement, Outstanding Prosecution, and Certificates of Appreciation.
His other commendations include appreciation awards for Service as United States Attorney, United States District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas; Service as Intermittent Legal Advisor to the Republic of South Africa, Office of Overseas Prosecution and Development, United States Department of Justice; Service as Legal Advisor to South African Police Service, South African Police Service; and the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission.
U.S. Attorney Hiland would like to recognize Mr. Johnson for his distinguished and accomplished career of public service to the Department of Justice, and for his commitment to justice and the people of the Eastern District of Arkansas.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS