District of Arizona
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Tucson Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years for Possession of Methamphetamine and FirearmsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Gabriel Joseph Bustamante, 43, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced on September 28, 2022, by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 17.5 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Bustamante previously pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Felon in Possession of Firearms.
On April 22, 2021, federal agents served a search warrant on Bustamante’s residential trailer and seized 3.6 kilograms of pure methamphetamine and multiple firearms. Agents also searched two storage units belonging to Bustamante where they recovered additional firearms.
This investigation was a collaborative effort between federal law enforcement agencies and is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative in Southern Arizona that is led by the Tucson Strike Force. 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.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Culver and David Petermann, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-1116-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-174_Bustamante# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Three Individuals Charged for Distributing over 400,000 Fentanyl Pills and 25 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Keivin Crosswell-Cervantes, 28, of Mexico, Carlos Alberto Castro-Ruiz, 27, of Avondale, Arizona, and Alexander Ortega-Islas, 22, of Phoenix, Arizona, were indicted on October 4, 2022, on Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine along with Use or Carry a Firearm during a Drug Trafficking Offense. The three defendants had their initial appearance on September 23, 2022, before United States Magistrate Judge Eileen S. Willett.
On Sept. 21, 2022, HSI special agents arrested Crosswell-Cervantes, Castro-Ruiz, and Ortega-Islas and seized approximately 410,000 blue fentanyl pills, approximately 20,000 multi-colored fentanyl pills, also known as “skittles”, and approximately 25 pounds of methamphetamine in Avondale, Arizona. During the enforcement action, special agents also seized an AK-47 style pistol, a Kimber 1911 45 caliber pistol with two magazines, and an FN 45 caliber pistol.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison with a maximum penalty of life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both.
A conviction for Use or Carry a Firearms during a Drug Trafficking Offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, with a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Special Agents from Homeland Security Investigations, Nogales, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew G. Eltringham, District of Arizona, Tucson, OCDETF Section, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: MJ-22-9370-ESW
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-171_Crosswell-Cervantes et al.# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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30-Year-Old Tucson Woman Sentenced to 18 Months for Smuggling Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On September 29, 2022, Dominque Trinidad Valdez-Velasquez, 30, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 18 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Valdez-Velasquez previously pleaded guilty to Transporting Illegal Aliens, Placing in Jeopardy the Life of Any Person.
Valdez-Velasquez was arrested on December 29, 2021, during an immigration checkpoint traffic stop near Amado, Arizona. At the checkpoint, a United States Border Patrol canine alerted agents to the trunk of Valdez-Velasquez’ vehicle. When the agents asked Valdez-Velasquez to open the trunk, they discovered four undocumented noncitizens from Mexico. According to court documents, after traveling for an hour, the noncitizens were left in the trunk, unable to move or leave, for more than four hours while Valdez-Velasquez slept in a hotel.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-0173-TUC-RM-LCK
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-173_Valdez-Velasquez# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Man Arrested for Making Threats to Maricopa County Election Official and to Official with Office of Arizona Attorney GeneralRead the Press Release
An Iowa man was arrested today in Hiawatha, Iowa, for allegedly sending a threatening communication to an election official on the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in Maricopa County, Arizona, and for allegedly sending a threatening communication to an official with the Office of the Arizona Attorney General.
Mark A. Rissi, 64, of Hiawatha, is expected to make his initial appearance today at the federal courthouse in Cedar Rapids.
According to the indictment, on or about Sept. 27, 2021, Rissi allegedly left the following voicemail for the election official with the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors: “Hello Mr. [VICTIM], I am glad that you are standing up for democracy and want to place your hand on the Bible and say that the election was honest and fair. I really appreciate that. When we come to lynch your stupid lying Commie [expletive], you’ll remember that you lied on the [expletive] Bible, you piece of [expletive]. You’re gonna die, you piece of [expletive]. We’re going to hang you. We’re going to hang you.”
Additionally, on or about Dec. 8, 2021, Rissi allegedly said the following in a voicemail message he left for an official with the Office of the Arizona Attorney General: “I’m a victim of a crime. My family is a victim of a crime. My extended family is a victim of a crime. That crime was the theft of the 2020 election. The election that was fraudulent across the state of Arizona, that [VICTIM] knows was fraudulent, that [VICTIM] has images of the conspirators deleting election fraud data from the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors computer system. Do your job, [VICTIM], or you will hang with those [expletive] in the end. We will see to it. Torches and pitchforks. That’s your future, [expletive]. Do your job.”
Rissi is charged with two counts of making a threatening interstate communication and one count of making a threatening telephone call. If convicted, Rissi faces a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison for each count of making a threatening interstate communication and up to two years in prison for making a threatening telephone call. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Gary M. Restaino for the District of Arizona, Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Chris Ormerod of the FBI Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Phoenix Field Office is investigating the case, with the assistance of the FBI Cedar Rapids Field Office.
Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean K. Lokey for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco in June 2021, the Task Force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The Task Force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. A year after its formation, the Task Force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the Task Force has begun.
Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the Task Force is led by the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and includes several other entities within the Department of Justice, including the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section of the Criminal Division, the Civil Rights Division, the National Security Division, and the FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo.
To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found here: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at: tips.fbi.gov. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona Joins Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to Protect Older AdultsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona announced today that, as part of its continuing efforts to protect older adults and to bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice, it is joining the Justice Department’s Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, as one of 14 additional U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Since 2019, current Strike Force members — including the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations — have brought successful cases against the largest and most harmful global elder fraud schemes and worked with foreign law enforcement to disrupt criminal enterprises, disable their infrastructure and bring perpetrators to justice. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat sophisticated fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults. The expansion will increase the total number of U.S. Attorneys’ Offices comprising the Strike Force from six to 20, including all of the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the states of California, Arizona, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, and New York.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“I am pleased to announce the District of Arizona’s selection as one of the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force Districts. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to bringing those who defraud the elderly to justice, whether they commit such crimes in the United States or from abroad,” said Gary Restaino, U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona.
The Strike Force expansion will further enhance the Department’s existing efforts to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the period from September 2021 to September 2022, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged. The matters tackled by the Department and its partners ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts also were made over the last year to return money to fraud victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, along with its federal partners, successfully prosecuted various cases involving scams targeting the elderly. Notable examples are as follows:
United States v. Joseph Batts et al., CR-18-2216-TUC-RCC – David McIntosh was sentenced to 160 months in prison and ordered to pay approximately $1.8 million in restitution. McIntosh was a leader in an international lottery fraud ring that targeted thousands of elderly victims around the United States. McIntosh’s co-defendant, Joseph Batts, received a sentence of 70 months in prison for his role as a “lead list” distributor. In the related case of United States v. Sheldon Hibbert, CR-19-1973-TUC-SHR, Mr. Hibbert received a sentence of 48 months in prison for his role in laundering portions of the fraudulent proceeds. The District of Arizona has also sought the extradition of co-defendant Ferlando McCoon from Jamaica. Mr. McCoon is currently challenging his extradition to the United States.
United States v. Onovughe Ighorhiohwunu, CR-21-1119-TUC-SHR – Onovughe Ighorhiohwunu was found guilty by a jury for his role as a money launderer in an international romance fraud scheme targeting vulnerable and elderly victims. Ighorhiohwunu received 130 months in prison and was ordered to pay approximately $1.3 million in restitution.
United States v. Koreasa M. Williams, CR-19-1276-TUC-JGZ – Koreasa M. Williams, formerly a licensed insurance agent, embezzled money from elderly insurance clients. Williams was sentenced to 51 months in prison and ordered to pay $330,923 in restitution. In a related case, CR-21-3136-TUC-JGZ, Williams defrauded a separate elderly victim by embezzling over $1.3 million. Williams was sentenced to 136 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution.
United States v. Michael Tagle Santos et al., CR-20-2707-TUC-JGZ – Michael Tagle Santos and Cherry Mae De Los Reyes Santos, husband and wife, were caretakers of an elderly disabled victim. The couple embezzled money from the victim and used the funds for personal expenses. Mr. Santos received 33 months in prison. Mrs. Santos was sentenced to 16 months in prison. The couple was also ordered to pay $362,266 in restitution.
United States v. Jacoby, CR-21-452-PHX-JJT – Michael Jacoby defrauded an elderly widower out of his retirement savings (approximately $1 million) by offering investment management services, but instead taking the money for himself. Jacoby pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing.
United States v. Mehaffey, CR-20-626-PHX-DWL – Brannen Mehaffey operated a money service business exchanging cash for bitcoin. He was charged after the IRS conducted a sting operation where Mehaffey exchanged cash for bitcoin despite believing the cash came from drug sales. Most of Mehaffey’s actual business arose from fraud: perpetrators of schemes, such as romance scams, would direct their victims to send cash or deposit money into Mehaffey’s accounts, and Mehaffey would in turn send bitcoin to the people running the schemes. Mehaffey was sentenced to 41 months in prison and ordered to pay a total of $562,000 in restitution to a number of elderly victims.
As part of the District of Arizona’s elder fraud efforts in addition to prosecution, it engages in outreach to the community and industry to raise awareness about scams and exploitation and preventing victimization. On September 29, 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with its federal partners, the IRS Criminal Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service, conducted an outreach event entitled “Protect Yourself and Your Money” hosted by the Pima Council on Aging. This event took place at The Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center in Tucson, Arizona. On October 3, 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Secret Service conducted a similar event at the Handmaker Assisted Living Center in Tucson, Arizona. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to provide similar events with its federal partners in the future.
The Department also highlighted national efforts in returning money to victims. In the past year, the Department has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available through the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. [ET]. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website: www.elderjustice.gov.
Some of the cases that comprise today’s announcement are charges, which are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-169_Elder Justice Release
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Tucson Man Sentenced to 17 Years for Distributing Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Alexandro Luis Gomez, 30, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced on September 28, 2022, by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 17 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Gomez previously pleaded guilty to Distribution of a Controlled Substance connected to the overdose death of a young man in December 2019. The Court also ordered Gomez to pay $12,727 in restitution to the decedent’s family as compensation for expenses related to the young man’s funeral and burial .
In December 2019, Gomez sold the decedent six pills containing fentanyl for $90, which caused the decedent to overdose and die from fentanyl toxicity.
As part of the law enforcement investigation into Gomez, agents witnessed him selling drugs to two other customers. When Gomez was arrested, he had 462 fentanyl pills and a handgun inside his vehicle. During a search of his residence, agents found drugs of various types, four additional firearms, multiple cellular telephones, and $10,625 in drug proceeds.
“Drug dealers are responsible for the consequences when young Americans die from the poison they sell,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “This lengthy sentence for a $90 sale of six pills should serve both as a deterrent to other traffickers and as an homage to the victim’s family as they mourn his unexpected death.”
The Oro Valley Police Department, the Tucson Police Department, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Forsyth handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-1707-TUC-RM-EJM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-170_Gomez# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Woman Arrested with 36 Kilograms of Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Maria Fernanda Granillo-Velazquez, 21, of Mexico, was charged on August 19, 2022, by criminal complaint for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. Granillo-Velazquez had her initial appearance on August 22, 2022, before United States Magistrate Judge Michael T. Morrissey. The case is set for trial on November 1, 2022, before United States District Judge John J. Tuchi.
The complaint alleges that, on August 18, 2022, members of the Phoenix DEA East Valley Drug Enforcement Task Force were contacted by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) regarding a traffic stop of a vehicle on Interstate 10 in Pinal County, Arizona. The sole occupant of the vehicle was Granillo-Velazquez. During the traffic stop, a canine trained in detecting narcotics alerted to the presence of narcotics coming from the vehicle.
PCSO deputies searched the vehicle and discovered a concealed compartment in the floorboard underneath the rear seats. The concealed compartment contained approximately 21 packages containing blue pills stamped M30.
Investigators seized approximately 36.75 kilograms (approximately 360,000 pills) from the vehicle. The Chandler Police Department laboratory confirmed a sample of the M30 pills contained fentanyl.
A conviction for possessing with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum term of life in prison.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Phoenix DEA East Valley Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office are conducting the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-01131-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-166_Granillo-Velasquez# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Willcox Man Sentenced for Threatening to Murder a Social Security Administration JudgeRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Jeffery Daniel Gladney, 55, of Willcox, Arizona, was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge John C. Hinderaker to time served, amounting to over 25 months in prison. Gladney previously pleaded guilty on June 29, 2022, to Threatening to Assault a Federal Employee.
During the early summer of 2020, Gladney left several messages on the voicemail of his attorney’s office, threatening the United States Social Security Administration Law Judge assigned to his case. In the voicemails, Gladney threatened to assault and kill the judge, demanding his benefits be approved immediately, and instructing the legal assistant to relay the messages to the judge.
Federal Protective Service of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam D. Rossi, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-02119-TUC-JCH
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-168_Gladney# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Fort Mohave Man Convicted for Theft of Social Security Administration BenefitsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On September 8, 2022, John Logan Capps III, 71, of Fort Mohave, Arizona, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 18 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Capps previously pleaded guilty to Theft of Government Funds for stealing Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits. In addition to his prison sentence, Capps was ordered to pay over $1.3 million in restitution.
For over 20 years, Capps used stolen identities to fraudulently apply for and receive SSA benefits. In total, Capps is responsible for receiving $1,364,648.40 in stolen funds from the SSA.
“For nearly two decades, Mr. Capps intentionally stole the identities of individuals to gain access to their Social Security benefits. This sentence demonstrates that we will continue to hold accountable those who criminally misuse the Social Security numbers of others for their own personal gain,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case.”
“Our Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Section regularly partners with the Inspector General community to protect the public fisc,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “Thanks to SSA-OIG for its efforts to safeguard the Social Security Trust Fund.”
The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Stone, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00584-PHX-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-167_Capps# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 40 MonthsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On September 27, 2022, Carlos Obed Moreno, 32, a United States citizen residing in Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Judge Raner C. Collins to 40 months in prison for attempting to smuggle pills into the United States in exchange for payment. Moreno previously pleaded guilty to Importation of Fentanyl into the United States.
On January 6, 2022, Moreno presented himself for entry into the United States from Mexico at the De Concini Port of Entry in Nogales, Arizona. While at the Port, a Customs and Border Protection Officer noticed a knife in Moreno’s waistband and conducted a pat-down for officer safety. During the pat-down, the officer noticed packages stuffed in Moreno’s boots. Further inspection of the boots revealed the packages contained approximately 628.1 grams of blue fentanyl pills.
Homeland Security Investigations, Nogales, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stefani Hepford, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-00259-TUC-RCC-LAB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-165_Moreno# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Scottsdale Man Convicted of Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Ryan C. Patterson, 34, of Scottsdale, Arizona, was found guilty by a federal jury on three counts of Tax Evasion. Sentencing is scheduled for December 5, 2022, before United States District Judge John J. Tuchi.
Patterson, a contractor specializing in remodels, failed to accurately report his income between calendar years 2014 and 2016. He received checks from customers made out to him personally and then deposited the checks into his personal checking accounts. He also received payments in cash from customers that he failed to report. At trial, the government introduced evidence that Patterson failed to report over $1.9 million in gross income and avoided paying a combined total of $700,000 in taxes due over the span of the three charged tax years.
The evidence at trial revealed that Patterson reported a loss of $38,000 in 2016 despite, in the same year, purchasing a primary residence for $445,000 along with other lavish expenditures.
"The American tax system provides government services critical to our residents," said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino. "Every time someone cheats the tax system, the burden of providing vital services increases for taxpayers who pay their fair share. The jury’s verdict has sent a clear message that tax cheats will not be tolerated."
Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin M. Rapp and Aron Ketchel, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00724-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-164_Patterson# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Sells Man Found Guilty of Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On September 22, 2022, Emmett Miguel, of Sells, Arizona, an enrolled member of the Gila River Indian Community, was found guilty by a jury of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual Contact. In January 2012, Miguel sexually assaulted the 17-year-old victim at a dance in Sacaton, Arizona. Sentencing is scheduled for December 14, 2022, before United States District Court Judge Susan M. Brnovich.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Raynette Logan and Alanna Kennedy, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00301-PHX-SMB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-163_Miguel
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Phoenix Man Charged with Assaulting a Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Daniel Jerome Wagner, 54, of Phoenix, Arizona, was arrested on one count of Assault on a Federal Officer with the Use of a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon. Wagner was charged by criminal complaint and had his initial appearance on Friday before United States Magistrate Judge Eric J. Markovich.
On September 21, 2022, near Douglas, Arizona, a U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agent attempted to conduct an immigration inspection of a vehicle driven by Wagner, who was suspected of engaging in smuggling undocumented noncitizens. The agent followed Wagner’s vehicle, which was traveling westbound at a high rate of speed on U.S. State Route 80. Wagner then abruptly stopped his vehicle, causing the vehicle to spin in the middle of the highway. The agent stopped his vehicle and saw Wagner driving eastbound directly towards his fully marked U.S. Border Patrol vehicle. As Wagner drove towards the agent, he crossed into the agent’s lane, forcing the agent to drive off the highway and onto the shoulder to avoid being struck. Wagner drove past the agent’s vehicle, narrowly missing him. Other agents followed Wagner and eventually arrested him.
A conviction for Assault on a Federal Officer with the Use of a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to$250,000, or both.
A criminal complaint is simply the method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raquel Arellano, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 22-00607MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-162_Wagner# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.18-Year-Old Man Charged with High-Speed Flight from an Immigration CheckpointRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Oblin Jeremias Redondo-Lopez, 18, of Honduras, was arrested September 20, 2022, and charged by criminal complaint with High-Speed Flight from an Immigration Checkpoint and Illegal Entry into the United States. Redondo-Lopez had his initial appearance yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Eric J. Markovich.
On Tuesday, a gold 2002 Buick Rendezvous drove through the United States Border Patrol checkpoint on West Arivaca Road near Amado, Arizona. The vehicle did not slow down or stop as required by the speed bumps, signage, and Arizona Department of Transportation regulations. Instead, the vehicle fled the checkpoint with agents in pursuit. The driver continued onto Interstate 10 traveling at an estimated 110 miles per hour in a 75 mile per hour zone when he was finally stopped by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Department on Interstate 10 near Picacho Peak. The driver was identified as Oblin Jeremias Redondo-Lopez.
A conviction for High-Speed Flight from an Immigration Checkpoint carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
A criminal complaint is simply the method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 22-00594MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-161_Redondo-Lopez
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Tucson Man Charged with Making a False Statement to Federal Agents During Investigation into Mass ShootingRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Josue Lopez Quintana, 25, of Tucson, Arizona, was charged by criminal complaint for Making a False Statement to Law Enforcement. Quintana had his initial appearance Monday before United States Magistrate Judge Eric J. Markovich.
On August 25, 2022, following a mass shooting in Tucson, Arizona that resulted in the death of four individuals, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) initiated an investigation into the acquisition of a firearm used in the shooting. According to the complaint, ATF was able to determine that the firearm’s lower receiver was purchased at a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Tucson, Arizona, by Quintana in November 2021. Quintana allegedly completed a form at the FFL stating that he was the true purchaser of the lower receiver, and that he was not acquiring the lower receiver on behalf of another person. On August 26, 2022, federal agents interviewed Quintana about the purchase, during which Quintana allegedly made false statements about the purchase of the lower receiver.
A conviction for Making a False Statement to Law Enforcement carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
ATF is conducting the investigation in this case, with assistance from the Tucson Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. The Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 22-00499MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-158_Quintana# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Arizona City Man Sentenced to 27 Months for Straw Purchasing 82 Firearms Bound for MexicoRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On September 13, 2022, Jorge Zuniga-Aguilera, 23, of Arizona City, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 27 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Zuniga-Aguilera previously pleaded guilty to Making a False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.
Between September 2020 and June 2021, Zuniga-Aguilera straw purchased at least 82 firearms from Arizona gun stores and put them into illegal commerce. Two of these firearms were recovered by law enforcement in Mexico City, Mexico. One was used to murder a Mexican citizen.
Zuniga-Aguilera purchased the firearms for a person whom he knew did not have legal status in the United States—and who therefore could not legally purchase firearms—in exchange for money. To make the purchases, Zuniga-Aguilera lied about where he lived and lied about being the true purchaser of the firearms.
“Border security means protecting our neighbor’s sovereignty,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “When American guns flow south into Mexico, we all lose. Straw purchase prosecutions are an important step in securing the border and protecting communities in both countries.”
“ATF is committed to stopping illegal firearms trafficking both within the United States and internationally,” said Brendan Iber, ATF Special Agent in Charge. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and stop straw purchasers and those persons or organizations enabling straw purchasers.”
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, many stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, assisted by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Coleen Schoch, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00744-DLR-PHX
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-160_Zuniga-Aguilera# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Tucson Man Indicted for Migrant Smuggling and Threatening to Murder a Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On September 8, 2022, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned a six-count indictment against Jesus Alberto Ibarra-Barraza, 31, of Tucson, Arizona, for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit, four counts of Transportation of an Illegal Alien for Profit, and one count of Threats to Murder an Employee of the United States.
The indictment alleges that on March 16, 2022, Ibarra-Barraza attempted to transport four undocumented noncitizens in his vehicle. After encountering law enforcement, Ibarra-Barraza stopped his vehicle, allowed the passengers to exit, then fled at a high rate of speed. Shortly after, he crashed his vehicle, resulting in serious bodily injury to himself. While at the hospital, Ibarra-Barraza verbally confronted a United States Border Patrol agent and threatened to kill the agent upon his release from the hospital.
Each charge in the indictment carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel Walters, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-01958-SHR-MSA
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-157_Ibarra-Barrazaa
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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21-Year-Old Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Customs and Border Protection OfficerRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Cesar Alejandro Avendano-Soto, 21, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of Assault on a Federal Officer Resulting in Bodily Injury on September 16, 2022. Sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2023, before United States District Judge Scott H. Rash.
On March 24, 2020, at the DeConcini Port of Entry, Avendano-Soto struggled with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. During the struggle, Avendano-Soto intentionally threw the officer to the ground resulting in physical injury to the officer.
A conviction for assault on a federal officer resulting in bodily injury carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Houston, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR21-01527-TUC-SHR(DTF)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-158_Avendano-Soto# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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20-Year-Old Man Charged with Assaulting a Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Eliazar Vazquez-Alvaro, 20, of Mexico, was arrested Sunday on one count of Assault on a Federal Officer with the Use of a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon. Vazquez-Alvaro was charged by criminal complaint and had his initial appearance Tuesday before United States Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. Rateau.
On September 11, 2022, near Naco, Arizona, a U.S. Border Patrol agent attempted to conduct an immigration inspection of an individual later identified as Eliazar Vazquez-Alvaro. The agent instructed Vazquez-Alvaro to kneel and place his backpack on the front of his torso. When the agent reached for his handcuffs, Vazquez-Alvaro stood up and swung the approximately 10-pound backpack at the agent’s head. The backpack struck the agent in the face, causing bodily injury to the agent. Vazquez-Alvaro attempted to run but was later apprehended.
A conviction for assault on a federal officer with the use of a deadly or dangerous weapon carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine up to $250,000, or both.
A criminal complaint is simply the method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raquel Arellano, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 22-08812MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-155_Vazquez-Alvaro# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Colorado City Man Arrested on Federal Obstruction of Justice ChargesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Samuel Rappylee Bateman, 46, of Colorado City, Arizona, was arrested on Tuesday in Colorado City for charges returned by a federal grand jury on September 6, 2022. The indictment charges Bateman with Destruction of Records or an Attempt to Destroy Records in an Official Proceeding; Tampering or Attempting to Tamper with an Official Proceeding; and Destruction of Records in a Federal Investigation.
The indictment alleges that on August 28, 2022, Bateman destroyed or attempted to destroy records, by deleting or aiding and abetting others to delete, electronic communications associated with Signal accounts. Signal is an encrypted messaging application. The indictment further alleges that Bateman did so in order to obstruct, influence, and impede an investigation and prosecution in federal court. A conviction for each of these crimes carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Bateman had his initial appearance yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Camille D. Bibles in Flagstaff, Arizona.
The Phoenix Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is handling the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. The United States Attorney’s Office would like to extend special gratitude to the Arizona Department of Child Safety for its work protecting Arizona children impacted by this matter, as well as the Colorado City Marshal’s Office, the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. George resident agency of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office for their assistance in this matter.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-08092-PCT-DGC (ESW)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-156_Bateman# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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New York Woman Sentenced to Prison for Interfering with a Flight CrewRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Kelly Pichardo, 32, of Bronx, New York, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dominic W. Lanza to four months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release. Pichardo previously pleaded guilty to Interference with Flight Crew Members. Pichardo was also ordered to pay restitution to American Airlines in the amount of $9,123.00.
In 2021, Pichardo and her co-defendant, Leeza S. Rodriguez, engaged in unruly and intimidating behavior while traveling first class on an American Airlines flight from Dallas to Los Angeles. Their actions caused such a disturbance that the pilot had to divert the flight to Phoenix, Arizona, so Pichardo and Rodriguez could be removed from the plane. Rodriguez is scheduled to be sentenced pursuant to her guilty plea in this case on November 7, 2022.
“There is a line between boorish behavior on an airplane and criminal activity, and the defendant clearly crossed it,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “First class passengers are not immune from prosecution: defendant’s verbal and physical intimidation disrupted the travel of passengers and crew alike.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case with assistance from the Phoenix Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Hakala, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00494-PHX-DWL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-154_Pichardo# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Mexican National Sentenced for Assaulting a Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Tuesday, Martin Trinidad-Solano, 25, of Mexico, was sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Raner C. Collins to approximately 14 months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Trinidad-Solano previously pleaded guilty to one count of Assault on a Federal Officer on June 15, 2022.
Trinidad-Solano assaulted a United States Border Patrol (USBP) agent assigned near the U.S. – Mexico Boundary Fence near Douglas, Arizona. Border Patrol surveillance notified the agent of a suspected undocumented noncitizen hiding in the brush. The agent approached Trinidad-Solano when a chase ensued. The USBP agent was able to apprehend Trinidad-Solano, who then assaulted the agent.
The Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam D. Rossi and Matthew C. Cassell, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-01791-TUC-RCC-LCKC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-153_Trinidad-Solano
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Jesus Alfonso Duarte, 22, of Pima, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 46 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Duarte previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Import Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and Heroin.
On March 29, 2020, Duarte entered the United States at the DeConcini Port of Entry in Nogales, Arizona with over 25 pounds of methamphetamine, five pounds of heroin, and two pounds of fentanyl hidden in his vehicle. During his interview with federal agents, Duarte admitted to working for a known drug trafficker in Mexico and lending his vehicle to the trafficker prior to reentering the United States.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case with assistance from the Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley B. Culver, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-2318-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-152_Duarte# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Mohave Valley Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Offenses Against MinorsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On August 24, 2022, Kyle Matthew Thompson, 47, of Mohave Valley, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge David G. Campbell to 30 years in prison. On February 24, 2022, a jury found Thompson guilty on two counts of Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with two 15-year-old girls, and two counts of Commission of Sex Offense by Registered Sex Offender.
Thompson, a registered sex offender, had a prior 2013 conviction for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor from Mohave County Superior Court. In November 2016, shortly after his release from state prison, Thompson posed as a Hollywood movie producer and used his social media account to contact the two 15-year-old victims, Victim 1 and Victim 2. On December 26, 2016, Thompson departed on a cross-country trip to meet the minor victims. Thompson engaged in sexual intercourse with Victim 1 the morning after his arrival, and then socialized with the victims, their friends, and their unsuspecting parents. He also repeatedly requested sex acts with Victim 2. Before and during his travel, Thompson engaged in sexually explicit calls and messages with both victims. Thompson impersonated a famous actor in an effort to entice Victim 2 and encourage Victim 2 to engage in sex acts with him. Thompson photoshopped himself into celebrity photos and shared them to his social media account to further bolster his fame-adjacent persona.
“Social media makes children particularly vulnerable to sexual predators,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “This sentence should send a powerful message to anyone who travels with the intent to abuse young people.”
This case was brought 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 the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
The case was investigated by the Talladega County Sheriff’s Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Phoenix and Birmingham), with the assistance of the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, the Mohave County Sheriff’s Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service (Birmingham, Alabama) and the Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gayle L. Helart and Alanna R. Kennedy, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-08162-PHX-PCT-DGC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-151_Thompson# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Human Smuggling Coordinators Sentenced to 45 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Ian Esteban Serrano, 27, and Marco Antonio Romero, 22, both from Nogales, Arizona, were each sentenced by United States District Judge Raner C. Collins to 45 months in federal prison. A sentence of 37 months was imposed for their role in smuggling undocumented noncitizens into the United States, and a consecutive sentence of eight months was imposed for Serrano’s violation of supervised release from a previous conviction for the same offense in 2016 and Romero’s violation of supervised release from a previous conviction for the same offense in 2019.
Romero pleaded guilty on June 2, 2022, and Serrano pleaded guilty on June 9, 2022, both pleading to one count of Conspiracy to Transport and Harbor Illegal Aliens for Profit. Together, Serrano and Romero managed and supervised the human smuggling organization. The co-conspirators coordinated smuggling operations by recruiting drivers and sending them to various locations to pick up or drop off undocumented individuals in the Nogales and Rio Rico communities. Serrano has two prior convictions for the same offense and Romero has one prior conviction for the same offense.
This prosecution resulted from the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona is part of JTFA, which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. The Task Force focuses on disrupting and dismantling smuggling and trafficking networks that abuse, exploit, or endanger migrants, pose national security threats, and are involved in organized crime.
The United States Border Patrol, Nogales Station, and Homeland Security Investigations in Nogales, Arizona conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR 21-00869-TUC-RCC-4
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-150_Romero-Serrano# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Resumen de la visita de los fiscales estadounidenses del suroeste a MéxicoRead the Press Release
Del 23 al 25 de agosto, una delegación de fiscales, sus jefes de división penal, y jefes de fuerzas de tarea contra el crimen organizado y la droga (OCDETF) de ocho distritos fronterizos viajaron a la Ciudad de México para participar en una serie de reuniones sobre cooperación en seguridad incluyendo esfuerzos para combatir organizaciones del crimen transnacional y esfuerzos el tráfico ilegal de armas, narcóticos y personas. La última reunión de fiscales estadounidenses del suroeste en México se llevó a cabo en marzo de 2020.
El fiscal Gary Restaino del distrito de Arizona, la fiscal en funciones Stephanie Christensen del distrito central de California, el fiscal Randy Grossman del distrito sur de California, el fiscal Alexander Uballez del distrito de Nuevo México, el fiscal Brit Featherstone del distrito este de Texas, el fiscal Chad E. Meacham del distrito norte de Texas, la fiscal Jennifer Lowery del distrito sur de Texas y la fiscal Ashley Hoff del distrito oeste de Texas fueron parte de la delegación estadounidense que comenzó su viaje con una reunión con el embajador de Estados Unidos en México Ken Salazar.
La agregaduría del Departamento de Justicia en la embajada en México organizó las reuniones. La delegación participó en una reunión con varios funcionarios de la Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), incluyendo al subdirector de la oficina de asuntos internacionales y agregadurías Humberto Trujillo Ramos, la subprocurador general especializada en combate a la corrupción Luz Mijangos Borga, el subprocurador para investigaciones penales Felipe de Jesús Gallo Gutiérrez, y el subprocurador para oficinas regionales Germán Adolfo Castillo Banuet. Ambas delegaciones dialogaron sobre cómo pueden fortalecer la coordinación actual en procuración de justicia e intercambio de información.
Además, la Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE) recibió a los fiscales y les informó sobre el Marco Bicentenario Estados Unidos-México para la Seguridad, la Salud Pública y Comunidades Seguras. El jefe de la Unidad para América del Norte Roberto Velasco, y el Subsecretario de Seguridad Ciudadana Ricardo Mejía estuvieron presentes por parte de México.
La delegación de fiscales también sostuvo reuniones con cada agencia estadounidense de procuración de justicia representada en la embajada en la Ciudad de México sobre oportunidades y retos. Dialogaron sobre estrategias investigativas y sus compromisos compartidos por proteger la seguridad de nuestra frontera compartida y los ciudadanos en ambos países.
La relación México-Estados Unidos en procuración de justicia es una de nuestras asociaciones más importantes para combatir al crimen transnacional. La delegación estadounidense reiteró el compromiso de Estados Unidos por proteger a ciudadanos estadounidenses y mexicanos, y los líderes de ambos países reafirmaron su compromiso con la cooperación bilateral en procuración de justicia.
Readout of Southwest Border U.S. Attorneys Visit to MexicoRead the Press Release
From Aug. 23 to 25, a delegation of U.S. Attorneys, their criminal division chiefs, and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force chiefs (OCDETF) from eight border districts traveled to Mexico City to participate in a series of briefings and meetings on security cooperation matters, including efforts to combat transnational criminal organizations and efforts to counter the illegal trafficking and smuggling of firearms, narcotics and people. The last meeting of Southwest Border U.S. Attorneys in Mexico took place in March 2020.
U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino of the District of Arizona, Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Christensen of the Central District of California, U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman of the Southern District of California, U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez of the District of New Mexico, U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston of the Eastern District of Texas, U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham for the Northern District of Texas, U.S. Attorney Jennifer Lowery of the Southern District of Texas, and U.S. Attorney Ashley Hoff of the Western District of Texas were amongst the U.S. delegation that commenced their trip with meeting U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar.
The Justice Department’s Attaché Office in Mexico City organized the briefings and meetings. The U.S. delegation participated in a meeting with various officials from Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office “Fiscalía General de la República” (FGR) including Deputy Director of the Office of International Affairs and Attaché Offices, Humberto Trujillo Ramos; Deputy Attorney General Specialized in Combatting Corruption, Maria de la Luz Mijangos Borga; Deputy Attorney General for Criminal Investigations, Felipe de Jesus Gallo Gutierrez; and Deputy Attorney General for Regional Offices, German Adolfo Castillo Banuet. The two delegations discussed how they can further strengthen existing coordination of enforcement efforts and information-sharing.
Additionally, the Foreign Ministry “Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores” (SRE) hosted the U.S. Attorneys and discussed the United States-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health and Secure Communities. Undersecretary for North American Affairs, Roberto Velasco, and Undersecretary of the Secretariat of Public Security and Citizen Safety Ricardo Mejia were among the SRE delegation.
The U.S. Attorneys' Offices delegation were also briefed by each U.S. law enforcement agency stationed in Mexico City on current opportunities and challenges in Mexico. They discussed investigative strategies and their shared commitment to protecting the security and safety of our shared border and the citizens of both countries.
The U.S. law enforcement relationship with Mexico is one of our most important partnerships to combat trans-border crime. The U.S. delegation reiterated the United States’ commitment to protecting U.S. and Mexican citizens, and the leaders from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral law enforcement cooperation.
Southwest Border U.S. Attorneys meeting with Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office: La Fiscalía General de la República
Southwest Border U.S. Attorneys meeting with Mexico’s Foreign Ministry “Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores" Group photo of US delegation: Back row L to R: Attaché Christina Vejar; District of Arizona OCDETF Chief Maria Gutierrez; Co-director of Joint Task Force Alpha Victor White; Southern District of California OCDETF Chief Joe Smith; Eastern District of Texas Criminal Chief Frank Coan, District of Arizona OCDETF Chief Rob Fellrath, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas Brit Featherston, Central District of California OCDETF Chief Shawn Nelson; Southern District of Texas OCDETF Chief Mary Lou Castillo; Central District of California Criminal Chief Scott Garringer; District of Arizona First Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Hernandez; District of Arizona Criminal Chief Rui Wang; District of Arizona Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Savel; District of New Mexico Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Ramirez; District of New Mexico Criminal Chief (Las Cruces) Aaron Jordan; District of New Mexico Criminal Division Chief (Albuquerque) Kristopher Houghton Front row L to R: U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino, U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman, Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Christensen, U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez, Amb. Ken Salazar, U.S. Attorney Ashley Hoff, Western District of Texas Criminal Division Chief Christina Playton, U.S. Attorney Jennifer Lowery, U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham, Southern District of Texas OCDETF Chief John Jocher; Deputy Attaché Rocio ZamudioParker Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Michael John Dean Nopah, 42, of Parker, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge John J. Tuchi to 70 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Twenty-five months of Nopah’s federal sentence was ordered to run consecutive to a California sentence he is currently serving. Nopah previously pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
On April 24, 2020, in Parker, Arizona, Nopah was found in possession of a Glock model 30S, .45 caliber pistol capable of accepting a large capacity magazine. Nopah is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The FBI and CRIT Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina J. Reid-Moore, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00546-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022- 149_Nopah
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Tucson Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Dealing Firearms Without A LicenseRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Tuesday, Isaias Delgado, 37, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 36 months in prison for engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license. Judge Zipps also ordered Delgado to pay a forfeiture judgment of over $43,500 and imposed an additional $2,000 fine. Delgado was previously found guilty of Engaging in the Business of Dealing Firearms Without a License following a jury trial on August 12, 2021.
Between May of 2018 and April of 2019, Delgado purchased and resold at least 38 firearms, including several .50 caliber rifles, AK-47 style rifles, AR-15 style rifles, and belt-fed rifles. The evidence showed that Delgado spent over $80,000 on firearms during this time period. He immediately sold the firearms after acquiring them and made a significant profit off of each sale. Two of the firearms were recovered in Mexico shortly after Delgado purchased and then sold them. Delgado has never held a federal firearms license that would allow him to engage in the firearm dealing business.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela W. Woolridge, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-19-1094-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-148_Delgado
# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Tucson Man Convicted of Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, a federal jury found Eric David Marrufo, 43, of Tucson, Arizona, guilty of five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child. Marrufo is being held in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for October 24, 2022, before United States District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson.
The evidence at trial showed that, between August 1, 2006, and August 1, 2008, Marrufo sexually abused the victims at his home in Tucson, on the Pascua Yaqui Indian Reservation. Marrufo is a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.
Each conviction for aggravated sexual abuse of a child and abusive sexual contact with a child carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pascua Yaqui Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew C. Cassell and Rui Wang, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-0976-TUC-CKJ-EJM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-147_Marrufo# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Casa Grande Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Shooting at Federal AgentRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On Monday, Alejandro Nathaniel Rodriguez Stalter, 31, of Casa Grande, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dominic W. Lanza to 13 years in prison. Stalter previously pleaded guilty to one count of Assault on a Federal Officer and one count of Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.
In August 2020, Stalter fled an immigration checkpoint at a high rate of speed with two undocumented noncitizen passengers inside his car. United States Border Patrol (USBP) agents pursued Stalter for approximately 20 miles until his vehicle collided with a stationary object. Once the vehicle was disabled, a USBP agent approached the vehicle, identified himself as a law enforcement agent and tried to open Stalter’s door. As he tried to open the car door, Stalter shot at the agent through the driver’s side window with an AR-15 style assault rifle. The agent took cover, returned fire, and injured Stalter, who ultimately surrendered.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Coleen Schoch, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-00499-PHX-DWL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-146_Stalter# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Kingman Man Sentenced to over Five Years for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Todd Gehman Howard, 60, of Kingman, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to 63 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Howard was previously found guilty of being a Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition following a jury trial in May 2022.
On October 11, 2019, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Howard’s residence in Kingman, Arizona. Inside the residence, agents discovered 23 firearms, including 21 in a safe in Howard’s bedroom closet, and approximately 7,600 rounds of ammunition. Howard’s firearms included various types of revolvers, shotguns, and semi-automatic rifles. One of the guns in the safe was a Privately Made Firearm (PMF), FAL-type .308 caliber semiautomatic rifle, sometimes referred to as a “ghost gun.” Evidence presented at trial showed the receiver of that firearm was forged in Australia, and that the completed firearm had traveled from the State of Washington to Arizona.
The FBI conducted the investigation in this case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Koehler and William Rubens, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-8033-PHX-PCT-SMB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-145_HOWARD# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Phoenix Man Convicted of CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Chauncey Hollingberry, 35, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Michael T. Liburdi to 60 months of probation. Hollingberry previously pleaded guilty to one count of Cyberstalking and, at the time of sentencing, had already served 26 months of pretrial detention.
For approximately two months in 2020, Hollingberry posted a series of videos and livestreams to his YouTube channel disclosing personal information about the victim and encouraging his followers to assist him in harassing the victim. He also sent false and misleading emails about the victim to the victim’s employer, colleagues, and members of the media.
During his period of probation, Hollingberry is prohibited from contacting the victim. In addition, his internet usage will be restricted, and will be monitored by the probation officer.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine D. Keller and Glenn B. McCormick, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-00673-PHX-MTL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-144_Hollingberry# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Tucson-Based Cocaine Distributor Sentenced to Five YearsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Diego Armando Equihua-Sanchez, 31, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 60 months in prison, followed by 60 months of supervised release. Equihua-Sanchez previously pleaded guilty to Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.
Equihua-Sanchez actively worked with others to distribute bulk amounts of cocaine in and around Tucson and other parts of the United States. On November 2, 2020, Equihua-Sanchez delivered approximately one kilogram of cocaine to help complete a transaction involving an out-of-state customer.
The Drug Enforcement Administration in Sierra Vista, Arizona conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael R. Lizano, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-02281-TUC-SHR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-143_Equihua-Sanchez# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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McNary Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On Tuesday, Terrance Padilla, 34, of McNary, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Steven P. Logan to 276 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. Padilla previously pleaded guilty to three counts of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child.
In the summer of 2020, Padilla sexually assaulted three children, under the age of 12, who were in his custody. Padilla is an enrolled member of the White Mountain Apache Tribe.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Church, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-20-08013-PHX-PCT-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-141_Padilla# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Man Sentenced to 160 Months for Role in International Lottery Fraud Scheme Targeting Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Tuesday, David Odean McIntosh, 29, of Jamaica, was sentenced by United States District Judge Raner C. Collins to 160 months in prison. McIntosh was previously found guilty by a federal jury of Conspiracy to Commit Mail and Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
Between 2013 and 2018, McIntosh was one of the leaders of an international fraud ring that targeted thousands of elderly victims around the United States. Jamaican-based scammers and others called elderly victims in the United States, claiming the victims had won a lottery or other prize. To receive their winnings, the victims were told that they must first pay money for taxes and fees. The fraudsters provided some victims with phony letters claiming to be from the IRS that threatened to seize their assets if they failed to pay. McIntosh’s role in this scheme was to distribute “lead lists,” which contained the names and personal information of thousands of primarily elderly individuals for the scammers to contact and lure into the scheme. In addition, McIntosh also conspired to launder portions of the fraudulent proceeds. As part of his sentence, the court ordered McIntosh to pay approximately $1.8 million in restitution.
The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, and the Diplomatic Security Service conducted the investigation in this case. The Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Section of the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-2216-TUC-RCC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-142_McIntosh# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Man Sentenced to over 10 Years for Role in International Romance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Onovughe Ighorhiohwunu, 47, a resident of Kennesaw, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 130 months in prison for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. Ighorhiohwunu was previously found guilty by a federal jury of conspiring to launder more than $1.3 million in proceeds obtained from victims of an internet romance fraud. As part of his sentence, Ighorhiohwunu was fined $25,000 and ordered to pay $1,342,150 in restitution.
Evidence at trial and sentencing established that, between July 2019 and May 2020, Ighorhiohwunu participated in a scheme where conspirators with connections to Nigeria used fictitious or assumed online identities to meet victims in the United States. Conspirators contacted victims through dating websites and games like Words With Friends and then pretended to strike up romantic relationships with them. After establishing relationships, conspirators asked the victims for money, often to help with a phony crisis such as an emergency medical procedure, and usually told the victims their money would be repaid. Conspirators directed at least 10 victims to send large sums of money by mail or wire to Ighorhiohwunu and others, which was then withdrawn in cash and hand-delivered to conspirators or wired to other bank accounts. Ighorhiohwunu received payment for his role in the scheme.
“Internet-based scams like this one starkly illustrate both the greed of the perpetrators and the generosity of the elderly victims,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “Thanks to our partners at the Federal Bureau of Investigation for unraveling the complex scheme and providing a strong message of deterrence.”
The United States Attorney’s Office encourages the public to be wary of similar scams and to verify with law enforcement and family members before sending money after any online, or phone, solicitations.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. The Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Section of the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-1119-TUC-SHR-1
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-140_Ighorhiohwunu# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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San Carlos Man Sentenced to 29 Months for AssaultRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, Josiah Kindelay, 26, of San Carlos, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge John J. Tuchi to 29 months in prison. Kindelay previously pleaded guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
On January 12, 2019, Kindelay, a San Carlos Apache Tribal member, was driving his car across the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation while under the influence of alcohol. Kindelay struck the 68-year-old Native American victim as he was preparing to change his van’s flat tire on the side of the road. The victim suffered serious bodily injury including bone fractures to both legs. As a result, one of the victim’s legs had to be amputated.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs, San Carlos Investigation Unit, conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00396-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022- 139_KINDELAY# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Sacaton Man Sentenced to over 15 Years for Shooting DeathRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. –Sage Jones, 30, of Sacaton, Arizona, was sentenced August 15, 2022, by United States District Judge Dominic W. Lanza to 188 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Mr. Jones is a recognized member of the Gila River Indian Community. On March 24, 2021, Jones shot the victim multiple times, resulting in the victim’s death. Jones previously pleaded guilty on May 13, 2022, to Second Degree Murder.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Gila River Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raynette Logan, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00963-PHX-DWL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-138_Jones# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Phoenix Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. –Last week, Avery Ulate, 39, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Michael T. Liburdi to 300 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. Ulate previously pleaded guilty to one count of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child.
Ulate admitted to authorities that in 2019 he knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a child under the age of 12. He also admitted that he had sexually abused the child for years. The crimes took place on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation, where the child is an enrolled tribal member.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-19-08250-PHX-MTL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-136_ULATE# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Phoenix Felon Charged for Violent CarjackingRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On Friday, Adonijah Josiah Ortega, 19, of Phoenix, Arizona, was charged via criminal complaint for Carjacking, Using, Carrying, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
The complaint alleges that on August 8, 2022, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Ortega approached the victim while he was entering his vehicle in the parking lot of a Target Store, located at 9350 West Northern Avenue, Peoria, Arizona. After Ortega approached the victim, he pointed a semi-automatic handgun at him, and demanded the victim give him his keys and wallet.
Ortega struck the victim multiple times in the head with the handgun and fired his weapon twice, striking the victim once in the right thigh. Ortega then took the victim’s keys and fled the scene with the victim’s vehicle. After Ortega fled, the victim limped toward the store where citizens rendered aid until paramedics arrived. The victim was transported to a local hospital with a gunshot wound and multiple lacerations to his head.
A conviction for Carjacking carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment. A conviction for Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence carries a minimum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. A conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Peoria Police Department, and the Phoenix Police Department are conducting the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-5351-PHX-DMF
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-137_ORTEGA# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Alien Smuggling Coordinator Pleads Guilty to Bribing Former Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Luis Alfredo Quintero-Gonzalez, 36, of Mexico, pleaded guilty on August 11, 2022, for Conspiracy to Commit Bribery and Alien Smuggling. Sentencing is scheduled for October 25, 2022, before United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps.
Evidence gathered during the investigation established that Quintero-Gonzalez paid former United States Border Patrol (USBP) agent Carlos Passapera thousands of dollars in cash bribes for smuggling undocumented noncitizens into the United States between August and December 2019.
Quintero-Gonzalez admitted that he conspired to coordinate and coordinated the illegal entry of undocumented noncitizens by acting as the middleman between Passapera and the individuals seeking illegal passage into the United States. While working as a USBP agent, Passapera would receive communication from Quintero-Gonzalez and then pick up the undocumented noncitizens along the U.S.-Mexico border near Lukeville, Arizona. Passapera would then smuggle the individuals through Border Patrol checkpoints and deliver them to locations within the Phoenix area. Throughout the conspiracy, Quintero-Gonzalez and Passapera smuggled at least eight undocumented noncitizens into the United States. In exchange for his role in the conspiracy, Passapera received approximately $64,000 in bribery payments from Quintero-Gonzalez.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Commit Bribery and Alien Smuggling carries a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Passapera was charged separately for his involvement in the conspiracy in case CR-20-01706-TUC-JGZ-MSA and has pleaded not guilty. His jury trial is scheduled to begin on April 3, 2023, before United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southern Arizona Corruption Task Force, and the Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General. The Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Section of the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-01529-TUC-JGZ-MSA
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-135_QUINTERO-GONZALEZ# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Safford Felon Sentenced to 48 Months for Smuggling Illegal Aliens and Possession of Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Jordon Mark Skinner, 29, of Safford, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 48 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Skinner previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for the Purpose of Private Financial Gain, Transportation of Illegal Aliens for the Purpose of Private Financial Gain, and Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon.
On June 29, 2021, Skinner was arrested by United States Border Patrol agents for smuggling six undocumented noncitizens, including one unaccompanied minor, in a pickup truck. He initially attempted to flee from law enforcement but stopped his truck once agents deployed a tire deflation device. Further investigation revealed that Skinner had over $1,000, two stolen firearms, an extended magazine capable of accepting 15 rounds of ammunition, several rounds of 9 mm ammunition, six fentanyl pills, and six grams of methamphetamine in his possession. Skinner is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms and live ammunition.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol, Sonoita Station, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Hopkins, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-02108-TUC-SHR-1
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-134_SKINNER# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Convicted Felon Sentenced to 66 Months for Smuggling AmmunitionRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Luis Carlos Eriksen, 56, of Nogales, Arizona, was sentenced August 3, 2022, by United States District Judge James A. Soto to 66 months in prison for Smuggling Ammunition from the United States into Mexico and Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon.
On May 20, 2020, Eriksen drove from Mexico to Phoenix, where he purchased 4,000 rounds of 7.62 x 39 ammunition, and 1,000 rounds of .38 Super ammunition from an ammunition retailer. After loading the ammunition into his vehicle, he began driving back to Mexico. He was stopped by an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officer, who discovered the ammunition in his vehicle. Eriksen admitted that he had entered into an agreement with individuals in Mexico to obtain bulk ammunition in the United States and smuggle it into Mexico for payment. Eriksen has prior convictions for drug trafficking offenses and is prohibited from possessing ammunition.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and DPS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela W. Woolridge, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-0542-TUC-JAS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-132_Eriksen# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Pinon Man Arrested for Alleged Murder of Missing Navajo Woman and Acts of Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. –Yesterday, Tre C. James, 30, of Pinon, Arizona, was arrested for first-degree murder and several acts of domestic violence. James had his initial appearance yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Camille D. Bibles. A detention hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 9, 2022, in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Earlier this week, a federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment against James. Counts 1 and 2 allege James shot and killed Jamie Yazzie, a Pinon woman who went missing in the summer of 2019, and whose remains were found on the Hopi Indian Reservation in November 2021. Ms. Yazzie was listed as a missing person by both federal and tribal law enforcement, and the circumstances of her disappearance were investigated jointly by the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Services, Navajo Nation Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Navajo County Sherriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
James was also indicted for several acts of domestic violence. Counts 3 through 8 allege that James committed acts of domestic violence against three victims – between 2018 and 2021 – including suffocation, strangling, kidnapping, and assault with a dangerous weapon.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona is committed to addressing the persistent violence endured by Native American families and communities in the state of Arizona, including by working with Tribal nations to address the important issues of missing or murdered indigenous persons and acts of domestic violence. This office and the Department of Justice view this work as a priority for its law enforcement components.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-08073-PHX-PCT-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-131_James# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Young Driver and Teenage Guide Plead Guilty After Rollover Accident Resulted in the Death of a PassengerRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Matthew Dylan Ramirez, 20, of Tempe, Arizona, and Jesus Madrid-Varela, 19, of Mexico, both pleaded guilty to Conspiracy and Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit Resulting in Death. Sentencing for both defendants is scheduled for November 1, 2022, before United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps.
In May 2021, Madrid-Varela smuggled three undocumented noncitizens into the United States by guiding them through the southern Arizona desert on foot, to a location near Quijotoa, Arizona.
On May 22, 2021, Ramirez picked up and transported Madrid-Varela and the three undocumented noncitizens in his vehicle with the intent to smuggle them further into the United States. While driving, Ramirez passed a Tohono O’odham Police officer who believed Ramirez was speeding. The officer attempted to stop Ramirez’s vehicle but was unsuccessful because Ramirez was driving over 100 miles per hour. Ramirez lost control of the vehicle and it rolled several times, ejecting all four passengers. One of the passengers, a 36-year-old woman from Mexico, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other passengers, including the decedent’s husband, sustained non-fatal injuries. After his arrest, Ramirez admitted that he was recruited through Snapchat by a smuggling organization that was going to pay him $1,000 for driving the undocumented noncitizens to Phoenix.
Ramirez pleaded guilty to the Indictment without a plea agreement. He faces up to life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Madrid-Varela pleaded guilty with a plea agreement and faces 36 to 57 months in prison.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Tohono O’odham Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Wright, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-01394-TUC-JGZ (EJM)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022- 128_Ramirez_Madrid-Varela# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Douglas Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Liquid Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Monday, Rey Moreno-Vasquez, 52, of Douglas, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to 70 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Moreno-Vasquez previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
In March 2017, law enforcement officers seized a load of liquid methamphetamine that was hidden in 52 sealed beverage bottles that were being transported in a vehicle in the southeastern United States. Investigators later learned that Moreno-Vasquez was involved in a conspiracy to traffic liquid methamphetamine from Mexico into the United States. The investigation led to a second seizure in Arizona in August 2017, in which the liquid methamphetamine was being smuggled in a recreational vehicle destined for Atlanta, Georgia. The liquid methamphetamine was hidden in bottles labeled as iced tea, juice, and ginger ale. The total amount seized by law enforcement was approximately 234 kilograms.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stefani K. Hepford and Ashley Culver, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-00549-TUC-CKJ (LAB)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-130_Moreno-Vasquez# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Guatemalan National Indicted for Assaulting a Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Jorge Oliverio Moran-Can, 42, of Guatemala, charging him with Assault on a Federal Officer Resulting in Bodily Injury.
The initial complaint issued last month, alleged that on July 3, 2022, a United States Border Patrol (USBP) agent responded to a remote location near New Field, Arizona. The agent was tracking a group of suspected undocumented noncitizens in a remote mountainous area when the agent spotted three people hiding near a ledge. When the agent approached them, two of the suspected undocumented noncitizens fled on foot. Moran-Can stayed and initially remained compliant, but when the agent reached out to handcuff him, Moran-Can rammed his shoulder into the agent’s torso causing them both to fall and tumble several yards down a rocky slope. Moran-Can continued to struggle but the agent was able to gain control and handcuff him. The agent sustained abrasions and bruising on his left knee and hip and was treated at a hospital.
A conviction for the crime of assault on a federal officer resulting in bodily injury carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and up to a $250,000 fine, or both.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Houston, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-01661-SHR-LCK
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-127_ Moran-CanUnited States Attorney’s Office Releases Second Quarter Immigration Enforcement Statistics for 2022Read the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office announced its immigration enforcement statistics for April 2022 to June 2022. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the Tucson and Yuma Sectors of the Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies. In the three-month period ending June 30, 2022, the United States brought criminal charges in Arizona against 1,044 individuals who illegally entered or re-entered the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States also filed 288 felony cases against individuals responsible for smuggling undocumented noncitizens to and within the District of Arizona.
Reducing migrant smuggling and mitigating the risk to communities impacted by these offenses continues to be a priority for the Office and its law enforcement partners. Some of these prosecutions are directed against leaders and coordinators of non-U.S. citizen smuggling organizations. Other prosecutions are aimed at deterring young adult drivers, often recruited over social media platforms, from engaging in this dangerous activity. Prosecutions against young drivers include three cases brought against juvenile smugglers during this time-period.
These statistics represent United States Attorney's Office prosecutions only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-129_2022 Second Quarter Immigration Enforcement Statistics
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Mexican National Sentenced to over 34 Years for Producing Child Pornography and CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz.- On Tuesday, Ruben Oswaldo Yeverino Rosales, 27, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Judge Steven P. Logan to 413 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. Rosales previously pleaded guilty to four counts of Production of Child Pornography and two counts of Cyberstalking.
Rosales, using an online account in Mexico, coerced a 14-year-old girl in Arizona to take over 600 pornographic images of herself. He then blackmailed the minor into producing additional images by threatening to send, and by actually sending, the images to her family and schoolmates.
Rosales also used the internet to coerce an 18-year-old high school senior in Arizona into taking nude pictures of herself and sending them to him. He later threatened to create a pornographic website to post the images if she did not continue to send him pictures.
The investigation into Rosales revealed that he used social media from 2015 until the time of his arrest to exploit more than 100 females, mostly minors – some as young as 12 years of age. Homeland Security Investigations was able to identify more than 80 of these victims throughout the United States and in multiple other countries.
Rosales was arrested in Mexico in 2019. In May 2020, Rosales was extradited to the District of Arizona.
Tuesday’s sentencing took into account similar indictments in five other districts, including the Central District of California, the District of South Carolina, the Eastern District of North Carolina, the Eastern District of Missouri, and Northern District of Oklahoma. As part of Rosales’ plea agreement, these indictments will be dismissed.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Goodyear Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gayle Helart and Sheila Phillips handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-01200-PHX-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-126_Rosales# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.