District of Arizona
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Takeback DayRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange will join the DEA on Oct. 28, 2017, for its 14th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at thousands of collection sites around the country, including over 70 in Arizona. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The links provided below contain information about local location sites.
“We are proud to support this great endeavor in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “The collection sites throughout Arizona will not only encourage drug disposal and support our smaller communities, but we hope this event will enhance an awareness of the opioid crisis and other prescription-drug problems affecting all of our communities.”
“Every Arizonan can prevent the potential onset of addiction from within their own homes and impact the supply of excess prescription drugs diverted to the illicit drug market by participating in DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back,” said DEA Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman. “The DEA will continue to work with communities to curb the opioid epidemic and target the cartels profiting from the weakness of others, but we must begin with reducing the supply of excess prescription drugs.”
During the last Take Back event, Americans turned in 900,000 pounds of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, during the 13 previous Take Back events, the DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills. In Arizona alone, over 121,143 pounds, or approximately 60 tons have been collected.
The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. (The collection points cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharp objects, only pills or patches.)
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers. Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go to the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator or the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona web page, http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-104_DEA_TakeBack
# # #
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.
Two Marijuana Scouts with Weapons Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
TUCSON – Today, Jose Abelordo Guzman-Perez, 21, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Raner C. Collins to 97 months in prison, followed by a term of three years of supervised release. Guzman-Perez had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and carrying a firearm during a drug crime.
On the night of Sept. 28-29, 2016, the Tucson Sector U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) responded to the Roskruge Mountains northwest of Three Points, Ariz., after a camera captured two suspected unauthorized aliens, later identified as Lorenzo Antonio Infante-Ortiz and Jose Abelordo Guzman-Perez, carrying backpacks. Guzman-Perez was also seen carrying a Century Arms AK-47 7.62 mm rifle and Sig Sauer P220 .45-caliber pistol, and Infante-Ortiz was seen carrying a Springfield Armory AR-15 .223-caliber rifle and Smith & Wesson 9 mm pistol. Air support units arrived and observed Infante-Ortiz and Guzman-Perez sleeping with the aforementioned rifles within arm’s reach of both of them, near a cliff with a 6-foot drop.
BORTAC agents struggled for hours in the pitch dark, utilizing only night-vision, to get in place to apprehend the defendants. Once in place, agents announced their presence and attempted to take the defendants into custody. Infante-Ortiz attempted to flee but was detained after a brief struggle. Guzman-Perez reached for the AK-47 and was promptly tackled by an agent. Guzman-Perez was combative and violently fought, causing him and the agent to fall off the cliff. The fall caused the agent’s left shoulder to dislocate, but the agent held on to Guzman-Perez with his other arm while the defendant continued to push, kick, and punch him. Eventually, Guzman-Perez got away from the agent and fell several times as he attempted to run down the mountainside in the dark. Agents on containment duty were then able to close in and capture Guzman-Perez before he left containment. Infante-Ortiz previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations and BORTAC. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lawrence Lee and Adam Rossi, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-01374-PHX-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-102_Perez etal
# # #
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.
Sacaton Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Methamphetamine on the Gila River Indian CommunityRead the Press Release
PHOENIX - On Oct. 17, 2017, Carmela Marvelle Lopez, 28, of Sacaton, Ariz., and a member of the Gila River Indian Community, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven P. Logan to 57 months in prison, followed by a term of three years of supervised release. Lopez had previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Between Feb. 19, 2016 and March 9, 2016, Lopez sold methamphetamine to an undercover officer on three separate occasions. Lopez conducted two of those methamphetamine sales at her former residence located on the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Christina J. Reid-Moore, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-01374-PHX-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-100_Lopez
# # #
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.
Camp Verde Man Sentenced to Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact of a MinorRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On Monday, Rowan James Kickinghorse Rhodes, 25, of Camp Verde, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell to 13 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by eight years of supervised release with sex offender conditions. Rhodes had previously pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact with a minor. At the time he committed the offense, Rhodes was on supervised release for a previous conviction for assault with a dangerous weapon. Judge Campbell revoked Rhodes’s supervised release and sentenced him to nine months’ imprisonment, to run concurrently with the newly imposed prison term.
In December 2016, Rhodes, an enrolled member of the Yavapai-Apache Nation, intentionally touched the minor victim, also an enrolled member. The abuse occurred within the boundaries of the Yavapai-Apache Nation Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yavapai-Apache Nation Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina Covault, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-8061-DGC/ CR-13-8055-DGC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-101_Rhodes
# # #
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 Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Michael Alvarez Martinez, 48, of Tucson, Ariz., a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Raner C. Collins to 41 months in prison. Martinez had previously pleaded guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact of a minor. The minor victim is also a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Martinez will be placed on lifetime federal supervision and be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
The investigation in this case was conducted by both the Pascua Yaqui Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Charisse Arce and Rui Wang, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-02282-TUC-RCC-BPV
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-099_ Martinez
# # #
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.
Chinle Man Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Term for Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Marcurio Carlisle Tsosie, 34, of Chinle, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 18.5 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by lifetime supervised release with sex offender conditions. Tsosie had previously pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact of a child.
In November of 2016, the nine year-old victim, a member of the Navajo Nation, reported Tsosie’s sexual abuse to the victim’s mother. Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation promptly began an investigation, which led to Tsosie’s arrest and prosecution. Tsosie is also a member of the Navajo Nation, and the abuse occurred within the Navajo Nation Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William G. Voit and Sharon K. Sexton, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-8045-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-098_ Tsosie
# # #
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.
Laveen Man Sentenced to 87 Months for Illegally Possessing Firearm on ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Anthony James Kyyitan, 38, of Laveen, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell to 45 months in prison for recklessly handling a firearm on the Gila River Indian Community. Kyyitan had previously pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Campbell noted that Kyyitan was a prohibited possessor who had improperly possessed firearms on two occasions while living on the reservation. Kyyitan is an enrolled member of the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Christine D. Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00161-PHX-DGC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-097_Kyyitan
# # #
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.
Scottsdale Resident Sentenced to 24 Months for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Bart James Ellis, 44, of Scottsdale, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 24 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $900,000 in restitution. Ellis had previously pleaded guilty to money laundering.
“Investment fraud is especially problematic when criminals target retirees. The United States Attorney’s Office takes this kind of criminal conduct very seriously and will continue to aggressively prosecute financial frauds,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange.
“The defendant misled his clients and stole their hard earned money,” stated IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Ismael Nevarez Jr. “IRS-CI will continue to protect the public by investigating individuals who defraud their investor clients.”
From 2012 through 2015, Ellis, a former financial advisor, solicited more than $1.1 million from former clients, several of whom were elderly, by claiming that the funds would be used to purchase low-risk investments, but instead he used approximately $400,000 on personal expenses and lost approximately $700,000 on risky stock trades in his online brokerage account. Ellis also attempted to conceal his fraudulent scheme by falsifying investment statements.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Mark S. Kokanovich, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00299-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-096_Ellis
# # #
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.
Fort Defiance Family Sentenced to Prison for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Last week, U.S. District Judge Steven Logan sentenced Vestah Tikium to 33 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Tikium’s son, Terdell Dawes, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, while her other son, Terrell Dawes, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison. Tikium and her sons also were ordered to pay more than $3 million in restitution. All three had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. All defendants are members of the Navajo Nation.
Tikium and her sons falsely billed Arizona’s Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for tens of thousands of medical transports that never occurred, generating more than $3 million in fraudulent payments from AHCCCS. AHCCCS is Arizona’s Medicaid agency that offers health care programs to low-income Arizona residents. Tikium and her sons owned and operated Diné Transport, which purported to provide non-emergency medical transportation for AHCCCS recipients on the Navajo reservation. Approximately 95% of the claims submitted by Diné Transport between March 2013 and July 2013 were false.
“Health care fraud is a prevalent problem that causes higher health care costs and increased taxes for everyone,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target those who perpetuate health care fraud, and we will prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”
“The FBI views health care fraud as a serious crime problem,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael DeLeon. “It degrades the integrity of our health care system and legitimate patient care. The sentences handed down on these individuals sends a clear message to those persons who are defrauding our health insurance programs. The FBI remains committed to investigating health care fraud and bringing these individuals to justice. The FBI will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners to investigate those who violate the public trust by cheating the medical insurance system.”
In the last year, five other individuals have been convicted and sentenced for perpetrating similar frauds to falsely bill AHCCCS for non-emergency medical transports that purportedly occurred on the Navajo Reservation:
- In November 2016, Sylvia Begay was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $2.1 million in restitution (CR-15-08252);
- Also in November 2016, Virgil Begay was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $1.3 million in restitution (CR-15-08252);
- In March 2017, Natasha Begaye was sentenced to probation and ordered to pay approximately $380,000 in restitution (CR-15-08250);
- Also in March 2017, Cortasha Upshaw was sentenced to probation and ordered to pay approximately $245,000 in restitution (CR-15-08251); and
- In April 2017, Elseddig Musa was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $1.2 million in restitution (CR-15-01265).
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and AHCCCS Office of Inspector General. The Navajo Nation Police Department also assisted in the investigation. The prosecution was handled by Bridget Minder and Peter Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-08096
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-095_Tikium
# # #
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.
Sierra Vista Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Attempted Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Matthew Demond Lyons, 23, of Sierra Vista, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Rosemary Marquez to 10 years' imprisonment to be followed by 20 years of supervised release. Lyons previously pleaded guilty to attempted transportation of a minor with intent to engage in prostitution or any criminal sexual activity, aiding and abetting. He will be required to register as a sex offender and abide by sex offender terms as part of his supervision once released from prison.
In January 2016, Lyons attempted via electronic communications to induce a 16-year-old girl to travel to Arizona from Minnesota. Lyons instructed the minor to send him nude photographs of herself and to refer to him as “daddy” and stated that he would provide her with food, drugs, and shelter. Lyons also purchased a bus ticket so she could travel to Arizona. She boarded the bus in Minnesota and was enroute to Arizona before law enforcement located her.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Sierra Vista Police Department, Eden Prairie Police Department (Eden Prairie, Minnesota), and the Cochise County Attorney’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Raquel Arellano and Karen Rolley, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson
CASE NUMBER: CR- 17-00160-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-094_Lyons
# # #
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 Sentenced to 87 Months for Illegally Possessing Firearm on ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Clifford Earl Jordan, 43, of Phoenix, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven P. Logan to 87 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation. Jordan had previously pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
In justifying the increased sentence, Judge Logan noted that Jordan possessed the firearm in connection with a domestic assault against a member of the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation, and he engaged in witness tampering activities designed to cause that victim to recant.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Christine D. Keller and Anthony Church, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08155-PCT-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-093_Jordan
# # #
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.
Keams Canyon Man Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, Elan Nash, 30, of Keams Canyon, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven P. Logan to 29 months’ imprisonment, in addition to 8 months’ imprisonment previously served on a related case in the Hopi Tribal Court. Nash had previously pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
On June 30, 2016, an officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services (Hopi Agency) observed Nash to be intoxicated and, after speaking with him, attempted to place Nash under arrest for public intoxication. Nash resisted arrest and assaulted the officer. In doing so, he seriously injured the officer’s hand. Nash is a member of the Hopi tribe and the assault occurred within the Hopi Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Samuels, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-8002-PCT-SPL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-092_Nash
# # #
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.
Mesa Man Sentenced to over 20 Years in Federal Prison for Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Assault Related to Drunk DrivingRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On Sept. 19, 2017, Hale Nahsonhoya, 22, of Mesa, Ariz., and a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow to 250 months in prison (20 years and 10 months) followed by five years of supervised release. Nahsonhoya had previously pleaded guilty to second degree murder and aggravated assault.
The case involved Nahsonhoya driving his vehicle with extreme, reckless disregard for human life, causing a multi-vehicle crash. As a result of Nahsonhoya’s actions, one man, who was driving his car to church band practice, was killed instantly. A woman in a third vehicle was seriously injured, hospitalized, and suffered long-term injuries.
This incident happened on a busy intersection on the Salt River Indian Reservation, McKellips and Longmore Roads in Scottsdale, Ariz. At approximately 4:45 p.m., in rush hour traffic, Nahsonhoya was driving his vehicle with his juvenile brother as a passenger. Nahsonhoya had a blood alcohol content of over .215. He was driving in excess of 85 MPH in a 35 MPH zone. Just before the crash, Nahsonhoya sped his vehicle to ignore and race through a stop sign. He did not attempt to stop his vehicle even seconds prior to impact.
The wife of the deceased victim came to court and paid tribute to her husband of 30 years, highlighting for Judge Snow her husband’s kind-hearted, selfless, and loving life. She explained to Judge Snow the devastation caused by her husband’s death.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Salt River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Heather Sechrist and Sharon K. Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-0047-PHX-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-091_ Nahsonhoya
# # #
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.
Gila River Man Sentenced to over 21 Years in Prison for MurderRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On Sept. 19, 2017, Gabriel Michael Alvarez, 25, of Sacaton, Ariz., a member of the Gila River Indian Community, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow to 262 months in prison. Alvarez had previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Also sentenced was Roger Matthew James, of Chandler Heights, Ariz., 27, also a member of the Gila River Indian Community, to 15 years in prison for discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, after previously pleading guilty.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Raynette Logan, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00041-PHX-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-090_Alvarez etal
# # #
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.
IT Contractor Convicted of Wire Fraud for Defacing Website of Arizona CompanyRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Tavis Tso, 40, of Tempe, Ariz., a member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell to four years of federal probation. Tso was also ordered to pay $9,145 in restitution to the victim of his crime. Tso had previously pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, Tso provided information technology (“IT”) services for a company located in Phoenix, Ariz. Tso subsequently used the company’s account information to make changes to the company’s website. These changes prevented the company’s employees from using their email accounts and redirected the company’s homepage to a blank page. Tso then offered to return everything to normal for $10,000. When the company refused to pay the requested amount, Tso redirected the company’s homepage to a pornographic website. Visitors to the company’s website were redirected to the pornographic website for several days before the website was returned to normal.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Matthew Binford and James R. Knapp, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-1502-PHX-DGC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-089_Tso
# # #
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.
72-Year-Old Man Sentenced to Prison for Threatening Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and OthersRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – This week, Richard Corrie Beals, 72, of Tucson, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 13 months and one day in prison and a $5,000 fine. Beals was convicted after a jury trial of two counts of transmitting a communication containing a threat to kidnap or injure.
The evidence at trial demonstrated that Beals sent multiple threatening and harassing communications, over an extended period of time, to various federal officials and private citizens in Salt Lake City, Utah. The evidence further demonstrated that many of Beals’s threats were directed at members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Upon release from prison, Beals will be on supervised release for three years. The terms of his supervision include no contact with the victims and a “stay-away” order from any Mormon facilities and temples.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Salt Lake City Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-01663-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-088_Beals
# # #
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.
United States Attorney’s Office Launches Online Messaging Campaign to Highlight the Importance of Law Enforcement WellnessRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – The United States Attorney’s Office will implement an online messaging campaign in September during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to highlight the importance of law enforcement wellness and suicide prevention. According to Badge of Life, more officers die of suicide than from gunfire and traffic accidents combined. The Police Suicide Study estimates that an average of 130 law enforcement suicides occur per year.
Acting United States Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange said, “Law enforcement officers often encounter dangerous and stressful situations that cause psychological distress. We should take the time to honor our law enforcement partners for their selfless acts of courage and encourage them to take care of their emotional and psychological well-being.”
During September, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will disseminate specific messages via social media using the hashtag #OfficerWellness.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-087_LEA WELLNESS
# # #
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 Three Years for Narcotic Smuggling and Assault on a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Jose Ramon Flores-Villareal, 29, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bury to 37 months of imprisonment. Flores-Villareal previously pleaded guilty to acting as a scout in a narcotics smuggling conspiracy and assault on a federal officer.
For several weeks prior to Flores-Villareal’s arrest, members of the U.S. Border Patrol Casa Grande Station’s specially-trained Mountain Team conducted anti-scout operations on the Tohono O’odham Indian Nation. Scouts in this area are hired by Drug Trafficking Organizations to reside for an extended period of time atop mountains and hills in order to help marijuana backpackers evade law enforcement. On March 1, 2017, team members observed Flores-Villareal and other scouts utilizing radios to communicate with guides of marijuana backpackers on the desert floor. Air support units arrived, and Flores-Villareal hid himself near a cliff with a 15 to 20-foot drop. An agent located Flores-Villareal, who refused to comply with commands, and Flores-Villareal attempted to strike the agent. Flores-Villareal also grabbed the agent’s radio from his duty belt, keying his radio, thereby preventing him from calling for help. During the course of the struggle, the agent was pushed close to the nearby cliff drop-off. Agents were able to find and assist the other agent and take Flores-Villareal into custody.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations’ NATIVE Task Force and the U.S. Border Patrol Casa Grande Station. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Rossi and Susanna Martinez, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-00509-JGZ-BPV
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-086_ Flores-Villareal
# # #
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.
Kayenta Man Sentenced to More Than 27 Years for Kidnapping and Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – This week, Eli Sloan, 45, of Kayenta, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 330 months of imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Last year, Sloan was convicted of six offenses following a jury trial, including kidnapping, two counts of aggravated sexual abuse, assault with intent to commit aggravated sexual abuse, assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate partner, and assault by strangling an intimate partner.
On Oct. 4, 2015, Sloan kidnapped the victim and held her overnight in a rural area near Kayenta, Ariz. Eventually, he took her to a trailer, where he held her until the next day. Both Sloan and the victim are members of the Navajo Nation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Samuels and Sharon Sexton, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-8232-PCT-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-085_Sloan
# # #
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.
Sacaton Man Sentenced to 41 Months for Domestic Violence Offenses on ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Webster Wayne Norris, IV, 27, of Sacaton, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 41 months in prison for two separate domestic violence offenses occurring on the Gila River Indian Community. Specifically, Norris was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment for assault by strangulation of a domestic partner, and a concurrent 41-month term for assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Norris previously pleaded guilty to both crimes. Upon release from prison, Norris will be on supervised release for three years.
In early 2016, Norris strangled the victim in their home. In April 2016, Norris again assaulted the victim, causing serious injury to the victim’s arm. Both Norris and the victim are members of the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Christine D. Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-1131-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-083_Norris
# # #
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.
Former Phoenix Resident Sentenced to 44 Months for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Shana Raelisa Johnson, 35, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 44 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $2 million in restitution. Johnson had previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud.
From 2008 through 2014, Johnson worked as an accountant at a property management company based in Phoenix, Arizona. During that time, she stole more than $2.4 million from her employer by issuing fraudulent checks and making unauthorized electronic transfers from her employer’s bank accounts. After the Phoenix-based company discovered her theft, Johnson moved to Atlanta, Georgia and applied for a similar accountant position at another property management company. Johnson gave a fictitious reference and other false information during the hiring process to prevent her new employer from contacting the Phoenix employer and discovering her fraud. Upon being hired in early 2015, Johnson proceeded to steal almost $500,000 from her new, Atlanta-based employer. Johnson concealed her embezzlement from both companies by falsifying bank statements and other financial records.
“Employee embezzlement is a growing problem that presents a significant threat to local businesses. The United States Attorney’s Office takes this kind of criminal conduct very seriously and will continue to aggressively prosecute financial frauds,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange.
“All businesses, whether large or small, can be the victims of deceitful employees,” stated IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Ismael Nevarez Jr. “This investigation underscores IRS-CI’s expertise in conducting complex financial investigations."
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s Office of Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. The prosecution was handled by M. Bridget Minder and Andrew Stone, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00183-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-084_Johnson
# # #
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.
Four Phoenix Family Members Sentenced for Real Estate Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Senior U.S. District Judge Neil V. Wake sentenced Daphne Iatridis and her husband, Arthur Telles, both 59, to 30 months in prison and ordered the couple to forfeit 26 fraudulently purchased properties to the United States. Both had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and tax evasion. The couple’s sons, Brendyn Iatridis and Spenser Iatridis, also pleaded guilty to related crimes and were sentenced to 10 months in prison and probation, respectively.
Between 2008 and 2012, the defendants engaged in an elaborate scheme to obtain more than 30 houses from the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”). Among other things, they stole others’ identities, used bogus trusts to buy the properties, and fraudulently notarized documents to facilitate the improper purchases. In addition, from at least 2010 through 2015, the defendants failed to pay taxes on their rental income from the fraudulently purchased properties.
“Real estate professionals who lie and forge documents are a scourge to the industry,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “Our office places a high priority on investigating and prosecuting real estate fraud, and we hope that the lengthy sentences imposed in this case will send a strong message that this type of dishonesty and misconduct will be punished severely.”
"This case epitomized the greed that erodes confidence in the Realtor/Mortgage industry," said Michael DeLeon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Phoenix Division. "I am pleased the defendants are now being held accountable for their crimes and that the majority of the fraudulently obtained properties will be forfeited."
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Kevin M. Rapp and M. Bridget Minder, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: 15-CR-01062-PHX-NVW
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-082_ Iatridis etal
# # #
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.
Gilbert Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Embezzling over $710,000 from his Former EmployerRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Last week, John David Veatch, 47, of Gilbert, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Judge Roslyn O. Silver to 30 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $710,290. Veatch had previously pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Between January 2011 and June 2013, Veatch embezzled over $710,000 from his then-employer. Veatch embezzled the money through a scheme of ordering fictitious parts and then funneling the money to a third-party company he created and controlled.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Andrew C. Stone, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-01237-PHX-ROS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-080_Veatch
# # #
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.
Attempted Bank Robber Sentenced to 64 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Richard Ortega Elenes, Jr., 41, of Tucson, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 64 months in prison. Elenes had previously pleaded guilty to attempted bank robbery.
On June 29, 2015, Elenes entered a Wells Fargo Bank in Tucson, Ariz., and handed a note to a bank teller which stated: “I need all of your money now.” The teller pressed an alarm button and announced that she was being robbed. Elenes then walked out of the bank and entered a waiting taxicab. He was captured by police within 30 minutes.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Tucson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Raquel Arellano, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-01971-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-081_Elenes
# # #
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.
Supai Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Sexually Abusing Minor and for Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, Xavier Justice Hamidreek, 24, of Supai, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Judge Roslyn O. Silver to 24 months in prison for sexually abusing an underage victim on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Hamidreek was also sentenced to a 24-month concurrent term for possessing marijuana with intent to distribute it on the reservation. Upon release from prison, Hamidreek will be on supervised release for 20 years and will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Both Hamidreek and the underage victim are members of the Havasupai Indian Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The prosecution was handled by Christine D. Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08169-PCT-ROS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-079_Hamidreek
# # #
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.
Third Pinon Brother Sentenced for Violent Assault on JuvenileRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, Roneldo James, 28, of Pinon, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow to eight years of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. James had previously pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. James committed the offense with his two brothers, Delfred Lee and Milfred James, who were previously sentenced to seven and six years of imprisonment, respectively, for their roles in the offense.
On Dec. 1, 2015, James and his brothers held a juvenile victim and others at gunpoint against their will in a Pinon, Ariz. residence on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation. All parties involved are members of the Navajo Nation. All three brothers are affiliated with the Red Nation Warriors street gang.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Samuels, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-8167-PCT-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-078_James
# # #
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.
Peoria Woman Charged with Causing Fatal Fentanyl OverdoseRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On Aug. 16, 2017, a Phoenix grand jury returned an indictment charging Fanny Madrigal-Lopez, 45, of Peoria, Ariz., with federal crimes related to fentanyl trafficking, including one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death—a crime that, under federal law, carries a mandatory-minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. Madrigal-Lopez is currently being detained, pending a Detention Hearing scheduled for Aug. 24, 2017.
Specifically, it is alleged that, on Nov. 16, 2016, Madrigal-Lopez distributed fentanyl to a man who later died from ingesting it. It is further alleged that Madrigal-Lopez used her residence for the purpose of distributing fentanyl and oxycodone from the summer of 2016 through Nov. 16, 2016.
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 competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, the Peoria Police Department, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The prosecution is being handled by Carolina Escalante Konti and D. J. Pashayan, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-01110-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-077_Madrigal-Lopez
# # #
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.
Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Stolen Identity, International Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
PHOENIX– Yesterday, Paula Anthony, 65, of Phoenix, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 36 months in prison for her role in a stolen identity and money laundering scheme.
Anthony, formerly a registered tax return preparer, was found guilty following trial on multiple counts, including conspiracy, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Anthony was a key participant in the scheme, in which the conspirators stole the identities of dozens of taxpayers and filed fabricated income tax returns to obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars in tax refunds in the victims’ names. Anthony and others obtained the fraudulent refunds through online accounts set up with prepaid debit cards and utilized multiple bank accounts to convert the refund money into cash. Once Anthony obtained the cash, she, or people she recruited, laundered the money out of the United States by wiring most of the funds to Nigeria.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. The prosecution was handled by Monica Edelstein and William Voit, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-00083-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-068_Anthony
# # #
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.
Dennehotso Man Sentenced to 13 Months for Assault on a Navajo Nation Police OfficerRead the Press Release
PHOENIX– Yesterday, Reed O’Brien Thomas, Jr., 27, from Dennehotso, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow to 13 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Thomas had previously pleaded guilty to assaulting a federal officer.
The investigation revealed that on August 17, 2016, Navajo Nation police officers responded to a domestic dispute on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Thomas fought with the officers, and during the struggle, one of the officers sustained a broken finger. Thomas is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. The officers at the time were delegated authority to enforce federal law.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Dimitra H. Sampson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08219-PCT-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-070_Thomas
# # #
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.
Chinle Woman Sentenced to 20 Years for Killing Her Infant Daughter on the Navajo ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Ashley Attson, 23, of Chinle, Ariz., an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David C. Campbell to 20 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for killing her 17-month-old daughter.
Attson previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The facts showed that she put her child in a stroller, pushed her into the desert, and left the child for four days and nights. Over the next few days, she met friends for ice cream and posted pictures of herself on Facebook. When she returned, the child was dead. Two days after finding her deceased child, Attson returned for the body, put it into a trash bag, and buried it in an animal hole. The child was born with methamphetamine in her system and had been in the custody of tribal social services throughout most of her life. Attson regained custody of her child approximately two months before the homicide.
When announcing the 20-year sentence, Judge Campbell said that this was an “intentional, cold-hearted, horrendous killing of an innocent child.”
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Navajo Nation Department of Law Enforcement. The prosecution was handled by Sharon K. Sexton and Christine Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08234-DGC-PCT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-069_Attson
# # #
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.
Sells Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – This week, Alvin Edison Moreno, 53, of Sells, Ariz., a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Raner C. Collins to 37 months in prison. Moreno had previously pleaded guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact of a minor. The minor victim is also a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Moreno will be placed on lifetime federal supervision and be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
The investigation in this case was conducted by both the Tohono O’odham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Charisse Arce and Micah Schmit, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-0636-TUC-RCC-JR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-065_Moreno
# # #
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.
Navajo Man Sentenced to Prison for Sexual Abuse Against Two VictimsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On July 25, 2017, Patrick Paul Charley, 39, of Ajo, Ariz., and a member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to concurrent terms of imprisonment for sexual offenses committed against two adult members of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Charley had previously pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse committed in 2014 and was sentenced to 43 months’ imprisonment. Charley was also sentenced to a term of 16 months’ imprisonment for his plea of guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact from a 2011 incident.
After completing his imprisonment, Charley will be placed on lifetime federal supervision and will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
The investigation in this case was conducted by both the Tohono O’odham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Micah Schmit, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBERS: CR-16-0528-TUC-JGZ and CR-16-0529-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-064_Charley
# # #
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.
Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assault Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Jerrison Begay, 33, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Susan R. Bolton to 96 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Begay had previously pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. In January, Begay’s co-defendant, Shelton Six, 28, of Sanders, Ariz., was sentenced by Judge Bolton to concurrent terms of 132 months and 78 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Six had previously pleaded guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter and one count of assault by strangling or suffocating, arising out of two separate cases.
On or between Dec. 2, 2015, and Dec. 3, 2015, Six became angry with the victim and began physically assaulting him. Begay participated in the assault. The victim, a member of the Navajo Nation, later died of blunt force injuries and suffocation and strangulation. Both Six and Begay are also members of the Navajo Nation.
On Feb. 14, 2016, Six assaulted a different victim, by threatening and strangling the victim with his hands, making it difficult to breathe. That victim is also a member of the Navajo Nation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety. The prosecution was handled by Dimitra Sampson and Christina Covault, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBERS: CR-16-8050-PCT-SRB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-063_Six_etal
# # #
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.
Tohono O’odham Woman Sentenced to 5 Years for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, Rosalee Vavages, 55, of Sacaton, Ariz., a member of the Tohono O’odham Indian Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 63 months in prison. Vavegas had previously pleaded guilty to child abuse, likely to produce death or serious bodily injury. Previously, co-defendant Ernestine Jefferson, 74, a member of the Gila River Indian Community, was sentenced to 30 months in prison, also after pleading guilty to child abuse. Victims are current members of the Tohono O’odham Indian Nation and the offenses occurred on the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Raynette Logan, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-1242-PHX-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-059_Vavages
# # #
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.
Sacaton Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Sexually Abusing Minors on ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Anthony Erwin Jackson, Sr., 57, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas R. Rayes to 18 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Jackson had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor.
The evidence showed that Jackson sexually abused a 9-year-old victim in 1997 and a 6-year-old victim in 1998 while living on the Gila River Indian Community. Jackson and the victims are enrolled members of the Gila River Indian Community.
Judge Rayes increased Jackson’s sentence to account for allegations that Jackson had sexually abused at least six other minor victims over a period of 30 years and his corresponding danger to the community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Christine Keller and Dimitra Sampson, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00059-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-056_Jackson
# # #
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.
Camp Verde Man Sentenced to 38 Months for Two Domestic Violence OffensesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Michael Randolph Garcia, 26, of Camp Verde, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Diane J. Humetewa to concurrent terms of 38 months and 33 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. On March 22, 2017, Garcia had previously pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault by strangling or suffocating, arising out of two separate cases.
On or about July 5, 2013, Garcia, a member of the Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians, assaulted a victim with a golf club. As a result, the victim, a member of the Yavapai-Apache Nation, suffered bodily injury.
On or between Feb. 7 and Feb. 8, 2016, Garcia assaulted a different victim, also a member of the Yavapai-Apache Nation, in front of a young child.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yavapai-Apache Nation Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Christina Covault, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBERS: CR-16-8058-PCT-DJH; CR-16-8196-PCT-DJH
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-057_Garcia
# # #
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.
Parker Woman Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Vehicular AssaultRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On June 19, 2017, Beatrice Denise Welsh, 40, of Parker, Ariz., a member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 42 months in prison. Welsh was found guilty by a federal jury of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Welsh was driving on the Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation, after consuming alcohol. She knew her vehicle had faulty brakes. Welsh took back dirt roads and sped around a ninety degree corner at a speed between fifty-three and fifty-seven miles per hour. The pickup rolled and her passenger, a non-tribal member, was ejected and is permanently paralyzed.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Colorado River Indian Tribal Police. The prosecution was handled by Abbie Broughton Marsh and Ryan Powell, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-325-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-055_Welsh
# # #
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.
Sierra Vista Resident Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Child CrimesRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On June 12, 2017, Ian Joseph Ritzer, 34, of Sierra Vista, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Rosemary Marquez to 25 years in prison to be followed by lifetime supervised release. Ritzer had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of extortion, and one count of attempted enticement of a minor. Ritzer’s term of lifetime supervised release will include stringent sex offender conditions and he will be required to register as a sex offender.
While at work as a civilian employee of the U.S. Army, Ritzer used the internet to meet young girls on social media and other chat room websites. Ritzer then communicated with numerous girls through email and text messages. Specifically, Ritzer communicated with a thirteen-year-old girl in Illinois and a fourteen-year-old girl in Michigan. During their communications, Ritzer manipulated the girls by pretending to be a minor child, by engaging in a relationship with them, and then demanding that they send him sexually explicit photos. If the girls did not comply with his requests, Ritzer threatened to post their images, commit suicide, or other forms of retribution. It is suspected that Ritzer had over 100 victims. Further, Ritzer travelled to Michigan to meet the minor child with whom he was communicating.
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 United States 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Erica L. Seger, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-14-01918-TUC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-053_Ritzer
# # #
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.
Sells Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On June 7, 2017, Marvin Richie Lewis, Jr., 34, of Sells, Ariz., a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Frank R. Zapata to 37 months in prison. Lewis had previously pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse of a minor, who is also a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Lewis will be placed on lifetime federal supervision and be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
The investigation in this case was conducted by both the Tohono O’odham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Micah Schmit, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-0637-TUC-FRZ-BPV
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-052_Lewis
# # #
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.
Maricopa Man Sentenced to over 132 Years in Prison for Multiple Armed Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Jaime Villa, 45, of Maricopa, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Neil V. Wake to over 132 years of imprisonment. Villa was found guilty by a federal jury on Dec. 7, 2016, of six bank robberies and six accompanying charges of using a firearm during the commission of a violent crime.
The six armed bank robberies dated back to 2010. Each time, Villa brandished a firearm toward the tellers. Villa was caught on Aug. 24, 2015, the date of the last robbery, by the Chandler Police Department. During the pursuit, Villa fired his firearm at two uniformed Chandler Police Department officers. Under federal law, Villa faced a mandatory-minimum sentence of at least 132 years due to the presence of six firearm-related counts of conviction.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Chandler Police Department, the Mesa Police Department, the Tempe Police Department, the Apache Junction Police Department, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Phoenix Police Department, the Scottsdale Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Bank Robbery Task Force. The prosecution was handled by Gayle L. Helart, Assistant U.S. Attorney, and Brett A. Day, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-2:15-01149-NVW
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-051_ Villa
# # #
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.
Fort McDowell Resident Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Assault on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX - On June 5, 2017, Jordan Lee Etzel, 25, of Fort McDowell, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Neil V. Wake to 41 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He had previously pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.
The evidence showed that on Jan. 4, 2016, Etzel struck the victim repeatedly with a golf club, which broke during the assault. The victim’s wounds required immediate medical attention. The victim is an enrolled member of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation; Etzel is not.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Fort McDowell Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Gayle L. Helart, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-00918-NVW
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-050_ Etzel
# # #
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.
Fort Defiance Woman Sentenced to 28 Months in Prison for Stabbing on the Navajo Nation Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, Donna Karen Holyan, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 28 months in prison, followed by three years’ supervised release. Holyan had previously pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
The evidence showed that Holyan stabbed the victim approximately four times at a grocery store on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation. Both Holyan and the victim are enrolled members of the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Christine Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08245-PCT-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-046_Holyan
# # #
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.
Hotevilla Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
PHOENIX– This week, Melvin C. Yazzie, 40, of Hotevilla, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 90 month of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Yazzie had previously pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.
On Sept. 8, 2015, Yazzie engaged in a physical fight with the victim near Ft. Defiance, Ariz. During the fight, Yazzie stabbed the victim with a knife eighteen times. The victim survived and was hospitalized for numerous days. The victim and Yazzie are both enrolled members of the Navajo Nation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Navajo Nation Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Kiyoko Patterson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-08022-PCT-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-045_YAZZIE
# # #
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.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces “Be Here for Kids” Child Safety Event in PhoenixRead the Press Release
U.S. ATTORNEY’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES
“BE HERE FOR KIDS”
CHILD SAFETY EVENT IN PHOENIX
PHOENIX- The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, is hosting the ‘Be Here for Kids’ event on Thursday, May 25th, 2017 at the Desert Ridge Marketplace in Phoenix. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) created the ‘Be Here for Kids’ campaign to promote awareness about all child safety issues. The campaign is designed to help parents and others teach children to be aware, alert, and cautious to potential threats and to provide steps that children can take to stay safe, both on the Internet and in daily life.
This year’s event is being presented in partnership with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, Maricopa County Victim Services, Phoenix Police Department, Department of Homeland Security, Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, BOLO Cop, Camelback Daylight #75, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Red Means Stop Traffic Safety Alliance.
The Phoenix Police Department will be providing an armored vehicle from the bomb squad and officers from its motorcycle unit. The U.S. Marshals Service will be introducing its Marshal dog (Joy). Maricopa Victim Services will be introducing its court dog. Digital child identification kits will be provided free of charge to children who attend.
For more information on NCMEC, visit www.missingkids.com. For more information about the Be Here for Kids campaign, visit www.missingkids.com/behereforkids. For more information on Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-044_Be Here for Kids_Phx
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.
Steamboat Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On May 9, 2017, D’Juan Manuel Pizarro, 27, of Steamboat, Ariz., and a member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell to 120 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Pizarro had previously pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter.
On June 4, 2016, Pizarro stabbed the victim, also an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, to death. The incident occurred on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Christina Covault, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-8148-DGC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-042_Pizarro
# # #
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.
Washington Resident Convicted of High-Speed Flight from an Immigration Checkpoint in ArizonaRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, LuCinda Marie Burlison, 42, of Lynnwood, Wash., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow. Burlison had previously pleaded guilty to high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint.
On Jan. 27, 2017, Burlison was selected for further inspection at the Border Patrol checkpoint on State Route 85 near Gila Bend, Ariz. When agents told Burlison they were going to have a narcotic detection dog sniff the air around her vehicle, Burlison “peeled out” and fled the checkpoint at a high rate of speed. Burlison drove at speeds over 80 miles per hour and evaded federal agents for approximately 20 miles.
ADVISORY - Fleeing from an immigration checkpoint in excess of the speed limit is a felony offense that carries a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine. When an individual flees a checkpoint, the public and law enforcement agents are placed at a substantial risk of being struck by the fleeing vehicle. In the past year, at least seven individuals have been prosecuted and convicted for felonies in the District of Arizona after fleeing immigration checkpoints.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from Border Patrol. The prosecution was handled by Matthew Binford, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-173-73-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-040_ Burlison
# # #
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 Citizen Sentenced to 78 Months for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Ruben Betancourt-Hernandez, 29, of Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 78 months of imprisonment. Betancourt-Hernandez had previously pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute marijuana and to the use of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense.
On Sept. 13, 2016, Border Patrol agents near Sonoita, Ariz., tracked a group of five suspected narcotic smugglers. Agents were able to apprehend two men, who were wearing camouflage shirts and pants. Nearby, agents located two bundles of marijuana, an AR-15 style rifle, and an AK-47 style rifle. Agents seized both rifles, which were loaded, extra magazines, and over 300 rounds of ammunition at the scene. During his guilty plea, Betancourt-Hernandez admitted that he intended to deliver the marijuana to other members of the drug trafficking organization and that he carried the AR-15 style rifle in order to protect the drug load.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security- Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Border Patrol. The prosecution was handled by Lawrence C. Lee, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-01935 TUC JGZ (JR)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-041_ Betancourt-Hernandez
# # #
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 Sentenced to Life for Robbery Spree That Culminated in the Killing of a Retired Police OfficerRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On May 1, 2017, John Albert Campos, Sr., 49, of Phoenix, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Susan R. Bolton to six consecutive natural life sentences with no possibility of parole. Campos had previously pleaded guilty to carjacking resulting in death, use of firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death, and various other counts of carjacking, use of a firearm during a crime of violence, and Hobbs Act robbery.
“The defendant was appropriately sentenced to life in prison for his senseless crimes, which resulted in the death of an innocent victim who had the terrible misfortune to be in the wrong place at the wrong time,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange.
"Campos’ actions have had a devastating, life-long impact on the victim’s family. The FBI will continue to work with our partner agencies to pursue justice for all victims. This sentence was the result of outstanding efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Phoenix Police Department, the Tempe Police Department, the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the Gila River Police Department." said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Deleon.
On Dec. 24, 2015, Campos carjacked three victims in the parking lot of the Wild Horse Pass Casino on the Gila River Indian Community. Campos shot and killed one of the victims, a retired California police officer. When a fourth man arrived at the scene and attempted to assist the other victims, Campos proceeded to carjack him while brandishing a firearm. The investigation revealed that Campos also committed six armed robberies of convenience stores, grocery stores, and restaurants in Phoenix and Tempe in the two days before the carjackings.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gila River Police Department, the Phoenix Police Department, and the Tempe Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Dimitra H. Sampson and Keith E. Vercauteren, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-00011-PHX-SRB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-039_Campos
# # #
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.
Three Southern Arizona Men and One Woman Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Terms for Exporting Firearms, Ammunition, and Silencers to Hong KongRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Yesterday, Peter Steve Plesinger, 55, of Sahuarita, Ariz., and Stephen Edward Smith, 63, of Tucson, Ariz., were sentenced by U.S. District Judge James A. Soto to 87 months and 102 months, respectively, in prison. Both men had previously pleaded guilty to exportation of munitions from the United States to Hong Kong, dealing firearms without a license, and money laundering. Two other defendants, Irina Cvetkovic and Earl Richmond, both of Sahuarita, Ariz., also were charged and convicted for their lessor roles in the conspiracy.
On June 27, 2014, law enforcement authorities in Hong Kong intercepted a package containing 139 rounds of ammunition that had been shipped from Arizona by Plesinger. A search of the intended recipient’s Hong Kong residence resulted in the recovery of three rifles, two pistols, four rifle barrels, a silencer, and at least 9,000 rounds of ammunition. Further investigation revealed that Plesinger had previously shipped those items to Hong Kong in packages with innocuous labels, that Plesinger had been paid at least $64,500 to ship large quantities of firearms, ammunition, and silencers to Hong Kong, and that Smith had been paid at least $59,550 for making similar shipments.
“The sentences imposed in this case should send a strong message to those who would consider illegally exporting firearms, ammunition, or silencers to other countries,” stated Acting United States Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “We will continue to work diligently with our national and international partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute such conduct.”
"I wish to compliment the tenacity of the ATF agents and prosecuting attorneys that brought this case to a successful conclusion. Our agents left no stone unturned as they doggedly pursued these criminals and brought them to justice. ATF will continue our role in enforcing violations of the federal firearms and explosives laws both domestically and in this case internationally," stated Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Mark Murray.
"HSI with our domestic and international law enforcement partners, is dedicated to making communities safer by bringing criminals to justice. The sentences of the defendants is a direct result of the steadfast efforts of federal agents to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of transnational criminal organizations who pose a threat to public safety both here and abroad,” said Scott Brown, special agent in charge of HSI Phoenix.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, United States Customs and Border Protection (Los Angeles), the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, the Hong Kong Police Force, and the Hong Kong Department of Justice. The prosecution was handled by Serra M. Tsethlikai and Angela Martinez, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson, with substantial assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs.
CASE NUMBER: CR-14-1362-TUC-JAS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-038_Plesinger et al
# # #
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.
Chandler Man Sentenced to Prison for Health Care Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On April 24, 2017, Elseddig Elmarioud Musa, 43, of Chandler, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 57 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. Musa also was ordered to pay more than $1.2 million in restitution. Musa was convicted by a jury of 35 counts of health care fraud and four counts of aggravated identity theft.
Musa falsely billed Arizona’s Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for thousands of medical transports that never occurred, generating more than a million dollars in fraudulent payments from AHCCCS. AHCCCS is Arizona’s Medicaid agency that offers health care programs to serve Arizona residents who meet certain income and other requirements. owned and operated Arizona One Medical Transportation LLC, which purported to provide non-emergency medical transportation for AHCCCS recipients on the Navajo reservation. From January 2012 through June 2014, ’s company submitted more than 15,000 false claims to AHCCCS for medical transports that never occurred, generating approximately $1,203,680.08 in fraudulent payments from AHCCCS to Musa.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and AHCCCS-OIG. The prosecution was handled by Jillian Besancon and Peter Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-01265-DLR-PHX
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-037_Musa
# # #
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.