Eastern District of California
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mother and Daughter Team Plead Guilty in COVID-19 Related Jailhouse Unemployment Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Makiah Miles, 30, of Compton, and Apryl Weston, 51, of Santa Maria, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to commit mail fraud for submitting fraudulent unemployment insurance claims to the California Employment Development Department (EDD) in the names of inmates, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Miles was an inmate at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, and Weston is her mother. From June through December 2020, Miles obtained other inmates’ names, dates of birth, and social security numbers and sent that information to Weston to submit claims in those inmates’ identities, as well as Miles’ own identity. The underlying applications misrepresented that Miles and the other inmates worked as childcare providers, cosmetologists, hairdressers, and other occupations, that they last worked within the prior few months and recently became unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that they were currently available to work. The fraudulent claims were worth nearly $250,000.
This case is the product of an investigation by FBI, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Investigative Services Unit, and the EDD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, which is one of the interagency COVID-19 fraud strike forces established by the United States Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California, and focuses on large-scale, multistate, and egregious pandemic relief fraud. The strike force uses prosecutor-led, and data analyst-driven, teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief money.
Miles and Weston are scheduled to be sentenced on April 22, 2024. They face a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Mexican National Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison for Madera Methamphetamine TransactionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jesus Alberto Reyes-Parra, 31, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to six years and two months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, following negotiations by a third party for the sale of 50 pounds of methamphetamine for $125,000, Reyes-Parra brought approximately 48 pounds of pure methamphetamine to a drug transaction in a Walmart parking lot in Madera. He did not know that the buyer was undercover law enforcement. Reyes-Parra was arrested after he showed the officer the drugs on the rear passenger seat of his vehicle. Officers recovered the methamphetamine and located in the center console of the vehicle a stolen Colt .38-caliber handgun with a loaded magazine inserted in the handgun.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team, a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area initiative task force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
Fresno Woman Sentenced to Prison for Bank Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Bobbi Jo Heiss, 37, of Fresno, was sentenced today to seven years in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between August 2020 and September 2021, Heiss engaged in a scheme to steal debit cards, checks, identity documents, and banking information in order to make fraudulent purchases, cash checks, and open unauthorized lines of credit. The scheme caused at least $250,000 in actual and attempted loss during a year-long period. For example, as part of the scheme, on April 30, 2021, Heiss presented a check for $57,767 to a car dealership in Fresno with the name and driver’s license number of an identity theft victim in order to purchase a 2017 truck.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office - Elder Abuse Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Z. Carbajal III prosecuted the case.
Fresno Man Pleads Guilty to Passport Fraud by Assuming the Identity of a Deceased ChildRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Kenneth Laitman aka John Rodman, 79, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to passport fraud, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in 1984, Laitman left his job as a stockbroker in New York and moved to California where he assumed the identity of John Rodman and worked at an endoscopy practice. The actual John Rodman died in 1950 at the age of four.
Laitman subsequently obtained various forms of identification, worked different jobs, opened bank accounts, received government benefits, and took other actions while falsely using Rodman’s identity. This included a U.S. Passport that he obtained in 2004 and used to travel overseas on multiple occasions. He was convicted of attempting to renew that passport.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Laitman is scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2024. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Bakersfield CPA Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Stealing $355,000 from InvestorsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jeffrey Todd Stewart, 58, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for stealing $355,000 from investors, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Stewart was employed as a certified public accountant in Bakersfield. Between September 2014 and June 2018, Stewart solicited and received over $2 million from investors to pay fees and expenses purportedly needed for an overseas business deal. Stewart represented to the investors that their investments were being used for the deal and promised significant returns. Although Stewart used most of the money for the purported deal, he spent $355,000 of the money obtained from the investors on his own personal expenses, including mortgage payments, trips to Las Vegas, and gambling.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Brittany Gunter prosecuted the case.
Corporate President and Two Corporations Plead Guilty to 20 Counts of Mail and Wire Fraud in Multimillion Dollar California Excise Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Rahman Lakhani of Naperville, Illinois, and his two corporations, N. Ali Enterprises Inc. of Naperville, Illinois, and 21st Century Distribution Inc., of Las Vegas, Nevada, each pleaded guilty on Thursday to 20 counts of mail and wire fraud in a California excise tax fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Lakhani and the corporate defendants used warehouses in Illinois, Nevada, and California, to move over $25 million worth of non-cigarette tobacco (known as Other Tobacco Products or OTP, such as cigars and chewing tobacco) across the United States and into California.
As the defendants moved the OTP from state to state, they submitted false excise tax returns designed to hide the size and value of the shipments. Ultimately, the OTP was sold into California with the misrepresentation that tax had been paid. In fact, Lakhani and the corporate defendants submitted or caused to be submitted false tax returns to the California Board of Equalization (BOE) and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). As a result of the fraud, Lakhani and the corporate defendants defrauded the State of California of over $5.9 million.
This fraud allowed Lakhani and the corporate defendants to earn additional profit and to undercut competitors who lawfully paid the excise tax. A large percentage of the proceeds of the California OTP excise tax are used to fund California’s early childhood development program, First 5 California.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the former California State Board of Equalization, sections of which are now the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Anderson and Rosanne L. Rust are prosecuting the case.
The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on May 16, 2024. Lakhani faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. The corporate defendants each face a maximum potential penalty of five years of probation and a $500,000 fine for each count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Sacramento Man Sentenced to over 7 Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Bryan Tamblyn, 40, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to seven years and three months in prison for receipt of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. He was also ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution to a victim in the case, and a $5,000 Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act assessment.
According to court records, between July 2018 and August 2019, Tamblyn used a BitTorrent client to knowingly receive thousands of files containing visual depictions of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Some of those files included children under the age of 12.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina McCall prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Bay Area Men Plead Guilty to Bribing a Vallejo City OfficialRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Steven Chu, 41, of San Bruno, and Ben Guan, 36, of San Francisco, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit federal program bribery, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Chu and Guan ran an illegal marijuana cultivation operation in Vallejo. In July 2020, Chu and Guan were notified that the building in which they maintained the operation was in violation of multiple laws, including city codes related to illegal drug activity, and that the city would take legal or administrative action if the violations were not corrected. Subsequently, Chu and Guan offered to pay and then paid a Vallejo building inspector to clear the violations and ensure the city would not interfere with their operation. Chu and Guan paid the building inspector on at least six occasions. The payments totaled approximately $27,000. Unbeknownst to Chu and Guan, the building inspector was working with law enforcement to record meetings with them.
This case is a product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Thuesen is prosecuting the case.
U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta is scheduled to sentence Chu and Guan on May 2, 2024. They face a sentence of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the court’s discretion after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Russian National Residing in Sacramento Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist OrganizationRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Murat Kurashev, 36, a Russian national who resided in Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Kurashev attempted to provide financial support to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is designated by the Secretary of State as a foreign terrorist organization that engages in terrorism in Syria. Between July 2020 and February 2021, Kurashev used money transfer services to send approximately $13,000 to two known couriers of an HTS fundraiser. Records obtained from the money transfer services documented multiple transactions from Kurashev to the couriers in Turkey, usually in increments of $1000. The couriers retrieved the funds often within 24 hours of transfer. Surveillance footage from money transfer businesses captured Kurashev during some of the transactions.
Social media and encrypted mobile messaging discussions between Kurashev and the fundraiser made clear that Kurashev was fully aware of the fundraiser’s violent extremist ideology and participation and work on behalf of HTS. Kurashev stated that he wished he could join the fight in Syria as a mujahideen and regretted that he could only provide financial support. As their conversations showed, Kurashev and the fundraiser believed that providing money in support of the HTS fighters was tantamount to being engaged in violent jihad.
According to court documents, Kurashev followed the fundraiser’s online presence and various social media accounts, which included solicitations for money to purchase military equipment, boots, clothing, firearms, and, in one case, a motorcycle. Forensic analysis of Kurashev’s Apple iCloud account revealed it to be replete with violent extremist content, including a video depicting HTS fighters.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heiko P. Coppola and Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Kurashev is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller on March 18, 2024. Kurashev faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Russian National Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist OrganizationRead the Press Release
Murat Kurashev, 36, of Sacramento, California, pleaded guilty to a single-count indictment charging him with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization.
According to court documents, Kurashev attempted to provide financial support to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). HTS was designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the Secretary of State and engages in terrorism in Syria. Between July 2020 and February 2021, Kurashev used money transfer services to send approximately $13,000 to two known couriers of an HTS fundraiser. Records obtained from the money transfer services documented multiple transactions from Kurashev to the couriers in Turkey usually in increments of $1,000. The couriers retrieved the funds often within 24 hours of transfer. Surveillance footage from money transfer businesses captured Kurashev in the midst of some of the transactions.
Law enforcement’s review of social media and encrypted mobile messaging discussions between Kurashev and the fundraiser, demonstrated that they believed that providing money in support of the HTS’s fighters was tantamount to being engaged in violent jihad. During these conversations with the fundraiser, Kurashev mentioned that he wished he could join the fight in Syria as a mujahideen and regretted that he could only provide financial support. These conversations make clear that Kurashev was fully aware of the fundraiser’s violent extremist ideology and participation and work on behalf of HTS.
Additional evidence seized by the FBI revealed that Kurashev followed the fundraiser’s online presence and various social media accounts. Some of fundraiser’s social media accounts that were viewed by Kurashev included solicitations for money to purchase military equipment, boots, clothing, firearms, and, in one case, a motorcycle. FBI forensic analysis of Kurashev’s Apple iCloud account revealed it to be replete with violent extremist content, including a video depicting HTS fighters. It appears that Kurashev watched this video while driving his work van along Interstate 80.
Kurashev faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for March 18. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Executive Assistant Director Larissa L. Knapp of the FBI’s National Security Branch, and U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Heiko P. Coppola for the Eastern District of California and Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Mexican National Sentenced for Bakersfield-Based Methamphetamine RingRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alberto Gomez-Santiago, 38, a Mexican national residing in Arvin, was sentenced today to four years and nine months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in March 2021, Gomez delivered 26 pounds of methamphetamine to co-defendants Jorge Calderon-Campos, 42, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, and Mark Garcia, 23, of Bakersfield. Law enforcement officers later seized the drug from Garcia’s vehicle during a traffic stop. This transaction was one of many transactions involving Calderon-Campos, who was the target of a wiretap investigation that resulted in the seizure of more than 86 pounds of methamphetamine and 1 kilogram of heroin. The wiretap investigation also uncovered an illegal cockfighting enterprise involving Calderon-Campos, who is charged in a second indictment with violations of the Animal Welfare Act. An associate, Horacio Ortega-Martinez, 36, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, previously entered a guilty plea to the unlawful possession of gamecocks for an animal fighting venture and was sentenced to 18 months in prison.
Francisco Javier Torres Mora, aka Johnathan Benjamin Torres Luna, 30, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, previously entered a guilty plea to possessing with intent to distribute 60 pounds of methamphetamine and is scheduled for sentencing on Jan. 29, 2024. Charges remain pending again Calderon-Campos, Garcia, Jose Beltran-Chaidez, 68, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, and two other co-defendants. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was the product of an investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG), the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Secret Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Kern County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Kern County Sheriff's Office, the Kern County Probation Department, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Five Defendants Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Five individuals were sentenced today for drug trafficking and firearm offenses, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Two fentanyl dealers sentenced for interstate drug trafficking
Juan Alejandro Comparan-Guzman, 28, of Kerman, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, and Rita Ann-Marie Louis, 32, of Carnation, Washington, was sentenced to four years in prison for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin.
According to court documents, a nine-month investigation into a drug-trafficking organization operating in California and trafficking drugs to Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon, and Washington revealed that the two sentenced today, along with 11 others, were involved in trafficking methamphetamine, fentanyl-laced counterfeit OxyContin pills, and heroin. Approximately 7 pounds of cocaine, 2 pounds of heroin, 137 pounds of methamphetamine, and over 34,000 pills containing fentanyl were seized, as well as $142,000 in cash.
This case was the product of an investigation by the High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT), a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative (HIDTA), composed of personnel from the FBI, the California DOJ, Homeland Security Investigations, the Fresno Police Department, the Sheriff’s Offices of Fresno, Tulare, and Kings Counties, Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, and the CHP.
Fresno man sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm in connection with selling fentanyl
Armando Chavez Jr., 22, of Fresno, was sentenced to five years in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, Chavez sold counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl on Snapchat, a social media platform. After a nonfatal overdose was reported, federal law enforcement agents working in an undercover capacity contacted Chavez and ordered oxycodone pills from him. Chavez agreed to sell the pills and drove to a predetermined meeting location. Once he arrived, Chavez and his car were searched, and law enforcement found approximately 100 fentanyl pills. Agents then executed a federal search warrant at Chavez’s residence. Inside his bedroom, law enforcement found over 1,300 fentanyl pills packaged for distribution and a loaded handgun.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the DEA, and the Fentanyl Overdose Response Team. The case was part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.
Two sentenced for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in EDCA and Oregon
Adrian Arredondo Alvarado, 34, of Orosi, was sentenced today to eight years and seven months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. Ivan Vasquez, 35, of Oregon, was sentenced to five years and three months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Alvarado was the main target of a lengthy federal investigation into a drug trafficking ring. During the investigation, Alvarado was identified as a large-scale methamphetamine and marijuana distributor as well as a marijuana cultivator. Alvarado negotiated and then supplied over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine to Vasquez, who traveled from Oregon into the Eastern District of California to obtain that methamphetamine, which he intended to distribute to others in Oregon. Alvarado directed other co-defendants to go to Southern California to obtain the drugs and another to collect Vasquez’s drug payment. Alvarado was growing a substantial amount of marijuana. During a search of Alvarado’s residence, officers seized a stolen handgun, ammunition, and a half kilogram of marijuana. On the other properties that Alvarado used for marijuana cultivation, officers found over 400 marijuana plants, nine firearms, and several hundred kilograms of processed marijuana.
Co-defendant Alexis Melchor-Guzman, 30, of Orosi, was sentenced to five years in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and co-defendant Adrian Lopez, 39, of Orange Cove, was sentenced to one year in prison for maintaining a drug-involved premises.
This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA with assistance from the Visalia Police Department and the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted these cases.
Central Valley Corporate Insider Pleads Guilty to Stealing Nearly $5 Million in Livestock Feed IngredientsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Shawn Sawa, 47, formerly of Clovis, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for his role in stealing millions of dollars’ worth of canola from international food processors. Canola is commonly used to make livestock feed.
According to court documents, from 2015 through 2017, Sawa and Richard Best stole $4.8 million worth of canola from the food processors. They then sold the canola for a windfall. Sawa and Best carried out the scheme through Best’s now defunct train-to-truck transloading company, Richard Best Transfer Inc. (RBT). A transloading company transfers commodities from one mode of transportation to another mode. The victim food processors sent hundreds of thousands of tons of their canola to RBT for delivery to their customers. Sawa was the manager of a victim food processor’s branch office in Fresno and had a close relationship with Best.
Sawa and Best sold the stolen canola through an acquaintance in Texas who used to work in the livestock-feed industry. The acquaintance sold the stolen canola to farms and dairies and distributed the proceeds according to Best’s instructions. This included wire transfers to Sawa, RBT, and Best’s bank accounts. The account that Sawa used was opened in his spouse’s name to try to conceal the scheme.
Throughout the scheme, Sawa and Best caused RBT to email fraudulent inventory reports to the victim food processors representing that RBT had certain amounts of their canola in-stock when, in fact, RBT had significantly lesser amounts. Sawa and Best used the proceeds from the scheme to purchase luxury homes and multiple vehicles, take trips, hire private karate teachers, and cover RBT’s operating expenses, among other expenses.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Sawa is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Sawa faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Best was also charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. The charges against him are pending and are only allegations. He is presumed innocent until and unless he is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Tax FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Richard Jason Mountford, formerly of Monterey County, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to file false claims against the United States, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division announced.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting tax fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “Fraudulent tax preparation schemes utilizing false and inflated deductions cost the government millions of dollars each year.”
“Mr. Mountford defrauded the U.S. government and every American taxpayer through this selfish scheme,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Our CI special agents are the best in the world at following the money to find evidence for conviction, a lesson Mr. Mountford learned the hard way.”
According to court documents, from 2016 to 2020, Mountford conspired with another individual to submit false individual income tax returns seeking refunds to which they were not entitled. Mountford and his co-conspirator filed income tax returns in their own names, as well as in the names of two other unwitting individuals, that falsely reported they were employed by a company, received wages from that company, and had federal taxes withheld from those wages, fraudulently claiming a refund was due. Most of the returns filed as part of the scheme also falsely reported alimony payments in an effort to increase the refund amount.
Based on these fraudulent returns, the IRS issued $873,723 in unwarranted refunds to the co-conspirators. Mountford deposited $757,075 of these fraud proceeds into his own bank accounts and subsequently purchased nearly $360,000 worth of new cars. He also distributed to his co-conspirator about $170,000 in cash and gold bars for his role in the scheme.
This case is the product of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys John C. Gerardi and Charles A. O’Reilly of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma are prosecuting the case.
Mountford is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on April 11, 2024. Mountford faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Second Aryan Brotherhood Prison Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Pat Brady, 53, of Lake Forest, pleaded guilty today to murder in aid of racketeering as part of a long-running investigation into the California Aryan Brotherhood prison gang, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2016, Aryan Brotherhood (AB) members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, committing multiple acts involving murder, conspiracies to murder, and drug trafficking crimes. The charges allege that AB members oversaw a significant heroin and methamphetamine trafficking operation from their California prison cells using smuggled cellphones to direct drug trafficking activities, order murders, and oversee other criminal activities inside and outside of the prisons.
According to the plea agreement, on July 28, 2018, Brady murdered an inmate at High Desert Prison as part of an AB-related killing. Brady admitted that he committed the murder because the victim falsely claimed to be an AB member and had run up a significant drug debt at his previous prison — both violations of the AB’s expected codes of conduct. Brady willfully, deliberately, and with premeditation, murdered the victim in order to maintain his status within the gang.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Vallejo Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, and the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Hitt, Ross Pearson, and David Spencer are prosecuting the case.
U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller is scheduled to sentence Brady on March 25, 2024. Brady faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison.
Four remaining defendants, Ronald Yandell, Billy Sylvester, Danny Troxell, and Jason Corbett are scheduled for trial in February 2024. The charges against them are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
brady_-_plea_agreement_-_filed_-_ecf_1781.pdfA Look Back at Fentanyl Prosecutions in 2023Read the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert and Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Brian M. Clark announce the actions taken in 2023 in the Eastern District of California to confront the continuing crisis caused by fentanyl.
In 2023, large amounts of fentanyl were trafficked in or transported across our district. In total, approximately 86 individuals appeared in federal district courts in Sacramento and Fresno charged with fentanyl distribution offenses. Approximately 28 individuals were sentenced for fentanyl trafficking offenses with sentences ranging from two to 17 years in prison. Another approximately 29 pleaded guilty to fentanyl-related charges and now await sentencing, with additional cases still pending.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin. Just two milligrams, the equivalent of a few grains of salt, can kill a person. According to the DEA, the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels are largely responsible for the influx of fentanyl into this country. Illicit fentanyl comes in two forms: pills and powder. The cartels are mixing fentanyl powder in with cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, and hiding fentanyl in fake pills that look similar to prescription medications like oxycodone, Xanax, and Percocet. Seven out of 10 pills tested at DEA laboratories contain a potentially deadly dose of fentanyl. The cartels and their associates often use social media applications and encrypted platforms to sell their poison. To get more facts about fentanyl, visit One Pill Can Kill.
“While the work done by our office this year is significant, numbers alone cannot tell the whole story. The sons, daughters, spouses, and friends who have lost their lives due to fentanyl overdoses are not numbers, and the law enforcement officers and agents know firsthand the dangers of fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “The DEA, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies work together to disrupt the supply chain and arrest suppliers. These efforts combined with treating addiction, educating the public, and ultimately reducing demand can end this epidemic. I urge the public to be aware of the threats and dangers of fentanyl.”
“Fentanyl is the greatest drug threat facing our communities today. It is killing Americans at catastrophic rates and devastating families from coast to coast,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Clark. “The Sinaloa and Jalisco drug cartels are intentionally using synthetic fentanyl, which is cheap, man-made and potent, to increase their profits by driving addiction in the United States. They do not care how many Americans will die, they only care about lining their pockets with the proceeds. Enforcement, treatment, and prevention have never been more important. As DEA continues to pursue and hold accountable every level of the fentanyl supply chain, I encourage you to talk with your family and friends about fentanyl, it could save a life.”
Case Summaries
On Aug. 28, 2023, Michael Ortega, 22, of Clovis, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in prison for selling fentanyl to a person under the age of 21. According to court documents, on July 2, 2020, Ortega sold one and a half counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl to a 17-year-old. The fentanyl caused the teen to overdose with serious bodily injury. Fortunately, the teenager survived and has since recovered. This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA, the Fresno Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel J. Montoya prosecuted the case.
On Oct. 30, 2023, Jose Santana, 46, of Shafter, in Kern County, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin. According to court documents, on Nov. 16, 2021, Santana was found in possession of about 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl, 2.5 kilograms of heroin, two firearms, and approximately $5,000 in cash. This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted the case.
On Aug. 14, 2023, Pedro Duran, 32, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. During the investigation, Duran was found in possession of 3 pounds of fentanyl in addition to 33 pounds of methamphetamine, 3 pounds of cocaine, 3 pounds of fentanyl pills, and over 3 pounds of marijuana. Duran’s residence also contained additional amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine, seven firearms, ammunition, and approximately $8,800 in cash. This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI, HSI, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the Fresno Police Department, the Special Operations Unit of the California Department of Justice, and the California Highway Patrol, the CDCR, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case.
On May 30, 2023, Vincent Jose Vasquez, 30, of Lodi, was sentenced to 12 years and six months in prison for fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking. According to court documents, in May 2021, Vasquez was found in possession of more than 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, more than 900 grams of cocaine, almost 1 pound of methamphetamine, three firearms, and $21,623 in cash. This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, the California Highway Patrol, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, and the Lodi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer prosecuted the case.
On June 27, 2023, Nathaniel Opondo Hubbert, 42, of Grass Valley, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution offenses. According to court documents, on June 24, 2020, Hubbert was found to be in possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. Hubbert was connected to at least one overdose of a victim who had to be given medical treatment after using drugs purchased from Hubbert. This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA with assistance from the Lincoln Police Department, the Placer County District Attorney’s Office, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Roseville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.
On Aug. 29, 2023, Julius Rucks, 42, of Oroville, was sentenced to 12 years and nine months in prison for distribution of fentanyl. According to court documents, in 2018 and 2019, Rucks sold over 1,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to a confidential source and undercover agent. On July 23, 2019, Rucks was found in possession of a large electric pill press, pill dies for stamping the pharmaceutical markings onto the fake pills, large amounts of powdered fentanyl, pill binder and other pill manufacturing materials, and three handguns with loaded magazines. This case was the product of an investigation by the DEA with assistance from the Calaveras Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron L. Desmond and David W. Spencer prosecuted the case.
Aryan Brotherhood Prison Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Brant Daniel, 49, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Wednesday to murder in aid of racketeering as part of a long-running investigation into the California Aryan Brotherhood prison gang, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller immediately sentenced Daniel after his guilty plea to the mandatory sentence of a life term in federal prison.
“This guilty plea and sentence represents a significant setback for one of California’s most notorious white supremacist prison gangs,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “We will continue to use every law enforcement tool to protect the communities plagued by the violence and criminal activities of the Aryan Brotherhood.”
“The Aryan Brotherhood hides behind prison walls while they direct criminal activities and brutal crimes of violence. In this case, Brant Daniel murdered an individual in cold blood to maintain his status and prove allegiance to the prison gang,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian Clark. “We will relentlessly pursue and prosecute those who commit such heinous acts from behind bars and beyond.”
“This is a great example of successful coordination among various agencies to ensure safety,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “I would like to express my appreciation to all the law enforcement agencies involved, and in particular, I commend the staff at California State Prison Sacramento for their dedication throughout the entire investigation.”
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2016, Aryan Brotherhood (AB) members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, committing multiple acts involving murder, conspiracies to murder, and drug trafficking crimes. AB members allegedly oversaw a significant heroin and methamphetamine trafficking operation from their California prison cells using smuggled cellphones to direct drug trafficking activities, order murders, and oversee other criminal activities inside and outside of the prisons.
As part of his guilty plea, Daniel admitted that he murdered an inmate at Salinas Valley Prison on Oct. 29, 2016, as part of an AB-related killing. In particular, Daniel admitted that he committed the murder because the victim failed to carry out a hit assigned by an AB member and then lost valuable drugs belonging to Daniel and, by extension, the AB. In his plea, Daniel admitted that he willfully, deliberately, and with premeditation, murdered the victim in order to maintain his status within the AB.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with substantial investigative assistance from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Vallejo Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, and the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Hitt, Ross Pearson, and David Spencer are prosecuting the case.
Five remaining defendants—Ronald Yandell, Billy Sylvester, Danny Troxell, Pat Brady, and Jason Corbett—are scheduled for trial in February 2024.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
daniel_plea_agreement.pdfStockton Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Dec. 14, 2023, a grand jury returned an indictment Ricardo Sanchez, 31, of Stockton, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. The indictment was unsealed today.
According to court documents, on Aug. 20, 2023, Sanchez was found to be in possession of a Springfield Armory Hellcat 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. Sanchez is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions, including conspiracy to commit a crime and inflicting injury on a spouse/cohabitant or fellow parent.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitnee Goins is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Sanchez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Former Correctional Sergeant Found Guilty in Retrial of Falsification of Records to Cover up Assault of a CSP Sacramento InmateRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A jury found former California state correctional officer Brenda Villa, 32, of North Highlands, guilty today of one count of conspiracy to commit falsification of records in a federal investigation and three counts of falsification of records, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
In July 2023, following a three-day trial, a jury found Villa guilty of perjury in connection with a federal grand jury investigation into the assault of an inmate by a correctional officer and the ensuing conspiracy to cover it up. The prior jury could not reach a unanimous verdict on additional conspiracy and falsification of records counts, and the United States requested a retrial. The retrial on those remaining counts finished today.
According to the court records and evidence presented at trial, Villa was a correctional sergeant supervising other officers at California State Prison – Sacramento (also known as New Folsom State Prison or CSP-Sacramento) when correctional officer Arturo Pacheco unlawfully assaulted an inmate under color of law. Several California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) officers responded to the alarm after the assault. Villa was the first responding officer to the scene and immediately took charge. The inmate was transported to the hospital but died two days later. As a supervisor, Villa directed the preparation of, and later signed off on, a series of reports about the incident that she knew were false because they completely omitted the presence and involvement of a correctional officer who had witnessed the assault, and who Villa herself had observed at the scene. Villa instructed the removal of that correctional officer witness’s name from another person’s report. The correctional officer witness’s draft report describing Pacheco’s unjustified use of force was never collected, and it did not become a part of the official record of the incident.
Following the assault and the inmate’s death, CDCR initiated an internal investigation. As the CDCR internal investigation proceeded, a federal grand jury began investigating federal criminal charges in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In November 2020, Villa was called to testify in front of the grand jury about her role and the actions of her fellow officers in covering up the unlawful assault. Villa lied under oath to the federal grand jury investigating the incident.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Anderson and Rosanne L. Rust are prosecuting the case.
Former correctional officers Arturo Pacheco and Ashley Aurich pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 12½ years and 21 months in prison, respectively.
Villa is scheduled to be sentenced on March 18, 2024. Villa faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the count of conspiracy and the count of perjury. She faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of falsification of records. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Tuolumne County Motel Agrees to Ensure Access for People with DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California has entered into an agreement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with the owner of the El Dorado Motel in Twain Harte, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced today.
In the agreement, Golden State Hospitality Management LLC, which owns and operates the motel, agreed to make a series of modifications to the motel to create a fully ADA-complaint unit in order to provide better access for guests with disabilities. The motel has also implemented a remote check-in option for guests who use wheelchairs.
“Popular tourist destinations in the Sierras draw a cross-section of our community,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities so that they may enjoy access to places of public accommodation throughout the District.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office launched this investigation after it received a complaint from a member of the public who was told that she would have a wheelchair accessible room but found upon arrival that her room in fact had no accommodations. A further investigation and architectural assessment revealed that no room at the motel was appropriately wheelchair accessible. The ADA requires that places of public accommodation provide access to individuals with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emilia P. E. Morris handled the case for the United States. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Individuals interested in finding out more about the ADA can call the Justice Department’s toll‑free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 or 833-610-1264 (TTY) or access the ADA website at www.ada.gov.
12-18-23_-_fully_signed_el_dorado_motel_settlement_agreement.pdfRoseville Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Pablo Ramos, 50, of Roseville, was sentenced today to 11 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, for distribution of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Ramos must also register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, in September 2020, Ramos used Kik Messenger to distribute multiple files containing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. He distributed the files using the internet from his residence in Roseville.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internet Against Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rosanne L. Rust and Kristin F. Scott prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Yolo County Insurance Broker Pleads Guilty to Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Robert Kirby Wells, 64, of Woodland, pleaded guilty today to one count of aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Wells served as an insurance broker for a company located in Denver, Colorado, that owned multifamily and commercial properties throughout the United States. Wells was responsible for obtaining several types of insurance coverage for the company’s properties, including umbrella liability coverage. As part of the fraud scheme, Wells represented to the company that he obtained umbrella coverage for properties when, in fact, he did not. Wells then invoiced and was paid for purported premiums associated with the umbrella liability policies that he had never obtained.
At times, after Wells received full payment for premiums associated with coverage he obtained for the company, as well as umbrella coverage he did not obtain, Wells secured loans purportedly to pay for the same premiums. He did so by falsely representing that he was financing the premiums on the company’s behalf and using the identities of a managing principal and employee of the company without their authorization.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General, the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Thuesen is prosecuting the case.
U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb is scheduled to sentence Wells on March 11, 2024. Wells faces a mandatory sentence of two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Modesto Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Sexual Exploitation ConvictionsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Michael Brace, 33, of Modesto, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for two counts of receipt and distribution of material involving the exploitation of minors, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. The prison sentence is to be followed by 10 years of supervised release during which Brace’s access to computers, the internet, and minors will be restricted.
According to court documents, between Aug. 7, 2020, and Jan. 4, 2021, Brace knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including images of prepubescent minors and violence being inflicted on victims. Brace also communicated with an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old female on the social media platform Skout and traveled to Fresno with the belief that he would engage in sexual activity with the purported minor.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Central Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, specifically the Fresno and Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Offices, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Obtains Temporary Restraining Order to Halt Ongoing Fraud on Consumers and BanksRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The United States has successfully obtained a temporary restraining order against an alleged fraud network that steals money from consumers and uses deceptive tactics to conceal illicit activity from financial institutions, thereby allowing that illicit activity to continue, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced today.
The civil complaint filed by the United States, which was unsealed on Dec. 12, 2023, sought a temporary restraining order, preliminary and permanent injunctions, and other equitable relief to order five individuals and 10 associated companies from continuing to engage in bank fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit these offenses.
“This case marks a significant step in halting fraud schemes that reap financial gain by scamming consumers and making misrepresentations to financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “It also sends a clear signal that we have used, and will continue to use, all means at our disposal to protect citizens from such schemes to defraud.”
Invoking the Anti-Fraud Injunction Statute, the United States’ complaint alleges that defendants Thomas Eide of South Lake Tahoe, California; Travis Smith of Dallas, Texas; Aric Gastwirth of Las Vegas, Nevada; Stephen Christopher of Poway, California; and Bryan Bass, a resident of India, through various business entities that they owned and operated, processed payments for clients that made unauthorized charges to consumers’ accounts and engaged in a variety of other illegal activities, including technical support scams. The defendants are alleged to have helped their clients gain access to the banking system by creating sham entities, recruiting straw owners for these sham entities, and outfitting these sham entities with fake addresses, websites, and phone numbers. The sham entities then applied for merchant accounts to process payments for the fraud scheme’s clients, ultimately disguising the clients’ true activities. To further conceal the fraud, the defendants used sham microtransactions to reduce the number of chargebacks (transactions that are refused or reversed by the account holder’s bank) and evade detection from banks.
After the government filed its case, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California entered a temporary restraining order enjoining defendants from continuing to operate the scheme and freezing assets. The District Court also granted the United States’ request for the appointment of a receiver to stop defendants from dissipating assets obtained through the alleged fraud scheme.
The claims in the United States’ civil complaint are only allegations. The preliminary injunction hearing is scheduled for Jan. 11, 2024 before U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley. The case is United States v. CB Surety, LLC, et al., No. 2:23-cv-2812 TLN DB.
This case is the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California and the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch, working with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Amin is handling the matter.
cb_surety_complaint.pdfSacramento Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl and Illegal Possession of a GunRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment Thursday against Tio Sessoms, 43, of Sacramento, charging him with distribution of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Aug. 28, 2023, Sessoms sold approximately a half kilogram of fentanyl to law enforcement in downtown Sacramento. In September 2023, Sessoms was in possession of two firearms while being a felon convicted of voluntary manslaughter and first-degree burglary.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Klein is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of distribution of fentanyl, Sessoms faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life in prison, and a $5 million fine. If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, Sessoms faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Sacramento Grocery Store Owner and General Manager Indicted for Conspiracy, Immigration Fraud, Obstruction of Justice, and Pandemic Relief FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 25-count indictment Thursday against Shahrir “Sean” Loloee, 53, of Granite Bay, and Karla Montoya, 42, of Sacramento, charging them both with conspiracy, obstruction of agency proceedings, and possession and use of false immigration documents, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Loloee is additionally charged with falsification of records and a pandemic relief fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Loloee is the owner of the Viva Supermarkets chain of grocery stores, and Montoya is the general manager. Since 2008, Loloee and Montoya engaged in a conspiracy to employ a labor force at the stores that consisted of a significant number of workers who lacked employment authorization in the United States. Loloee and Montoya did so for the purpose of reducing Loloee’s labor force costs through unlawful means, including by failing to pay required overtime wages.
The indictment alleges that, in 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor began two investigations at Viva Supermarkets. Loloee and Montoya obstructed these investigations in a variety of ways, including by making false statements to agency investigators, listening in on an employee interview with an investigator for the purpose of influencing the employee to make false statements, instructing an employee to lie to an investigator about her hire date, and directing certain workers to hide to prevent them from being questioned by agency investigators. Loloee is also charged with three instances of providing false documents to obstruct the Department of Labor’s investigations.
The indictment further alleges that Loloee committed wire fraud when he applied to receive COVID-19 relief from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund program (RRF). Established as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the RRF was designed to support the restaurant industry by providing funding to those that had suffered significant pandemic-related revenue loss. To be eligible for an RRF award, a restaurant must have had a loss in gross receipts in 2020, as compared to 2019. In May 2021, Loloee submitted applications to the Small Business Administration (SBA) requesting RRF funds for two of his grocery stores. In the applications, Loloee substantially underreported each of his store’s 2020 gross receipts to make them appear entitled to an award, when they were not. Loloee requested over $2.2 million, and based on his fraudulent representations, the SBA awarded Loloee approximately $1.2 million.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Audrey B. Hemesath, Matthew Thuesen, and Kevin Khasigian are prosecuting the case.
This case was investigated with the assistance of the Tax Recovery in the Underground Economy (TRUE) Task Force includes the California Department of Justice, the California Employment Development Department, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, the Franchise Tax Board, the IRS-CI and HSI. The TRUE Task Force was created to ensure multi-agency collaboration and to combat wage theft, tax evasion, and other crimes in the underground economy.
If convicted, Loloee and Montoya face a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of conspiracy to defraud the Department of Labor, to commit immigration document fraud, and to obstruct justice; up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of possession of false immigration documents or use of a false immigration document; and up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of obstruction of agency proceedings. If convicted of the counts of falsification of records or wire fraud, Loloee faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Project Safe Neighborhoods IndictmentsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. At the core of PSN is setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place. U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announces the following recent indictments in federal PSN cases.
A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment Thursday against Kinayah Latson, 24, of Roseville, charging her with being a felon in possession of ammunition. According to court documents, Latson arrested on Sept. 17, 2023, after law enforcement officers responded to domestic violence 9-1-1 call and found Latson in possession of a loaded Glock-style Polymer80 firearm with 11 rounds of ammunition. Subsequently, on November 25, 2023, Latson was found in possession of a Glock-style Polymer80 firearm with 33 rounds of ammunition. This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI with assistance from the Roseville Police Department, the CHP, the Davis Police Department, the Ontario Police Department, and the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting the case.
On Nov. 30, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Sovan Leng, 32, of Stockton, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Oct. 16, 2023, Leng was found to be in possession of a Glock 17 9 mm pistol. Leng is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to several prior felony convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, carrying a loaded firearm, possession of a stolen vehicle, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a controlled substance. This case is the product of an investigation by the Stockton Police Department and ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alstyn Bennett is prosecuting the case.
On Dec. 7, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a single-count indictment against Jerone Sotolongo, 30, of Stockton, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Sotolongo possessed a firearm, even though he was prohibited from doing so because he is a convicted felon. This case is the product of an investigation by the Stockton Police Department and the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ross Pearson is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, these defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
These cases are the result of the ongoing collaboration between the Sacramento Police Department and its local, state, and federal partners as part of a Public Safety Partnership (PSP) to address violent crime in our community. Started in 2022, the Sacramento PSP is a multifaceted violence-reduction strategy that relies on innovative data-driven strategies to promote public and community safety. Participating PSP partners include: the Sacramento County’s District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the DEA, the ATF, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Stockton Man Charged with Attempted Sexual Exploitation of Minors Using Social MediaRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a six-count indictment earlier in December against Elmer Yusay Ngo, 28, of Stockton, charging him with one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, four counts of attempted coercion and enticement of minors, and one count of possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. The indictment was unsealed following Ngo’s arrest.
According to court documents, Ngo utilized social media to sexually exploit female minors nationwide. This sexual exploitation included attempting to coerce, entice, and persuade the minors to produce child pornography for Ngo. Ngo also possessed child pornography on his cellphone.
The FBI Sacramento Field Office is seeking to identify potential victims of Elmer Ngo. To assist the investigation and receive information regarding resources available to victims, please complete this questionnaire to the best of your ability: https://forms.fbi.gov/elmer_ngo/
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internet Against Crimes Against Children Task Force with assistance from state and local police departments nationwide. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin F. Scott is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Ngo faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Fentanyl and Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Michael Valentino Lovato, 34, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in April 2022, Lovato engaged in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine in Sacramento. During the conspiracy, Lovato sold fentanyl pills to a law enforcement source on multiple separate occasions. He also sold 4 pounds of methamphetamine to the source.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily G. Sauvageau and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew De Moura are prosecuting the case.
U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley is scheduled to sentence Lovato on March 28, 2024. Lovato faces a minimum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine on each count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Ninth Defendant Pleads Guilty in Large-Scale Sacramento Cocaine and Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Tyrone Anderson, 43, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to traffic at least 5,000 grams of cocaine and 280 grams of cocaine base and one count of conspiracy to traffic heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Anderson is among the 15 federal defendants arrested in 2021 and charged in a 45-count indictment for trafficking narcotics as part of a DEA-led multi-agency operation targeting cocaine and heroin traffickers in North Sacramento. Anderson was intercepted during wiretaps in 2018 and 2019 trafficking kilograms of cocaine and heroin and was arrested in possession of two firearms.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron L. Desmond and Aaron D. Pennekamp are prosecuting the case.
Anderson is scheduled to be sentenced on March 7, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley. Anderson faces at least 10 years and a maximum of life in prison and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
On March 16, 2023, Arlington Caine, 48, of Rio Linda, was sentenced to 22 months in prison on two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense.
On Dec. 8, 2022, Michael Hampton, 57, of Vallejo, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine.
On Nov. 17, 2022, Charles Carter, 36, of Sacramento, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine.
On Sept. 29, 2022, Jason Tolbert, 45, of Sacramento, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
On Feb. 22, 2023, Dwight Haney, 52, of Sacramento pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Haney is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 8, 2024.
On Jan. 26, 2023, Jerome Adams, 56, of North Highlands, pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Adams is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 18, 2024.
On Dec. 1, 2022, Bobby Conner, 51, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Conner is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 18, 2024.
On Nov. 17, 2022, Andre Hellams, 40, of North Highlands, pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Hellams is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 8, 2024.
Charges are pending against the following defendants: Maurice Bryant, 51, of Antelope; Yovanny Ontiveros, 41, of Sacramento; Alex White, 61, of North Highlands; Steven Hampton, 61, of Sacramento; Wilmer Harden, 52, of Elk Grove; and Mark Martin, 62, of Sacramento. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. The Sacramento Strike Force is a co‑located model that enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.
Stockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Heroin and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Frank Jonathan Guzman, 31, of Stockton, was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between November 2018 and December 2019, Guzman and co‑defendant Jose Cruz Ivan Aispuro, 38, of Stockton, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 1 kilogram of heroin and at least 400 grams of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills containing fentanyl. As part of this conspiracy, on three occasions Guzman sold heroin to an undercover agent and another person and also sold 500 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to the undercover agent. Agents executed a search warrant at Guzman’s residence in Stockton and seized approximately 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and 2.8 kilograms of heroin.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and the San Joaquin Metropolitan Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer is prosecuting the case.
On Sept. 26, 2023, Aispuro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Aispuro is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Jan. 9, 2024.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Shasta County Resident Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Deborah Gwen Orrey, 54, of Anderson, was sentenced Tuesday to 18 months in prison for making and subscribing a false tax return, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Orrey was the owner and operator of Affordable Tax, Bankruptcy, and Bookkeeping. For tax years 2013 to 2016, Orrey submitted tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service that contained incorrect information including, education credits, inflated medical expenses, and other inflated or non-existent business expenses. Orrey owed to the IRS an additional $112,083 for these years. Orrey also willfully falsified information on tax returns that she filed on her clients’ behalf. She split the refunds due to her clients without their knowledge, causing a portion of the clients’ refunds to be deposited to her own bank account. Eight of her clients suffered an actual loss of a total of $3,729. Orrey was ordered to pay $115,362 in restitution, which is the total loss to the IRS.
This case was the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
Former Sacramento Resident Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years in Prison for Unemployment Insurance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Terence Aubrey Larker, 37, of Las Vegas, previously of Sacramento, was sentenced Tuesday to four years and 10 months in prison for mail fraud and aggravated identity theft in a scheme to defraud the Unemployment Insurance benefit program during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, beginning in April 2020, and continuing through at least October 2020, Larker perpetrated a mail fraud and identity theft scheme that targeted the Unemployment Insurance benefit program that California administers through its Employment Development Department (EDD). Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, EDD was responsible for administering unemployment insurance benefits for qualifying residents who could no longer find employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Larker obtained the personally identifiable information (PII) of more than 80 individuals and filed fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit claims under their identities. EDD approved many of these applications and mailed benefits in the form of prepaid debit cards to addresses under Larker’s control, including at least 24 to his home address in Sacramento. Once received in the mail, he activated the cards and spent the benefits on himself, often appearing in ATM surveillance footage taking out large amounts of cash from these cards. In total, Larker’s conduct resulted in EDD and the United States paying out over $1.1 million in fraudulent claims.
“Terence A. Larker used stolen identities to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance claims to obtain over $1 million in benefits allocated for workers who lost their jobs as a result of the global pandemic. This sentence demonstrates the Office of Inspector General’s continued commitment to safeguard the Unemployment Insurance system,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Los Angeles Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General, the California Employment Development Department, the Department of Homeland Security-Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, one of five interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Enters Settlement with City of Fresno Regarding ADA Compliance at Amtrak StationRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — The City of Fresno has agreed to resolve findings of violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at the Fresno Amtrak intercity rail station, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced today.
The rail station, located at 2650 Tulare Street, is owned by the City of Fresno, and serves passengers using trains to reach destinations up and down the San Joaquin Valley.
Under the agreement announced today, the city made accessibility modifications to exterior and interior portions of the station, including repairs to curb ramps, the waiting room, and the station’s restrooms. This agreement is part of a nationwide effort by the Department of Justice to improve accessibility at the nation’s rail stations. In 2020, the Department of Justice also entered into a nationwide settlement with Amtrak regarding ADA compliance at its stations.
“This agreement is a part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing efforts to bring entities that own or operate intercity rail stations into compliance with the ADA,” U.S. Attorney Talbert said. “Our office is pleased these changes have been made and will continue seeking to ensure that conditions at the station afford equal access to transportation, including as future remodeling takes place.”
This investigation was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emilia P. E. Morris. The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of California is committed to investigating alleged violations of the ADA. Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may file a complaint in writing with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, online at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 or 833-610-1264 (TTY).
amtrak_executed_settlement_agreement.pdfStanislaus County Woman Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Stealing Money from Recipients of Social Security and Other BenefitsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Lorene Deanda, 64, of Ceres, was sentenced today to three years and one month in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, in relation to her stealing more than $550,000 from recipients of Social Security and other benefit funds, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Deanda was employed by a charitable organization in Modesto and managed the organization’s representative payee program. This program assisted recipients of Social Security and other federal and state benefits who could not physically manage their own financial affairs. Deanda, on behalf of the charitable organization, would set up bank accounts for the beneficiaries and receive benefit funds into those accounts. Deanda’s duties included paying beneficiaries’ bills and necessities from those accounts. However, from 2003 to May 2015, Deanda stole benefit funds from the accounts and spent the money on her own personal expenses, including paying for her personal credit card bills and residential mortgage. Deanda stole a total of more than $550,000.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Henry Z. Carbajal III and Brittany M. Gunter prosecuted the case.
Kern County Man Pleads Guilty to Six-Year, $825,000 Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Miguel Leyva, 36, of Wasco, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges for his role in a long-running credit card fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, between February 2016 and August 2022, Leyva and his partner and co-defendant, Karina Arceo, stole the personally identifiable information (PII) for more than 125 victims. They stole much of the PII from patient files at health care providers in Kern County where Arceo worked.
According to court documents, Leyva and Arceo used the stolen PII to open thousands of fraudulent credit cards in the victims’ identities. They used false identification documents to open the credit cards and provided billing addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses over which they had control so that any communications related to the credit cards would go to them instead of the victims. They then made hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent purchases on the credit cards in Kern County and elsewhere. The fraudulent purchases included home appliances, automobile accessories, designer clothing, tickets to concerts and sporting events, and travel, among other items.
Often times, Leyva and Arceo resold the items that they fraudulently purchased for cash and reaped a windfall because they did not actually pay for the items. They also used checks that had been stolen from companies in Kern County to access the companies’ bank accounts and make fraudulent payments towards the credit cards so as to keep their scheme going. Altogether, their scheme caused a total actual loss of more than $825,000.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Leyva is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2024. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and $250,000 fine for the conspiracy charge, and a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to other counts, for the identity theft charge. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft are pending against Arceo. The charges are only allegations; she is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Kern County Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Marcus Tatum, 31, of Bakersfield, pleaded guilty today to receipt and distribution of child sexual abuse material, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between February 2012 and March 2018, Tatum used a laptop computer to knowingly receive and distribute over 600 files containing visual depictions of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The files contained images of children under the age of 12 engaging in sexually explicit conduct, as well as engaging in sado-masochistic conduct.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany M. Gunter is prosecuting the case.
Tatum is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2024. Tatum faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Arvin High School Employee Pleads Guilty to Federal Explosive Offenses and Making False Statements to FBIRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Angelo Jackson Mendiver, 27, of Bakersfield, a campus security supervisor at Arvin High School, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to engage in manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials and mailing explosive devices, as well as making false statements to FBI agents, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Mendiver used an Instagram account to sell explosives and explosive materials and worked closely with a male juvenile Bakersfield high school student to fulfill transactions and send explosives in the mail to residents of other states. On June 1, 2023, a federal search warrant executed at Mendiver’s residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 500 pounds of explosives and explosive materials. Agents seized another 500 pounds of explosives and explosive materials from the juvenile’s residence. At both residences, agents found other items used to make explosives.
In one Instagram message to the juvenile, Mendiver sent a photo of titanium salute, an explosive device, followed by two videos he took of homemade explosive devices that he had made and the statement that “homemade kills all consumer.”
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Mendiver is scheduled for sentencing on April 1, 2024. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,00 fine for each count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Former CEO of Sacramento Non-profit Indicted for Stealing over a Million Dollars from the CharityRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The former CEO of a Sacramento non-profit was arrested today, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
On Nov. 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Richard Alan Abrusci, 45, of South Lake Tahoe, charging him with nine counts of wire fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, and three counts of monetary transactions with proceeds of specified unlawful activity. The indictment was unsealed after the arrest.
According to court documents, in 2014, Abrusci began working at a non-profit organization that operates a chain of retail stores in California and Nevada. Abrusci became the Chief Operating Officer of the organization in 2016 and its president and CEO in 2018.
From 2016 through 2021, Abrusci fraudulently caused the non-profit organization and one of its subsidiaries to pay approximately $1.4 million to Resolution Arrangement Services (RAS). RAS consisted of nothing more than a fictitious business name that Abrusci registered in 2008 and a bank account that he opened the same year. Abrusci caused the fraudulent payments into the RAS bank account that he controlled by using various false documents, including invoices and purchase orders. In one instance, Abrusci used a forged letter purporting to be from an attorney representing the non-profit organization to convince the organization’s CFO to pay RAS $55,000 under false pretenses related to a lawsuit.
The payments to RAS were supposedly for information-technology services, helping to facilitate settlement of a lawsuit, and assisting the non-profit organization in running call centers for the State of California during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, RAS provided none of the services for which it billed the non-profit organization and its subsidiary.
This case is the product of an investigation by IRS-Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Abrusci faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the nine counts of wire fraud. Additionally, he faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each of the three counts of monetary transactions with proceeds of specified unlawful activity. Finally, he faces a consecutive two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
abrusci_indictment_unsealed.pdfVacaville Parolee Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eric Terrell Christian, 32, of Vacaville, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on July 21, 2022, Christian failed to yield during a traffic stop and sped away from the officer. Moments later, a witness called 911 and reported seeing a firearm in a parking lot that Christian had just driven through. On Aug. 11, 2022, Christian fled again when officers attempted to stop him for a related parole violation. He fled on foot from his car but was quickly apprehended. In his vehicle, officers located a Glock handgun with a round in the chamber and another 17 rounds in an inserted high-capacity magazine. Christian was also found to be in possession of a Palmetto Arms AR-style pistol with a round in the chamber and 36 additional rounds in an inserted, high-capacity magazine. Christian is not allowed to possess firearms because he has previously been convicted of three felony offenses, including two convictions for assault with a deadly weapon. Christian was on parole from his second assault conviction when he committed the current offense.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Vacaville Police Department, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation – Division of Adult Parole Operations, the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Placer County Doctor Charged with Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Khursheed Haider, 48, of Roseville, charging him with distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Haider, a Sacramento Area pulmonologist, used an application called Wire to post, distribute, and request child pornography that included videos and images of prepubescent boys and girls being sexually abused. After a search warrant was executed, agents discovered additional prepubescent child sexual abuse material on one or more of Haider’s electronic devices.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Klein is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of distribution of child pornography, Haider faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release, restitution, and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of possession of child pornography, Haider faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release, restitution, and a $250,000 fine Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Fresno Sex Offender Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Term for Child Pornography ConvictionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Gary Lee Briggs, 66, of Fresno, was sentenced today to 30 years in prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for receipt and distribution of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Jan. 3, 2020, a concerned citizen reported to law enforcement that Briggs appeared to be trying to lure an eight-year-old boy into Briggs’s apartment in Fresno. When officers confronted Briggs, he reported that he planned to test his ability to withstand urges that attracted him to the boy. Briggs also admitted that Facebook recently had terminated his account for having transmitted sexually explicit material on that platform. Facebook separately had notified the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children that Briggs’s Facebook account had been used to transmit sexually explicit images of minors from August through December 2019.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Central Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, specifically the Fresno Police Department, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Fresno Resident Sentenced to Prison for Counterfeit Treasury Check Conspiracy and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jeffrey Michalk, 44, of Fresno, was sentenced today to three years and nine months in prison for conspiracy, theft of public money, and aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between June 2020 and January 2022, Michalk worked with Fresno residents Steve Gomez, 41, and Michael Dugan, 49, to cash counterfeit U.S. Treasury checks throughout the Central Valley. The criminal conduct included approximately 264 fraudulent checks, and a loss amount of over $500,000. The trail of counterfeit checks spanned different counties and involved checks forged to be made payable to the defendants and others.
“Today’s sentence is a reminder that the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration is committed to aggressively investigating those who commit financial crimes impacting the tax administration and victimizing the citizens of our communities,” stated Special Agent in Charge Rod Ammari. “This case demonstrates the investigative capabilities and dedication of Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration special agents. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration is committed to protecting the financial infrastructure of the United States by pursuing individuals that abuse the tax administration to further their identity theft schemes.”
This case is the product of an investigation by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Z. Carbajal III is prosecuting the case.
Gomez and Dugan have also pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 29, 2024, and Feb. 26, 2024, respectively. They face a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the conspiracy charge, a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the theft of money charge, and a mandatory minimum consecutive two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft charges.
Fresno Man Pleads Guilty to Actual and Attempted Coercion of a MinorRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Christopher Contreras, 29, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to one count of attempted coercion of a minor and one count of enticement of a minor, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Contreras used the messaging application Skout, text messages and Snapchat to engage in sexually explicit communications for approximately one week with a person he believed to be a 13-year-old female. He then traveled to a location in Fresno on July 31, 2020, to meet the purported minor for sexual activity. He was actually communicating with undercover law enforcement investigators. They arrested Contreras and booked him into the Fresno County Jail where he was released on bail.
On Oct. 13, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to a call about a missing juvenile. An investigation confirmed that Contreras picked the juvenile up at a location in Fresno after making arrangements through messages on the Meet Me application. Contreras was arrested for numerous felony violations of California law and booked again at the Fresno County Jail. He was later charged federally in this case and has been in federal custody since June 10, 2021.
Contreras is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2024. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and up to a life term of supervised release for each of the two counts. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, specifically Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David L. Gappa is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Ceres Man Sentenced for Cyberstalking Two VictimsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Kevin James Strutz, 52, of Ceres, was sentenced today to three years and four months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. In addition, Strutz was ordered to pay $1773 in restitution.
According to court documents, Strutz secretly made a video recording of an adult female who stayed as an Airbnb tenant at the residence where Strutz was living in Ceres in February 2020. The victim ended her stay at the residence when she discovered a message on a cellphone that Strutz had left in a shared bathroom. Over the next several months, Strutz continued to contact the victim through multiple Facebook accounts. The messages became increasingly aggressive, and one included an image of the victim exiting a shower at the Airbnb residence that had been taken without her knowledge or consent. Strutz sent the image to her with a demand that she send him a sexually explicit video or he would send the photo to her friends and family.
Investigators later learned that between September 2018 and December 2018, Strutz had also sent a series of electronic messages and handwritten letters to a second female victim. Strutz left 15 handwritten letters on the victim’s vehicle, many of which contained threats designed to coerce the victim into engaging in sexual acts with Strutz. He also sent messages to the victim from five different Facebook accounts and attempted to contact the victim using phone calls and messages.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Ceres Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case.
Four Defendants Sentenced in Dark Web Cocaine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Sacramento residents Viliami Mosese Fatukala, 40; Quynhmy Quoc Yamamoto, 34; Iris June Micu Mina, 38; and John Phillip Hollis II, 45, were sentenced this week for conspiring to distribute or possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Fatukala was sentenced to five years in prison; Yamamoto was sentenced to 15 months in prison, and Hollis was sentenced to a year in prison. Mina received a time-served sentence.
According to court documents, beginning in July 2019, Fatukala, Yamamoto, and Mina conspired to sell cocaine. Fatukala advertised the sale of cocaine on the dark web. Yamamoto and Mina assisted Fatukala by, among other things, packaging the cocaine and mailing it to customers. All told, the conspirators sold approximately 13.7 kilograms of cocaine over the dark web. Some of the conspirators’ cocaine was supplied by Hollis, who was stopped by law enforcement on Dec. 19, 2019, and found with a kilogram of cocaine in his vehicle.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Northern California Illicit Digital Economy (NCIDE) Task Force, which includes agents from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The NCIDE Task Force is a federal task force focused on targeting all forms of illicit dark web and cryptocurrency activity in the Eastern District of California and beyond. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Pennekamp prosecuted the case.
Debit Card Skimming Suspect Arrested on Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Christos Mavrokelos was arrested Thursday on a criminal complaint charging him with using debit card skimming devices on bank ATMs to steal victims’ debit card information and making unauthorized cash withdrawals on their accounts, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, in 2022, police departments recovered multiple debit card skimming devices from bank ATMs. Mavrokelos’ fingerprints were found on the skimming devices. Then, in January and February 2023, Mavrokelos was connected by bank surveillance footage to seven instances at a bank in Clovis where unauthorized cash withdrawals totaling thousands of dollars were made using victims’ debit cards.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Clovis, Fresno, and Madera Police Departments, as well as the California Department of Justice. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Cody Chapple are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Mavrokelos faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations and Mavrokelos is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
mavrokelos_criminal_complaint.pdfOperator of Central California Bio-Lab Indicted for Distributing Adulterated and Misbranded COVID-19 Tests and Lying to AuthoritiesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Jia Bei Zhu, aka Jesse Zhu, Qiang He, and David He, 62, a citizen of China who formerly resided in Clovis, charging him with distributing adulterated and misbranded medical devices in violation of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and for making false statements to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between January 2020 and March 2023, through the companies Universal Meditech Incorporated (UMI) and Prestige Biotech Incorporated (PBI), Zhu sold hundreds of thousands of COVID-19 test kits to companies throughout the United States. UMI and PBI were based in Fresno and Reedley and did not obtain pre-market approval, pre-market clearance, emergency use authorization, or other applicable exemption from the FDA as was required. UMI and PBI received millions of dollars for the sales of the test kits.
When questioned by FDA officials, Zhu made several false statements to them, including that (1) his name was Qiang “David” He, (2) he was hired by UMI as a COVID-19 consultant in 2021, (3) he was hired by PBI just a couple of weeks prior to meeting with the FDA to communicate with government agencies on PBI’s behalf, and (4) he did not know anything about the manufacturing or distribution histories for UMI or PBI.
This case is the product of an investigation by the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the California Department of Public Health – Food and Drug Branch. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph D. Barton, Arelis M. Clemente, and Henry Z. Carbajal III are prosecuting this case.
If convicted, Zhu faces a maximum statutory penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the adulterated and misbranding of medical devices charges, and five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the false statements charge. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mexican National Arraigned for Kidnapping, Hostage Taking and Alien Smuggling in FresnoRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Cristian Ortiz Coronado, 31, a resident of Mexico, was arraigned today on a six-count indictment charging him with kidnapping, hostage taking, and transporting illegal aliens, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Coronado was indicted on November 9 by a federal grand jury.
According to court documents, Ortiz Coronado was hired to deliver a family to Fresno on Aug. 25, 2023 after they illegally crossed the border from Mexico. When Ortiz Coronado picked the family up, including a mother, her four-year-old daughter, and her nine-year-old son, he locked the doors and would not let them leave the vehicle. Ortiz Coronado then demanded an additional $21,000 from relatives before he would release the family, including children, in Fresno. When relatives did not have the money and tried to block Ortiz Coronado from driving away, Ortiz Coronado rammed first a relatives’ vehicle and then the father of the children before driving away with the mother and her nine-year-old son, leaving the four-year-old behind.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Stokman and Robert Veneman-Hughes are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Ortiz Coronado faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $3 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Grand Jury Indicts Bakersfield Man for Firearms TraffickingRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Joshua Ruic Kimball, 40, of Bakersfield, charging him with trafficking in firearms, unlawful transfer of firearms in violation of the National Firearms Act, and unlawful transfer of firearms in violation of state law, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Kimball was the owner of Show Off Sports LLC, a licensed firearms dealer in Bakersfield. Through his shop, Kimball sold firearms illegally, including short-barrel rifles and silencers. He did not require background checks, firearms registration, or any paperwork for the firearms sales. More than 100 firearms traced back to Kimball have been recovered in connection to crimes in California, Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert L. Veneman-Hughes and Stephanie M. Stokman are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Kimball faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison for trafficking in firearms, 10 years in prison for unlawfully transferring firearms in violation of the National Firearms Act and five years in prison for unlawfully transferring firearms in violation of state law, and a fine up to $250,000 for each count. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.