Eastern District of California
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Tulare County Dealer of Guns and Gamecocks Sentenced to over 7 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Pedro Gavino, 28, of Orosi, was sentenced today to seven years and three months in prison for selling firearms without a license and conspiring to violate the Animal Welfare Act by selling gamecocks and participating in cockfighting events, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, from February 2017 to October 2018, Gavino negotiated for the sale of 28 firearms and actually sold 24 unregistered firearms, including AR-15 type pistols and AR-15 type short-barreled rifles that had been privately made using unfinished receivers. Privately made firearms using unfinished receivers are known as “ghost guns” because they do not have a serial number and are untraceable. The gun sales occurred at Gavino’s ranch in Orosi and at different gas stations in Selma after the buyer advised Gavino that the firearms were destined for buyers in Chicago and Juarez, Mexico.
During one of the illegal gun transactions, Gavino also sold two American Game Fowl type of birds commonly used for cockfighting and six Mexican slashers, or short knives, that are attached to the leg of a rooster for the purpose of fighting.
In April 2018, Gavino brought five gamecocks to a large cockfighting event in an orchard in Orosi where 200 to 300 spectators gathered. After two of Gavino’s gamecocks fought and won, there was a dispute, gunshots were fired, and the crowd dispersed. In October 2018, during the execution of a federal search warrant at Gavino’s ranch, agents found 128 gamecocks, 30 hens used for breeding gamecocks, 278 Mexican slashers, and 10 additional firearms, including two AR-15 type pistols.
Gavino agreed to surrender the animals involved in the case - both gamecocks and hens used to breed gamecocks.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General with assistance from the California Highway Patrol and the Fresno Police Department Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC). Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar prosecuted the case.
Stockton Man Pleads Guilty to Dealing Drugs, Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Carrying a Firearm in Relation to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jamel Duppre Stinson, 43, of Stockton, pleaded guilty today to two counts of possession of various drugs with intent to distribute, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on April 21, 2020, law enforcement agents went to Stinson’s residence to execute a search warrant for his residence, vehicle, and person. Stinson arrived in a Mercedes driven by his girlfriend. Once the vehicle parked on the driveway, officers announced their presence and that they had a search warrant. Stinson, still seated in the front passenger seat, shoved an item in a black plastic bag into a shoe on the front passenger floorboard. Officers removed Stinson from the vehicle and detained him. During the subsequent search, officers located a loaded Glock 21 .45 caliber firearm in his left shoe. In his right shoe, they discovered various distribution amounts of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Stinson later admitted that he sold drugs in Oakland, that he personally manufactured powder cocaine into crack cocaine, and that he carried the firearm for protection because people knew he had money from dealing drugs. Stinson is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has been previously convicted of eight felonies, including six prior drug trafficking offenses and a prior conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oakland Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella is prosecuting the case.
Stinson is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb on Dec. 18, 2023. Stinson faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $5 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.
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.
Mexican National Residing in Bakersfield Pleads Guilty to Possessing 60 Pounds of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Francisco Torres Mora, 30, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, pleaded guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute 60 pounds of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in April 2021, Torres possessed 60 pounds of methamphetamine at a commercial property that he intended to distribute. Law enforcement officers seized the methamphetamine after wire intercepts indicated that Torres was holding the methamphetamine for Jorge Calderon-Campos, 42, also a Mexican national, who was the target of a wiretap investigation that resulted in the seizure of an additional 26 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 pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of gamecocks for an animal fighting venture and was sentenced to 18 months in prison.
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.
Torres is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Jan. 29, 2024. Torres faces a mandatory statutory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, along with 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.
Calderon-Campos and four other co-defendants are currently scheduled for a status conference on Dec. 6, 2023. They are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Felon Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Firearms in VallejoRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jeremy Michael Benner, 39, of San Diego, pleaded guilty today to unlawful dealing in firearms, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between September 2022 to August 2023, Benner sold firearms to a confidential informant on four separate occasions in Vallejo. One of the firearms had previously been reported stolen, and three of them came with extended magazines. Benner did not have a license as a firearms dealer, and could not have obtained a license if he tried because he is a previously convicted felon.
This case is the product of an investigation by 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 is prosecuting the case.
Benner is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller on Dec. 11, 2023. Benner faces a maximum statutory penalty of five 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 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.
Clovis Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Online Coercion of a ChildRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Paul Joseph Espinosa, 55, of Clovis, pleaded guilty today to attempted online coercion of a child, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in May 2021, Espinosa noticed an undercover agent’s Instagram profile and sent her a direct message. The undercover agent told Espinosa she was 15 years old, but Espinosa continued to send her direct messages and call her using Instagram audio. Espinosa asked the 15-year-old undercover persona for sexy pictures, asked multiple times to meet up with her to cuddle, to “enjoy each others company at least for a night” and “lay there naked” and “enjoy each other.” Espinosa asked for the 15-year-old persona to send her a picture for his eyes only and sent her three sexually explicit photos of females when asking her for “naughty” pictures.
According to court documents, on June 26, 2021, Espinosa traveled from Clovis to Fresno to meet up with the intended victim because he wanted to engage in various forms of sexual activity with her. When Espinosa arrived, he was placed under arrest.
This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Fresno Police Department and Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany Gunter and Christina McCall are prosecuting the case.
Espinosa is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 22. 2024, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Espinosa faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum statutory penalty of life 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 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.
Clovis Businessman Pleads Guilty to Stealing $1.4 Million in COVID-19 Relief MoneyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ruben Mireles, 48, of Clovis, pleaded guilty today to stealing $1.4 million in COVID-19 relief money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Mireles owned and operated a farm labor contracting business in Kings County. His business initially went by the name Vista Pacific Labor Solutions Inc. (VPLS) and then changed its name to Calzona Ag Management Inc., doing business as Vista Pacific Farm Management (CAM).
In January 2021, after VPLS changed its name to CAM, Mireles caused CAM to apply for and receive a COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for $1.4 million from the Small Business Administration (SBA). Then, in April 2021, Mireles caused VPLS to apply for and receive another PPP loan for $1.4 million from the SBA based on false information.
In the second loan application, Mireles falsely represented to the SBA that VPLS was a separate company from CAM when, in fact, VPLS and CAM were the same company. Mireles also falsely represented that he had not received any other PPP loans when, in fact, he had previously received CAM’s loan. Finally, Mireles falsely represented that he was not subject to any pending criminal charges when, in fact, he was facing state fraud charges.
Based on Mireles’ representations, VPLS’s loan application was approved and the $1.4 million, to which he was not entitled, was deposited into his bank account.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the SBA Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Mireles is scheduled to be sentenced by Jennifer L. Thurston on Feb. 20, 2024. Mireles faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 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 effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of five interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. 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 pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
Sacramento Man Indicted for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Sept. 14, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Bruce Anthony Garcia, 41, of Sacramento, charging him with the attempted sexual exploitation of a minor and distribution and possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between Aug. 2, 2017, and Sept. 1, 2019, Garcia attempted to sexually exploit a minor by producing visual depictions of the minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. In June 2022, Garcia distributed child pornography, and in January 2023, Garcia was found in possession of child pornography.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force and the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Garcia faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of up to 30 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine for attempted sexual exploitation of a minor; a mandatory minimum of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000 for distribution of child pornography; and a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for possession of child pornography. 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.
West Sacramento Man Indicted for Distributing Fentanyl and Being a Felon in Possession of a GunRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment today against Kamaal Yusuf, 22, of West Sacramento, charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in May 2022 Yusuf was conspiring to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl in El Dorado, Sacramento, and Yolo Counties. On three occasions, twice in Sacramento County and once in Yolo County, he distributed fentanyl pills. Yusuf also possessed another 400 grams of fentanyl in Yolo County. Yusuf, who is a previously convicted felon, is also charged with illegally possessing a Glock handgun and an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
This case is the product of an investigation by the West El Dorado Narcotics Enforcement Team, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew De Moura is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Yusuf faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of up to life in prison and a $10 million fine for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl; a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for distribution of fentanyl; and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle. 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.
Vallejo Man Indicted for Assaulting Federal Agents with a Firearm and Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Sean Thomas Delapp, 37, of Vallejo, charging him with assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Delapp assaulted two FBI special agents by chasing them with his car, pulling up alongside them, and aiming a firearm at them through the window, making a recoil motion with the firearm. A subsequent search warrant at his residence resulted in the discovery of a Glock 29 firearm, ammunition, and various firearm parts. Delapp is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he was previously convicted of a felony evasion offense.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the California Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Delapp faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 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.
Richmond Woman Charged with Defrauding Tongan Community in $13 Million Stockton-Based International Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 30-count indictment on Sept. 14, 2023, against Tilila Siola’a Walker Sumchai, 61, of Richmond, charging her with wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, and the sale of unregistered securities, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between January 2021 and October 2021, Walker Sumchai orchestrated a scheme to defraud investors in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand from her Stockton office. Claiming to use a secret algorithm, Walker Sumchai solicited Tongan investors and promised them that if they gave her money to purchase shares of the “Tongi Tupe” investment program, she would invest the money, and they would receive their principal investments back and thousands of dollars in returns within weeks or months. She also promised investors that if they gave her $30,000, within months they would receive a home in Lodi worth approximately $480,000. Instead, she took investors’ money and used it for her own personal expenses, including gambling, and used it to pay back and lull earlier investors. More than 1,000 investors invested over $13 million with Walker Sumchai.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee S. Bickley is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of mail fraud or wire fraud, Walker Sumchai faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of conviction. If convicted of securities fraud, Walker Sumchai faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $5 million fine. If convicted of the remaining securities-related counts in the indictment, Walker Sumchai faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine for each count of conviction. 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.
The FBI is seeking to identify possible victims of Tilila Siola’a Walker Sumchai. If you believe that you were victimized by Walker Sumchai or have information relevant to this investigation, please complete the online form available at https://www.fbi.gov/tongitupevictims.
walker_sumchai_indictment.pdfFormer Fresno Sleep Clinic Owner Pleads Guilty to Submitting over $1 Million in Fraudulent Claims for Sleep Studies to MedicareRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Travis Gober, 44, of Hanford, pleaded guilty to health care fraud and aggravated identity theft charges today for submitting over $1 million in fraudulent claims for sleep studies to Medicare, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, Gober owned the VIP Sleep Center, which operated sleep clinics in Fresno and Tulare Counties. Sleep clinics perform diagnostic sleep studies on patients to identify disorders like sleep apnea and narcolepsy.
From October 2019 through September 2021, Gober caused the VIP Sleep Center to submit thousands of claims to Medicare, which is a federally funded health care insurance program, for sleep studies that were not actually performed on patients. The claims also falsely stated that the patients had been referred for the sleep studies by physicians with whom Gober had previously worked. This was done because Medicare will not pay for a sleep study unless the patient was referred by a physician.
Gober committed this fraud, at least in part, to try to pay debts and address other financial difficulties that his brother, Jeremy Gober, had caused the VIP Sleep Center and him to incur without his knowledge or consent.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the California Department of Health Care Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Travis Gober is scheduled to be sentenced by Jennifer L. Thurston on Jan. 16, 2024. Gober faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison for the health care fraud conviction, and an additional, mandatory two years in prison for the identity theft conviction. His 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.
Travis Gober’s brother, Jeremy Gober, was previously charged with health care fraud and identity theft related to other sleep clinics in the Central Valley in December 2022. The charges are only allegations. Jeremy Gober is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Yuba City Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing and Selling GunsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Billy Glyn Sims Jr., 29, of Yuba City, pleaded guilty today to one count of unlawfully dealing in firearms without a license and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between April 1, 2022, and March 9, 2023, Sims, who is not a licensed firearms dealer, unlawfully engaged in the business of dealing in firearms. In three separate transactions in motel and apartment complex parking lots, Sims sold an FBI confidential source a Mossberg Shotgun, a Ruger single-action revolver, and a black powder revolver and a box containing .45 caliber ammunition. The transactions occurred in Yuba, Yolo, and Sutter Counties. At least one of the transactions occurred after Sims became aware that the source was a “double felon” and thus prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Sims also offered to sell the source several other firearms, including an AR-15 assault rifle, although these transactions were never completed. Sims was prohibited from possessing any firearms because of his own prior felony convictions, including for domestic violence and burglary.
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 Justin L. Lee and Dhruv M. Sharma are prosecuting the case.
Sims is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on January 18, 2024. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for unlawfully dealing in firearms, and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for being a felon in possession of a firearm. 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.
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
Sacramento Man Sentenced to over 19 Years in Prison for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Antonio Long Andrews, 29, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to 19 years and seven months in prison and 20 years of supervised release for sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to evidence presented at a 2022 jury trial, between August 2017 and December 2018, Long used force and coercion to convince a female to engage in commercial sexual acts for his financial benefit. As part of Long’s pimping operation, he put the victim in motel rooms around the state of California and had them engage in prostitution acts on the street in order to make money from their prostitution activity. Long ran his pimping operation in Sacramento, Oakland, San Jose, and Orange County.
According to evidence presented at trial, on September 28, 2018, as part of his sex trafficking operation, Long repeatedly punched the victim inside his car in the parking lot of a motel. During the attack, the victim tried to exit the car, but an associate of Long kept her inside the car while Long continued to beat her. An eyewitness saw the attack, and the motel’s security camera recorded the victim being dragged under Long’s car. Although the victim was injured and had two black eyes, a week later, Long had continued to engage her in commercial sex acts for his benefit.
During recorded calls from the Sacramento County Jail, Long maintained control over the victim, conveying that she was expected to earn money for him by selling her body to strangers. After Long’s release from the Sacramento County Jail, Long continued his exploitation of the victim from late November 2018 until his arrest on December 5, 2018. At the sentencing hearing, the judge noted that Long saw the victim as property and took advantage of her so he could make money.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Police Department, California Department of Justice’s Special Operations Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The California Highway Patrol, Sacramento Sheriff’s Department, and the Sacramento District Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Jason Hitt, Christina McCall and Nirav Desai prosecuted the case.
Repeat Sacramento Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jason Michael Carlsen, 50, of Sacramento, was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Carlsen possessed child pornography in July 2022. At the time he possessed these images, Carlsen was on federal supervised release for a prior federal conviction for possession of child pornography.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg 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.
Bitcoin ATM Company Forfeited over $1 Million for Conspiring to Violate the Bank Secrecy ActRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Folsom company Amani Investments LLC, which operated Coinucopia kiosks that exchanged U.S. currency for Bitcoin, forfeited $1 million in currency, a Mercedes-Benz, Bitcoin, and other items for its criminal efforts to avoid reporting requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
In February 2023, Amani Investments LLC, doing business as Coinucopia, pleaded guilty to conspiring to avoid filing Currency Transaction Reports (CTRs) that are required under federal law. The federal Bank Secrecy Act was enacted by Congress to combat the laundering of criminal proceeds, and it requires money services businesses to report each transaction involving more than $10,000 in currency. Willful violation of the requirement to file these reports, commonly called CTRs, is a federal criminal offense.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions Amani Investments exchanged over $10,000 in U.S. currency for Bitcoin without filing a CTR, as required by the Bank Secrecy Act. Many transactions were conducted during face-to-face exchanges of more than $10,000 in cash for Bitcoin with a Managing Officer of Amani Investments, all without the filing of a CTR. In total, approximately $1 million was involved in the crime. Today the court finalized Amani Investments’ forfeiture order, which included a Mercedes-Benz E63, Bitcoin, gold coins, and $1 million in United States currency.
“Federal currency transaction reporting requirements are intended to protect our financial system from the influx of criminal proceeds,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to hold accountable those who seek to evade these requirements.”
“Today’s sentence holds Amani Investments, dba Coinucopia, a registered Money Service Business, accountable for violating the Bank Secrecy Act,” said Tatum King, Special Agent in Charge, HSI San Francisco / NorCal. “We know that money is the lifeblood of criminals as evidenced by the $1 million forfeiture, which is why it is a primary focus for HSI across all of our investigative programs. We appreciate the work of HSI personnel with FBI, USPIS, DEA, IRS-CI, USAO Eastern District, and Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office who worked this multi-year case collaboratively and resulted in the substantial forfeiture of ill-gotten gains.”
This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as part of the Northern California Illicit Digital Economy (NCIDE) Task Force, consisting of agents from HSI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The NCIDE Task Force is a joint, federal task force focused on targeting all forms of dark web and cryptocurrency criminal activity in the Eastern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert C. Abendroth and Veronica M.A. Alegría prosecuted the case.
Inmate and Three Co-defendants Convicted in $25 Million COVID-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Telvin Breaux, 32, an inmate at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy and aggravated identity theft charges for leading a $25 million fraud against the California Employment Development Department (EDD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three of Breaux’s co-defendants, Fantasia Brown, 35, of Los Angeles; Shanice White, 29, of Hawthorne; and Holly White, 33, of Los Angeles; also pleaded guilty for their roles in the fraud. U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert made the announcement.
According to court documents, Breaux and his co-defendants obtained the personally identifiable information (PII) for other inmates, non-inmates, and minor children. Many of the non-inmates were patients or customers at hospitals, dentists’ offices, and other businesses where one of the co-defendants worked or had a point of contact. The minor children were the defendants’ own children or part of their networks of family and friends.
Breaux and his co-defendants used the stolen PII to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance claims online to EDD in these other individuals’ identities. The claims contained several misrepresentations, including that the other individuals became unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and were available to work. Breaux was the ringleader of the scheme. He collected the identities used for the fraudulent claims, managed the submission of the claims, and controlled the distribution of the proceeds. Breaux kept track of everything in ledgers that were seized from his prison cell.
Fantasia Brown and Shanice White collected and distributed some of the proceeds according to Breaux’s instructions. For example, in one instance Breaux asked Brown to open another safe deposit box for him because he was only keeping $200,000 in each box. Brown agreed to do so and said that she had collected so much money for Breaux that she was one of his accountants. In another instance, Shanice White told Breaux that she needed a cash counting machine because her hands were hurting from counting so much money. Breaux replied that he was expecting another $120,000 that week. Investigators found pictures of cash proceeds and a cash counting machine on cellphones during the investigation.
Pictures of Proceeds and Cash Counting Machine Found on Cellphones
Holly White created email addresses that were used for fraudulent claims in the identities of hospital patients. Breaux obtained the identities from another co-defendant whose friend worked at the hospital.
As a result of the conspiracy, over 400 fraudulent claims were submitted to EDD and the United States. The total value of the claims, if all were approved and fully paid out, was nearly $25 million. Of these claims, over 290 were actually approved and $5.4 million was paid out. The EDD, however, froze some of that money before it could be spent.
The defendants used the proceeds to benefit themselves, family members, and friends. Their purchases included rent, luxury vehicles, trips to Las Vegas, jewelry, designer handbags, high-end furniture, and tuition.
Breaux and Brown are scheduled to be sentenced on March 18, 2024. Shanice White is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 18, 2023, and Holly White is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 16, 2024. Each of them faces maximum statutory penalties of 22 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000. Their actual sentences, 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 several variables.
Daryol Richmond, 32, who was an inmate at the Kern Valley State Prison in Delano, was previously convicted for his involvement in the fraud. He was sentenced to over five years in prison in December 2022.
The remaining defendants in the case are Cecelia Allen, 35, of Downey; Tonisha Brown, 30, of Los Angeles; and Fantesia Davis, 34, of Victorville. Their next court date is Sept. 18, 2023. The charges against the remaining defendants are only allegations. They are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, EDD, and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of five interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. 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 pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
Stockton Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a single count indictment today against Sophondara Hun, 27, of Stockton, charging him with being a felon in possession of ammunition, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers were dispatched to a report of a prowler at an apartment complex. The reporting party stated a man was inside of her apartment after gaining entry through a window. When officers arrived at the apartment, they discovered an open window and observed Hun sleeping on a bed in the apartment. Officers entered the front of the apartment after being let in by the resident and arrested Hun. During his arrest, law enforcement searched Hun and found multiple .22 caliber bullets in his possession. At the time of the search, Hun was on parole for a prior felony offense. Hun is prohibited from possessing ammunition because he has multiple prior state felony convictions, including assault on a person with a firearm, assault with a deadly weapon with force–possible great bodily injury, vandalism, and evading law enforcement in a vehicle.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Stockton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office provided assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Hun 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.
Oakhurst Man Sentenced for Excavating Native American Cultural PropertyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Vance Franklin Myers, 35, of Oakhurst, was sentenced Tuesday by United States District Judge Ana de Alba to 3 years probation and a $10,000 fine for unauthorized excavation and removal of archeological resources from public lands, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Additionally, Myers was ordered to pay $10,023.48 in restitution, perform 100 hours of community service, make a public statement concerning his offense, and he is banned from entering public lands for recreational purposes during the period of his probation.
According to court documents, Myers entered upon public lands in Madera County that were administered by the United States Forest Service and unlawfully excavated Native American cultural artifacts and Native American human remains. Artifacts removed from the site included beads, manos, rosegates, and desert side notched points. This occurred between June 1, 2015 and September 3, 2015. Excavating, damaging, and removing archaeological resources from federal and Native American lands without proper authorization is a violation of Federal law.
This case was the product of an investigation by the United States Forest Service. Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Montoya prosecuted the case.
San Jose Man Sentenced for Eight Years and Six Months for Conspiring to Traffic Methamphetamine in Solano CountyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Esteban Gerardo Ramirez, 32, of San Jose, was sentenced today to eight years and six months in prison for conspiring to possess and distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between Sept. 13, 2021, and March 8, 2022, Ramirez conspired with his codefendant, Marsha Garma Phillips, of Fairfield, to distribute methamphetamine in Solano County. Supplied by Ramirez, Phillips sold over 5 pounds of methamphetamine to an FBI confidential source. Phillips and Ramirez were arrested in Fremont on March 8, 2022, when they were found in possession of 2 additional pounds of methamphetamine. Ramirez has two prior state sentences for methamphetamine trafficking.
Ramirez is in federal custody. Phillips previously pleaded guilty and her next court date is scheduled for Oct. 3, 2023.
This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force and the Fairfield Police Department. 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.
Friant Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl that Caused an Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Bobby Hood, 65, of Friant, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in the summer of 2020 law enforcement learned that Mr. Hood was trafficking fentanyl and heroin. Just a few months later, on Christmas Day, a small amount of fentanyl powder that Mr. Hood distributed led to an overdose death. In that overdose investigation, investigators reviewed phone evidence that corroborated Mr. Hood’s sale of the lethal dose and other instances of his fentanyl dealing. All that information led to federal officers searching Hood, his car, and his residence. Those searches turned up a firearm, 508 grams of methamphetamine, 67 grams of fentanyl, and 1.75 ounces of heroin.
This case is the product of an investigation by FORT, a multi-agency team composed of Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fresno Police Department, and the Clovis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted the case.
This case is 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.
Bakersfield Resident Sentenced for Methamphetamine Sales from Smoke ShopRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Abraham Eduardo Navarro Mendez, 39, of Bakersfield, Calif., was sentenced today to five years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in 2019, agents of Homeland Security Investigations received information that Navarro Mendez was selling methamphetamine from Havana Smoke Shop in Bakersfield. They then conducted two separate undercover drug transactions with Navarro Mendez, who delivered a total of 2.5 pounds of high-purity methamphetamine for $3,750.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Homeland Security Investigations of the Department of Homeland Security with assistance from the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
Bakersfield Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Derrick Gage, 42, of Bakersfield, was sentenced to 5 years in prison for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance a Drug Trafficking Offense, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on April 23, 2022, law enforcement officers were on patrol at the Plaza Motel on Union Avenue in Bakersfield when they saw Gage inside a room with a firearm and what appeared to be drugs. The officers searched the room and seized a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun as well as cocaine. Gage is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has prior felony convictions for domestic violence, participation in a criminal street gang, and sales of cocaine.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Laurel J. Montoya 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.
Three Indicted for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking in Sacramento and StocktonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment today against three defendants, charging them with drug trafficking offenses, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Jiovanni Eleazar Paco, 25, of Modesto; Carlos Daniel Gastelum Bustamante, 25, a Mexican national residing in Pasadena; and Brayan Missael Nunez Mendoza, 22, of Sacramento; are each charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, para‑fluorofentanyl (a fentanyl analogue), and methamphetamine. Each defendant is charged with distribution of fentanyl. Bustamante is also charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and Paco is charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents, the defendants distributed thousands of counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl on behalf of a source of supply in Mexico. On Sept. 29, 2022, Mendoza sold over 1,000 counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl in Sacramento. On Dec. 21, 2022, Bustamante sold over 2,000 counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl in Stockton. Several months later, on May 2, 2023, a California Highway Patrol officer initiated a traffic stop of Bustamante in the Stockton area, searched his vehicle, and found approximately 5,530 counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl, and approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine. On June 12, 2023, Paco sold approximately 3,000 counterfeit M30 pills containing fentanyl. Paco was later arrested during a traffic stop on June 27, 2023, where officers found him in possession of nearly 8,000 M30 pills containing fentanyl.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the California Highway Patrol, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office, and the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer and Haddy Abouzeid are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, all defendants face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a $10 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 defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Additional Defendant Indicted in Firearms Trafficking Conspiracy Involving 500+ Firearms Shipped from Georgia to California and Sold on the Black Market in CaliforniaRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 13-count superseding indictment today against Michael Motley, 36, of Sacramento, charging him with conspiracy to unlawfully deal in firearms without a license, unlawfully dealing in firearms without a license, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Jerrell Lawson, 32, of Sacramento; Aisha Hoggatt, 30, of Sacramento; Terrence Phillips, 40, of Union City; James Gordley, 33, of Modesto; Malek Williams, 29, of Georgia; Andre Warren Jr., 24, of Sacramento; Jjuan Brown, 32, of San Francisco; Kenyatta Alexander, 37, of Sacramento; Jarren Meek, 24, of Stockton; and Keino Brue, 28, of Georgia, were all previously indicted for the firearms trafficking scheme where firearms were acquired in Georgia and shipped to California to sell on the black market.
According to court documents, between November 2019 and March 2022, Lawson and his co-conspirators brought more than 500 firearms from Georgia into California and sent more than $300,000 in money transfers to purchase those firearms. Lawson would broker firearms transactions in Georgia over the internet, and Williams, a Georgia resident with a license to carry a concealed firearm, would pick up firearms in person and mail the firearms to various locations in California at Lawson’s direction. Some of the firearms went to individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions. Hoggatt worked with Lawson to coordinate the purchase, mailing, and distribution of the firearms. Phillips and Gordley also distributed the firearms in California.
Additional investigation revealed that Warren, Alexander, Brown, Meek, and Motley are members of Lawson’s firearms trafficking organization and sub-distributors of firearms. Bruce also conducted hand-to-hand firearms transactions and received over $23,000 in money transfers to purchase firearms for Lawson’s firearms trafficking organization. Warren, Alexander, Brown, Meek and Motley all discussed acquiring and selling firearms; Warren, Alexander, Brown, and Meek all discussed machine gun conversion devices with Lawson. On one occasion, Brown indicated to Lawson the individuals in Oakland who Brown was supplying firearms to were “scar[]y.” Lawson, Phillips, Gordley, Warren, Alexander and Motley are all prohibited from possessing firearms because they each have one or more prior felony convictions.
The investigation began when a firearm used in a shooting in Sacramento was traced to the last known sale by a federally licensed dealer in Georgia. A subsequent sale of the firearm led to Lawson’s firearms trafficking organization. Lawson and his co-conspirators used coded language to traffic firearms and moved money using a variety of financial institutions. During the investigation, interdicted packages destined for Lawson and other co-conspirators were found to contain firearms, ammunition, knives, and brass knuckles, among other things.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Sacramento Region/San Francisco Bay Area Cross-Jurisdictional Firearms Trafficking Strike Force Initiative. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexis Klein and Ross Pearson are prosecuting the case.
The Sacramento Region/San Francisco Bay Area Cross-Jurisdictional Firearms Trafficking Strike Force is one of five cross-jurisdictional strike forces launched by the U.S. Department of Justice in July 2021 to disrupt illegal firearms trafficking in key regions across the country. Each strike force is led by designated United States Attorneys, who collaborate with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and with state and local law enforcement partners within their own jurisdiction as well as law enforcement partners in areas where illegally trafficked guns originate. The strike forces use the latest data, evidence, and intelligence from crime scenes to identify patterns, leads, and potential suspects in violent gun crimes, and are an important part of the Department’s Comprehensive Violent Crime Reduction Strategy.
Williams pleaded guilty to unlawfully dealing in firearms without a license and faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison for unlawful dealing in firearms. Charges are pending against the remaining defendants. If convicted, the defendants face the following maximum penalties: five years in prison on each count for conspiracy to unlawfully deal in firearms, unlawful dealing in firearms and transferring a firearm to an out-of-state resident, and two years in prison on each count for unlawful mailing of a firearm. Lawson, Alexander, and Motley face an additional maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the felon in possession of a firearm charges. 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.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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.
Stockton Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Frank Jonathan Guzman, 31, of Stockton, pleaded guilty Tuesday to 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, Guzman sold heroin to and undercover agent and another person on Nov. 29, 2018, Dec. 21, 2018, and Sept. 24, 2019. Guzman also sold 500 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to the undercover agent on Nov. 14, 2019. 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.
Guzman is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Dec. 12, 2023. Guzman faces a maximum statutory penalty 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.
Charges are pending against Aispuro. The charges against Aispuro are only allegations; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Former Plumas County Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — David J. Zappa, 71, of Sebastopol, was sentenced Tuesday to six years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for receipt of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Feb. 5, 2015, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Zappa’s home and found that Zappa used peer-to-peer software to receive and share files over the BitTorrent network, and his computer was in the process of downloading four torrent files that contained child pornography. Overall, agents found thousands of images and approximately 200 videos of child pornography.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Yang 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.
Butte County Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Prison for Fentanyl Pill TraffickingRead the Press Release
Julius Rucks, 42, of Oroville, was sentenced Monday to 12 years and nine months in prison for distribution of fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to public proceedings and court documents, on Dec. 6, 2018, Jan. 10, 2019, and April 3, 2019, Rucks sold over 1,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to a confidential source and undercover agent. On July 23, 2019, agents executed a search warrant at Rucks’ residence in Oroville and found a large electric motor-driven pill press, the pill dies for stamping the counterfeit pharmaceutical markings onto the fake pills, large amounts of powdered fentanyl, pill binder material, and other pill manufacturing materials, and three handguns with loaded magazines. In November 2022, Rucks pleaded guilty to three counts of distributing fentanyl.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration 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.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Tulare County Man Sentenced to 5.5 Years in Prison for Possessing CocaineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jesus Angulo, 34, of Woodlake, was sentenced to five years and six months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, a long-term investigation uncovered a scheme involving the trade of illegal drugs sourced in Mexico and California for firearms sourced in Texas. In 2021, a team of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers partnered in an investigation into the Tulare County Surenos Street Gang. Part of the investigation focused on Angulo and his associates, who were involved in shipping illegal drugs and firearms across state lines.
On Oct. 26, 2021, Angulo and his associate were stopped by law enforcement after picking up narcotics from a source of supply in Los Angeles. Officers located more than 9 kilograms of cocaine and a firearm in Angulo’s car.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, the Tulare County Area Regencies Gun Enforcement Team, the Visalia Police Department, the California Department of Justice’s Bureau of Investigation, the California Highway Patrol’s Special Operations Unit, and the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca are prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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.
Justice Department Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Owner, Manager, and Maintenance Worker of Bakersfield Rental PropertiesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a lawsuit against Javier Salazar Jr., Javier Salazar Sr., both of Bakersfield; and Ricardo Covarrubias, of Van Nuys; a maintenance worker, manager, and owner, respectively, of rental properties in Bakersfield, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, alleges that Javier Salazar, Jr., a maintenance worker, sexually harassed a female tenant from December 2018 through March 2019 by repeatedly asking the tenant to engage in sexual acts with him, asking her to be in a relationship with him, describing the sexual acts he wished to engage in with her, and persistently commenting on her appearance. According to the complaint, on two occasions Javier Salazar Jr. touched the tenant’s body without her consent, and surreptitiously took digital photographs of framed print pictures in her home of her and her daughter. The tenant reported Salazar Jr.’s conduct to Salazar Sr., who was both the property manager and is Salazar Jr.’s father. After she reported the harassment and threatened to contact a lawyer or the police if it continued, the Salazars refused to fix a leaking gas line in her dwelling, causing her to go without heat for one month and consequently forcing her to move out. The complaint also alleges that Covarrubias, the property owner, is vicariously liable for the Salazars’ conduct because they were his agents when they engaged in sexual harassment and retaliation.
“For four months this tenant refused the repeated sexual advances by the maintenance worker at her rental home, and when she reported the sexual harassment, she faced retaliation,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert. “The actions of Salazar Jr. and the failure or refusal of Salazar Sr. and Covarrubias to act on the tenant’s behalf caused her harm and distress. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will hold accountable any landlord who enables or engages in sexual harassment in violation of the Fair Housing Act.”
“Sexual harassment in rental housing preys on tenants who are especially vulnerable, including those who rely on their housing provider for critical maintenance services,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to holding accountable any person in the housing sector who sexually harasses, assaults or retaliates against tenants, from the housing owner to the maintenance worker. A home should be a place of refuge and sanctity, not sexual assault and exploitation, and we will continue to use the Fair Housing Act to hold violators accountable.”
“Preying on renters who have few housing options is abhorrent and illegal,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Demetria McCain of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD will continue to work with DOJ to enforce the law and protect tenants.” Today’s lawsuit arose from a complaint that the former tenant filed with the HUD. After HUD investigated the complaint, it issued a charge of discrimination, and the matter was referred to the Justice Department. The lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate the victim and a court order barring future discrimination.
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the Initiative in October 2017, the Justice Department has filed 34 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment by Javier Salazar Jr., or at rental dwellings owned or managed by Ricardo Covarrubias or Javier Salazar Sr., or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, should call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, email the Justice Department at [email protected], or submit a report online.
Individuals can also report sexual harassment and other forms of housing discrimination by contacting HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a HUD complaint online.
El Dorado County Couple Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — El Dorado Hills couple were sentenced today for their criminal efforts to avoid paying federal income taxes, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Brian Beland, 39, was sentenced to 21 months in prison and a $30,000 fine, and Denae Beland, 40, was sentenced to five years of supervised release and a $25,000 fine.
After an 8-day trial, a federal jury found Brian Beland guilty of four counts: three for filing false tax returns for 2011, 2012, and 2013, and another count for corruptly impeding the ensuing tax audit. The tax returns illegally claimed both personal expenses and fabricated expenses as tax deductions. The jury also found Denae Beland guilty of corruptly impeding the tax audit.
“The Belands used tax fraud to pay almost no taxes for three years on their approximately $1.1 million income,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “They purposely lied in order to fund their family’s lavish lifestyle when they should have just told the truth and paid their taxes like millions of other Americans. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who fail to comply with their federal tax obligations.”
“Greedy schemes to falsify business expenses in order to evade income tax, such as those utilized by Brian Beland, are unfair to every taxpayer who obeys the law and pays their fair share. The Beland’s flaunted their ill-gotten gains with extravagant vacations, vehicles, home improvement, and other items,” said Darren Lian, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation’s Oakland Field Office. “Today’s sentence affirms the IRS CI will hold individuals accountable to tax laws that they are subject to. Those who fail to do so will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Brian Beland was a mortgage broker for Wells Fargo and then Bank of America from 2011 through 2013. He claimed business expenses in excess of $800,000 for all three years, effectively paying only a 2% tax on the more than $1.1 million he earned. Denae Beland was an attorney licensed by the California State Bar, but she was suspended after this conviction and is currently not eligible to practice law in California. When the IRS began a civil audit of their taxes, Brian and Denae Beland tried to hide their crimes by falsely claiming that personal expenses were business expenses, telling falsehoods to the civil examiner, and obstructing the IRS audit by not providing requested documents.
During the audit the Belands claimed falsely that their business records had been shredded or lost. They then created false spreadsheets for the IRS that listed various personal expenses as business expenses in order to justify their fraudulent deductions, including travel to Europe, the Eiffel Tower, Hawaii, and Cancun; wine racks and a personalized wine bottle in their wine cellar; a California king bed; patio furniture; automated tiki torches; birthday party and baby shower expenses; home gym exercise flooring; and other items. In June 2016, the IRS executed a search warrant at the Belands’ house in El Dorado Hills. In addition to finding many pieces of furniture and household goods that had been claimed as business expenses, agents also found various tax records and receipts from the years in question, despite the Belands’ claims that all records and receipts had been destroyed. In some case those records and receipts were found together with correspondence from the IRS related to the very same audit they were obstructing.
This case was the product of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Veronica M.A. Alegría and Lee S. Bickley prosecuted the case.
West Sacramento Woman Sentenced to over 4 Years in Prison for Mail Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Kimberly Acevedo, 53, formerly of West Sacramento, was sentenced today to four years and seven months in prison and ordered to pay $113,400 in restitution for mail fraud and aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between March 2019 and March 2021, Acevedo and co‑defendant Philip Rich, 51, of West Sacramento, perpetrated a mail fraud scheme that involved theft of U.S. mail, identity theft, and unlawful possession of dozens of stolen bank cards. Generally, Acevedo and Rich obtained the personally identifiable information (PII) of victims and used that information to apply for new credit cards, debit cards, checkbooks, and other financial instruments to be sent to the victims’ real home addresses. The defendants then submitted change-of-address requests to USPS using the victims’ PII. These change-of-address requests rerouted the victims’ mail to defendants’ shared home address, where they would open the mail and use the contents to make fraudulent purchases and cash fraudulent checks.
When federal agents executed a search warrant at defendants’ residence on Oct. 14, 2020, they seized dozens of notebooks filled with at least hundreds of identity-theft victim PII. The notebooks were scattered throughout the house, though mainly located in defendants’ shared bedroom. In addition, agents recovered an envelope, labeled “ID Templates,” in the bedroom containing approximately 10-15 fake California driver’s licenses in the names of various victims, but featuring Acevedo and Rich’s photographs and fake authentication features. Agents also recovered the tools required to construct the fake IDs as well as a magstripe device. Further, agents recovered over 50 credit and debit cards in the home as well as approximately 40 checkbooks in victims’ names as well as in the names of Acevedo and Rich. In total, defendants’ scheme caused over $110,000 in actual loss.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
Acevedo pleaded guilty in October 2022. Rich previously pleaded guilty to mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. On Oct. 4, 2022, he was sentenced to three years and three months in prison. He was ordered to pay $113,400 in restitution, jointly and severally with Acevedo.
Stanislaus County Man Pleads Guilty to Passing Forged Treasury BondsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Ronnie Douglas Fleming, 37, of Keyes, pleaded guilty today to passing a counterfeit obligation of the United States, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, from March to May 2022, Fleming passed counterfeit treasury bonds on 10 occasions at banks in the Central Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. The banks paid Fleming more than $134,000 for the bonds.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Secret Service with assistance from the Department of the Treasury Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg is prosecuting the case.
Fleming is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 28, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd. Fleming faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine 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.
Stockton Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Maleek Carter-Rea, 22, of Stockton, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in March 2023, law enforcement officers observed Carter-Rea and several other individuals brandishing firearms in videos on social media. Law enforcement officers conducted surveillance and initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle in which Carter-Rea was riding. During the search of the vehicle, officers found and seized a Glock 48 firearm on the floor beside Carter-Rea’s feet. Carter-Rea is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has a state felony conviction for robbery in San Joaquin County.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Stockton Police Department, the Manteca Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Delaney is prosecuting the case.
Carter-Rea is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller on Nov. 6, 2023. Carter-Rea faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 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 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.
Stanislaus County Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Julian Loeza, 33, of Ceres, was sentenced today to 13 years and eight months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in 2020, a team of local and federal law enforcement officers partnered in an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Loeza and co-defendants Esmerelda Ceja-Mendez, 43, of Ceres; Sofia Cisneros-Noyola, 37, of Sacramento; and Victor Ramirez, 37, of Atwater. On March 3, 2021, Loeza sold 2 pounds of methamphetamine for $3,600.
Loeza had been convicted of previous federal drug trafficking charges in 2016. In that prior case he was sentenced to six years in prison. By March 2021, he had been released. Loeza committed his new drug trafficking offense while on federal supervised release for the prior case. Loeza was also sentenced to 24 months in prison for violating the terms of his supervised release, to run concurrently with his sentence for the new offense.
Ramirez previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Ramirez is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Nov. 20, 2023.
Charges are pending against Ceja-Mendez and Cisneros-Noyola; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the San Joaquin County Metropolitan Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
San Francisco Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Vacaville Gun Store BurglaryRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Adrian Oscar Duran, 27, of San Francisco, was sentenced today to six years in prison for burglary of a federally licensed firearms dealer, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on June 1, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to reports of suspicious activity at Guns, Fishing and Other Stuff, a two-story gun and outdoor recreation store in Vacaville. Guns, Fishing and Other Stuff is a federally licensed firearms dealer. When officers responded, four vehicles fled the scene. After a high-speed chase on Interstate 80 during which vehicles reached over 100 miles per hour, one vehicle, a rented minivan, was stopped, and Duran and four others were arrested after a foot pursuit. In total, the gun store reported that more than 70 firearms had been stolen. Inside the minivan were bolt cutters, a power saw, and 13 handguns with price tags from Guns, Fishing and Other Stuff still attached.
The four co- defendants pleaded guilty and three await sentencing: Donte Marcel Anderson, 34, of Pittsburg, California; Desteny Estrella Leilani Salazar, 25, of San Francisco; and Tracy Whitfield, 34, of Pittsburg. Donley Thompson, 31, of Pinole, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 33 months in prison. Thompson is in custody after violating the conditions of his supervised release.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Vacaville Police Department, the Fairfield Police Department, the Antioch Police Department, the Vallejo Police Department, and the California Department of Justice – Bureau of Firearms. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting 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.
Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Marijuana ShipmentRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — David Agustus McGowan, 63, of Kansas City, Missouri, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana that was shipped from Fresno to Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in November 2018, McGowan’s co-defendants Patrick Maldonado, 47, of Madera; Elias Zambrano Jr., 43, of Fresno; Tan Minh Vo, 50, of San Jose; Tien Van Phan, 58, of Milpitas; and Halen Frazier, 37, of Kingsville, Missouri, coordinated the shipment of nearly 500 pounds of marijuana to Frazier in Kansas City. The first shipment was seized from Frazier during a traffic stop after Phan delivered 92 pounds of marijuana to him in two suitcases at a hotel in Kansas City.
Later, agents intercepted calls between Maldonado, Zambrano, and Frazier in which they discussed the shipment of another load of marijuana to Frazier in Kansas City. That load was intercepted by Arizona troopers after stopping McGowan for a broken taillight on his truck. During a search of the trailer, troopers found in a hidden compartment 384 pounds of marijuana and $1,629 in cash.
McGowan’s co-defendants previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced as follows:
- Maldonado, who also conspired to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced to seven years in custody.
- Zambrano and Frazier were sentenced to two years and three months in prison.
- Vo was sentenced to three years and one month in prison.
- Phan was sentenced to three years and six months in prison.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force consisting of agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tulare, Kings, and Fresno County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Fresno Police Department. The Arizona Department of Health and the Kansas City Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
McGowan is scheduled for sentencing on Dec. 4, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba. McGowan faces a minimum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison, along with a $5 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.
Mexican National Residing in Kern County Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ana Margarita Valdez-Torres, 43, a Mexican national residing in McFarland, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Valdez was involved in obtaining and supplying methamphetamine to drug customers steered to her by Pedro Delgado-Montenegro, a fugitive in this case who previously resided in Porterville. One month after Valdez’s involvement in the drug transactions in this case, she was arrested and convicted in Las Vegas for transporting 22 pounds of methamphetamine.
Valdez pleaded guilty to the charge on April 3, 2023. Seven co-defendants have pleaded guilty to drug trafficking offenses. Charges are pending against Delgado-Montenegro. The charges against him are only allegations; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Porterville Police Department, the Coalinga Police Department, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Merced County Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Otoniel Cardenas-Torres, 33, of Delhi, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Cardenas received $13,500 from a confidential source for the delivery of 3 pounds of heroin to the confidential source by Cardenas’s brother. The heroin deal had been arranged by a Mexican source of drug supply, who orchestrated a string of heroin transactions through couriers, including co-defendants Robert Palacios-Garcia, 38, of Huntington Park; Daniel Quiroz, 41, of Los Angeles; and Juan Medina, 29, of Manteca.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Cardenas is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Dec. 11, 2023. Cardenas faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum prison term of 10 years, 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.
Co-defendants Palacios-Garcia and Quiroz previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to seven years and three months in prison and three years and one month in prison, respectively. Juan Medina is scheduled for sentencing on Oct. 2, 2023.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Former Fresno IRS Employee Sentenced to 14 Months in Prison for Selling Morphine and Contributing to Co-worker’s DeathRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Margarita Aispuro-Camacho, 46, of Fresno, was sentenced today to 14 months in prison for illegally selling morphine and contributing to the death of her co-worker at the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, in May 2020, the police found the victim dead in an apartment in Clovis. A toxicology report confirmed the victim died from an overdose of morphine and other prescription drugs. Importantly, the victim did not have a prescription for the morphine.
Agents obtained text messages between the victim and Aispuro-Camacho that showed the victim bought various prescription drugs from Aispuro-Camacho over an extended period and that the victim bought morphine from her the day before the victim died. Shortly after the victim’s death, Aispuro-Camacho was fired from the IRS for other reasons.
Aispuro-Camacho ultimately confessed to the crime when confronted by agents. Aispuro-Camacho explained that she had been prescribed the morphine and that she sold it to make a few thousand dollars in extra spending money.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and Homeland Security Investigations. TIGTA is a federal agency that provides independent oversight of the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.
Bakersfield Dentist Pleads Guilty to Stealing $500,000 in COVID-19 Relief MoneyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ranjan Rajbanshi, D.D.S., 46, of Bakersfield and Santa Barbara, pleaded guilty today to stealing $500,000 in COVID-19 relief money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, Rajbanshi ran a dental practice in Bakersfield and Santa Barbara. From April 2020 through February 2022, he received over $850,000 in COVID-19 relief money from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). He represented to the government that he would only use the relief money for specified business purposes such as facility costs, payroll, and protective equipment for him and his staff.
Rajbanshi subsequently used $500,000 of the relief money for improper personal expenditures such as investments. He has agreed to pay that money back to the government before his sentencing.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the SBA Office of Inspector General, and HHS Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Robin Tubesing are prosecuting the case.
Rajbanshi is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on Dec. 4, 2023. Rajbanshi faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of $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.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Tehama County Woman Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Sabrina Raylene Toilolo, 26, of Corning, was sentenced today to seven years and two months in prison for a conspiracy to commit wire fraud for her participation in a merchant refund‑fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
In June 2020, a federal grand jury returned a 14-count superseding indictment against Toilolo and her previously charged co-defendant Johnathon Ward, charging them with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, between July 2017 and September 2019, Sabrina Toilolo, Johnathon Ward, Monica Nunes, and Talalima Toilolo conspired to defraud financial institutions by exploiting the merchant refund process used by businesses and retail establishments to refund customers for returns, reimbursements, and erroneous charges. In total, the conspirators attempted $3.8 million in fraudulent transactions.
The defendants committed this scheme by stealing or purchasing point-of-sale (POS) terminals used by businesses to process bankcard transactions. The defendants programmed each terminal to make it appear as if it was authorized by a particular retail merchant, connected the terminals to payment processing intermediaries, and executed refund transactions even though no purchases had been made. The payment processors, falsely believing the terminals were authorized, approved the refunds and caused the merchants’ payment processors to transfer funds to the defendants’ fraudulent accounts. The defendants then drained the stolen funds from the accounts and distributed them among members of the conspiracy.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Regional Enforcement Allied Computer Team (REACT) Task Force, which includes investigators from the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Delaney is prosecuting the case.
On April 2, 2021, Nunes was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison. On Feb. 11, 2021, Talalima Toilolo was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Ward has pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 9, 2023.
Tehama County Man Returned to the United States to Face Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eduardo Castillo, 38, of Corning, was returned to the United States to face federal charges of online enticement of a minor for sexual purposes after he had fled to Mexico to avoid prosecution. Castillo is currently in custody at the Sacramento County Jail and is awaiting his initial appearance before the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California.
U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert and Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento Field Office made the announcement today.
On Aug. 15, 2023, Mexican law enforcement officials from the State of Colima’s Attorney General’s Office (Fiscalia General del Estado de Colima) apprehended Castillo in La Presa, Colima, Mexico. Subsequently, on Aug. 16, 2023, Castillo was deported by Mexican Immigration (Instituto Nacional de Migración) for having an irregular immigration status in Mexico. Castillo’s return to the United States to face prosecution is funded by the FBI Criminal Investigative Division, Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Unit.
Castillo was indicted on Dec. 15, 2022, charged with four counts of online enticement of a minor for sexual purposes. According to court documents, between about Aug. 23 and Aug. 27, 2020, Castillo used a cellphone and the internet to entice at least four minor victims into sending him images and videos of themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The FBI continues to collaborate with its law enforcement partners to apprehend criminals charged with crimes who then flee the jurisdiction. Cases seeking information from the public, including fugitive matters, are posted on the FBI Sacramento Field Office’s Most Wanted page, and the FBI Wanted app. Anyone with information that may aid the investigation of these cases may contact their local FBI office, United States embassy, or submit information online at tips.fbi.gov.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Castillo faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, 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 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.
Mexican National Charged for Sexual Assault in Sequoia National ParkRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Luis Eduardo Sanchez-Azpeitia, 46, of Mexico City, charging him with sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on July 31, 2023, Sanchez-Azpeitia entered a woman’s cabin in Sequoia National Park and committed one act of sexual assault and acts of abusive sexual contact. The victim did not consent to any of the defendant’s sexual conduct, repeatedly told the defendant no, and tried to make him stop his sexual advances.
This case is the product of an investigation by the National Park Service with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katrina Brownson and Karen Escobar are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Sanchez-Azpeitia 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.
Sacramento Man Sentenced to over 7 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Quentin Carthen, 41, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to seven years and eight months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on March 16, 2020, Carthen was riding in a car that was stopped by law enforcement officers. Carthen—who had been paroled from state prison just four days earlier—got out of the car, ignored commands to stop, and ran away from the detectives. As he ran away, Carthen dropped a tan-colored bag that he had been carrying, and when police later seized the bag, they found an assault weapon inside, loaded with a bullet in the chamber, an extended magazine, a silencer, and the safety switch set to “fire.” This gun also had a rubber glove-like piece placed over the trigger, which would allow its user to pull the trigger without leaving fingerprints. He has previously been convicted of several felonies, including drug trafficking and assault.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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.
Fresno Men Sentenced to 10 and 17 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Two Fresno residents were sentenced today for gun and drug charges that arose from a long-term investigation that uncovered evidence of a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Maximiliano Wilfrido Rios Ruiz, 27, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pedro Duran, 32, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine.
According to court documents, between February and April 2020, on at least two occasions, Ruiz met with a supplier to obtain cocaine, which Ruiz and his co-conspirator intended to distribute. A search of Ruiz’s residence uncovered a firearm and additional amounts of cocaine.
According to court documents, in April 2020, Duran was identified as a large-scale narcotics trafficker. A search of Duran’s storage unit uncovered 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.
These cases were the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, 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 California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Southern California Resident Indicted for Trafficking 150,000 Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment Thursday against Pantalion Lopez-Zavala, 30, of Hesperia, charging him with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on July 12, 2023, Lopez-Zavala traveled from Southern California to the Central Valley to deliver 150,000 fentanyl pills to a buyer, who was in fact an undercover officer. The undercover officer negotiated the deal with two individuals who used Mexican telephone numbers. One of those individuals connected the undercover officer with Lopez-Zavala for completion of the deal. Lopez-Zavala arrived at the meeting with the fentanyl pills and was arrested shortly after delivering them.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Lopez-Zavala faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $1 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 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.
Kern County Man Indicted for Assaulting a Postal CarrierRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a one count indictment Thursday against Marco Pergis, 41, of Wasco, charging him with assault on a federal employee inflicting bodily injury, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on June 21, 2023, Pergis assaulted a postal carrier while the carrier was delivering mail in Wasco. Pergis approached the postal carrier, struck the carrier in the face, and caused injury requiring medical attention.
The case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Kern County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katrina Brownson is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Pergis faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider several variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Large-Scale Methamphetamine Conspiracy in Kern CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alberto Gomez-Santiago, 37, a Mexican national residing in Arvin, pleaded guilty today to 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 for distribution 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.
According to court documents, the transaction was one of many 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 separate indictment with violations of the Animal Welfare Act.
This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, 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 (HIDTA) 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.
Gomez is scheduled for sentencing by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Nov. 6, 2023. Gomez faces a mandatory statutory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million. 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.
Calderon-Campos, Garcia, and four other defendants are currently scheduled for status conferences on Sept. 20, 2023 in the related drug and Animal Welfare Act cases. The charges against them are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Sutter County Hunter Sentenced Following Conviction of Violating Migratory Bird Treaty ActRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Carlos T. Ortiz, 27, of Live Oak, pleaded guilty today to transportation and receipt of untagged migratory game birds and was subsequently sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremy D. Peterson to a three-year hunting ban, three years of probation, and a $1,000 fine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Ortiz helped organize and participate in a 10-person goose hunt near the Sutter National Wildlife Refuge in Sutter County. During the hunt, Ortiz and others shot and killed 258 snow geese and white-fronted geese. Snow geese and white-fronted geese are migratory game birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. None of the birds were tagged as required by law.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee prosecuted the case.
Vacaville Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a single count indictment today against Ramon Garcia Jr., 31, of Vacaville, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Nov. 5, 2022, law enforcement officers responded to a call involving Garcia at an apartment complex. When officers arrived, Garcia fled before being taken into custody. During his arrest, officers located a key to a white GMC Acadia in his pocket. Officers located the GMC Acadia nearby and conducted a search, where they found a Glock-17 handgun and an unloaded high-capacity, 31-round Glock magazine. Garcia is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has multiple state felony convictions, including two prior domestic violence convictions.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Vacaville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Solano County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Garcia 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.