Eastern District of California
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Bakersfield Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking at a Bakersfield MotelRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Derrick Dewayne Gage, 41, of Bakersfield, pleaded guilty today to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, 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 Sarsilmaz 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, Kimberly A. Sanchez, and Laurel J. Montoya are prosecuting the case.
Gage is scheduled to be sentenced on July 10, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Gage faces five years to 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 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.
Korean National Pleads Guilty to “Bust Out” Bank Fraud Scheme in Sacramento Area and ElsewhereRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Hee Soung Oh, 47, a Korean national residing in Southern California, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and bank fraud conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between January 2017 and September 2017, Oh participated in a nationwide check kiting “bust out” scheme in order to obtain cash from banks. The scheme’s participants obtained a real Republic of Korea passport that was altered to bear a new photograph and name, which they used to open bank accounts with a small amount of cash. The accounts were dormant until a time the participants believed the bank would allow the account holder to deposit a check and make withdrawals before the check actually cleared. At that time, the participants wrote checks from a different bank account with non-sufficient funds, deposited those checks into the dormant account, and then withdrew cash from the dormant account before the checks cleared. The participants would access funds by purchasing a money order and then deposit the money order into yet another bank account associated with the scheme.
Oh is associated with opening source accounts or draining victim accounts. These bust-outs resulted in an actual loss of $273,800 to the banks, and a total intended loss of $466,318 based on additional, unsuccessful bust-out attempts.
This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey B. Hemesath is prosecuting the case.
Oh is scheduled to be sentenced on May 18, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley. Oh faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years. 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.
Korean nationals Jong Eun Lee, 48, and Kyung Min Kong, 55, were sentenced respectively to 22 months and seven years and nine months in prison. Charges are pending against Ki Jang and Bon Soke Hong, who were indicted on Oct. 21, 2021. The charges against them are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to over Four Years in Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jairo Leonidas Raymundo-Cua, 33, of Guatemala, was sentenced today to four years and three months in prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions in February 2022, Raymundo-Cua distributed powder fentanyl and counterfeit oxycodone M-30 pills containing fentanyl to an undercover officer on behalf of the leader of the conspiracy, Carlos Calel. When law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Raymundo-Cua’s Sacramento residence in March 2022, they found over 20,000 M-30 pills containing fentanyl and over a kilogram of fentanyl-laced heroin in Raymundo-Cua’s backpack, along with a fraudulent green card in Raymundo-Cua’s name.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer prosecuted the case.
Carlos Calel pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl on Oct. 27, 2022. Calel is scheduled to be sentenced on May 11, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley. Calel faces a maximum statutory penalty of 40 years 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 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.
Visalia Man Charged with Assault on a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal magistrate judge issued an arrest warrant based on a complaint for Angel Uriarte, 35, of Visalia, charging him with assault on a federal officer involving a weapon, discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
“The shots fired at the ATF agents executing the search and arrest warrants in this case underscore the dangers that our men and women in law enforcement face,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “We are forever in the debt of the federal agents who willingly serve and protect us every day. Those who attempt to use deadly force against a federal officer engaged in his or her duties should expect to face a federal prosecution that employs the full resources of the U.S. Department of Justice.”
“The FBI is committed to thoroughly investigate any assault on a federal officer, a violation of federal law that falls within our jurisdiction,” said Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Assaults on federal agents and/or task force officers are serious crimes that deserve our full attention. We appreciate the support of all investigative agencies involved to ensure a thorough investigation in pursuit of justice.”
“Personnel with the ATF San Francisco Field Division and ATF’s Special Response Team 4 were serving a search and arrest warrant for a defendant connected to the recent six-person homicide in Goshen,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “During service of these warrants, the defendant responded by shooting at ATF agents. Our team responded with an appropriate level of force and professionalism to disarm and take the defendant into custody, and protect the community from further harm. ATF remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the community from violent crime and hold those accountable who choose to commit violent crime.”
Sheriff Mike Boudreaux stated, “As the Sheriff of Tulare County, I am thankful that all aspects of the Goshen mass shooting are being identified, and the egregious felony acts, including this shooting at agents, are being addressed.”
According to court documents, on Feb. 3, 2023, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted in serving warrants related to a January 2023 murder in Goshen in which six victims were killed. One of the warrants was for the arrest of Angel Uriarte on murder charges arising from those murders. The other was for a residence in Visalia where evidence showed Uriarte was located.
The ATF Special Response Team (SRT) began efforts to serve the warrant. Prior to making entry into the residence, the SRT announced their presence over a public address system and directed that the residents come out with their hands up. Several residents exited the residence, but Uriarte was not one of them. After a period of time passed, agents began to prepare to make entry into the residence. As this occurred, Uriarte ran through the yard and fired a gun in the direction of the home and ATF agents. He then fired three rounds at an ATF agent, who returned fire striking and wounding Uriarte. Agents rendered medical aid.
Agents found a Bersa .380 semi-automatic pistol near where Uriarte fell. Uriarte has a 2014 felony conviction for assault with a firearm on a person for which he had been sentenced to seven years in prison.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, the ATF, the FBI, the DEA, and other agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Antonio J. Pataca and Stephanie M. Stokman are prosecuting the case.
If convicted of assault on a federal officer, Uriarte faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. If convicted of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison consecutive to any other sentence and a fine of up to $250,000, and if convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, he faces 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. 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.
Former Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Julio Adrian Jimenez-Sevilla, 35, formerly of Sacramento, presently residing in Oregon, pleaded guilty today to distributing at least 50 grams of actual methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Oct. 26, 2016, and December 1, 2016, Sevilla distributed methamphetamine to a buyer. In the October deal, Sevilla sold a buyer approximately 226 grams of 85% pure methamphetamine, and in the December deal, Sevilla sold a buyer approximately 226 grams of 97% pure methamphetamine. On Jan. 23, 2017, Sevilla illegally sold a buyer an AR-15 rifle.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Pennekamp is prosecuting the case.
Sevilla is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, 2023, by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez. Sevilla 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.
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.
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.
Central Valley Man Pleads Guilty to Nearly $9 Million Cow Manure Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ray Brewer, 66, of Porterville, and Sheridan, Montana, pleaded guilty today to wire fraud, money laundering, and identity theft charges for running a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme where he purported to turn cow manure into green energy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, from March 2014 through December 2019, Brewer stole $8,750,000 from investors by claiming to build anaerobic digesters on dairies in Fresno, Kern, Kings, and Tulare Counties, as well as other counties in California and Idaho. Anaerobic digesters are large machines that use microorganisms to breakdown biodegradable material and turn it into methane. The methane can then be sold on the open market as green energy. The methane also produces Renewable Energy Credits (REC), which represent the property right to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions achieved through green energy creation. RECs are commonly purchased by companies to meet green energy regulatory, contractual, and initiative requirements or commitments. Brewer’s investors were supposed to receive 66% of all net profits as well as tax incentives.
Brewer made various misrepresentations to his investors. Brewer took the investors on tours of dairies where he said that he was going to build the digesters and sent them forged lease agreements with the dairy owners. He also sent the investors altered agreements with banks that made it appear as though he had obtained millions of dollars in loans to build the digesters. Finally, he sent the investors forged contracts with multinational companies that made it appear as though he had secured revenue streams. None of this was true.
After Brewer received the investors’ money, he transferred the funds to multiple other bank accounts that he opened in the names of different entities, his family members, and an alias. He used false descriptions for the transfers. He did so to conceal the location, source, ownership, and control of the money before using it for personal expenditures. These expenditures included two plots of land that were 10 or more acres each, a 3,700 square foot custom home, and new Dodge Ram pickup trucks.
Brewer subsequently told his investors that the digesters were progressing when that was not the case. He did so by sending them fake construction schedules, fake invoices for project-related costs, fake power generation reports, fake RECs, and fake pictures.
In some instances, Brewer purported to refund investors all or some of their money. The refunds, however, came from newly received money from other investors who had not authorized Brewer to use their money in this way. When Brewer’s investors realized the fraud and obtained civil judgments against him, he moved to Montana and assumed a new identity. He later claimed to have been wrongfully arrested before admitting who he was.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph D. Barton, Henry Z. Carbajal III, and Alyson A. Berg are prosecuting the case.
Brewer is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Brewer faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for the wire fraud conviction. He also faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine a of $500,000 or twice the amount of money involved for the money laundering conviction, whichever is the greater. Finally, he faces a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to other counts, for the aggravated identity theft conviction. 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.
Trinity County Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment Thursday against Anthony Jair Demedeiros, 23, of Weaverville, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Feb. 9, 2021, law enforcement received a report of Demedeiros boarding a bus, carrying a duffel bag believed to contain a firearm. Demedeiros was on searchable Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) from a prior conviction in Tehama County for carrying a concealed firearm when having been previously convicted of a felony, and also had prior arrests for violent crimes.
Officers located the bus they suspected Demedeiros had boarded and followed it. When it came to a stop, officers boarded the bus and detained Demedeiros. Next to Demedeiros’ seat, officers saw a bag matching the description of the reported duffel bag. Demedeiros denied the bag was his and no other party on the bus claimed it as theirs. Officers seized the bag and inside it found a Bushmaster Carbon-15 .223-5.56 caliber rifle, with a telescope, partially disassembled (making it more readily concealable). All parts were present to reassemble a complete and operational rifle. The rifle had a round in the chamber and a 10-round magazine loaded with four rounds. A records check of the rifle’s serial number indicated that it had been reported stolen from an address in Trinity County.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Redding Police Department, and the Shasta County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney James Conolly is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Demedeiros faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; 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.
San Rafael Man Visiting Yosemite Pleads Guilty to Domestic Violence ChargeRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Stefan Niels Weiste Kirkeby, 59, of San Rafael, pleaded guilty to domestic violence within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Aug. 4, 2022, Kirkeby and his wife got into a verbal confrontation that resulted in park visitors having to intervene due to the yelling as well as the threats of harm being made by Kirkeby. The victim reported she was forcibly grabbed by her wrist and both fell to the ground. Kirkeby was threatening to kill her then kill himself during the altercation. The victim sustained bruising, pain to her wrist, and scratches.
This case is the product of an investigation by the National Park Service with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel J. Montoya is prosecuting the case.
Kirkeby is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Kirkeby 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.
Roseville Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Randy Edward Martin, 40, of Roseville, was sentenced today to eight years and one month in prison for distribution of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between July 6, 2020, and Sept. 14, 2020, Martin distributed child pornography using the Kik Messenger app. Martin used a smartphone, the internet, and Kik Messenger to distribute videos depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct to a person in Oregon.
“Today’s sentence ensures that this defendant will stay far away from minors for a long time,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “But cellphones and messaging apps have increased the ability of predators to sexually abuse children. We need parents, educators, and other responsible community members to be aware of the danger and join the law enforcement effort to protect innocent children from predators who try to exploit them.”
“Safeguarding children from being victimized by predators is a top priority for Homeland Security Investigations,” said HSI San Francisco (NorCal) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King. “HSI appreciates the assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Sacramento County Probation, and the Roseville Police Department on this investigation; and appreciates the prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. HSI also reminds parents and caregivers of the dangers children face on the internet and encourages close oversight and vigilance when online.”
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Audrey B. Hemesath and Denise N. Yasinow 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.
Justice Department Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against California Rental Property Manager and OwnersRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit under the Fair Housing Act against Joel Nolen, the owner and operator of rental properties in Lassen County. The lawsuit also names as defendants Shirlee Nolen and Nolen Properties LLC, the co-owners of Susanville area rental properties at the relevant times. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, alleges that Joel Nolen sexually harassed female tenants since at least 2011. According to the complaint, Nolen offered housing-related benefits in exchange for sexual contact, made unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants, entered the homes of female tenants without their permission, subjected female tenants to unwelcome touching and groping, subjected female tenants to unwelcome sexual acts, and took adverse housing-related actions against female tenants who refused his sexual advances.
“The sexual harassment and retaliation alleged in today’s complaint violates our federal fair housing laws and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert. “Landlords and other housing providers who engage in such conduct will be held accountable to ensure that individuals feel safe and comfortable in their homes.”
“No one should ever feel unsafe or suffer sexual harassment in their home, especially at the hands of their housing provider,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to vigorously enforcing the Fair Housing Act and holding landlords and housing providers accountable when they sexually harass their tenants.”
The lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate persons harmed by the alleged harassment, civil penalties to vindicate the public interest, and a court order barring future discrimination.
The Justice Department launched its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative in October 2017. The initiative, which is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country, seeks 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, the Department of Justice has filed 27 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $9.7 million for victims of such harassment.
The Fair Housing Act 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 www.justice.gov/crt.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination at rental dwellings owned or managed by Joel Nolen, Shirlee Nolen, or Nolen Properties LLC, or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, can contact the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-833-591-0291, select 1 for English, and select option number 2, then option number 7 to leave a message. Individuals may also email the Justice Department at [email protected] or submit a report online. Reports also may be made by contacting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.
Former Fresno IRS Employee Pleads Guilty to Selling Morphine and Contributing to Co-worker’s DeathRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Margarita Aispuro-Camacho, 46, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to 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, Aispuro-Camacho was a clerk at the IRS in Fresno. In May 2020, she sold morphine pills that she had been prescribed to one of her co-workers. The co-worker died the next day from an overdose of the morphine that Aispuro-Camacho had provided and other prescription drugs that the co-worker obtained from other sources.
Aispuro-Camacho had previously sold morphine and other drugs she had been prescribed to the co-worker on at least five occasions. She profited a few thousand dollars from the sales.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.
Aispuro-Camacho is scheduled to be sentenced on June 20, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston. Aispuro-Camacho faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 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.
Stockton Man Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Lawrence Macken, 45, of Stockton, was sentenced today to four years and nine months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Dec. 12, 2019, law enforcement officers stopped Macken’s vehicle and found a Bersa Firestorm .380 semi-automatic handgun in the dash compartment near the vehicle’s driver’s seat. Macken has several prior felony convictions—including two felon-in-possession-of-a-firearm convictions, two assault convictions, and multiple vehicle-theft convictions—which prohibit him from possessing a firearm.
This case was the product of an investigation by the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office; the Stockton Police Department; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Pennekamp 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.
Repeat Sacramento Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jason Michael Carlsen, 49, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in July 2022, Carlsen possessed child pornography. 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 is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg is prosecuting the case.
Carlsen is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on May 23, 2023. Carlsen faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison up to a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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.
Tulare County Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing over 3 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alma Sanchez, 50, of Alpaugh, pleaded guilty today to distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Sanchez distributed methamphetamine on two occasions to a co‑conspirator, who then immediately resold the methamphetamine. On June 16, 2021, Sanchez distributed 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine, and on Jan. 31, 2022, she distributed 2 pounds of methamphetamine.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Coalinga Police Department, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, the Tulare County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Unit (HIDTA), and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca is prosecuting the case.
Sanchez is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on May 30, 2023. Sanchez faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $1 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.
San Joaquin County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alphonso Jimenez, 31, of Stockton, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl and using a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in 2021, a team of local and federal law enforcement officers partnered in an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Jimenez and co-defendant Erik D. Mendoza-Contreras, 33, of Stockton.
During the investigation and on multiple occasions, confidential sources working with law enforcement purchased several pounds of narcotics from Mendoza and Jimenez. On Feb. 23, 2022, Jimenez delivered 28 pounds of methamphetamine to Mendoza for further distribution to a customer. A subsequent search of Jimenez’s home recovered over 31 kilograms of methamphetamine, over 28 kilograms of cocaine, over 6 kilograms of heroin, over 350 grams of counterfeit M-30 pills containing fentanyl, approximately $297,000 in cash, and a firearm.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the San Joaquin County Metropolitan Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca is prosecuting the case.
Charges are pending against Mendoza; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jimenez is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on May 30, 2023. Jimenez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years up to life in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Redding Man Sentenced for Serial Arsons in Shasta-Trinity National ForestRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eric Michael Smith, 41, of Redding, was sentenced today to two years and six months in prison and ordered to pay $19,071 in restitution to the U.S. Forest Service for being a serial arsonist in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between June 2019 and July 2020, Smith set no less than 11 fires on national forest land. Smith also admitted to abandoning at least 11 campfires on national forest land during this same general period.
Smith used virtually undetectable ignition sources, such as cigarette lighters and handheld torches, to start his wildfires in remote locations of the national forest. Many of the fires Smith admitted to setting began in the early morning hours of the day, making detection and firefighting by authorities potentially more challenging. One of the fires set by Smith in July 2020 burned so close to Interstate 5 near Turntable Bay Road that first responders closed a portion of the highway to prevent the blaze from burning numerous vehicles and residences on the other side of the interstate.
Smith was arrested in late July 2020, following an extensive investigation in which law enforcement agents installed a tracking device on his vehicle to monitor his movements and surveilled him for days.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stefanki prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Poly-Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Monge-Ponce, aka Ramon Maciel-Ponce, aka Jose Ponce (Ponce), 33, of Mexico, entered a guilty plea today to conspiring to manufacture, to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in January 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at an unoccupied residence in Madera and found a methamphetamine lab, along with 10 pounds of finished methamphetamine, 4 pounds of heroin, 1 pound of cocaine, and 25 pounds of marijuana. Ponce, Oscar Rene Marrot-Garcia, 30, of Chowchilla, and Francisco Alcantar-Miranda, 34, of Mexico were also inside, and Ponce was in possession of an unregistered firearm, three cellphones, and pay-owe sheets.
Alcantar and Marrot previously entered guilty pleas and were sentenced to 10 years and six and one half years, respectively.
Ponce is scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on May 22, 2023. Ponce faces a mandatory minimum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison 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.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office Narcotic Enforcement Team (MADNET), and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) High Impact Investigation Team (HITT), consisting of agents of Homeland Security Investigations, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the Sheriff’s Offices of Fresno, Tulare, and King Counties, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Kern County Resident Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Role in Disability Benefits Fraud Scheme and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Javier Jimenez Alvarez, 52, of Arvin, was sentenced today to nine years in prison and ordered to pay $3,397,775 in restitution for one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to launder money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between March 31, 2010, and March 11, 2015, Jimenez Alvarez and others submitted claims to the California Employment Development Department (EDD) seeking disability benefits for other individuals who were not entitled to disability benefits. After submitting the false claims, Jimenez Alvarez and others would receive debit cards loaded with disability benefits and withdrew those benefits from the accounts for cash. As part of this fraud, Jimenez Alvarez and others would also respond to EDD requests for supplemental information, causing EDD to provide additional benefits to the debit cards. Additionally, Jimenez Alvarez knowingly and intentionally attempted to conceal these transactions and convert all of the stolen funds into cash.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the California Employment Development Department, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandre Dempsey prosecuted the case.
Kern County Man Charged in Operation Red Reaper Pleads Guilty to Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Calif. — Ernesto Zibray, 34, of Delano, pleaded guilty today to distribution of over 500 grams of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Zibray was charged as part of Operation Red Reaper, a multi-agency operation that resulted in three federal cases charging a total of 23 individuals. The months-long investigation uncovered evidence that the Nuestra Familia prison gang and its associates were responsible for large-scale trafficking of methamphetamine and other controlled substances, as well as various firearms offenses and other violent crimes in Kings and Tulare Counties.
According to court documents, on May 6, 2019, Zibray, who was on probation for another offense, distributed 2 pounds of methamphetamine to co-defendant, Tiffany Feller, in Delano. Moments later, investigators conducted a traffic stop on the car in which Feller was traveling, searched the car, and found the methamphetamine. Zibray was arrested in June 2019.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Kings County Gang Task Force, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the FBI, the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, and the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Kimberly A. Sanchez are prosecuting the case.
Zibray is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on May 22, 2023. Zebray faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum sentence of life in prison, and a fine 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.
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.
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.
Fresno Man Charged in Operation No Fly Zone Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Patrick Feaster, 23, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Feaster was one of seven Fresno residents charged federally as a result of Operation No Fly Zone, a multi-agency investigation that sought to address a rise in the number of shootings and homicides in Fresno. According to court documents, on March 16, 2022, investigators learned that Feaster would be going to a residence in Fresno to pick up a firearm and an extended magazine. Shortly after Feaster left the residence, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on his car, but Feaster failed to yield. Feaster got out of the car with a bag, and fled on foot. After a chase, officers arrested Feaster and seized the bag from him. Inside the bag, officers found a semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine.
Feaster is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on May 30, 2023. Feaster 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 case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Fresno Police Department; the Fresno-area Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC); the California Department of Justice; the California Highway Patrol; the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office; the Kings County Sheriff’s Office; 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 are 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.
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.
Stockton Man Indicted for Using a Firearm to Rob Fire Wings RestaurantRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Douglas Sharron Piggee Jr., 51, of Stockton, charging him with Hobbs Act Robbery, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on July 21, 2022, Piggee robbed employees of the Fire Wings restaurant in Stockton while brandishing a loaded Polymer 80 Glock 19-style, privately manufactured handgun. Piggee is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he has previously been convicted of seven felonies, including armed bank robbery and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case is the product of an investigation by the San Joaquin County Sheriff Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily G. Sauvageau is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Piggee faces a minimum statutory penalty of seven years in prison, a maximum 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 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 Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Unemployment Benefit Fraud Scheme and Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Garrett Scott Wheelen, 32, of Fresno, was sentenced today to two years in prison for mail fraud and possession of stolen mail, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Wheelen was also ordered to pay $27,664 in restitution to California’s Employment Development Department (EDD).
According to court documents, between August and November 2020, Wheelen perpetrated a mail fraud scheme to defraud the State of California by submitting fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims to EDD. PUA was a federal unemployment insurance program established by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by EDD, to provide unemployment benefits to people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wheelen used personally identifiable information (PII) and other information associated with real people to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance and PUA claims to EDD. The claims were submitted for his own benefit and included information relating to employment and mailing addresses that were not associated with the claimants. EDD approved at least some of the claims and caused Bank of America to mail debit cards containing unemployment benefits to an address under Wheelen’s control.
Wheelen obtained the PII of his victims by stealing U.S. mail from mailboxes, receptacles and at least one mail truck. He also harvested bankcards and checks for use in fraudulent activity. For example, on Sept. 4, 2020, in Fresno County, Wheelen was in possession of California State driver’s licenses, credit cards, and checks that he had stolen from U.S. mail. At least some of this mail came into his possession when he broke into a mail truck in Fresno on Aug. 11, 2020.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the California EDD’s Investigation Division, and the Reedley Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv Sharma prosecuted the case.
Visalia Resident Sentenced to 16.5 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — James Cox, 60, of Visalia, was sentenced today to 16 years and six months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Cox and a third party, acting at Cox’s direction, received over a pound of methamphetamine in two separate transactions from co-defendant Renato Aguilera, 31, of Porterville, after negotiating with Pedro Delgado-Montenegro, 43, a former Porterville resident and a citizen of Mexico.
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.
Aguilera has pleaded guilty to participating in the drug conspiracy and was sentenced to seven years and three months in prison. Charges are pending against Delgado-Montenegro; 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.
Yuba County Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of Opioid TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Rick Glenn Vardell, 60, of Olivehurst, pleaded guilty today to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on three occasions in 2018, Vardell sold a total of 1,989 Vicodin pharmaceutical pills containing hydrocodone to a confidential source. When law enforcement officers searched Vardell’s residence, they found a hidden safe containing an additional 1,000 hydrocodone pills for sale and $98,0000 in cash. Under the pillow on the bed by the safe was a loaded Smith and Wesson handgun.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron L. Desmond is prosecuting the case.
Vardell is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller on April 24, 2023. Vardell faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and up to life in prison and a 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.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Tulare County Drug Distribution Conspiracy and Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Malachai Serrano, 31 of San Antonio, Texas, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana and using a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, the charges arose from a long-term investigation that uncovered evidence of 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 a group of Tulare County Surenos street gang members. Part of the investigation focused on Serrano and his associates, who were involved in shipping illegal drugs and firearms across state lines.
Between April 6, 2021, and Dec. 17, 2021, Serrano’s associates, including Jonathan Gallegos, 32, of Ivanhoe, shipped kilograms of marijuana and methamphetamine from post offices in Central California to residences in San Antonio, Texas. Serrano and his associates shipped firearms back to Gallegos and his associates in California as payment for the narcotics they had received. Serrano is a felon who cannot lawfully possess firearms.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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.
On Oct. 11, 2022, Gallegos pleaded guilty; he is scheduled to be sentenced on March 13, 2023.
Serrano is scheduled to be sentenced May 15, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba. Serrano faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and up to life in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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.
Fresno Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Using Elderly Victim’s Identity to Steal to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of DollarsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Brian Stoffel, 38, of Fresno, was sentenced today to five years and four months in prison for bank fraud and identity theft for stealing money from an elderly victim’s bank accounts and getting fraudulent loans in the victim’s name, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between September 2020 and August 2021, Stoffel obtained the personally identifiable information for an elderly victim and used it to drain the victim’s savings and apply for loans in the victim’s identity. This included a Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) loan for disaster assistance related to a wildfire. Stoffel’s scheme resulted in a loss of $420,000. He used the proceeds for personal expenses, including to buy a new motorcycle, attend an NFL playoff game, and make purchases at retail stores.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office Elder Abuse Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.
Four Fresno Residents Sentenced as Part of Project Safe Neighborhoods Program to Reduce Violent Crime and Gun ViolenceRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Four Fresno men were sentenced today for drug and/or firearm offenses, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Mike Marty Hernandez, 26, of Fresno, was sentenced to three years and one month in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on May 23, 2022, detectives arrested Hernandez after observing him in possession of a loaded firearm equipped with a large capacity magazine. Because of his criminal record, including a 2019 conviction for threatening a public official, Hernandez may not lawfully possess firearms or ammunition. This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI and the Fresno Police Department Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case.
Oshay Laray Pullen, 26, of Fresno, was sentenced to three years and one month in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition. According to court documents, on Oct. 21, 2020, Pullen was on parole for a prior conviction for assault with a firearm and found to be in possession of a firearm and a loaded magazine. Pullen is a felon who cannot lawfully possess firearms or ammunition. This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI and MAGEC.
Andres Nunez, 25, of Fresno, was sentenced today to seven years in prison for distributing fentanyl to a person under 21 years old and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. According to court documents, in February 2021, Nunez delivered counterfeit M30 pills, laced with fentanyl, to a juvenile. During a search of Nunez’s residence, several firearms, including an automatic handgun were found. This case was the product of an investigation by FORT, a multi-agency team investigating fentanyl trafficking composed of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), DEA, and the Fresno Police Department.
Leo Torres, 31, of Fresno, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. According to court documents, in January 2021, Torres conspired to smuggle heroin and methamphetamine into the Fresno County Jail for further distribution among inmates. Recorded jail calls revealed the plan to sneak the drugs into the jail inside a pair of athletic shoes destined for an inmate. Officers at the jail intercepted the shoes and found heroin and methamphetamine in hidden compartments. This case was the product of an investigation by HSI, DEA, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fresno Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted these three cases.
These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Aryan Brotherhood Associate Pleads Guilty to a Racketeering Conspiracy that Included Murders, Assaults, and Drug Trafficking from Within California PrisonsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Justin Petty, 41, of Los Angeles, an associate of the Aryan Brotherhood (AB) prison gang, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and conspiracy to distribute heroin and methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2016, AB members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, committing multiple acts involving murder and drug trafficking offenses. AB members Ronald Yandell and Billy Sylvester oversaw a significant heroin and methamphetamine trafficking operation from their shared prison cell. They used smuggled cellphones to direct their drug trafficking activity from their prison cell to the streets of Sacramento and other California cities. Using a contraband cellphone, Yandell and Sylvester communicated with AB members and associates to direct drug trafficking activities, membership in the AB, order murders, and oversee other criminal activities.
In June 2019, sixteen defendants were indicted for federal racketeering (known as the “RICO” statute) and other charges. The allegations include murders, drug trafficking and other violent crimes. Nine of the defendants were inmates in California prisons, and six of those were serving life sentences for murder.
According to the plea agreement, between August and September 2016, Petty conspired with AB members at two different state prisons – CSP-Sacramento and High Desert state prison – to send packages containing food stuffed with contraband items into each prison through Petty’s employer, a contractor authorized by CDCR to pack and send sealed packages to inmates.
On Sept. 6, 2016, Petty’s package was intercepted at CSP-Sacramento and found to contain three cellphones, two phone charging cables, six grinding discs, seven lighters, one cellphone battery, seven small screw drivers – five with flat heads and two with Phillips heads, two Bluetooth ear pieces, 10 small metal saw blades, more than 20 grams of methamphetamine, and 15 grams of heroin. The contraband items were hidden inside food packages, including a box of Quaker Oats, a box of Honey Buns snacks, a box of fudge brownies, and similar items. The contraband was concealed in a manner designed to avoid detection by prison staff who would have searched the box’s contents before giving them to the inmate.
Similarly, on Sept. 6, 2016, another package from Petty was intercepted [at which prison] and found to contain about 10 cellphones, more than 200 grams of heroin, and 120 grams of methamphetamine. The cellphones and controlled substances were hidden inside boxes of Oatmeal Creme Pies and fudge brownies. They were concealed in a manner designed to avoid detection by prison staff who would have searched the box’s contents before giving them to the inmate addressee.
Other defendants who have entered guilty pleas as part of this investigation include:
Nickolas Perez – RICO conspiracy and drug trafficking conspiracy;
Donald Mazza – RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering;
Travis Burhop – RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering;
Samuel Keeton – RICO conspiracy and drug trafficking conspiracy; and
Kristen Demar – RICO conspiracy and drug trafficking conspiracy.
This case is the product of an investigation by the DEA with assistance from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Vallejo Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, and the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office.
Petty is scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller on May 8, 2023. Petty faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a fine 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.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.
U.S. Attorney Talbert and California Attorney General Bonta Announce a Nearly $26 Million Settlement with Medical Provider in the Central ValleyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert and California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced a nearly $26 million settlement against Central California medical provider Clinica Sierra Vista (CSV) for underreporting its income in violation of the California False Claims Act and the federal False Claims Act. CSV, which serves customers in California’s Kern, Fresno, and Inyo Counties, initially and voluntarily reported its conduct to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California (USAO) and the California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA). DMFEA and the USAO investigated the case and negotiated the settlement, working with the California Department of Health Care Services and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). Of the total $25.98 million settlement amount, California will receive $15.59 million and the federal government will receive $10.39 million.
“It’s important for medical providers to report accurately so that taxpayers aren’t overcharged for services with their dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “We encourage others to follow the example of Clinica Sierra Vista in self-reporting overcharges and remain committed to working cooperatively to eliminate fraud.”
“When companies take advantage of the Medi-Cal system, they harm patients across California who rely on the program for essential health care services,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “I commend the new management at Clinica Sierra Vista for coming forward, and for working with us and our partners to resolve their violations. This settlement will return the money where it belongs: to support California's Medi-Cal program and the communities it serves. I encourage all providers to conduct regular internal investigations and self-disclose potential violations.”
According to investigators, certain former executives at Clinica Sierra Vista knowingly submitted false information in the course of required regular financial reports made to California, thereby enabling CSV to receive excessive payments from the Medi-Cal program. The company’s new management discovered these violations after an internal investigation and voluntarily disclosed them to authorities.
Providers who believe they may have violated the federal or California False Claims Act should follow the HHS-OIG Provider Self Disclosure Protocol, which establishes a process for providers to voluntarily identify, disclose, and resolve instances of potential fraud involving federal health care programs, including Medicaid.
"Providers who defraud government health care funds, such as Medi-Cal, for illegitimate financial gain, prevent valuable taxpayer dollars from being used for their intended purpose,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan. “HHS-OIG’s Self Disclosure Protocol allows providers to come forward if they believe they have violated the False Claims Act, which helps us identify, investigate, and resolve cases of Medicare fraud.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Kennedy handled the civil investigation for the United States.
DMFEA protects Californians by investigating and prosecuting those who defraud the Medi-Cal program as well as those who commit elder abuse. These settlements are made possible only through the coordination and collaboration of governmental agencies, as well as the critical help from whistleblowers who report incidences of abuse or Medi-Cal fraud at oag.ca.gov/dmfea/reporting.
Two Sacramento Men Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Jan. 26, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment against Gilbert Ramirez, 25, and Michael Valentino Lovato, 33, both of Sacramento, charging them with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
The indictment was unsealed today following the arrest of both defendants.
According to court documents, from April through July 2022, Ramirez and Lovato worked with each other and others to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of fentanyl in Sacramento County. On at least five separate occasions, Ramirez and Lovato distributed fentanyl.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Sacramento Police Department; and the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily G. Sauvageau is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine for the conspiracy charge, plus additional penalties for the distribution and possession 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 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.
Bakersfield Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment today against Lance Jakell Henderson, 26, of Bakersfield, charging him with being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Oct. 2, 2022, officers were called to the Marriott Courtyard hotel in Bakersfield regarding a domestic violence disturbance in progress. When officers arrived, they contacted Henderson after the victim identified him as the perpetrator. A search of a diaper bag held by a companion revealed a ghost gun (a gun with no serial number) loaded with eight rounds of 9 mm ammunition. Henderson told the officers that he took the gun from the room and put it in the diaper bag.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Bakersfield Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel J. Montoya is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Henderson 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.
Pleasant Hill Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Prison for Billion Dollar DC Solar Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Ryan Guidry, 45, of Pleasant Hill, was sentenced today to six years and six months in prison and ordered to pay $619,415,950 in restitution for participating in a billion-dollar Ponzi scheme involving DC Solar, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
On Jan. 14, 2020, Guidry pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and aiding and abetting money laundering.
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2018, DC Solar manufactured solar generators that were mounted on trailers known as mobile solar generator units (MSG). The company touted the versatility and environmental sustainability of the mobile solar generators and claimed that they were used to provide emergency power to cellphone towers and lighting at sporting and other events. Jeff Carpoff, 52, Paulette Carpoff, 49, both of Martinez, and their co-conspirators solicited investors by claiming that there were favorable federal tax benefits associated with investments in alternative energy. They sold more solar generators than they manufactured to investors, making it appear that solar generators existed in locations that they did not, creating false financial statements, and obtaining false lease contracts, among other efforts to conceal the fraud. In reality, 9,000 of the approximately 17,000 solar generators claimed to have been manufactured by DC Solar did not exist and DC Solar paid early investors with funds contributed by later investors.
According to court documents, Guidry worked at DC Solar from 2012 through 2019 and became Vice President of Operations by 2015. Guidry understood DC Solar’s business model and knew that investors were being defrauded. Guidry accepted $1 million that he knew came from deceived investors to get a signature on a false lease contract, and split another $20,000 in cash with Alan Hansen, 51, of Vacaville, an employee of a telecom company for forging a signature on a related agreement. Guidry fabricated a spreadsheet of fictitious MSG locations, and then Guidry and Jeff Carpoff moved MSGs to their supposed operation sites the day before or even the day of investor inspections. This was done to trick investors into believing that the MSGs had been deployed at those sites all along, when the opposite was true.
In 2017 and 2018 when DC Solar was no longer making the MSGs it was selling, Guidry scraped old VIN stickers off of MSGs and put new ones on them at DC Solar warehouses in Benicia and Las Vegas, working with Jeff Carpoff and others. The VIN switching was to trick investors during inspections into believing that MSGs associated with the transaction under inspection existed and could be found at the locations the company had asserted.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher S. Hales and Kevin C. Khasigian prosecuted the case.
On Nov. 9, 2021, Jeff Carpoff was sentenced to 30 years in prison and ordered to pay $790.6 million in restitution for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. His wife Paulette Carpoff pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and money laundering, and on June 28, 2022, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in prison.
On Nov. 16, 2021, Joseph W. Bayliss, 47, of Martinez, was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $481.3 million in restitution for securities fraud and conspiracy in connection with the DC Solar scheme. On April 12, 2022, DC Solar CFO Robert A. Karmann, 56, of Clayton, was sentenced to six years in prison and ordered to pay $624 million. On May 31, 2022, Alan Hansen was sentenced to eight years in prison for conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and aiding and abetting money laundering.
Ronald J. Roach, 55, of Walnut Creek, pleaded guilty to criminal offenses related to the fraud scheme and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 14, 2023. Roach faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Bakersfield Man Sentenced to Almost 4 Years in Prison for Unlawfully Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Katterin McCray, 25, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to three years and 10 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Jan. 15, 2022, police officers in Bakersfield attempted to stop a vehicle in which McCray was the passenger for traffic infractions. The vehicle sped off and McCray discarded from the vehicle a Glock, Model 22, 40 caliber handgun with a high-capacity magazine and ammunition near the intersection of Cottonwood Road and Casa Loma Drive in Bakersfield. Because of his criminal record, including a 2017 conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and a 2018 conviction for receiving known stolen property, McCray may not lawfully possess firearms or ammunition.
This case was 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. Attorney Arin C. Heinz 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.
Former IRS Employee Found Guilty on All Counts in Scheme to Defraud IRS and Commit Identity TheftRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — After a three–day trial, a federal jury found Deena Vang Lee, 41, of Fresno, guilty yesterday of three counts of wire fraud, two counts of aggravated identity theft, five counts of preparing and presenting false and fraudulent returns, and three counts of making and subscribing a false and fraudulent tax return, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to evidence presented at trial, from 2012 through 2016, Lee willfully prepared and filed tax returns for other individuals that contained materially false and fraudulent statements and underreported her taxable income on her personal tax returns. In her role as a tax preparer, Lee would put false information on the customer’s tax return without their knowledge or consent and submit the returns to the IRS. As part of this scheme, Lee obtained the identification of multiple individuals and falsely listed these individuals as child care providers on multiple customer’s tax returns without their knowledge or consent.
Lee also underreported her own income related to the payments she received for tax preparation services on her personal tax returns for tax years 2013, 2014, and 2015.
“The jury found that this defendant who operated a tax preparation business willfully prepared and filed tax returns for her clients that were false and underreported her own taxable income,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “Her scheme to use the tax system to generate larger refunds than deserved came to an end. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to use all lawful means to identify and prosecute unscrupulous tax returns preparers like the defendant.”
“Our absolute priority at the IRS is to serve the taxpayers in a manner that fosters confidence in the tax system and compliance with the law,” said Darren Lian, Special Agent in Charge with IRS Criminal Investigation’s Oakland Field Office. “We hold our employees to an even higher standard of expectations and compliance. Unfortunately, Deena Lee betrayed her duty and the trust the American public gave her and suffered the appropriate consequences. We are 100% committed to our tax administration and enforcement mission and will pursue anyone who break the law.”
“Taxpayers put trust in tax preparers to prepare their tax returns in accordance with the law. It is unacceptable for tax preparers to break this confidence by submitting fraudulent returns in their clients’ names,” said J. Russell George, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. “The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration is committed to bringing to justice tax preparers who betray their clients’ trust for their personal gain.”
This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS-CI and TIGTA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex Dempsey and Henry Carbajal are prosecuting the case.
Lee is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on May 8, 2023. Lee faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the wire fraud counts; three years in prison and a $250,0000 fine for each of the preparing and presenting false returns counts; three years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the making and subscribing a false tax return counts; and a two-year consecutive mandatory minimum sentence for the aggravate identity theft counts. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement Statement on the Death of Tyre NicholsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners offer their sincere condolences and support to the family of Tyre Nichols, a native of Sacramento, after his death earlier this month in Memphis, Tennessee.
Making the announcement are U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho, Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper, and Sacramento Chief of Police Katherine Lester.
Local authorities in Tennessee announced that charges have been brought by the Shelby County District Attorney against the five former Memphis police officers. The United States Attorney for that district has also opened a federal civil rights investigation into Mr. Nichols’ death.
Peaceful protest is a time-honored tradition in our country, and we in law enforcement strive to protect these important First Amendment rights and want people to express their right to be heard in a peaceful and nonviolent way. Federal, state, and local law enforcement will continue to work together to protect the community’s First Amendment rights.
“As part of the community, we are deeply saddened at and share the concerns about the death of Tyre Nichols,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we have reached out to our community leaders to address the real and legitimate concerns about what happened to Mr. Nichols and to identify positive steps we can take going forward. Please join me in a call for unity and peace as we work together during this difficult time.”
“The FBI Sacramento Field Office offers our sincere condolences to former Sacramento resident Tyre Nichols’ family and friends. Our team has reached out to our community partners, many of whom are deeply affected by Nichols’ death,” said Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “The FBI is deeply committed to ensuring the rights of all Americans are protected, and we continue to work with law enforcement and community partners to ensure any threat to public safety or the exercise of Constitutional rights is promptly investigated.”
“I am truly saddened and troubled by the tragic death of Tyre Nichols,” said District Attorney Thien Ho. “As a former resident of Sacramento, Mr. Nichols’ death has hit home. Understandably, there is deep pain and anger within our community. We have learned that violence and destruction only harms and divides us. With charges filed in the death of Mr. Nichols, I ask that our community respect the Shelby County criminal justice process. Be assured, I am working together with all of our diverse communities to ensure our local justice system seeks the truth and renders justice for everyone, because justice and public safety are a matter of fairness and equality.”
Sheriff Jim Cooper said, “As we await further updates from Tennessee, we ask everyone that chooses to exercise their lawful right to protest, to express their feelings peacefully. We will work together with our Law Enforcement partners to protect everyone’s First Amendment rights, while keeping the peace and protecting our community.”
Sacramento Police Chief Katherine Lester said, “I share the same concerns as those echoed throughout our nation and our law enforcement community. The right to protest peacefully is sacred and will be protected. I know we can have tough conversations while finding a path forward together.”
Seventh Defendant Pleads Guilty in Large-Scale Sacramento Cocaine and Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jerome Adams, 56, of North Highlands, pleaded guilty today to two counts of using a cellphone to facilitate a drug trafficking offense, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Adams is among the 15 federal defendants arrested in 2021 and charged in a 45-count indictment for trafficking narcotics as part of a DEA-led multi-agency operation targeting cocaine and heroin traffickers in North Sacramento. Adams was intercepted during a 30-day wiretap trafficking crack cocaine, powder cocaine, and heroin.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; the U.S. Marshals Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Forest Service; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Land Management; the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the California Department of Justice; the California Highway Patrol; the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office; and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron L. Desmond and Aaron D. Pennekamp are prosecuting the case.
Adams is scheduled to be sentenced on May 4, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley. Adams faces a maximum statutory penalty of eight 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.
On Dec. 8, 2022, Michael Hampton, 57, of Vallejo, was sentenced to five years in prison for to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine.
On Nov. 17, 2022, Charles Carter, 36, of Sacramento, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine.
On Sept. 29, 2022, Jason Tolbert, 45, of Sacramento, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine
On Dec. 1, 2022, Bobby Conner, 51, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Conner is scheduled to be sentenced on March 2, 2023.
On Nov. 17, 2022, Arlington Caine, 48, of Rio Linda, and Andre Hellams, 40, of North Highlands, each pleaded guilty to two counts of using a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense. Hellams is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 9, 2023. Caine is scheduled to be sentenced on March 16, 2023.
Charges are pending against the following defendants: Tyrone Anderson, 40, of Sacramento; Maurice Bryant, 51, of Antelope; Yovanny Ontiveros, 41, of Sacramento; Alex White, 61, of North Highlands; Steven Hampton, 61, of Sacramento; Wilmer Harden, 52, of Elk Grove; Dwight Haney, 49, of Sacramento; and Mark Martin, 62, of Sacramento. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. The Sacramento Strike Force is a co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the Sacramento Strike Force is to identify, investigate, disrupt, and dismantle the most significant drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) shipping narcotics, firearms, and money through the Eastern District of California, thereby reducing the flow of these criminal resources in California and the rest of the United States. The Sacramento Strike Force leads intelligence-driven investigations targeting the leadership and support elements of these DTOs and TCOs operating within the Eastern District of California, regardless of their geographic base of operations.
Fourth Hells Angels Motorcycle Club Member Indicted After Investigation into Brutal Beating at the Vallejo ClubhouseRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment today against Kenneth Caspers Jr., 55, of Vacaville, charging him with being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Caspers is the fourth individual to be indicted in the Eastern District of California based on an investigation into a brutal beating at the clubhouse for the Vallejo chapter of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club. The other three defendants—Jaime Alvarez, Dennis Killough Jr., and Michael Mahoney—were indicted by a grand jury in 2022.
According to court documents, in October 2021, two different victims—both of whom were members of a different motorcycle club that is considered a “puppet” (or subordinate) club of the Hells Angels—were beaten by Caspers, Mahoney, Alvarez, Killough, and other club members based on perceived infractions of the Hells Angels’ rules.
According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Caspers’ Vacaville home and found several firearms and ammunition, including 18 rounds of .22‑caliber, .25‑caliber, and/or .38 caliber ammunition in Caspers’ master bedroom and bathroom. Caspers has previously been convicted of several felony crimes—including a previous felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm—that prevent him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, the Vacaville Police Department, the Vallejo Police Department, the Fairfield Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron D. Pennekamp and Jason Hitt are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Caspers faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The three other defendants have pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced as follows: Alvares on March 7, 2023, Killough on March 27, 2023, and Mahoney on May 2, 2023. They all face a maximum statutory sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
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.
Madera Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 7 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Alfredo Sanchez, 43, of Madera, was sentenced yesterday to seven years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Sanchez provided his co-defendant, Saybyn Borges, 30, of Reno, Nevada, with 493 fake oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl. On May 21, 2018, Borges then sold those fentanyl pills to a confidential source working with law enforcement in Placer County. On June 7, 2018, Borges was arrested in possession of an additional 3,440 counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl that he had received from Sanchez. Sanchez had provided Borges 7,000 fentanyl pills for redistribution, but prior to Borges’ arrest, Borges destroyed half of the pills by throwing them out a car window during a high-speed chase with law enforcement in San Joaquin County. During a search of Sanchez’s residence, law enforcement seized four firearms and multiple high-capacity magazines. Sanchez, who had previously been convicted of a federal drug trafficking felony, was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron L. Desmond prosecuted the case.
On Feb. 4, 2021, Borges, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Solano County Hells Angels Member Pleads Guilty to Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Michael Mahoney, 30, of Fairfield, pleaded guilty today to possessing a firearm with an obliterated or altered serial number and possessing an unregistered short-barreled shotgun, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Mahoney’s home as part of an investigation into a brutal beating at the clubhouse for the Vallejo chapter of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club. In October 2021, two different victims—both of whom were members of a different motorcycle club that is considered a “puppet” (or subordinate) club of the Hells Angels—were beaten by Mahoney and other club members based on perceived infractions of the Hells Angels’ rules.
During the December 2021 search of Mahoney’s Fairfield home, law enforcement found several firearms, including a Smith & Wesson .38-caliber revolver with a serial number that had been scratched off, as well as a Sears & Roebuck 12-gauge shotgun with a barrel that had been sawn off to approximately 12.75 inches in length. Mahoney had not registered his ownership of this short-barreled shotgun with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required by federal law.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, the Vacaville Police Department, the Vallejo Police Department, the Fairfield Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron D. Pennekamp and Jason Hitt are prosecuting the case.
Mahoney is scheduled to be sentenced on May 2, 2023, by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez. Mahoney faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possessing a firearm with an obliterated or altered serial number. Mahoney also faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for possessing an unregistered short-barreled shotgun. 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.
“Coyote” Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison for Transportation of Noncitizens and Refusal to Release Passengers After Demanding More PaymentRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A human smuggler (also known as a “coyote”) was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for unlawful transportation of noncitizens without status in the United States, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
On Sept. 28, 2022, Mateo Gomez Gonzalez, 29, of Mexico, was arrested at a gas station near Dunnigan, California, and has been held in federal custody in Sacramento. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 24, 2022.
According to court documents, on Sept. 28, 2022, a concerned resident of Sacramento called law enforcement to report that his relative and a friend were being held over a payment dispute in a human smuggling operation. The driver of a vehicle involved in the transport of Mexican citizens to the United States was threatening to drop the relative and family friend at an unknown stash house rather than to the awaiting family members if additional payment was not made. Acting on the tip, law enforcement met the vehicle at a gas station, discovered four passengers in the vehicle who did not have lawful status in the United States, and arrested the driver, Gomez.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Audrey B. Hemesath and Denise Yasinow prosecuted the case.
Owners of Mobile Phlebotomy Company Plead Guilty to $ 7 Million Medicare FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Gabriella Santibanez, 58, and her sister Lisa Hazard, 54, both of Temecula, California, pleaded guilty Friday to conspiring to commit over $7 million in health care fraud, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between Dec, 1, 2015, and Dec, 1, 2020, Santibanez and Hazard ran a mobile phlebotomy company, PhlebXpress Inc. that provided phlebotomy and other medical collection services at patients’ homes and long-term care facilities in Sacramento and elsewhere. Santibanez and Hazard agreed to bill Medicare for services provided that were not reimbursable by Medicare. Santibanez and Hazard also agreed to bill Medicare for overstated mileage that PhlebXpress phlebotomists traveled. On average, Santibanez and Hazard caused false billing to Medicare of over 140 miles for each patient seen by PhlebXpress. Santibanez and Hazard caused a loss to Medicare of at least $7.5 million based on false billing by PhlebXpress.
In November 2020, due to “credible allegations of fraud” at PhlebXpress, Medicare instituted a payment suspension for PhlebXpress under which Medicare ceased paying PhlebXpress for the services it continued to bill Medicare.
According to court documents, between July 1, 2021, and Dec. 31, 2021, Santibanez and Hazard agreed to circumvent the payment suspension by representing to Medicare that services provided to Medicare patients were done by another company, Phlebotomy Solutions, when they were in fact being provided by PhlebXpress through its contractors and employees from PhlebXpress’s offices. Through Phlebotomy Solutions, Santibanez and Hazard agreed to bill Medicare for a non-reimbursable service, misrepresenting that it was for another reimbursable service and overstating the mileage traveled by phlebotomists in order to receive additional money from Medicare. For example, in September 2021, Phlebotomy Solutions billed Medicare for 124.6 miles of travel by a phlebotomist when in fact the phlebotomist travelled 1.4 miles. Santibanez and Hazard caused a loss to Medicare of at least $50,000 based on false billing by Phlebotomy Solutions.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Bickley is prosecuting the case.
Santibanez and Hazard are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb on May 1, 2023. They each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Mario Carranza, 38, of Mexico, was sentenced four years and three months in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on March 17, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to a house in Fresno County after receiving a report of shots being fired in the backyard. Carranza and another individual were observed entering a car and leaving the area. The officers stopped the car, searched it, and recovered a disassembled, short-barrel, AR-15 style rifle with no serial number (known as a ghost gun) and a compatible firearm magazine loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition. Carranza had fired the AR-style rifle in the backyard of the residence. He is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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.
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 Pleads Guilty to Distributing Fentanyl and Fentanyl-Related SubstanceRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Oscar Arturo Salomon Perez, aka Jesus Ramos, aka Jesus Rodriguez-Ramos, 48, a native and citizen of Mexican, pleaded guilty today to distributing fentanyl and p‑fluorofentanyl, an analogue of fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in October 2021 Perez negotiated for the sale of 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl and one kilogram of “Chinese Food,” believed to be synthetic heroin laced with fentanyl. After confirming the prices with his source of supply in Mexico, Perez advised that it would cost $3 per pill and $22,000 for the “Chinese Food.” Perez requested an additional $1,000 for making the delivery in Fresno for a total of $53,000. An undercover agent agreed to the terms. A couple hours later, Perez met with and showed the agent a large clear plastic bag containing 10,004 blue pills marked “M-30” containing fentanyl and another clear plastic bag containing about two pounds of p-fluorofentanyl in powder form. When the agent advised that another car was bringing the money, Perez fled and was eventually stopped by Fresno County Sheriff’s Office deputies. Agents found another 219 blue pills marked “M-30” containing fentanyl in Perez’s vehicle.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Fresno High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT), which is a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative (HIDTA) composed of law enforcement personnel from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the California Department of Justice; the California Highway Patrol; the Fresno, Tulare, and Kings Counties Sheriff’s Offices; and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Perez is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on April 17, 2023. Perez faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years 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.
Los Angeles County Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 372 Pounds of Methamphetamine in Kern CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Edgardo Rosales-Andrade, 26, of Paramount, California, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, from Sept. 30, 2019, to Nov. 15, 2019, Rosales-Andrade conspired with Pedro Alegra and others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On Nov. 15, 2019, law enforcement agents tracked a cargo truck carrying 312 pounds of methamphetamine to Delano where Alegra and Rosales-Andrade were waiting. Agents obtained a search warrant for the truck and Alegra’s residence and found an additional 60 pounds of methamphetamine in the residence. The methamphetamine was concealed in furniture in the cargo truck.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Patrol, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca is prosecuting the case.
On June 17, 2022, Pedro Alegra pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Rosales is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on June 26, 2023. Rosales 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.
Fresno Man Sentenced to 5.5 Years in Prison for Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Tanner Joel Hernandez-Fields, 22, of Fresno, was sentenced today to five years and six months in prison for receipt and distribution of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between March 19, 2019, and April 12, 2019, Hernandez-Fields received on an Apple iPhone photos and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. These images included depictions of prepubescent minors, including material that meets the definition of sadistic or masochistic conduct.
The court ordered forfeiture of the iPhone and $5,000 in restitution to a victim whose images the defendant possessed. The court also placed Hernandez-Fields on a term of supervised release of 15 years during which his access to computers, the internet, and children will be restricted and he will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Bakersfield Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Fentanyl, and HeroinRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Rivas Jr., 27, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between June 2016 and May 2018, Rivas conspired with another Bakersfield man, Juan Pina, 24, to use a national parcel service company to ship packages of narcotics to various distributors around the country. Records filed with the court indicate that Rivas and Pina made kilogram-quantity shipments of controlled substances on at least 45 occasions.
On May 3, 2018, search warrants were executed for Pina’s residence and vehicle. Pina was arrested while driving his vehicle, and in the back seat was a three-foot-long rectangular box, similar in size to the earlier shipments. The package was searched and found to contain approximately 700 grams of cocaine. In a search of Pina’s home, agents recovered over 2 pounds of heroin, over 2 pounds of cocaine, approximately 70 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded handgun, and three long guns all found within close proximity to the drugs. Rivas was working with Pina, in connection with shipping the narcotics seized on May 3. Rivas directed Pina to pick up narcotics from various individuals. Rivas then provided Pina with addresses of individuals across the country to coordinate the shipment of kilogram quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
On March 27, 2019, when search warrants were executed for Rivas’s residence, agents recovered 12 cellphones and arrested Rivas.
Juan Pina pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin, and on Aug. 28, 2019, he was sentenced to six years and six months in prison.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Homeland Security Investigations and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case.
Tulare County Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute 6 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Rene Guadalupe Quintero Meza, 38, of Strathmore, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between Oct. 25, 2019, and Jan. 24, 2020, Meza conspired with co-defendant Basilio Chavez Jr., 44, of Porterville, and others, to distribute methamphetamine. A law enforcement source negotiated to buy a pound of methamphetamine from Meza and Chavez delivered the methamphetamine. A subsequent search of a residence associated with Meza recovered an additional 6 pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. Pataca is prosecuting the case.
A jury trial for Chavez is scheduled for July 11, 2023. The charges against him are only allegations; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Meza is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on April 10, 2023. Meza 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.
Two Charged with Fentanyl Distribution in Fresno CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert, Acting Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Bob P. Beris, Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni, and Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp announced two recent arrests in Fresno County that are part of increased and coordinated enforcement efforts to block the distribution of fentanyl.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to target the criminal drug networks that are flooding the United States with deadly, fentanyl-laced pills,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “We remain committed to reducing drug-related violence and overdose deaths caused by these deadly pills. Law enforcement efforts, however, are not enough, and I urge the public to be aware of the threats and dangers of these pills.”
“Fentanyl is the greatest drug threat to public health and safety in the Central Valley,” said Bob P. Beris. “The substantial amount of fentanyl-laced pills and powder seized in these investigations has undoubtedly saved lives. DEA remains committed to holding accountable those who distribute this poison that wreaks havoc in our communities.”
A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Pedro Miranda-Muro, 23 of Los Angeles, charging him with trafficking 400 grams and more of fentanyl and 100 grams and more of heroin and related offenses. Miranda-Muro was stopped by law enforcement officers for traffic violations on Interstate 5. According to court documents, during a search of Miranda-Muro’s vehicle after a Jan. 3, 2023, stop, several cellophane-wrapped packages were found that were believed to contain narcotics. Later, lab results showed that the packages contained approximately 5 kilograms of fentanyl and a half kilogram of heroin. Additionally, law enforcement found evidence on Miranda-Muro’s cellphone establishing that Miranda-Muro rented at least four storage lockers to store the drugs, picked up shipments of controlled substances that he then further distributed, picked up payment for the drugs totaling tens of thousands of dollars on multiple occasions, delivered proceeds to others, paid at least one uncharged co-conspirator, and retained his “share” of the money.
A separate criminal complaint alleges that Uriel Sotelo-Patino, 35 of Selma, possessed with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl. According to court documents, Sotelo-Patino, a suspected supplier of fentanyl, offered to sell 5,000 counterfeit M30 pills laced with fentanyl to a confidential source working with law enforcement. According to court documents, Sotelo-Patino showed the confidential source a photograph of eight gallon-sized zip lock bags filled with small blue pills and three other packages. On Jan. 4, 2023, Sotelo-Patino was detained on his way to meet with the confidential source. During searches of residences associated with Sotelo- Patino, law enforcement agents seized over 17 kilograms of fentanyl-laced pills and a pound of heroin.
The case against Pedro Miranda-Muro is the product of an investigation by the DEA, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez is prosecuting the case.
The case against Sotelo-Patino is the product of an investigation by the DEA, the Clovis Police Department, the Selma Police Department and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Gilio is prosecuting 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.
The trafficking charges in each of these cases carry a maximum penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10 million. 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.
Fresno Man Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Edward Page, 33, of Fresno, was sentenced today to five years and three months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on June 24, 2021, law enforcement officers were dispatched to a Holiday Inn Express in Fresno, regarding an armed subject. Responding officers located a car in which Page and co-defendant Trayvon Smith, 32, of Fresno, were seated. Smith exited and fled on foot and was detained after a foot chase. Page attempted to flee but was held at gunpoint and complied. Officers searched the car and found two loaded, semi-automatic firearms, one of which had a corresponding a high-capacity magazine attached. Both Page and Smith are convicted felons who are prohibited from possessing firearms.
Smith is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on Feb. 27, 2023.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio 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.
Bakersfield Man Sentenced to 3 Years and 10 Months in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Duwayne Payton, 26, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to three years and 10 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Payton is a documented and active member of the East Side Crips criminal street gang in Bakersfield. On March 11, 2021, Payton possessed in his residence a stolen Glock Model-17 9 mm handgun. Payton may not lawfully possess firearms because of his prior felony convictions, including convictions in Bakersfield in 2014 for first degree burglary and vehicle theft.
This case was 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. Attorney Arin Heinz prosecuted the case.