District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Guilford Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Tax OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that MICHELLE ANN GILSON, 38, of Guilford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to a federal tax offense stemming from her failure to pay business payroll taxes.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Gilson co-owned and co-operated B&M Package Solutions, Inc. and formerly owned and operated Epic Empirez, Inc., both Guilford-based package delivery companies. As co-owner, Gilson was responsible for company books, payroll, and invoices, and for collecting and paying over certain federal taxes from her employees, namely federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contribution Act (“FICA”) taxes, which include Medicare and Social Security taxes. She was also responsible for ensuring that B&M Package Solutions and Epic Empirez, as employers, paid their own share of FICA taxes. An investigation revealed that, beginning in 2017, Gilson failed to report employees’ federal income and FICA taxes, and failed to pay over withheld amounts.
Gilson pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to pay over withholding taxes. In pleading guilty, Gilson admitted that she failed to pay over the withheld employee taxes, as well as the employers’ share of FICA taxes, for multiple quarters during the 2017 through 2022 tax years. Gilson has agreed to pay approximately $1,407,831 in restitution to the IRS.
Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for October 9, at which time Gilson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. She is released on bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.
Danbury Non-Profit Settles Allegations It Enrolled Children of Employees Who Falsely Claimed to be Homeless into its Head Start ProgramsRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CONNECTICUT INSTITUTE FOR THE COMMUNITIES, INC. (“CIFC”) has entered into a civil settlement agreement and has paid $85,600 to resolve allegations that two of its now-former employees falsely claimed to be homeless while enrolling their children in CIFC’s Head Start programs.
CIFC is a Danbury-based non-profit corporation that receives federal grants to operate Head Start programs in several locations in Connecticut. The Head Start program supports children’s growth from birth to age five through services centered around early learning and development, health, and family well-being. Services are available for children from birth to age three (“Early Head Start”) and ages three to five (“Head Start”) in center-based, home-based, or family child care settings.
Head Start programs are intended primarily for “children from low-income families” and “homeless children.” Head Start rules also permit programs to enroll children whose families are not “low income,” receiving public benefits, homeless, or in foster care, but the total number of children from such families cannot exceed 10 percent of all program slots. Grantees, such as CIFC, are required to verify applicants’ program eligibility and to keep paper records of those eligibility determinations.
The government alleges that, between September 4, 2013 through August 31, 2016, CIFC enrolled into its Head Start programs the children of two now-former CIFC employees – including the now-former Manager of Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance for CIFC’s Head Start programs – which were falsely documented as homeless and for which false supporting documents were created. The CIFC employees were not homeless.
To resolve its liability, CIFC has paid $85,600. CIFC received credit in the settlement for its cooperation with the government during its investigation.
The False Claims Act allegations resolved by the settlement were originally brought in a lawsuit filed by two whistleblowers under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to bring suit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The relators (whistleblowers), former employees of CIFC, will receive $18,832 as their share of the recovery. The case resolved by this settlement was captioned U.S. ex rel. Nichols et al. v. Connecticut Institute for Communities, Inc. (Docket No. 3:20-CV-00262).
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Gruber, with the assistance of Auditor Susan N. Spiegel.
People who suspect fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
Cryptocurrency Firm Executive Admits Stealing $4.46 Million from EmployerRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that DYLAN MEISSNER, 31, of Westport, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to a fraud offense stemming from his theft of more than $4 million from his former employer.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Meissner was employed at a cryptocurrency research firm as Vice President of Finance with access to the firm’s cryptocurrency wallets and bank accounts. In approximately January 2022, Meissner obtained a 50 Ethereum (approximately $170,000) loan from his employer, stating that he would use the funds in an attempt to avoid a substantial loss in certain cryptocurrency investments he had made using his personal funds. Then, from February 2022 until his termination in November 2022, in continued attempts to counteract significant personal trading losses, Meissner fraudulently diverted his employer’s funds to his own use and covered up his conduct through false entries in the firm’s books and records. Through this scheme, Meissner stole approximately $4,461,828 from his employer.
Meissner pleaded guilty to wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea on October 11.
Meissner faces a restitution order of $4,633,424.99, which includes the money he stole from his employer and the loan he failed to repay.
Meissner is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick.
Waterbury Teens Charged with Stealing 21 Guns from Salem Store; Gun Trafficking and Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging TYSSAN WOODS, also known as “Tigger,” 18, and EDUARDO CRUZ, 18, both of Waterbury, with offenses related to the theft of firearms from a licensed gun dealer in Salem, the trafficking of stolen firearms, and two armed carjackings.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on March 15, 2024, Woods, Cruz, and others stole 21 firearms from Statewide Pawn Shop, a federal firearms licensee in Salem. Cruz trafficked some of the firearms before he was arrested on March 18, 2024. After the burglary, Woods, using a firearm, and another individual committed two carjackings. Woods was arrested on March 28, 2024.
To date, eight of the stolen firearms have been recovered by law enforcement.
The indictment, which was returned on June 25, 2024, charges Woods and Cruz with theft of firearms from a licensee, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years; Cruz with two counts of firearms trafficking, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years on each count; Woods with two counts of carjacking, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years on each count; and Woods with using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, an offense that carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of seven years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Woods and Cruz have been detained since their arrests. They each appeared yesterday in Hartford federal court and entered pleas of not guilty.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Connecticut State Police, and the Waterbury, Stamford, and Wolcott Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Mahard through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
U.S. Attorney Avery noted that this case is being prosecuted, in part, under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted, and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking of firearms.
Middletown Man Admits Trafficking MethRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that JASON FABEL, 46, of Middletown, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 16, 2022, Fabel was arrested after the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a court-authorized search of his Middletown residence and seized approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine, a quantity of ketamine, narcotics paraphernalia, and a loaded 9mm handgun.
On April 27, 2023, while Fabel was released on bond and awaiting trial, he was arrested for violating conditions of his pretrial release. At the time of his arrest, he possessed approximately 24 grams of methamphetamine, six grams of ketamine, and 10 grams of MDMA (“ecstasy”).
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Fabel faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. He has been detained since April 27, 2023.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan Keefe.
Escapee from Bloomfield Halfway House Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JONATHAN McEWEN, 34, formerly of Vernon, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to escaping from the custody of the Attorney General.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 14, 2022, McEwen was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 42 months of imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. On August 1, 2023, McEwen was transferred from a federal prison in Berlin, New Hampshire, to the Drapelick Center, a Residential Reentry Center (halfway house) in Bloomfield, to complete his custodial sentence. On November 27, 2023, McEwen was authorized to leave the halfway house to attend a state court hearing in Manchester. He failed to return to the halfway house as required. On December 6, 2023, McEwen was arrested by the Connecticut State Police and the Hartford Police Department on state charges unrelated to his escape. He has been detained since his arrest and was transferred into federal custody on January 26, 2024.
At sentencing, McEwen faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon.
Convicted Newington Landscape Contractor Fined $1.75 Million for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ANTHONY NIRO, 61, of Newington, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to three years of probation and ordered to pay a fine of $1.75 million for tax evasion. Judge Williams noted Niro’s medical condition and family circumstances when imposing the sentence.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Anthony Niro was a co-owner of A. Niro Landscape Contractors, Inc. (“ANLC”), a business that provided landscaping and snowplowing services for large commercial properties and for personal residences. Nanette Niro, who is married to Anthony Niro, was the bookkeeper for ANLC and maintained ANLC’s financial records. For the 2006 through 2010 tax years, Anthony Niro, his business partner, and Nanette Niro conspired to evade both corporate and individual income tax by causing a large portion of ANLC’s receipts to be deposited into two non-interest-bearing checking accounts, and transferring money out the accounts to themselves for their benefit. Anthony Niro, his business partner, and Nanette Niro failed to provide information about these non-interest-bearing accounts to the tax return preparer who prepared ANLC’s federal income tax returns. In their 2006 through 2009 personal tax returns, the Niros failed to reflect accurately monies received from ANLC and other sources. A 2010 tax return was not filed.
For the 2006 through 2010 tax years, Anthony and Nanette Niro failed to report to the IRS more than $7.8 million in income, resulting in a tax loss to the IRS of $1,451,725. As an example, on their 2009 federal individual tax return, Anthony and Nanette Niro reported taxable income of $131,895 when their correct taxable income for that year was $1,891,955.
Anthony Niro has paid restitution of $1,472,735 to the IRS, and has forfeited an additional $127,300. He is still required to pay substantial interest and penalties to the IRS.
On January 4, 2024, Anthony Niro pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion. Nanette Niro pleaded guilty to the same charge on January 9, 2024, and awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
New Haven Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years in Federal Prison for Narcotics and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONELL ALLICK, JR., also known as “D-Nice,” 25, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 115 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.
According to the evidence presented during his trial, between April and October 2022, Allick conspired with others to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine in the New Haven area. In September and October 2022, law enforcement made controlled purchases of fentanyl from Allick and an associate. On October 24, 2022, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of a Hamden apartment that Allick used and seized three loaded handguns with extended magazines, approximately 73 grams of fentanyl, approximately 34 grams of crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and $15,000 in cash. A related search of Allick’s car, which had been observed in suspected drug transactions, resulted in the seizure of another loaded handgun with a 30-round extended magazine, quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine, and $2,144 in cash.
Ballistics analysis of the three handguns found in Allick’s residence revealed that they had been used in six shootings, including two homicides, that occurred between September 13, 2021, and September 16, 2022.
On March 21, 2023, Allick was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”); one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl; and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base. The jury found Allick not guilty of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a quantity of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
After the trial, and before the jury returned its verdict, Allick pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms by a felon.
Allick’s criminal history include state convictions for escape in the first degree, assault in the second degree-serious injury, and carrying a pistol or revolver without a permit.
Allick has been detained since his arrest on November 10, 2022, and is currently awaiting trial in a separate federal case.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); the New Haven Police Department; and the Hamden Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens and Rahul Kale through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Norwalk Felon Admits Possessing Loaded Handgun with Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PATRICK ELMORE, 32, of Norwalk, pleaded guilty yesterday in Bridgeport federal court to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, which has been investigating gang violence in Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Stamford, assisted local law enforcement in executing a state arrest warrant for Elmore on April 12, 2023. At the time of his arrest, Elmore possessed a loaded SCCY, model CPX-2, 9mm semiautomatic handgun with an obliterated serial number.
Elmore’s criminal history includes state convictions for felony drug distribution and weapon possession offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Elmore has been detained since his federal arrest on May 25, 2023.
Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Norwalk Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Gresham with the assistance of Law Student Intern Michael Fording.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
New London Man Charged with Cocaine Distribution and Firearm Possession OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned an indictment charging LUIS OLIVER-GARCIA, also known as “Bebo,” 34, of New London, with cocaine distribution and firearm possession offenses.
The indictment was returned on July 2, 2024, and Oliver-Garcia appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Maria E. Garcia in New Haven pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has been detained since his arrest on June 21, 2024.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force identified Oliver-Garcia as a large scale distributor of cocaine. The investigation revealed that Oliver-Garcia rented a storage unit at a facility on Cross Road in Waterford to store narcotics and other items. On June 21, 2024, Oliver-Garcia arrived at the storage facility shortly before investigators were about to conduct a court-authorized search of his storage unit. Oliver-Garcia was arrested after the search revealed more than three kilograms of cocaine, approximately $30,000 in cash, and a 9mm firearm, and a search of the car that he drove to the facility revealed an additional quantity of cocaine and two boxes of 9mm ammunition.
It is alleged that Ortiz-Garcia’s criminal history includes state convictions for felony drug distribution and weapon possession offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
The indictment charges Oliver-Garcia with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, which includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reed Durham.
Dominican National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PABEL MIGUEL ACOSTA-COLON, 36, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in Jersey City, New Jersey, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 22 months of imprisonment for distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force investigation revealed that Acosta-Colon was trafficking fentanyl powder and pills. On June 21, 2023, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of approximately 100 grams of fentanyl powder and 100 fentanyl pills from Acosta-Colon in Stamford. Acosta-Colon was arrested on June 28, 2023, after investigators coordinated the purchase of more than 700 grams of fentanyl powder and pills from him.
On January 5, 2024, Acosta-Colon pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl.
Acosta-Colon, who is detained, faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the DEA’s Bridgeport HIDTA Task Force with the assistance of the Stamford Police Department and Trumbull Police Department. The DEA’s Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie T. Levick.
Former Hamden Resident Sentenced to 20 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Prescription Narcotics, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DENZEL SUGGS, 30, formerly of Hamden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 20 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a New Haven area drug trafficking ring, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release that followed a previous federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2022, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that was operating in the Fair Haven neighborhood of New Haven. The investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance, and several controlled purchases of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. The investigation also identified individuals, including Kelvin Alvarado, who were acquiring and distributing prescription narcotic pills. During the investigation, Suggs, who was on federal supervised release, sold prescription pills to Alvarado.
Suggs was arrested on October 10, 2023. On April 18, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances. He has been detained since October 31, 2023.
In January 2022, Suggs was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to approximately six months of imprisonment, time served, and three years of supervised release, for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Judge Nagala sentenced Suggs to 10 months of imprisonment for the drug offense, and a consecutive 10 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
Alvarado, also known as “Kelz” and “Kel Bucks,” of New Haven, has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
This investigation, which resulted in federal charges against 12 individuals, has been conducted by FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes members from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan J. Keefe and Geoffrey M. Stone through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Windsor Man on Federal Supervised Release Charged with Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging ANDRE O. JOHNSON, 28, of Windsor, with firearm and drug offenses.
The indictment was returned on June 25, 2024, and Johnson appeared yesterday in New Haven federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Johnson has been detained since June 11, 2023, when he was arrested by the Connecticut State Police in Wethersfield on related state charges.
The indictment alleges that, on June 11, 2023, Johnson possessed a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, ammunition, and distribution quantities of cocaine and fentanyl. In April 2022, Johnson was convicted in federal court of drug and firearm trafficking offenses.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
The indictment charges Johnson with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
Johnson was on federal supervised release at the time of the offenses charged in the indictment, and he faces additional penalties if he is found to have violated the conditions of his supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Connecticut State Police, the Wethersfield Police Department, and the West Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Dearington.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Uzbek National Who Made False Statements is SentencedRead the Press Release
SIDIKJON MAMADJONOV, 37, a citizen of Uzbekistan, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to one month of imprisonment, time already served, and one year of supervised release, for making false statements to federal law enforcement and in immigration proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery, Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Special Agent in Charge Robert Fuller of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Haven Division, and Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England, made the announcement.
According to the evidence presented during his trial, Mamadjonov immigrated to the U.S. in February 2009, lived in New Britain, Connecticut, and became a lawful permanent resident in September 2010. On May 27, 2013, Mamadjonov departed the U.S. on a flight to Istanbul, Turkey. During or before this trip, he learned that his brother, Saidjon Mamadjonov, had been killed while fighting in the civil war in Syria. Sidikjon Mamadjonov returned to the U.S. on June 11, 2013. In early July 2013, he received a DHL package that contained an iPhone 4. On the phone were several videos and photographs depicting Saidjon in Syria, including videos of Saidjon cleaning weapons in military dress while armed with a weapon, and a photograph of Saidjon after he was killed.
During three interviews with FBI special agents in 2014, Mamadjonov responded to questions about the trip he took to Turkey in 2013, and questions about his brother. Mamadjonov made multiple false statements, including that his brother was alive and living in Turkey or Dubai, that he met with his brother while he was in Turkey in 2013, and that his brother sent him a package after he returned from his trip.
In August 2016, Mamadjonov stated to FBI special agents that he had a received a package from Sidikjon, did not know the whereabouts of Saidjon, had not overheard any discussions of Uzbeks in the U.S. going over to Syria to fight, and was not aware of any Uzbeks travelling to Syria. At that time, Sidikjon knew that Saidjon was an Uzbek who had traveled from the U.S. to Syria and had died while fighting in the civil war, and that he died prior to the date the package was sent.
On October 27, 2016, in an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer regarding his U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services an Application for Naturalization, Form N-400 that he had submitted in September 2014, Mamadjonov again provided false statements about his brother and whether he had previously lied to the FBI.
Mamadjonov was arrested on December 22, 2017.
On March 7, 2023, a jury found Mamadjonov guilty of three counts of making a false statement to law enforcement, and one count of making a false swearing in an immigration matter.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New Britain Police Department and Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Chang and Trial Attorney Steven Ward of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
New Haven Man Sentenced to Prison for Stealing and Selling Catalytic ConvertersRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL ALMODOVAR, also known as “Eme ElColorado,” 31, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 14 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his participation in a stolen catalytic converter trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement has been investigating the theft of catalytic converters from motor vehicles across Connecticut. A catalytic converter contains precious metals, can easily be removed from its vehicle, and is difficult to trace, making it a desirable target for thieves. The average scrap price for catalytic converters currently varies between $300 and $1,500, depending on the model and type of precious metal component.
The investigation revealed that Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC (“Downpipe Depot”), which had a warehouse on Park Avenue in East Hartford, purchased stolen catalytic converters from a network of thieves, including Almodovar, and then transported and sold the catalytic converters to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey.
Business records seized during the investigation revealed that, between March 2022 and May 2022, Downpipe Depot paid Almodovar $34,445 for catalytic converters. In one incident, while Almodovar was in the process of stealing a catalytic converter from a car in a parking lot in Milford, he was interrupted by a witness who used his cellphone take pictures of Almodovar. Almodovar attacked the witness, smashed his car window, cut him with the saw he used to steal the converter, and then fled. The next day, Almodovar sold six converters to Downpipe Depot in exchange for $2,180.
Almodovar was arrested on November 28, 2023. On March 27, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, and interstate transportation of stolen property.
This investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and the East Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and A. Reed Durham.
Hartford Man Admits Possessing Handgun Fitted with Glock SwitchRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KENDALL CAMBY, also known as “KB,” 34, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 22, 2023, Hartford Police stopped a car Camby was riding in and found him in possession of a .45 caliber Glock 30 handgun with a magazine loaded with 12 rounds of ammunition, and fitted with a Glock switch auto sear device, which converted the gun to an automatic weapon. Camby also possessed approximately 650 wax paper sleeves containing fentanyl and approximately 50 bags of crack cocaine.
Camby’s criminal history includes state convictions for felony firearm, drug, robbery, and burglary offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. Camby is detained pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ruff.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
West Haven Man Charged with Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, today announced that ADAM C. SALGADO, JR., 30, of West Haven, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with possession of child pornography.
As alleged in court documents, a cloud-based storage company that provides services for wireless customers made multiple CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) that a user, subsequently identified as Salgado, had videos of child sexual abuse stored on the account. Subsequent investigation revealed that Salgado’s Google account also contained images and videos of child sex abuse.
Salgado was arrested on June 5, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas, where he recently resided. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was released on a $100,000 bond.
Possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the Middletown Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel George.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Waterbury Man on Supervised Release Charged with Possessing Guns and DrugsRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned an indictment charging D’METRIUS JOHNSON, formerly known as D’METRIUS WOODWARD, and also known as “Meech,” 29, of Waterbury, with unlawful possession of a firearms by a felon, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
The indictment was returned on June 20, 2024. Johnson appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has been detained since his arrest on state charges on November 21, 2022.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on November 12, 2014, Johnson was sentenced in federal court to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his participation in a narcotics trafficking conspiracy. He was released from federal prison in January 2018. On November 21, 2022, while Johnson was on supervised release, Brookfield Police arrested him on state charges related to the theft of catalytic converters. On that date, a search of Johnson’s Waterbury residence revealed a Ruger 57 semiautomatic pistol, a Glock 31 semiautomatic pistol, a Ruger LCP handgun, ammunition, approximately 89 grams of cocaine, and pills containing MDMA (“ecstasy”).
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Unlawful possession of a firearm carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Johnson faces additional penalties if he is found to have violated the conditions of his supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Waterbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Brookfield Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Grandparents Scam Participant Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EDWARD ROSARIO-CANELA, 48, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a “grandparents scam” that defrauded elderly victims of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Rosario participated in a “grandparents scam,” a scheme in which fraudsters, who often live outside of the U.S., contact elderly victims in the U.S. by phone impersonating the victim’s grandchild in distress, and induce the victim to send money purportedly help the grandchild. Rosario served as a “money-mule” in a grandparents scam that victimized several individuals who lived outside of Connecticut. For a fee, Rosario picked up packages of money that victims had mailed to addresses in Connecticut and elsewhere, and helped send the money to coconspirators in the Dominican Republic.
Judge Nagala ordered Rosario to pay restitution of $655,683.
On November 17, 2022, Rosario pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud.
Rosario, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on September 16.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hartford Police Department, and the Monroe Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather M. Cherry and Michael S. McGarry.
More information about grandparents scams and how to avoid being victimized is available here and here.
Former Southeastern Connecticut Counselor Sentenced for Health Care Fraud and Kickback OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEFFREY SLOCUM, 56, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to three years of probation, the first 12 months of which he must serve in home confinement under electronic monitoring, for health care fraud and kickback offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2017 to 2022, Slocum, a former resident of East Lyme, Connecticut, was a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with an office located at 300 State Street in New London. In 2020, the Connecticut Medicaid program (“Medicaid”) notified Slocum that Medicaid was going to audit certain claims for psychotherapy services Slocum had billed to Medicaid between March 2018 and February 2020. As part of its audit, Medicaid requested patient records for approximately 100 individual psychotherapy services Slocum had billed to Medicaid.
In March 2021, Medicaid notified Slocum that the audit had determined that he had received over $225,000 in payments from Medicaid for services that he had not documented. Medicaid told Slocum it would begin to collect the overpayment by deducting the overpayment in installments from future payments Medicaid would make to Slocum. Once Slocum learned the results of the audit and that he would have to pay the money back to Medicaid, he began submitting fraudulent claims to Medicaid for psychotherapy services that he never provided. All of the fraudulent claims Slocum submitted to Medicaid represented that he had personally provided the nonexistent services.
Slocum also engaged in a scheme to pay kickbacks to his Medicaid patients in order to induce them to receive psychotherapy services from him. Slocum paid these kickbacks to patients in the form of cash payments, money orders, and Wal-Mart and VISA gift cards.
Judge Underhill ordered Slocum to pay restitution of $695,048 to Medicaid.
On August 16, 2023, Slocum pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud and one count of violating the federal anti-kickback statute.
This investigation was conducted by the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Social Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon and Auditor Susan Spiegel.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and Attorney General’s Office meet regularly as part of The Medicaid Fraud Working Group. The Working Group also includes representatives from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; the Connecticut Department of Public Health; the Drug Control Division of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the FBI. The Working Group reviews pending issues and cases, identifies trends that might indicate fraudulent activity, and coordinates efforts for maximum results.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
Wethersfield Man Charged with Distributing Narcotics to Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Meriden Police Chief Roberto Rosado today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging JIMMY LASSUS, 39, of Wethersfield, with distribution of fentanyl and oxycodone. The charge stems from an investigation of an overdose death in October 2023.
The indictment was returned on June 25, 2024. Lassus appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and entered a plea of not guilty. He has been detained since his arrest on a federal criminal complaint on April 11, 2024.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning of October 6, 2023, Meriden Police responded to a residence on a report of a suspected overdose and found a 27-year-old woman unresponsive in a bedroom. She was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The investigation revealed that for several months before the victim’s death, the victim engaged in numerous drug-related text message conversations with Lassus. The text messages revealed that Lassus supplied the victim with oxycodone, and that he supplied her with fentanyl that she ingested in the hours before she died. The victim stated in text messages and in a journal entry that it was her first time using fentanyl.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s death to be caused by acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, benzodiazepines, xylazine, and oxycodone.
If convicted of the charge in the indictment, Lassus faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Meriden Police Department, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department. The Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan Keefe and Reed Durham.
Shelton Man Charged with Producing Child Sex Abuse ImagesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, and Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman today announced that ROSS DeLIBRO, 53, of Shelton, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with production of child pornography.
DeLibro has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 11, 2024.
As alleged in court documents, in March 2024, a detective assigned to the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit began an investigation into the sharing of child sex abuse images and videos over a peer-to-peer file sharing network. The investigation revealed that an internet protocol (IP) address assigned to DeLibro’s residence in Shelton had been used to download child sex abuse videos. On May 1, 2024, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of DeLibro’s residence and seized his Apple MacBook Air, his iPhone, an external hard drive, and other items. Analysis of the seized items revealed image and video files depicting male children being sexually abused, including two images in which DeLibro appears engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a toddler.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Shelton Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel George and Nancy Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate can be reached at [email protected] or 203-696-3039.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl and CocaineRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS IVAN DIAZ, 26, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 33 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Connecticut State Police obtained an arrest warrant for Diaz after his DNA was found on a gun that was thrown from a vehicle during a State Police pursuit on March 8, 2022. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force had also identified Diaz as a fentanyl trafficker. Diaz was located and arrested on state charges on November 3, 2022. At the time of his arrest, Diaz possessed approximately 35 grams of fentanyl, 23 grams of cocaine, and five grams of crack cocaine.
Diaz was charged by indictment on April 26, 2023. On June 6, 2023, he was arrested pursuant to a federal arrest warrant at the Hartford Superior Courthouse, where he had a pending state case. At the time of his arrest, a search of a fanny pack he possessed revealed approximately 40 grams of fentanyl and 18 grams of crack.
Diaz has been detained since his federal arrest. On January 2, 2024, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine.
The DEA’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth L. Gresham and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis, and Trial Attorney Brian P. Leaming of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
New Haven Gang Member Admits Role in MurderRead the Press Release
QUAYMAR SUGGS, 20, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to a racketeering offense related to his participation in a violent New Haven street gang and the murder of an associate of a rival gang in May 2021.
Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; John P. Doyle, Jr., State’s Attorney for the New Haven Judicial District; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address violence in New Haven, the ATF, FBI, DEA and New Haven Police Department, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, have been investigating a gang war between members and associates of the Exit 8 street gang and rival gangs in the Hill section and other areas of the city. The Exit 8 gang is named after the geographic area accessed by exiting Interstate 91 at Exit 8 in New Haven. Recently, younger members of Exit 8 are identifying themselves with the word “Honcho,” which is derived from the street name of an Exit 8 member who was murdered on Quinnipiac Avenue in February 2020.
The investigation revealed that Suggs and other members of the Exit 8 gang engaged in drug trafficking, used and shared firearms, and, since June 2018, have committed at least three murders and 16 attempted murders. Exit 8 members and associates also stole vehicles, at times from outside of the state, and used those stolen vehicles when committing acts of violence. Gang members also promoted, coordinated, facilitated, and celebrated their narcotics distribution and acts of violence through text messaging and the use of social media applications and websites including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube.
Suggs pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, including acts of violence, narcotics trafficking, and gun sales, and specifically admitted that, on May 19, 2021, he shot and killed an associate of a rival gang. Suggs also admitted that in 2021, he and other Exit 8 members broke into a Connecticut state trooper’s car and stole the trooper’s duty bag.
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Suggs faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Suggs has been detained since March 24, 2023.
This investigation is being conducted by ATF, the FBI, the DEA, the New Haven Police Department, the Hamden Police Department, and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens, Rahul Kale and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Member of Violent Bridgeport Gang Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MICHAEL LOCKHART, also known as “Mikey RTN,” 25, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 108 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his involvement in a violent Bridgeport street gang.
Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Joseph T. Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Fairfield Judicial District; Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Acting U.S. Marshal Lawrence Bobnick.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police and Bridgeport Police have been investigating multiple Bridgeport-based gangs whose members are involved in narcotics trafficking, murder, and other acts of violence. Lockhart was a member of the Original North End (“O.N.E.”), a gang based in the Trumbull Gardens area of Bridgeport that committed acts of violence against rival gangs, including the East End gang, the East Side gang, and the PT Barnum gang. O.N.E. members also robbed drug dealers, customers, and others, sold narcotics, and stole cars from inside and outside Connecticut, often using the cars to commit crimes. They frequently used social media to promote and coordinate their criminal activities.
On June 1, 2021, Lockhart was arrested after a search of his Roberts Street residence revealed large bags of marijuana; numerous items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, including thousands of glassine bags typically used to package fentanyl and heroin; five Glock handguns; three empty boxes for other Glock handguns; and extended magazines, ammunition, body armor, and other gun accessories. Lockhart shared the residence with Jamar Traylor, also a member of O.N.E. Laboratory analysis of the seized items revealed that presence of Lockhart’s DNA on one of the handguns and a magazine. Both Lockhart and Traylor were on state probation at the time of the search.
Lockhart has been detained since his arrest. On September 13, 2023, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Approximately 47 members and associates of the East End, O.N.E. and the GHB/Hotz gangs have been convicted of federal offenses stemming from this investigation, which has solved eight murders and approximately 20 attempted murders.
Traylor, also known as “J-Hop,” pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity and, on February 6, 2023, was sentenced to 14 years of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, Waterbury Police Department, and Naugatuck Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck, Tara E. Levens, Patrick J. Doherty, Rahul Kale, and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it. If a group member elects to engage in gun violence, the focused attention of federal, state, and local law enforcement will be directed at that entire group.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Marijuana Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DELROY ANDERSON, also known as “Max,” 57, formerly of Stamford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to leading a money laundering conspiracy related to his large-scale trafficking of marijuana.
According to court documents and statements made in court, for approximately five years, Anderson conspired with others to launder proceeds from a marijuana trafficking operation by paying for marijuana cultivation, package shipping, electricity, and air travel expenses with the proceeds. He also deposited the drug trafficking proceeds into multiple bank accounts opened in the name of Maximillion Enterprises Inc., and structured deposits to evade reporting requirements under federal law. Between 2015 and 2019, Anderson operated marijuana cultivation farms in Santa Rosa, California, and Willits, California, and he employed others to grow, harvest, package, and ship the marijuana for distribution in Connecticut, Virginia, New York, and elsewhere.
In February 2020, Anderson and his co-conspirators, Kelvin Jackson, and Stephanie Atkinson, were charged by indictment with various money laundering offenses. On February 18, 2022, Anderson, who had been released on bond pending trial, was scheduled to appear before Judge Dooley for a guilty plea proceeding. He failed to appear for that court proceeding and ceased contact with his attorney and the U.S. Probation Office.
On November 8, 2023, the U.S. Marshals Service located and arrested Anderson in Dallas, Texas. He has been detained since his arrest.
Anderson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Anderson also agreed to forfeit his interest in multiple bank accounts associated with the charged conspiracy.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for September 16.
Jackson, of Bristol, Virginia, and Atkinson, of Stamford, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge and await sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, the Stamford Police Department, and the Sonoma County (Calif.) Sheriff’s Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Huang and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Danbury Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Vanessa R. Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that BILL G. MAKROS, 57, of Danbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Makros owned and operated a tree service business known as Budget Tree and Stump Removal Service, LLC. From 2016 through 2020, Makros concealed his income by receiving customer payments in the form of checks made payable to “cash” or to him personally, and by depositing the checks into bank accounts other than his business bank account. At times, he also cashed check payments and did not deposit the cash into any business or personal accounts. For the 2016 through 2020 tax years, Makros failed to file his federal individual tax returns, and failed to pay $140,694 in taxes on approximately $517,000 in net profits.
In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Makros applied for pandemic relief loans and, as part of that process, submitted IRS Schedule C forms for his business that purported to be part of his tax returns for 2019 and 2020, even though he had not filed tax returns with the IRS for those years.
Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for September 27, 2024, at which time Makros faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. Makros is released on a personal recognizance bond pending sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia King.
Participant in Armed Robbery of North Haven Gas Station Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT SMITH, also known as “Robbie,” 20, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for offenses related to his role in the gunpoint robbery of a North Haven gas station in 2022.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an ATF and New Haven Police Department investigation revealed that Christian Borrero of New Haven committed a series of gunpoint robberies and a carjacking in late June and early July 2022. On July 6, 2022, Smith assisted Borrero’s commission of an armed robbery of a Shell Gas Station located at 195 State Street in North Haven. After the robbery, Smith drove Borrero and a juvenile, who also participated in the robbery, to Meriden where they stole a car from a woman who was parked in her driveway.
Smith has been detained since January 3, 2023. On September 28, 2023, he pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting Hobbs Act robbery, and aiding and abetting the carrying, using, and brandishing of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Borrero pleaded guilty to related charges and, on April 1, 2024, was sentenced to 14 years of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) with the assistance of the New Haven, East Haven, West Haven, Ansonia, and North Haven Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel J. Gentile and Sean P. Mahard.
U.S. Attorney Avery thanked the State’s Attorneys for the Judicial Districts of New Haven and Ansonia/Milford for their cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 52 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KELVIN MUNOZ, also known as “Kel,” 29, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 52 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his participation in a New Haven area drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2022, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that was operating in the Fair Haven neighborhood of New Haven. The investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance, and several controlled purchases of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine from Munoz and others. The investigation also identified individuals who were acquiring and distributing prescription narcotic pills.
On September 20, 2022, investigators made a controlled purchase of a Polymer 80 .40 caliber handgun (“ghost gun”), ammunition, and a quantity of fentanyl from Munoz and a co-defendant. On March 9, 2023, shortly after Munoz completed a meeting with his state probation officer, investigators made a controlled purchase of approximately 48 grams of fentanyl from him.
Munoz has been detained since his arrest on a state charge on August 23, 2023. On April 5, 2024, he pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances.
This investigation, which resulted in federal charges against 12 individuals, has been conducted by FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes members from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. Keefe through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEROND ROGERS, JR., 30, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for illegal possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2022, law enforcement received information that Rogers, who was known to be associated with a violent Bridgeport gang, was in possession of a firearm. On October 25, 2022, Rogers ran from investigators who had a court-authorized search warrant for his vehicle, removed a black handgun from his waistband, and ran into oncoming traffic on Maplewood Avenue, where he was hit by a car. Investigators retrieved the gun, a loaded Glock 26 semi-automatic pistol, and Rogers was transported to this hospital.
Rogers’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for sale of narcotics, criminal possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Rogers has been detained since his federal arrest on March 20, 2023. On January 23, 2024, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross Weingarten and Karen L. Peck
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
West Hartford Man Admits Role in Catalytic Converter Theft RingRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that YANQUEE RODRIGUEZ, also known as “Yankster Rodriguez,” 28, of West Hartford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to offenses related to his participation in a stolen catalytic converter trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement has been investigating the theft of catalytic converters from motor vehicles across Connecticut. A catalytic converter contains precious metals, can easily be removed from its vehicle, and is difficult to trace, making it a desirable target for thieves. The average scrap price for catalytic converters currently varies between $300 and $1,500, depending on the model and type of precious metal component.
The investigation revealed that Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC (“Downpipe Depot”), which had a warehouse on Park Avenue in East Hartford, purchased stolen catalytic converters from a network of thieves, including Rodriguez, and then transported and sold the catalytic converters to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey. Business records seized during the investigation revealed that Rodriguez was one of Downpipe Depot’s largest suppliers of stolen catalytic converters. Between January 2021 and June 2022, Downpipe Depot paid Rodriguez $411,845 for catalytic converters.
Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. Judge Nagala scheduled sentencing for November 18.
Rodriguez was arrested on November 15, 2023. He is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and the East Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and A. Reed Durham.
Waterbury Gang Member Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
JAIVAUN McKNIGHT, also known as “Sav,” 25, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 168 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for offenses related to his participation in a violent Waterbury street gang.
Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Maureen T. Platt, State’s Attorney for the Waterbury Judicial District; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; and Waterbury Police Chief Fernando C. Spagnolo.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address drug trafficking and related violence in Waterbury, the FBI, ATF, and Waterbury Police have been investigating multiple Waterbury-based groups, including the 960 gang. On September 14, 2021, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 36-count indictment charging McKnight and 15 other 960 gang members with racketeering, narcotics trafficking, firearm possession, murder, attempted murder and assault, and obstruction of justice offenses.
On March 11, 2024, McKnight pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy, attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. McKnight admitted that he and other 960 members were engaged in violent activity, including shootings, assaults and attempted murders, and that he trafficked fentanyl and other drugs in furtherance of the 960 enterprise. On September 21, 2018, in retaliation for the murder of an associate, McKnight and other 960 members attempted to murder a rival gang leader and others by shooting at an occupied residence on Scott Road in Waterbury.
McKnight has been detained since his arrest on September 16, 2021. On that date, investigators seized approximately 600 bags of fentanyl from his vehicle.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Waterbury Police Department, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Southington Police Department, Watertown Police Department, New Milford Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, and the DEA Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone, John T. Pierpont, Jr. and Natasha M. Freismuth, and Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Don E. Therkildesen, Jr. and Deputy Assistant State’s Attorney Alexandra Arroyo of the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office, who have been cross-designated as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys in this matter.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Former Hartford Resident Involved in Illegal Pill Trafficking Ring Sentenced to 5 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHNATTAN FERNANDEZ-LOPEZ, 37, a citizen of the Dominican Republic formerly residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 60 months of imprisonment for his role in a narcotics trafficking organization that distributed oxycodone pills, counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, and other drugs in the Hartford area.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation by the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad and the FBI Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force targeting individuals who were distributing oxycodone pills, counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, and other drugs from neighborhood grocery stores in New Britain and Hartford.
Between January 2020 and March 2021, investigators made several controlled purchases of illegal pills at the Washington Market, formerly located at 453 Washington Street in Hartford; JZ Tobacco, located at 25 New Britain Avenue in Hartford, and Prestige Market, located at 23 New Britain Avenue in Hartford. Fernandez-Lopez was the primary seller of pills during the evening hours at JZ Tobacco, and possessed a firearm in connection with the offense.
On December 20, 2020, investigators stopped a vehicle registered to Ray Urena, a co-defendant of Fernandez-Lopez, and found approximately 4,000 illegal pills and $51,000 in cash in a hidden “trap” beneath the front passenger seat of the car.
Urena and others were arrested on May 18, 2021. On that date, searches of an apartment on Colonial Street in Hartford that was used by the drug trafficking organization, and two vehicles parked outside of the stash house, revealed approximately two kilograms of fentanyl, approximately 170 grams of heroin, more than 5,000 real and counterfeit oxycodone pills, approximately 2,000 Xanax pills, approximately one kilogram of cocaine, approximately 100 grams of crack, items used to process and package narcotics, two handguns, and ammunition. A search of Urena’s residence in Waterbury revealed approximately $54,000.
Fernandez-Lopez has been detained since his arrest on November 10, 2021. On March 28, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl. He faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Urena pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad is composed of personnel from the DEA and the Bristol, East Windsor, Hamden, New Britain, West Haven, Newington, Manchester, Glastonbury, and Watertown Police Departments. The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, New Britain Police Department, West Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Bloomfield Man Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud ChargeRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, and Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that, on June 21, 2024, SHAWN TYSON, 54, of Bloomfield, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to health care fraud.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Tyson was a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADC) with an office located at 330 Main Street in Hartford. From November 2019 to April 2023, Tyson, together with an individual identified in court as “Provider 1,” defrauded the Connecticut Medicaid program (“Medicaid”) by submitting fraudulent claims for psychotherapy counseling sessions that were not provided by Tyson or Provider 1. In addition, Tyson and Provider 1 agreed to submit claims to Medicaid under Tyson’s unique Medicaid provider number for services purportedly provided by Provider 1 that falsely represented that Tyson had personally provided the services to Medicaid patients.
In order to conceal the fraud scheme, in October and November 2022, Tyson provided fraudulent patient records in response to an audit of his claims performed by the Medicaid program.
Health care fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. As part of his plea, Tyson agreed to pay $670,960.72 in restitution to the Connecticut Medicaid program.
Tyson is released on a $15,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.
This investigation has been conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Social Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon and Auditor Susan Spiegel.
This matter is part of the Department of Justice’s 2024 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action, a strategically coordinated, two-week nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 193 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes that resulted in the submission of over $2.75 billion in alleged false billings. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets, and the government, in connection with the enforcement action, seized over $231 million in cash, luxury vehicles, gold, and other assets.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and Connecticut Attorney General’s Office meet regularly as part of The Medicaid Fraud Working Group. The Working Group also includes representatives from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; the Connecticut Department of Public Health; the Drug Control Division of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the FBI. The Working Group reviews pending issues and cases, identifies trends that might indicate fraudulent activity, and coordinates efforts for maximum results.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
Hartford Man Charged with Receiving Sexually Explicit Images of Minor Girl He Communicated with on DiscordRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that MARVYN ESCOBAR, 26, of Hartford, was arrested yesterday on a criminal complaint charging him with child exploitation offenses.
Following his arrest, Escobar appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, an investigation by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force and Hartford Police Department revealed that Escobar used the social media platform Discord to have sexually explicit communications with a 13-year-old girl. Escobar sent the minor victim sexually explicit images and videos, and requested that she send him sexually explicit images of herself, which she did.
It is alleged that the Discord communications between Escobar and the minor victim began on July 19, 2023. The following day, Escobar was sentenced in state court to five years of jail, all suspended, and three years of probation, for risk of injury to children. The charge stemmed from Escobar’s sexual assault of a minor female in 2018 and 2019.
The complaint charges Escobar with receipt of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and transfer of obscene material to a minor, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda S. Oakes through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Prisoner Who Escaped from Bloomfield Halfway House Sentenced to Additional Prison TimeRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HECTOR SANTIAGO, 29, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to four months of imprisonment for escaping from a halfway house in Bloomfield.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 18, 2019, Santiago was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 69 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for a narcotics trafficking offense. On June 23, 2023, he was transferred from the U.S. Penitentiary in Lee County, Virginia, to the Drapelick Center, a Residential Reentry Center (halfway house) in Bloomfield, to complete his custodial sentence. On September 27, 2023, Santiago walked away from the Drapelick Center and never returned. He was located and arrested in Hartford on February 9, 2024.
On March 11, 2024, Santiago pleaded guilty to escape from the custody of the Attorney General.
Santiago’s four-month prison term began on May 13, 2024, and he will be on supervised release for four years when he released from prison.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean P. Mahard.
ABA Therapy Provider to Make Changes to Comply with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the government has entered into a settlement agreement with CREATIVE INTERVENTIONS, LLC (“Creative Interventions”) to resolve allegations that the company discriminated against a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Type 1 Diabetes, and the child’s parents, by refusing to monitor the child’s Continuous Glucose Monitor (“CGM”) and by refusing to provide other routine diabetes care while the child attended the Creative Interventions Achievement Clinic in Windsor.
Creative Interventions is a private company that provides Applied Behavior Analysis (“ABA”) therapy and other therapeutic services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Creative Interventions provides its services in private homes, public schools, and at its facility in Windsor where it offers an Achievement Clinic, a drop-off program for young children. Creative Interventions also provides early intervention services as part of Connecticut’s Birth to Three Program.
This matter was initiated by a complaint filed with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut by the Center for Children’s Advocacy (CCA) on behalf of the parents of a child with Type 1 Diabetes who was enrolled at the Creative Interventions Achievement Clinic from 9 am to 3:30pm, five days a week. According to CCA’s complaint, when the child was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, Creative Interventions staff refused to provide the child’s diabetes-related care and, instead, required a parent to come to the clinic to provide the care. Among other things, the child’s diabetes management plan requires a caregiver to monitor a CGM, which shows the child’s blood sugar levels, and requires a caregiver to be prepared to address high or low blood sugar readings by providing a fast-acting carbohydrate or glucagon or insulin, if necessary.
Based on its investigation, the government found that Creative Interventions discriminated against the child and the child’s parents, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), by refusing to have its staff provide this routine diabetes care to the child. The government found that monitoring the child’s CGM and providing the other routine diabetes care specified by the child’s care plan (including the administration of insulin and glucagon) were reasonable modifications under the ADA that Creative Interventions staff should have provided, with proper training.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Creative Interventions has agreed not to discriminate against children with disabilities in the future. Creative Interventions will also implement new policies and procedures for handling requests for reasonable modifications that are consistent with the ADA and will provide training to its staff on the ADA.
As part of the settlement, Creative Interventions has also agreed that, where a child’s parents and health care team consent, its non-medical staff will obtain training and provide routine diabetes care for children with Type 1 Diabetes, including monitoring a child’s CGM and administering glucagon and insulin, if necessary, as reasonable modifications under the ADA. Creative Interventions has also agreed to pay $15,000 to the complainant in this matter.
“Children with diabetes and their families are entitled to equal access to child care and health care,” said U.S. Attorney Avery. “I thank Creative Interventions for cooperating The settlement agreement is effective for three years, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will monitor compliance during that time.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stewart C. Dearing.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700 and ask for the Civil Rights Intake Specialist.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
Wallingford Restaurant to Make Changes to Comply with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that Ives Road, LLC (“Ives Road”), the owner of the building that currently houses Pacific Buffet & Grill Restaurant (“Pacific Buffet”) in Wallingford, has entered into a settlement agreement to resolve allegations that the building’s parking area did not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”).
This matter was initiated by a complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Justice by an individual claiming that Pacific Buffet did not have adequate accessible parking spaces. Based on its investigation, the government found several ADA violations in Pacific Buffet’s parking area and entrance.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Ives Road has agreed to make changes to the building’s entrance and parking area to make them more accessible to individuals with disabilities. Among the changes required by the agreement, Ives Road will add three accessible spaces to its parking lot and remove gaps in the pavement around the accessible parking spaces. It will also lighten the pressure required to open its front door and provide more maneuvering clearance at its front door, so that its entrance is more accessible. Ives Road has a total of three months to complete these changes.
“No one should have to worry about not finding accessible parking in our state,” said U.S. Attorney Avery. “The ADA’s mandate has existed for more than a decade. I want to commend Ives Road for doing the right thing by cooperating with our investigation and agreeing to make Pacific Buffet more accessible for everyone going forward.”
The settlement agreement is effective for three years, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will monitor compliance during that time.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stewart C. Dearing.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700 and ask for the Civil Rights Intake Specialist.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
Peruvian National Pleads Guilty to Identity Theft Charge Stemming from Distraction Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANGEL EUGENIO BANCES CHAPONAN, 60, a citizen of Peru last residing in Queens, New York, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI and local law enforcement agencies in Connecticut and elsewhere have been investigating a series of distraction thefts of wallets from victims at Trader Joe’s grocery stores, TJ Maxx stores, and other retail stores in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Virginia, and elsewhere. The investigation revealed that Bances Chaponan and others rented vehicles to travel throughout the U.S. in order to steal wallets from unwary victims and then use the victims’ credit and debit cards to purchase electronic devices and other items.
Bances Chaponan was arrested on March 13, 2024, shortly after he used a stolen credit card to purchase a MacBook for approximately $2,850 and an iPad Pro for approximately $1,050. He has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for September 12, at which time Bances Chaponan faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of two years.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Manchester (Conn.) Police Department, the Fairfax County (Va.) Police Department, the Spartanburg County (S.C.) Sheriff’s Office, and the Spartanburg Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Nathan J. Guevremont.
New Haven Gang Member Involved in 2 Shootings Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NYZAIRE BARNES, also known as “Melo,” 20, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 125 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a violent New Haven street gang, including two gang-related shootings.
Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; John P. Doyle, Jr., State’s Attorney for the New Haven Judicial District; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address violence in New Haven, the ATF, FBI, DEA and New Haven Police Department, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, have been investigating an ongoing gang war between members and associates of the Exit 8 street gang and rival gangs in the Hill section and other areas of the city. The Exit 8 gang is named after the geographic area accessed by exiting Interstate 91 at Exit 8 in New Haven. Recently, younger members of Exit 8 are identifying themselves with the word “Honcho,” which is derived from the street name of an Exit 8 member who was murdered on Quinnipiac Avenue in February 2020.
The investigation revealed that Barnes and other members of the Exit 8 gang engaged in drug trafficking, used and shared firearms, and, since June 2018, have committed at least three murders and 16 attempted murders. Exit 8 members and associates also stole vehicles, at times from outside of the state, and used those stolen vehicles when committing acts of violence. Gang members also promoted, coordinated, facilitated, and celebrated their narcotics distribution and acts of violence through text messaging and the use of social media applications and websites including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube.
On March 11, 2024, Barnes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, and specifically admitted that he took part in two gang-related shootings. On April 12, 2022, Barnes and other Exit 8 members shot and attempted to kill rival gang members. On January 20, 2023, Exit 8 members, including Devin Suggs, stole an SUV in Scarsdale, New York. Later that day, Barnes and Suggs committed a drive-by shooting of a rival gang member in New Haven. The victim was shot in the head, but survived the attack.
Barnes has been detained since August 3, 2023.
Suggs pleaded guilty to the same charge on February 20, 2024, and awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by ATF, the FBI, the DEA, the New Haven Police Department, the Hamden Police Department, and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens, Rahul Kale, and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Former U.S. Postal Service Employee Sentenced to Prison for Stealing MailRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHAWN R. FULLER, 37, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 12 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for stealing mail while he was a U.S. Postal Service employee.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Fuller, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier in Meriden, was under investigation for stealing mail packages. On April 17, 2023, an investigator observed Fuller at the Meriden post office opening two mail packages, removing two items from the packages, and placing them in the trunk of his car. He then notified his supervisors that he had to leave work for the day. Hamden Police subsequently stopped Fuller’s car. After a police K9 alerted officers to the possible presence of narcotics, a search of the trunk of the car revealed approximately four kilograms of a substance containing cocaine. Fuller was arrested at that time.
On February 16, 2024, Fuller pleaded guilty to theft of mail by a postal employee.
Fuller, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on August 20.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the Hamden and West Haven Police Departments. The Task Force includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Connecticut Army National Guard, and the Hartford, New Britain, Meriden, and Town of Groton Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert S. Dearington and Brendan J. Keefe.
Bridgeport Felon Admits Possessing Gun with Extended Magazine While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on June 18, 2024, JORGE MORALES, also known as “Capone,” 38, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2017, Morales was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 46 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for distributing heroin. The investigation revealed that in April 2016 Morales distributed heroin to a 21-year-old woman who died of an overdose from the drug. Morales was released from federal prison in September 2019.
On December 17, 2021, while Morales was on federal supervised release, Bridgeport Police conducted a traffic stop of an SUV Morales was driving because the vehicle had been spotted near the scene of a shooting incident and homicide on Barnum Avenue earlier that day. Before the SUV came to a complete stop, a juvenile girl ran from it carrying an object close to her chest. As officers apprehended the girl, she dropped a loaded Glock 22 semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine. The investigation revealed that the gun belonged to Morales and that, as he was being pulled over, he told the girl to take the gun and run.
In addition to his prior federal conviction, Morales’ criminal history includes state convictions for drug and firearm felony offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for September 10, 2024, at which time Morales faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years for unlawfully possessing the firearm. He also faces penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
Morales has been detained since his arrest.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel George and Karen Peck.
The prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
West Haven Woman Pleads Guilty to Diverting Narcotics from Dying VA Medical Center PatientsRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, Northeast Field Office, announced that TARA SEVERINO, 58, of West Haven, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to a charge of stemming from her diversion of narcotics from veterans under her care while she worked as a nurse at the West Haven VA Medical Center.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from January to July 2023, Severino was employed as a registered nurse with the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (the “VA”) in West Haven and was assigned to the VA’s Intensive Care Unit (“ICU”) for sick or dying patients. While employed at the VA ICU, Severino ingested fentanyl, hydromorphone, and oxycodone intended for patients in her care.
In some instances, Severino ingested the “waste” of a substance, meaning she administered part of the substance to a patient and ingested the remaining portion not used by the patient. In one instance, Severino repeatedly introduced fentanyl into the system of a braindead patient after claiming she observed him in pain and having a seizure. She introduced fentanyl to this patient approximately 19 times over a nine-day period so that she could divert some for herself.
In other instances, Severino ingested doses of hydromorphone and fentanyl meant for dying veterans. This affected treatment decisions made by other medical staff who believed that the patients had been receiving, and were unresponsive to, their prescribed narcotics.
In another instance, Severino volunteered to care for a patient not formally assigned to her, and diverted pain medication from him before he died.
In order to cover up her crimes, Severino misrepresented in VA medical records and tracking systems that the narcotics been properly administered to the patient or, in the case of excess narcotics, had been properly disposed of.
Severino pleaded guilty to obtaining controlled substances by fraud or subterfuge, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of four years. She is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on September 12. She is released on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing.
If you or someone you know may have been victimized by the actions of the Tara Severino while she was employed at the VA, please contact Special Agent Abraham Raymond at (202) 262-2337 or [email protected].
This matter is being investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Donovan and Christopher Lembo.
Romanian National Admits Role in 2007 Connecticut Home InvasionRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that STEFAN ALEXANDRU BARABAS, 38, a citizen of Romania, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to a charge stemming from his participation in a 2007 Connecticut home invasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court in this case and related cases, shortly before midnight on April 15, 2007, Barabas, Emanuel Nicolescu, and Alexandru Lucian Nicolescu, wearing masks and brandishing knives and facsimile firearms, entered a home in South Kent, Connecticut. The intruders bound and blindfolded two adult victims and injected each with a substance the intruders claimed was a deadly virus. The intruders ordered the victims to pay $8.5 million or else they would be left to die from the lethal injection. When it became clear that the victims were not in position to meet the intruders’ demands, the intruders drugged the two residents with a sleeping aid and fled in the homeowner’s Jeep Cherokee.
The stolen Jeep Cherokee was abandoned the next morning at a Home Depot in New Rochelle, New York. On April 21, 2007, an accordion case washed ashore in Jamaica Bay. The content of the case included a stun gun, a 12-inch knife, a black plastic Airsoft gun, a crowbar, syringes, sleeping pills, latex gloves, and a laminated telephone card with the South Kent address of the victims.
In 2010, an investigator from the Connecticut State Police connected a partial Pennsylvania license plate, seen by a witness near the victims’ estate on the night of the crime, to a car owned by Michael N. Kennedy. Kennedy had formerly shared an address with Emmanuel Nicolescu, who had been employed by the victim. The investigator then discovered that the data for the cell tower near the New Rochelle Home Depot contained a call by a phone number registered to Emmanuel Nicolescu, minutes after the Jeep was abandoned. Shortly after that, investigators from the State Police and FBI gathered Emanuel Nicolescu’s DNA and found that it partially matched a sample from the Jeep’s steering wheel.
As to the accordion case, investigators learned that Kennedy’s father was a professional accordion player, and witnesses later identified the knife in the accordion case as a gift given to Emanuel Nicolescu by his father-in-law.
The investigation revealed that Emanuel Nicolescu and Kennedy worked with Barabas and Alexandru Nicolescu to commit the crime. Barabas’ co-conspirators planned the home invasion, which included the research and purchase of implements necessary for the crime, such as two-way radios, stun guns and imitation pistols. On the night of April 15, 2007, Kennedy drove Barabas, Emanuel Nicolescu, and Alexandru Nicolescu to a location near the South Kent home, and then picked them up the following morning in New Rochelle at the location where the intruders abandoned the stolen Jeep.
Barabas, Emanuel Nicolescu, Alexandru Nicolescu, and Kennedy fled the U.S. during the investigation. Emanuel Nicolescu returned to the U.S. and was arrested in Illinois in January 2011. Emanuel Nicolescu and Kennedy were charged by indictment in February 2011, and Barabas and Alexandru Nicolescu were charged by indictment in November 2012.
Barabas was a fugitive until his arrest in Hungary on August 16, 2022.
Barabas pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by extortion, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Under the terms of a binding plea agreement, if accepted by the court, the parties have agreed that a sentence of between of between 72 months and 84 months of imprisonment is appropriate in this case.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for September 11. Barabas has been detained since his arrest.
On March 22, 2012, a jury in New Haven found Emanuel Nicolescu guilty of attempted extortion, conspiracy to commit extortion, and possession of a stolen vehicle. On August 17, 2012, he was sentenced to 240 months of imprisonment.
Alexandru Nicolescu was arrested on November 14, 2013, in the United Kingdom. On January 8, 2016, he pleaded guilty to attempted extortion and conspiracy to commit extortion. On May 15, 2019, he was sentenced to 121 months of imprisonment.
Kennedy, also known as Nicolae Helerea, a dual citizen of Romania and the U.S., voluntarily returned to the U.S. from Romania and, on November 5, 2012, pleaded guilty to attempted extortion and conspiracy to commit extortion. On May 4, 2016, he was sentenced to 48 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police and New York City Police Department. U.S. Attorney Avery thanked the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, Hungarian authorities, and the United Kingdom’s Metropolitan Police for their assistance in this case.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick.
Mexican National Who Illegally Reentered U.S. is SentencedRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARLOS FERNANDEZ-BARRITOS, also known as “Ricardo Fernandez,” 30, a citizen of Mexico formerly residing in East Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 16 months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 11, 2014, Fernandez was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to approximately 14 months of imprisonment, time already served, for his role in a narcotics trafficking ring. He was removed from the U.S. to Mexico in January 2015.
On November 4, 2022, Fernandez was arrested by Hartford Police for disorderly conduct, threatening, assault in the third degree, reckless endangerment in the first degree, and interfering with police. He was released on a $20,000 bond shortly thereafter. On March 15, 2023, the East Hartford Police Department responded to a report that Fernandez had stabbed his domestic partner. Fernandez fled before police arrived.
Fernandez has been detained since August 15, 2023, when he was arrested on federal criminal complaint charging him with illegally reentering the U.S. He pleaded guilty to the offense on May 3, 2024.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie T. Levick.
Employee of Tolland Strip Club Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIAM MAYO, 41, of Manchester, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to an offense related to the operation of the Electric Blue strip club in Tolland.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Electric Blue strip club in Tolland employed dancers who performed nude dances and lap dances for customers. Mayo conspired with others to facilitate prostitution at the club. Mayo was employed at the club as a bouncer and was primarily responsible for hiring dancers, many of whom were not legally authorized to live or work in the United States. The Electric Blue had a semi-private “lap dance room” and “VIP rooms” where dancers regularly performed commercial sex acts for customers. As payment for commercial sex acts, customers would typically pay the club an entry fee for use of the lap dance room or one of the VIP rooms and then pay an additional fee directly to the dancer. In addition, the club collected cash through cover charges paid at the door and fees paid by dancers to perform at the club. It is alleged that millions of dollars in business receipts collected in cash were not reported to the IRS.
Mayo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to use an interstate facility to promote or facilitate prostitution, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
Mayo was arrested on May 15, 2024. He is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Liquor Control Division, and the Massachusetts State Police, with the assistance of the Willimantic Police Department and Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross Weingarten and Robert S. Dearington.
If any employee/dancer at the Electric Blue has been a victim of the unlawful acts described in this case, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate at [email protected] or 203-696-3039. A Spanish version of the press release issued when this case was originally charged is available here, and a Portuguese version is available here.
Bridgeport Man Admits Trafficking Guns from Georgia to ConnecticutRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TYREE THOMAS, 39, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to an offense relating to his illegal trafficking of firearms from Georgia to Connecticut.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Thomas’ criminal history includes felony convictions and he is prohibited from purchasing firearms. Between approximately August 2021 and March 2022, Thomas traveled to Georgia multiple times where, using a straw purchaser, he acquired at least 20 firearms. He then transported the firearms to Connecticut where he sold or transferred them to felons and others who were not licensed to possess them. Several of the firearms that Thomas acquired in Georgia have been recovered by law enforcement in Connecticut, including two that were recovered in connection with homicides.
Thomas pleaded guilty to crossing state lines with the intent to engage in the unlawful dealing of firearms, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. A sentencing date is now scheduled.
Thomas was arrested on September 6, 2023. He is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Clark and Rahul Kale. through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/PSN.
Armed Waterbury Drug Dealer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEVIN RIVERA, 29, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 24, 2021, the Waterbury Police Department (WPD) established surveillance at Rivera’s residence in preparation for the execution of multiple state search warrants. Investigators observed Rivera exit his residence and then open doors to multiple vehicles in the parking lot in front of the building. Rivera removed a plastic bag from one of the vehicles, conduct what appeared to be drug transaction with an individual, and then drive away. When Rivera returned a short time later and investigators approached him, Rivera dropped a clear plastic bag containing approximately 46 bags of heroin/fentanyl. Rivera was arrested at that time.
Searches of Rivera’s residence and vehicles parked in front of his residence revealed more than 3,000 bags of heroin/fentanyl, a small quantity of cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics, a loaded Kel Tec Sub-2000 9mm caliber semiautomatic rifle with an obliterated serial number, an armor-plated bulletproof vest, and other items.
Rivera has been detained since his arrest. He pleaded guilty on March 11, 2024.
This matter was investigated by the Waterbury Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case was being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN
U.S. Attorney’s Office Releases Public Service Announcement for World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
New Haven – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut has released a public service announcement to draw attention to the abuse and neglect affecting older people, and to ask the public to assist law enforcement in preventing elder fraud and abuse.
The public service announcement is available here:
“One in 10 people over the age of 60 has experienced some form of elder abuse, and the AARP has reported that an estimated $28.3 billion is lost to elder fraud scams each year,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery. “While my office and the Department of Justice are committed to prosecuting those who abuse the elderly, particularly by financial exploitation, we need help from the public. Please report suspected elder abuse to the police or by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311). Together we can better protect the older adults in our lives, and bring to justice those who do them harm.”
Additional information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 68 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and 57 staff members at offices in New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford.
Behavioral Health Companies, CEO, Pay Nearly $4.6 Million to Settle Allegations Related to Telehealth Services for Nursing Home ResidentsRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, today announced that SUPPORTIVE CARE HOLDINGS, LLC, its related healthcare companies doing business in Connecticut and other states (“Supportive Care Companies”), and its CEO, JOSEPH “DOV” NEWMARK, have entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal government and paid $4,595,739 to resolve allegations that they fraudulently and improperly submitted claims to Medicare and Connecticut Medicaid related to telehealth services provided to nursing home residents.
In addition to Supportive Care Holdings, LLC, the Supportive Care Companies are Supportive Care, LLC; Step Up Care, PC LLC; Supportive Care of Pennsylvania, LLC; Supportive Care Psychology of NJ, PC; Supportive Care Psychology of NY, PC; Sunrise Psychological Services, LLC; Supportive Behavioral Care of MA, LLC; Step Up Care of Tennessee, LLC; Supportive Care of Virginia, LLC; Supportive Care of Maryland, LLC; Supportive Care of New Hampshire, LLC; Supportive Care of South Carolina, LLC; Supportive Care of Michigan, LLC; and Supportive Care I of Rhode Island, PC. The related health care companies provide, among other things, psychological services to patients residing in skilled nursing facilities in Connecticut and other states. Newmark is the CEO for each of the Supportive Care Companies.
The government’s allegations against the Supportive Care Companies and Newmark involve improper and false claims submitted for “telehealth originating site facility fees.” A telehealth visit involves an exchange between a patient at an originating site (e.g. a nursing home) and a physician, or other qualified healthcare professional, at a distant site. Relevant billing rules and guidance, specifically Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code Q3014, allows payment for a “telehealth originating site facility fee” in addition to the professional fee for the underlying psychological service being provided. However, HCPCS code Q3014 should only be billed by the originating site (in this case, the nursing homes) when the facility provides administrative and clinical support for a patient receiving services via telehealth. The government alleges that the Supportive Care Companies and Newmark submitted or caused to be submitted improper and false claims for “telehealth originating site facility fees,” billed pursuant to HCPCS code Q3014, which should only have been billed by the nursing homes.
In addition, the government alleges that the Supportive Care Companies and Newmark submitted or caused to be submitted false or fraudulent claims for payment to Medicare and Connecticut Medicaid for psychological services allegedly provided to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries residing in nursing homes when those Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries were not, in fact, residing in the nursing homes, but had been transferred to various hospitals and admitted as inpatients.
The settlement resolves False Claims Act and common law allegations for conduct occurring between 2019 and 2023.
“As telehealth plays an increasingly important role in our health care system, it is critical that health care providers follow the relevant rules and bill for such services accurately and honestly,” said U.S. Attorney Avery. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will vigorously investigate any provider that submits fraudulent claims related to telehealth services, as this misconduct increases the cost of health care for all of us.”
“Our federal health care system relies on the basic principle that providers bill properly and follow the rules, and the taxpayers who fund the Medicare and Medicaid programs deserve nothing less,” said Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. “We are committed to protecting the integrity of those programs, and we will continue to pay particular attention to schemes that seek to undermine the legitimate delivery of telehealth services.”
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311.