District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Bridgeport Man Charged with Robbery, Firearm and Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Stratford Police Chief Joseph McNeil today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging TYIESE WARREN, also known as “Loose Screw,” 20, of Bridgeport, with robbery, firearm and carjacking offenses.
The indictment was returned yesterday and unsealed today after Warren was arrested. Warren appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel via videoconference and entered a plea of not guilty to the charges. Warren is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for September 15.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address escalating violence in Bridgeport, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals, Bridgeport Police and other local police departments are actively investigating members of multiple Bridgeport-based groups, including members of the Original North End (“ONE”), a group based in the Trumbull Gardens area of Bridgeport.
It is alleged that, on March 25, 2020, Warren and an accomplice stole a car that was in front of the Citgo 6M Service Station and Quik Mart located at 2000 Barnum Avenue in Stratford. During the theft, they dragged the car’s driver, who was trying to stop the theft and was hanging onto the car, several hundred yards before he let go. Warren and an accomplice then engaged in a carjacking involving a Toyota Corolla in Bridgeport, holding the owner at gunpoint and ultimately driving away in the car. Minutes later, Warren and an accomplice committed a gunpoint robbery of the Citgo in Stratford, taking cash from the store and a cellphone from a store employee. Stratford Police arrested Warren later that night after he crashed another stolen car he was driving on an I-95 on-ramp and then ran from police.
The indictment charges Warren with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; one count of brandishing, carrying and using a firearm during and relation to a crime of violence, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least seven years; and one count of carjacking, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Warren investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, and the Stratford, Stamford, Milford, Waterbury and Bridgeport Police Departments, with the assistance of the ATF, DEA and U.S. Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck, Rahul Kale, Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that this prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program and Project Longevity. 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.
Bridgeport Man Charged with Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging ASANTE GAINES, 23, of Bridgeport, with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address escalating violence in Bridgeport, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals, Bridgeport Police and other local police departments are actively investigating members of multiple Bridgeport-based groups, including members of the “Greene Homes Boys” or “Hots” (“GHB/Hots”), a group based in the Charles F. Greene Homes Housing Complex in Bridgeport’s North End. On August 5, 2020, the grand jury returned an indictment charging Gaines and four associates with multiple offenses related to their alleged involvement in a shooting in front of the state courthouse in Bridgeport on January 27, 2020.
The indictment returned yesterday charges Gaines with illegally possessing a loaded Glock 19, 9 millimeter handgun on February 15, 2018. Gaines was arrested on state charges on that date.
It is alleged that Gaines’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for possessing a firearm without a pistol permit, and failure to appear. 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 charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Gaines is currently detained.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment 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 ongoing investigation is being 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 Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory and the Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, Rahul Kale, Peter D. Markle and Karen L. Peck.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that this prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program and Project Longevity. 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.
Waterbury Man Charged with Fentanyl Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MARBIN JIMENEZ, also known as “Rabia,” 32, of Waterbury, was arrested on August 31, 2020, on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department into a Waterbury-based drug trafficking operation headed by Nestor Sosa-Ortiz. The investigation, which has included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance, and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Sosa-Ortiz’s organization received large quantities of heroin and fentanyl from suppliers in Connecticut and New York and distributed the narcotics throughout New Haven County. After Sosa-Ortiz was arrested in New York City on a separate federal heroin and fentanyl trafficking charge in May 2019, he continued to control his drug network while incarcerated by using smuggled cell phones to communicate with various co-conspirators, including his sisters, Isamelis Sosa-Ortiz and Imirici Sosa-Ortiz, in Waterbury.
On November 6, 2019, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging 15 members of the Sosa drug trafficking organization with conspiring to distribute heroin and fentanyl. A superseding indictment returned in January 2020 added a sixteenth defendant.
Jimenez was subsequently identified as a redistributor for the Sosa-Ortiz drug trafficking organization. In addition, on three occasions in July and August 2020, investigators conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Jimenez.
Jimenez was arrested on August 31, 2020, in Waterbury. It is alleged that he possessed a distribution quantity of fentanyl at the time of his arrest.
Jimenez, who has been detained since his arrest, has a detention hearing scheduled for tomorrow at 11 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A.L. Merriam.
U.S. Attorney Durham 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.
Nestor Sosa-Ortiz, Isamelis Sosa-Ortiz and Imirici Sosa-Ortiz have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department. The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck, and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens, Lauren C. Clark and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
East Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution and Gun Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JESUS MANUEL VALLE, also known as “LoLo,” 24, of East Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement identified Valle’s residence on Charter Oak Avenue in East Haven as a hub of narcotics distribution activity. On February 5, 2020, investigators searched the residence and seized approximately 17 grams of heroin packaged for distribution, 35 grams of loose heroin, 17 grams of packaged cocaine, nine grams of packaged crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and a loaded Ruger .44 magnum handgun.
Valle pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least five years. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for November 25, 2020.
Valle is released on a $250,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the East Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Vizcarrondo.
New Haven Men Charged with Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Patrick Griffin, State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of New Haven; New Haven Police Chief Otoniel Reyes; David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that DENZEL SUGGS, 26, and JAQUAN GRAY, 26, both of New Haven, have been arrested on federal criminal complaints charging each with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Suggs was arrested on August 28 and Gray was arrested earlier today. Both are detained.
These prosecutions are part of a coordinated federal, state and local law enforcement effort to address rising gun violence in New Haven. Participating in this effort are the New Haven Police Department; the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on July 31, 2020, law enforcement received information that several members of the “Exit 8” group were in possession of firearms near the entrance of the Essex Townhouses complex at 1134 Quinnipiac Avenue in New Haven. Members of the New Haven Police and the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force entered the housing complex at approximately 10 p.m. and identified several Exit 8 members. Suggs and Gray ran from the scene as law enforcement arrived and ignored commands to stop. Both were quickly apprehended. A search of Suggs’ person revealed a loaded Taurus PT-22, .22 caliber firearm, and a search of a fanny pack Gray was wearing revealed a loaded Smith and Wesson Model 469, 9mm firearm, which had been reported stolen in Hamden in 2018.
It is further alleged that both Suggs and Gray have been previously convicted of state weapon and drug felony 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.
Suggs appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven for a detention hearing. During the hearing, the government presented evidence alleging that Suggs was present during a homicide that occurred on August 15, 2020, in New Haven.
The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham 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 case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that this prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program and Project Longevity. 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.
New Haven Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIC YOPP, also known as “E-Love,” 34, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny to 21 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing cocaine.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation headed by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force and New Haven Police Department that targeted drug trafficking and related acts of violence by members, former members and associates of the “Island Brothers” street gang in New Haven. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, also revealed that the drug trafficking organization had established a base of operation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The investigation subsequently identified a second drug trafficking network that involved the large-scale distribution of heroin.
Numerous conversations and text messages intercepted during the investigation revealed that Yopp was acquiring and distributing cocaine.
On July 9, 2019, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 15-count indictment charging 25 individuals with federal narcotics offenses related to the distribution of crack cocaine, cocaine and heroin. Yopp and another individual were added as defendants in a superseding indictment that was returned on November 25, 2019.
Yopp was arrested on November 26, 2019. At the time of his arrest, he possessed approximately two grams of cocaine and items used to process and package narcotics for street sale.
Yopp has been detained since his arrest. On June 10, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, Hamden Police Department, East Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan, Peter D. Markle and Elena L. Coronado.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARLOS SOTO, also known as “Puchie,” 39, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2018, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force began investigating Ricardo Reyes, also known as “Rick the Ruler,” a member of the Los Solidos street gang who was distributing fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and crack in the area of Park Street and Hungerford Street in Hartford. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled purchases of narcotics from Reyes. Court-authorized wiretaps confirmed that Reyes was distributing narcotics to numerous customers, and identified individuals who supplied drugs to Reyes and associates who sold drugs on his behalf. Intercepted communications also revealed that Norman Klosek of Enfield was acting as a “straw purchaser” of firearms for Reyes. Klosek, who was addicted to heroin/fentanyl, purchased and then illegally sold, or “loaned,” a total of 47 handguns to support his drug addiction.
On April 22, 2019, multiple intercepted communications revealed that Reyes and Soto were brokering a gun deal where Julio Martinez, of New Britain, arranged to purchase two firearms from Reyes and Soto for $800. On that date, Reyes picked up Klosek in Enfield and drove to a licensed gun dealer in Newington where Klosek, who had a valid state firearm permit, purchased two handguns. Klosek then provided the guns to Reyes. After the purchase, law enforcement observed Reyes, Soto and Martinez at a location on High Street in New Britain. Martinez then left the High Street location and traveled by car to a nearby grocery store. Investigators believed that Martinez was in possession of the two firearms, but Martinez, in fact, had traveled to the grocery store to use an ATM to retrieve cash for the firearms purchase. Investigators stopped and searched Martinez as he attempted to exit the store. The search revealed $850 in cash. Later that day, investigators conducted a traffic stop of Reyes’ vehicle in New Britain and seized the two firearms.
Soto, Reyes, Martinez and several co-defendants were arrested on federal criminal complaints on June 17, 2019. On that date, investigators seized two additional guns that had been purchased by Klosek.
On June 27, 2019, a grand jury Hartford returned a 32-count indictment charging Soto, Reyes, Martinez and 12 associates with various narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses.
Soto has been detained since his arrest. On December 12, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Reyes, Martinez and Klosek also pleaded guilty. On June 30, 2020, Martinez was sentenced to 46 months of imprisonment. Reyes and Klosek await sentencing.
To date, approximately 11 of the 47 guns purchased by Klosek have been recovered by law enforcement. One gun was recovered after it was used in a shooting in Hartford on August 22, 2019.
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and the New Britain Police Department have provided valuable assistance to the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Citizen of El Salvador Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIO ANTONIO HERRERA, also known as Antonio Morales, 37, a citizen of El Salvador last residing in East Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 26, 2010, Herrera was deported from the U.S. to El Salvador. Herrera’s removal followed his conviction in Manchester Superior Court in July 2008 for assault in the second degree. Herrera’s criminal history also includes Connecticut convictions for carrying a dangerous weapon, reckless endangerment, and other offenses.
On July 1, 2019, Herrera, using the name Antonio Morales, was arrested by the East Hartford Police Department and charged with disorderly conduct and interfering/resisting arrest.
Herrera has been detained since his arrest. On February 20, 2020, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of reentry of a removed alien.
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 Deborah R. Slater.
New Haven Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTIAN RIVERA-TORRES, also known as “Pantera,” 41, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and New Haven Police Department revealed that Malbin Rubiera-Herrera, also known as “Chaca,” acquired fentanyl, heroin and cocaine from sources in Connecticut and New Jersey and distributed the drugs through a network of associates in the greater New Haven area. Between October and December 2018, investigators made controlled purchases of narcotics from Rubiera-Herrera. Subsequent court-authorized wiretaps revealed a widespread narcotics trafficking conspiracy that involved the trafficking of kilogram-quantities of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine into Connecticut.
The investigation revealed that Rivera-Torres received heroin from Rubiera-Herrera and sold the drug to his own customers.
On June 5, 2019, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Rivera-Torres, Rubiera-Herrera and 12 other individuals with fentanyl, heroin and cocaine trafficking offenses.
Rivera-Torres has been detained since his arrest on state charges on May 7, 2019. On October 24, 2019, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin.
A search of Rubiera-Herrera's residence at the time of arrest on April 30, 2019, revealed approximately 300 grams of fentanyl. He pleaded guilty on June 20, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
Rivera-Torres’ criminal history spans more than 20 years and includes numerous state convictions.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, East Haven Police Department, Easton Police Department, Orange Police Department, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor's Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force.
The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and S. Dave Vatti.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FERNANDO TOLENTINO, Jr., also known as “Humacao,” 50, of Hartford was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 108 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force began an investigation of an organization that was trafficking large quantities of heroin, fentanyl and other narcotics in Connecticut and western Massachusetts. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance, revealed that members of the organization were receiving bulk quantities of heroin and fentanyl from out-of-state suppliers. They then stored, processed and packaged the heroin/fentanyl in multiple locations, including apartments located at 280 Collins Street in Hartford, and then distributed the drug in the Hartford area, and also the Springfield and Holyoke, Massachusetts area. A significant amount of drug trafficking activity occurred at the Neighborhood Supermarket, located at 316 Farmington Avenue in Hartford.
The investigation also revealed that the drug trafficking organization was using xylazine, a horse tranquilizer, as an additive to the heroin and fentanyl it distributed.
Fourteen individuals were charged with various narcotics, firearms and immigration offenses as a result of this investigation. During the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 10 kilograms of heroin and fentanyl, much of which was packaged for resale in hundreds of thousands of bags. Seven firearms were also seized.
Tolentino lived in an apartment at 280 Collins Street, and he operated a drug and firearm stash location there used by the organization. He also regularly distributed heroin/fentanyl to customers and street-level distributors, and served as a “look out” for the organization.
Tolentino was arrested on June 29, 2017. On May 11, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Tolentino, who was released on bond, was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Services at the conclusion of today’s sentencing.
The DEA’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments. Agencies assisting the investigation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service and Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
New London Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Cocaine, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JUAN HERNANDEZ, 37, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing cocaine, and for violating the conditions of his federal supervised release that followed a previous conviction for trafficking cocaine.
This matter stems from an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton and Stonington Police Departments, into the distribution of narcotics and illegal possession of firearms in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases and seizures of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, and firearms. The investigation revealed that Hernandez received cocaine from an identified leader of a drug trafficking organization and distributed the drug to his own customers and other street-level dealers.
On January 17, 2019, New London Police arrested Hernandez after they conducted a traffic stop of Hernandez’s vehicle and found him in possession of approximately 100 grams of cocaine.
At the time of his arrest, and during his criminal conduct in this case, Hernandez was on federal supervised release. On February 26, 2016, Judge Bryant sentenced Hernandez to 48 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for his participation in another southeastern Connecticut cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
On March 5, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Hernandez and 23 other individuals with various offenses. On December 9, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
Judge Bryant sentenced Hernandez to 30 months of imprisonment for the cocaine distribution offense, and an additional 18 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
Hernandez has been detained since January 17, 2019.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton, Stonington, Norwich, Old Saybrook and UConn Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RONNIE GORDON, also known as “Pop,” 39, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force initiated an investigation into a New Haven drug trafficking organization headed by Jermayne Butler. The investigation, which included physical surveillance, 13 controlled purchases of narcotics, and court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, revealed that members of the organization were distributing crack cocaine and oxycodone in the New Haven area.
Between August and November 2017, investigators made six controlled purchases of crack from Butler. A subsequent wiretap investigation revealed that Butler was obtaining bulk quantities of crack from others and distributing the drug through a network of street-level dealers, including Gordon. Butler also conspired with others to distribute oxycodone.
Gordon has been detained since his arrest on February 6, 2018.
On February 8, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 30-count indictment charging Butler, Gordon and 17 other individuals with various offenses. All have been convicted.
On August 26, 2019, Gordon guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine base (“crack”).
Gordon’s criminal history includes multiple state convictions for drug, assault and firearms offenses.
On August 10, 2020, Butler was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment.
This matter has been investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, which includes members from the New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, West Haven Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick F. Caruso and David C. Nelson.
Stamford Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Distributing Images of Child Sexual Abuse, Other OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALEXANDER OLIVEIRA, 32, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 96 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for child exploitation offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an FBI special agent working in an undercover capacity communicated with Oliveira on an internet message board and through email. During those conversations, Oliveira discussed his interest in child pornography. On one occasion, Oliveira told the undercover agent that he possessed a “ton of pics & vids of kids ages 4-12,” and then proceeded to send multiple pornographic images of children in that age range to the undercover agent. Oliveira also stated that he would provide the undercover agent with his entire “collection” of child-sex-abuse images in exchange for in-person access to a child.
Oliveira was arrested on March 5, 2019. A search of computer media seized at the time of his arrest revealed approximately 2000 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including more than 600 images of children who have been identified during the course of this and numerous other child pornography investigations.
The investigation also revealed that, in approximately 2016, Oliveira enticed a 16-year-old girl to send him sexually explicit photos of herself, and then he traveled to New York several times to have sexual intercourse with the same girl. The age of consent in New York is 17.
On October 2, 2019, Oliveira pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.
Oliveira, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 24, 2020.
This matter was investigated by FBI Child Exploitation Task Force in New Haven, with the assistance of the Stamford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Vizcarrondo.
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.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Drugs While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOEY FULLER, 31, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for violating the conditions of his federal supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force initiated an investigation into a New Haven drug trafficking organization headed by Jermayne Butler. Fuller purchased distribution quantities of crack cocaine from Butler and then sold the drug in smaller quantities to his own customers. Fuller pleaded guilty and, on November 20, 2019, Judge Bryant sentenced him to approximately 21 months of imprisonment, time already served, and four years of supervised release.
On January 14, 2020, less than two months after Fuller was release from prison, New Haven police conducted a controlled purchase of marijuana from Fuller. Investigators then arranged to purchase a quantity of heroin from Fuller. Fuller was arrested on January 31, 2020, after he arrived at a location to conduct the transaction. At the time of his arrest, Fuller possessed approximately 22 bags of heroin that he had agreed to sell.
Fuller has been detained since his arrest, and his state charges are pending.
On August 10, 2020, Butler was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick F. Caruso and David C. Nelson.
Member of Southeastern Connecticut Drug Ring Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAMEL GENERAL, also known as “Ra,” 38, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a southeastern Connecticut drug trafficking ring.
This matter stems from an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton and Stonington Police Departments, into the distribution of narcotics and illegal possession of firearms in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases and seizures of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, and firearms. General worked closely with an identified leader of a drug trafficking network, distributing cocaine on behalf of the organization and assisting in maintaining an apartment in New London that served as the organization’s primary narcotics distribution location. On February 21, 2019, in association with the arrests of several of General’s co-conspirators, a search of the New London apartment revealed more than 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, more than 350 grams of heroin, and 10 firearms.
General was arrested on February 26, 2019. On March 5, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging General and 23 other individuals with various offenses.
On May 27, 2019, General, who was released on bond, was arrested by New London Police and charged with multiple offenses stemming from his alleged assault of a woman with whom he was romantically involved. General’s federal bond was revoked on June 4, 2019.
On March 6, 2020, General pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
The state charges against General related to the May 27, 2019, incident are pending
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton, Stonington, Norwich, Old Saybrook and UConn Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
Armed Hartford Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DANNY CASTILLO, 28, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 128 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking fentanyl and other drugs, and possessing a short-barrel shotgun.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August 2018, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Hartford Police Department received information that Castillo and his associate, Pascual Ivan Medina, were distributing large quantities of fentanyl in and around Hartford. An investigation revealed that Castillo used his family business, the Albany Grocery Store located at 1160 Albany Avenue in Hartford, to conduct narcotics transactions. Between October 2018 and January 2019, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of fentanyl from Castillo, sometimes with Medina’s assistance, at both the Albany Grocery Store and Castillo’s apartment on Woodland Street in Hartford.
On January 25, 2019, investigators conducting surveillance observed Alexis Velez arrive by car at Castillo’s apartment building, interact with Castillo, enter his apartment, exit the apartment and then drive away from the location. After a Hartford Police cruiser conducted a traffic stop of Velez’s vehicle, a search of Velez’s person revealed quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine, and a search of a bag that Velez was seen carrying as he entered and exited Castillo’s apartment revealed approximately 102 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, 46 grams of cocaine, 15 grams of crack, two ounces of marijuana, and $4060 in cash.
Castillo was arrested a short time later at his Woodland Street apartment. A search of the residence revealed approximately 436 grams of fentanyl, 229 grams of heroin, 231 grams of a mixture with both fentanyl and heroin, 543 grams of a mixture of tramadol and methamphetamine, numerous items used to process and package narcotics for distribution, a loaded short-barrel shotgun, and a loaded Smith & Wesson .357 revolver. Investigators later recovered a third firearm from Castillo’s residence.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that the quantity of the fentanyl and heroin seized from Castillo would have produced at least 35,000 dose bags of the drugs.
Castillo has been detained since his arrest. On February 11, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and possession of an unregistered short-barrel shotgun.
Medina and Velez pleaded guilty to related charges. On January 23, 2020, Medina was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment. Velez awaits sentencing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Norwalk Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONALD LAWLOR, 40, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for his role in a southern Connecticut drug trafficking organization.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the summer of 2017, members of the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department began investigating individuals who were distributing narcotics in and around Bridgeport. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, resulted in federal charges against 19 defendants and the seizure of narcotics, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, eight firearms, and more than $360,000 in cash.
Lawlor was intercepted numerous times on recorded calls assisting the drug trafficking activities of an associate who, from at least January 2017 until November 2019, was distributing heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, other opioids, cocaine and crack in and around Bridgeport.
Lawlor was arrested on November 8, 2018. On September 11, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of use of a telephone to facilitate a narcotics trafficking offense.
Lawlor, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 30, 2020.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department, as well as the DEA, Connecticut State Police, and the Stratford, Norwalk, Seymour and Trumbull Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Patrick J. Doherty.
Mexican National Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Drugs from Arizona to ConnecticutRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JUAN CARLOS GONZALEZ-RUBIO, 41, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden to 48 months of imprisonment for trafficking narcotics into Connecticut.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in late 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and New Haven Police Department began investigation an organization that was responsible for trafficking kilogram-quantities of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine from Mexico and Arizona to the New Haven area. Investigators subsequently identified Gonzalez-Rubio and an associate as being responsible for moving narcotics from Arizona to Connecticut. Between March and May 2019, investigators intercepted three packages – two that contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine, and one that contained approximately one kilogram of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl – that Gonzalez-Rubio and his associate had shipped from Arizona to New Haven. The investigation revealed that Gonzalez-Rubio and his associate trafficked narcotics both through the use of commercial shipping methods, like UPS and FedEx, and by secreting drugs in cars with hidden compartments that were transported on commercial car-haulers.
In August 2019, an undercover officer met with Gonzalez-Rubio in Arizona in an attempt to arrange the transport of purported narcotics. Gonzalez-Rubio indicated that he was preparing a trip to the northeast, that planned to use a used car on a car-hauler to transport the drugs, and that he would charge approximately $2,000 per kilogram to ship the drugs. On October 1, 2019, the undercover officer provided Gonzalez-Rubio with what Gonzalez-Rubio believed was five kilograms of fentanyl. The five kilograms were actually a “mock load” disguised to resemble an illicit shipment of narcotics.
On October 13, 2019, the car-hauler arrived in Connecticut. Gonzalez-Rubio was arrested on that date after he drove the car containing the mock load of narcotics to a location in East Haven.
Gonzalez-Rubio has been detained since his arrest. On February 25, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, heroin, fentanyl and cocaine.
Gonzalez-Rubio, who has been deported previously to Mexico and returned to the U.S., faces immigration proceedings at the conclusion of his sentence.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA Task Force and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the DEA in Tucson and Phoenix, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New Haven and Tucson. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and Rahul Kale.
Indictments Charge Six Men with Narcotics Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced the unsealing of two indictments charging a total of six men with narcotics trafficking offenses.
On August 12, 2020, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a seven-count superseding indictment charging the following five men with conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine:
WILTON REYNOSO, also known as Manuel Jose Echevarria-Lugo, 49, a citizen of the Dominican Republic residing in Waterbury
TYSON QUINONES, also known as “Ty,” 34, of Waterbury
DEESHAWN PITTMAN, also known as “Low,” 30, of New Haven
QUENTINE DAVIS, 29 of New Haven
GLEN REDMOND, 55, of Springfield, MassachusettsAs alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in late 2019, the DEA New Haven Task Force began an investigation into the distribution of heroin and fentanyl in New Haven. The investigation, which included thousands of intercepted communications over court-authorized wiretaps, revealed that Pittman, Davis and others were distributing fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine to a large customer base in New Haven County. Pittman was supplied with fentanyl and heroin by Quinones, who also distributed narcotics to his own customers in and around Waterbury. Quinones and Redmond were supplied with fentanyl and heroin from Reynoso, who received large quantities of fentanyl and heroin from a source in New York.
On June 13, 2020, investigators sought to arrest Reynoso, Quinones and Pittman after intercepting a series of calls that, as alleged, indicated that Reynoso and Quinones were planning to conduct a 200-gram heroin transaction, with a portion of the drugs possibly destined for Pittman. On that date, Pittman was arrested at his residence, a search of which revealed approximately 50 grams of a mixture fentanyl and heroin, and more than $15,000 in cash. Quinones was arrested at the anticipated meeting place. A subsequent search of his residence revealed a stolen, loaded 9mm pistol. Reynoso fled from the meeting scene in his vehicle, which was found abandoned nearby. He was arrested a short time later after he returned to the vehicle. A search of a location in Waterbury that Reynoso used to store, process and package narcotics revealed more than kilogram of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.
Reynoso, Quinones and Pittman were originally charged by indictment on June 17. Davis and Redmond were arrested earlier this week after the superseding indictment was returned.
Each defendant is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin and cocaine base (“crack”). If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of drugs attributable to each defendant, Reynoso, Quinones and Pittman face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Davis and Redmond face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
The superseding indictment also charges Reynoso and Pittman with additional fentanyl distribution offenses, and Reynoso with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Reynoso, Quinones and Davis are detained, and Pittman and Redmond are released on bond.
On August 12, the grand jury also returned a three-count indictment charging Quinones and NORMAN ALEXIS GALLARDO, 36, of Meriden, with conspiring to distribute cocaine between February and June 2020. Quinones and Gallardo are each charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and two counts of attempt to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
If convicted of these charges, Quinones and Gallardo each faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, on each count.
Gallardo was arrested out of state and is in custody awaiting transport to Connecticut to face these charges.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the DEA New Haven Task Force with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys H. Gordon Hall and John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Bridgeport Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Preparing Numerous False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that VERONICA HUITZIL, 39, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to six months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for preparing false tax returns for numerous clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Huitzil, who operated a tax return preparation practice in Bridgeport, assisted in the preparation and filing of more than 3,700 federal tax returns for the 2014 through 2018 tax years. Many of the filed tax returns claimed dependents who were not dependents, deducted thousands of dollars in business losses for fictitious businesses, and included inflated or fabricated medical expenses, charitable contributions and employee business expenses. The loss suffered by the IRS as a result of Huitzil’s fraudulent conduct totaled $898,665.
Judge Dooley ordered Huitzil to make full restitution.
On February 11, 2020, Huitzil pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return.
Huitzil, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on November 30, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Hartford Man Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl, Other DrugsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAQUAN LEGGETT, also known as “Tipsy,” 32, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 92 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking fentanyl and other narcotics.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2019, law enforcement received information that Leggett and Dante Barnes, also known as “Tre,” were trafficking narcotics in Hartford. The investigation revealed that Leggett and Barnes were using Leggett’s residence on Lenox Street in Hartford to package and store fentanyl and other drugs. Between January and March 2019, investigators conducted multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl and cocaine from Barnes in Hartford and Farmington.
Leggett and Barnes were arrested on March 5, 2019. On that date, a search of Leggett’s residence revealed 169 bags of fentanyl, approximately two grams of unpackaged fentanyl, approximately four grams of crack cocaine, approximately two grams of cocaine, and items used to process and package narcotics for street sale. A search of Barnes’ Farmington residence revealed 440 bags of fentanyl, approximately 23 grams of unpackaged fentanyl, approximately 32 grams of crack cocaine, items used to package narcotics for street sale, and $24,160 in cash.
Leggett’s criminal history includes state convictions for firearm and drug offenses, and a federal conviction for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. In August 2012, he was sentenced to 57 months of imprisonment for the federal offense.
Leggett has been detained since his arrest. On October 28, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”).
On October 28, 2019, Barnes pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. On February 10, 2020, he was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment. He also forfeited the cash that was seized at the time of his arrest, and a 2007 Audi A6 3.2Q.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
East Hartford Men Charged with Sex Trafficking Minor VictimRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging JOEL LINDSAY, also known as “Joey Guapo,” 22, and JOSEPH PINA, 23, both of East Hartford, with offenses related to the sex trafficking of a minor.
Lindsay, a citizen of Jamaica, was arrested today and is detained in federal custody. Pina is detained in state custody on unrelated charges.
As alleged in the indictment, in October 2019, Lindsay and Pina recruited, enticed and transported a minor victim to engage in commercial sex acts.
The indictment charges Lindsay and Pina with one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Lindsay is also charged with one count of sex trafficking of a minor, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarala V. Nagala.
Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Theft of MailRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that AMY MAKAROS, 41, of New Britain, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill to theft of mail by a postal employee.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between November 2018 and February 2019, while she was employed as a mail carrier at the U.S. Post Office in Farmington, Makaros stole numerous pieces of mail, including greeting cards that contained gift cards or other items of value. When confronted by investigators, Makaros admitted her theft and subsequently surrendered approximately 19 pieces of mail and four gift cards that she had stolen.
Theft of mail by a postal employee carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
This investigation has been conducted by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.
U.S. Attorney Durham encouraged individuals who believe they are a victim of theft related to this case to file a complaint by calling 888-USPS-OIG, or by visiting https://www.uspsoig.gov/form/file-online-complaint.
Meriden Man Sentenced to Prison for Obstructing the IRSRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONALD CARIATI, JR., 45, of Meriden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by one years of supervised release, for obstructing the IRS. Judge Shea also ordered Cariati to pay a $95,000 fine, and restitution of more than $1 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court today, Cariati owns and operates Cariati Developers Inc. (“CDI”), a snowplow and hauling business based in Wallingford. Between 2013 and 2017, Cariati paid several CDI employees with company checks asserting that they were independent contractors or subcontractors in order to evade the responsibility to withhold and pay over taxes to the IRS. However, Cariati and CDI failed to issue Forms 1099 to these “subcontractors” for particular years. Cariati also informed certain individuals that they were being paid off the books, meaning that their pay was not reported to the IRS.
In late 2015, the IRS began an audit of CDI. During the course of this audit, Cariati caused fraudulent invoices to be made available to an IRS revenue agent. The invoices were purported to have been created in 2013 and purported to substantiate that individuals were appropriately considered subcontractors.
The investigation also revealed that, in 2014, CDI paid an invoice related to products for Cariati’s cigarette boat. During the IRS audit, Cariati caused his accountant to provide to the IRS a false invoice to make it appear that the purchase was a business expense and not a personal expense.
Judge Shea ordered Cariati to pay restitution of $1,077,048.99. Cariati paid $1 million toward his tax obligation today.
On February 28, 2020, Cariati pleaded guilty to one count of obstructing or impeding the due administration of the Internal Revenue laws.
Cariati, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison in 90 days.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Laraia.
Hartford Heroin Trafficker Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FRANCISCO LEON, also known as “Gordo,” 41, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin and illegally possessing firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2019, Hartford Police received information that Leon was selling large quantities of narcotics from an apartment located at 777 Maple Avenue in Hartford. In July 2019, investigators made a controlled purchase of heroin from Leon.
On July 9, 2018, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of the apartment and seized approximately 9,700 bags of heroin, various drug paraphernalia, and a loaded handgun. Leon was arrested on state charges on that date. At the time of his arrest, Leon possessed a U-Haul access cared and three keys from a U-Haul storage facility located on Capitol Avenue in Hartford. A subsequent search of a storage unit controlled by Leon revealed approximately nine kilograms of heroin, two loaded handguns, and assorted ammunition.
Leon’s criminal history includes multiple state convictions related to the possession and sale of narcotics.
On March 28, 2019, Leon pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Judge Dooley ordered Leon to forfeit $13,980 that was seized from him during the investigation.
Leon, who is released on $250,000 bond, is required to report to prison on October 29, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. This case was being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
FBI Attorney Admits Altering Email Used for FISA Application During "Crossfire Hurricane" InvestigationRead the Press Release
Former FBI attorney Kevin Clinesmith, 38, pleaded guilty today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to a false statement offense stemming from his altering of an email in connection with the submission of a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (“FISA”) application, announced John H. Durham, Special Attorney to the Attorney General.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the guilty plea proceeding occurred via videoconference before U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2015 and September 2019, Clinesmith was employed with the FBI as an Assistant General Counsel in the National Security and Cyber Law Branch of the FBI’s Office of General Counsel in Washington, D.C. On July 31, 2016, the FBI opened a Foreign Agents Registration Act investigation, known as “Crossfire Hurricane,” into whether individuals associated with the Donald J. Trump for President Campaign were coordinating activities with the Russian government. By August 16, 2016, the FBI had opened cases under the Crossfire Hurricane umbrella on four individuals, including an individual identified in this case as “Individual #1.”
Clinesmith was assigned to provide legal support to FBI personnel working on Crossfire Hurricane, and he assisted FBI personnel with applications prepared by the FBI and the Justice Department’s National Security Division to conduct surveillance under the FISA. During the investigation, there were a total of four court-approved FISA applications targeting Individual #1. Each of the FISA applications alleged there was probable cause that Individual #1 was a knowing agent of a foreign power, specifically Russia.
On August 17, 2016, prior to the approval of the first FISA application #1, another U.S. government agency (“OGA”) provided certain members of the Crossfire Hurricane team a memorandum indicating that Individual #1 had been approved as an “operational contact” for the OGA from 2008 to 2013 and detailing information that Individual #1 had provided to the OGA concerning Individual #1’s prior contacts with certain Russian intelligence officers. The first three FISA applications did not include Individual #1’s history or status with the OGA.
Prior to the submission of the fourth FISA application, and after Individual #1 stated publicly that he/she had assisted the U.S. government in the past, an FBI Supervisory Special Agent (“SSA”) asked Clinesmith to inquire with the OGA as to whether Individual #1 had ever been a “source” for the OGA. On June 15, 2017, Clinesmith sent an email to a liaison at the OGA (“OGA Liaison”) seeking clarification as to whether Individual #1 was an OGA source, and the OGA Liaison responded via email to Clinesmith. On June 19, 2017, Clinesmith altered the email he received from the OGA Liaison by adding the words “not a source,” and then forwarded the email to the FBI SSA. Relying on the altered email, on June 29, 2017, the SSA signed and submitted the fourth FISA application to the U.S. Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. The application did not include Individual #1’s history or status with the OGA.
Clinesmith pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement within both the jurisdiction of the executive branch and judicial branch of the U.S. government, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000. Judge Boasberg scheduled sentencing for December 10, 2020.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Scarpelli, with the support and assistance of other members of Special Attorney Durham’s team.
Pharmacist Who Tampered with and Stole Infusion Narcotics Sentenced to 51 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARL MANCINI, 43, of Wolcott, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for tampering with and stealing infusion narcotics while he was employed as a pharmacist for a Connecticut company.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Mancini was employed as a licensed pharmacist by a Connecticut company that prepared home or hospice care intravenous infusions for a variety of medical conditions, including pain management. As part of his duties, Mancini was responsible for formulating infusions of the correct concentration for specific patients pursuant to the orders of their physician. Between approximately January and June 2019, Mancini accessed a secure area of his workplace and took vials of narcotics, including hydromorphone hydrochloride and morphine sulfate pentahydrate, that were intended to be used to formulate infusion for patients. He used a syringe to withdraw the narcotics from the vials and reinjected saline into the vial so that it would appear as if the narcotics were not missing. In order to hide his tampering, Mancini used specialized crimping tools to reseal the vials. He then returned the vials to the secure area at his workplace.
Mancini tampered with dozens of vials through this scheme. Laboratory testing of a sample of vials Mancini tampered with revealed that virtually all of the active drug had been removed and replaced with saline.
During today’s sentencing, Judge Shea heard from family members of several patients who may have received vials that Mancini had tampered with. The infusion drugs the patients received, in order to reduce their pain while in end-of-life care, appeared to be ineffective.
The investigation revealed that, in 2003, Mancini stole drugs from a previous employer, a pharmacy that provided pharmaceutical products to long-term care facilities. He was charged with state offenses, resigned, and received an adjudication under Connecticut’s accelerated rehabilitation provision. In 2007, Mancini wrote prescriptions for himself while working as a clinical pharmacist. He was again arrested on state charges, convicted, and received a one-year suspended sentence and two years of probation.
As part of the resolution of his 2007 conviction, Mancini lost his pharmacist license and agreed never to apply for one again. However, he subsequently reapplied for, and received, his license.
On December 13, 2019, Mancini pleaded guilty to one count of tampering with a consumer product.
Mancini, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on November 16, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the Cromwell Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, Drug Control Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
Long Island Woman Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Identity Theft and Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LISA REID, 47, of Amityville, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 90 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for victimizing dozens of individuals in an identity theft and credit card fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between February 2015 and January 2017, Reid was involved in a scheme to defraud credit card companies and their customers by fraudulently taking over credit card accounts and, using those accounts, making unauthorized purchases from high-end retailers.
As part of her scheme, Reid used publicly available information to obtain phone numbers for individuals living in affluent areas. She then called her victims pretending to be a representative of a credit card company and claiming that the company needed information about their account. The victims then provided Reid with their account information, including credit card numbers and passwords. Reid then contacted the credit card company, pretending to be the victim. After providing all of the requested security information, she added a new phone number and address to the account. The address was typically an abandoned or foreclosed property near her home in New York. Reid then used the compromised credit card accounts to order merchandise from high-end retailers and had the merchandise shipped to an address that she had previously added to the credit card account. After Reid, or a “runner,” retrieved the merchandise, she sold it at a pawnshop or to another individual.
Through this scheme, Reid stole the identities of more than 50 individuals, most of whom were senior citizens, and used their credit card information to purchase more than $1 million in merchandise. Victim credit card companies successfully thwarted approximately $3.8 million worth of Reid’s attempted purchases.
Judge Shea ordered Reid to pay restitution in the amount of $1,009,235.69.
On December 20, 2016, federal agents executed a search warrant at Reid’s residence and also attempted to arrest Reid. Investigators learned that Reid had fled to Florida where she committed another fraudulent credit card purchase of a $50,500 Cartier watch using a compromised account.
Reid has been detained since her arrest on February 5, 2017.
On November 7, 2017, Reid pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
In October 2010, Reid was convicted in the Eastern District of Kentucky of federal bank fraud and aggravated identity theft offenses, and was sentenced to 27 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release. The convictions stemmed from a similar credit card takeover scheme that also defrauded victims of approximately $1 million.
Reid, who was on supervised release during her most recent criminal conduct, may face additional penalties in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Greenwich Police Department and Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, which included the U.S. Secret Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the Shelton, Stamford, Hartford and Norwalk Police Departments. The U.S. Marshals Service assisted the investigation.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
The Justice Department has established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
Waterbury Man Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DESNY SOSA-HERNANDEZ, 41, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2019, law enforcement arranged two controlled purchases of cocaine in Bridgeport from Sosa-Hernandez and his co-conspirator, Edgard Martinez. On March 20, 2019, after investigators coordinated the purchase of 300 grams of cocaine from Sosa-Hernandez and Martinez, Martinez drove from his residence in Tolland to pick up Sosa-Hernandez at his residence in Waterbury. The pair then intended to drive together to Bridgeport to consummate the drug transaction. When Martinez arrived at Sosa-Hernandez’s residence, investigators apprehended Martinez and Sosa-Hernandez and seized a brown paper bag containing 300 grams of cocaine inside Martinez’s vehicle. A subsequent search of Sosa-Hernandez’s residence revealed shoeboxes containing a total of $18,111 in cash, and a search of Martinez’s residence revealed a .45 caliber handgun, a quantity of cocaine, and items used to process and package narcotics.
On November 6, 2019, Sosa-Hernandez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine.
Sosa-Hernandez, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 16.
Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. On May 29, 2020, he was sentenced to 29 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (HIDTA) and Milford Police Department. The Task Force includes participants from the Connecticut State Police and the Milford, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford and Bridgeport Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.
Norwalk Bookkeeper Sentenced to Prison for Fraud and Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PENNI SHERMAN, also known as PENNI PARKER, 53, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to eight months of imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release, for fraud and tax offenses stemming from an embezzlement scheme. Judge Shea ordered Sherman to spend the first two months of supervised release in home confinement.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sherman operated PSP Accounting & Bookkeeping, and provided bookkeeping services to area businesses. Between 2011 and 2018, Sherman stole a total of $418,197.09, from clients and used the funds to pay her own credit card bills and to cover other personal expenses, including salon services.
Sherman stole more than $396,000 from one of her clients who owned a small business. When confronted about the embezzlement, Sherman returned $165,920 to the victim business owner.
Sherman failed to report the embezzled funds, and certain other business receipts, on her federal income tax returns, resulting in a loss of $125,167 to the Internal Revenue Service.
On October 11, 2019, Sherman pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of making and subscribing a false tax return.
Judge Shea ordered Sherman to pay restitution of $252,277.09 to the victims of her fraud, and $125,167 in back taxes, plus applicable interest and penalties, to the IRS.
Sherman, who has been released on bond, is required to report to prison on August 13, 2021.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.
Ellington Man Sentenced to Nearly 29 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SIMON HESSLER, 48, formerly of Ellington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 347 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for child exploitation offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2018, a Connecticut State Police detective identified Hessler as a person possibly involved in the sex trafficking of minors. Hessler began communicating with the detective, who was acting in an undercover capacity, and told the detective that he maintained a sex dungeon on the top floor of his office building that was full of devices including a cage, stocks, handcuffs, whips and other devices. Hessler offered to pay the detective $500 for two-days of “slave training” and “limitless sex” with a 12-year-old “DCF child.” Once the detective agreed to the “sale,” Hessler required the “DCF child” be left in a trailer near a hotel he operated in Manchester, and told the detective to send him a picture of the child gagged, blindfolded and handcuffed before he would reveal the location of the cash payment. After the detective sent Hessler a photo of an image that appeared to be a child bound on the floor of a trailer, Hessler revealed the location of the money. On November 13, 2018, Hessler was arrested after he exited his car and began walking toward the trailer.
After his arrest, investigators accessed a USB drive that had been inside a safe in Hessler’s “sex dungeon” in Vernon. The USB drive contained thousands of photos and videos that contained both child pornography and child erotica, including approximately 60 images of a specific female who was under the age of 12. The investigation revealed that, between July 2016 and November 2018, Hessler sexually abused the minor female, and he used a used a cellular phone to produce images of the sexual abuse.
Hessler has been detained in state custody since his arrest. On December 11, 2019, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography.
Hessler also was charged in both the Hartford Judicial District and the Tolland Judicial District with related state offenses. On December 17, 2019, he pleaded guilty to several of those offenses, including two counts of sex assault in the fourth degree, two counts of risk of injury, and multiple counts related to his attempt to commit commercial sex abuse of a minor under the age of 13, unlawful restraint and attempt to commit intentional cruelty. Today’s sentencing is part of a global resolution of all federal and state charges. Hessler is expected to be sentenced to 30 years of incarceration for the state offenses, and Judge Underhill ordered Hessler’s federal sentence to run concurrently with his state sentence.
This matter was investigated by the Connecticut State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case federal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the Hartford and Tolland State Attorney’s Offices for their cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
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.
Accountant Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion and Obstruction Offenses; Tax Loss Exceeds $1 MillionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, today announced that LOUIS DEMAIO, 69, of Guilford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton to tax evasion and obstruction offenses.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DeMaio was employed as an accountant in East Haven and, from approximately 2010 to 2018, also operated Almatt LLC, a temporary employment agency that provided day laborers to construction companies. Although DeMaio listed an individual (“Individual A”) on paper as the owner of Almatt, Almatt was effectively owned and run by DeMaio.
As part of Almatt’s operating procedures, Almatt invoiced construction companies for the cost of labor provided and, from the payments received from the companies, paid the employees for services rendered. Almatt and DeMaio then provided the employees with W-2 forms reflecting that Almatt had undertaken required federal tax withholdings. However, Almatt and DeMaio failed to withhold taxes and subsequently failed to pay over those withholdings to the IRS. Almatt also never filed yearly income tax returns or quarterly 941 forms reflecting federal withholding and payroll taxes owed.
In addition, DeMaio issued hundreds of thousands of dollars of checks from Almatt made out to himself and to family members who did not work at the business. From 2010 through 2018, DeMaio and his family received more than $2.5 million from Almatt. DeMaio failed to report any of these distributions on his federal personal income tax returns.
In 2015, the IRS initiated a civil examination of Almatt, and then expanded the examination to evaluate the completeness of DeMaio’s personal income tax returns. When the IRS confronted DeMaio about his failure to report income paid to him by Almatt, DeMaio fabricated a story that a substantial portion of the payments he received from Almatt were loan repayments from Individual A. DeMaio also provided an IRS revenue agent with a false notarized document that DeMaio had created to support his story. When the civil investigation was referred to IRS Criminal Investigation, DeMaio confirmed the fake loan repayment story in an interview with IRS special agents.
The tax loss as a result of DeMaio’s criminal conduct is $1,132,398. DeMaio has agreed to pay full restitution, as well as interest and penalties.
DeMaio pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and one count of obstructing and impeding the due administration of Internal Revenue laws, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years. Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for November 3, 2020.
DeMaio is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Leader of New Haven Drug Ring Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JERMAYNE BUTLER, also known as “Main,” “Main Live” and “Liver,” 39, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 78 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his leadership role in a New Haven drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force initiated an investigation into a New Haven drug trafficking organization headed by Butler. The investigation, which included physical surveillance, 13 controlled purchases of narcotics, and court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, revealed that members of the organization were distributing crack cocaine and oxycodone in the New Haven area.
Between August and November 2017, investigators made six controlled purchases of crack from Butler. A subsequent wiretap investigation revealed that Butler was obtaining bulk quantities of crack from others and distributing the drug through a network of street-level dealers. Butler also conspired with others to distribute oxycodone.
Butler and several of his associates were arrested on February 6, 2018. In association with the arrests, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of seven properties in New Haven and Hamden and seized seven firearms, ammunition, approximately 100 grams of crack cocaine, and approximately $14,000 in cash. Butler has been detained since his arrest.
On February 8, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 30-count indictment charging Butler and 18 other individuals with various offenses. All have been convicted.
On August 9, 2019, Butler pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine base (“crack”).
Butler’s criminal history includes multiple drug-related convictions.
Judge Shea ordered Butler, who is released on a $200,000 bond, to report to prison in 90 days.
This matter has been investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, which includes members from the New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, West Haven Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick F. Caruso and David C. Nelson.
Hartford Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that VICTOR PERDOMO, also known as “Domi,” 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 70 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force launched an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that was selling large amounts of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine in Hartford. Julio Oliveras, also known as “Cuzzo Jay,” was identified as the leader of the organization. The investigation, which included approximately six months of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance, revealed that Oliveras and his associates supplied distribution quantities of narcotics to several Hartford-area drug dealers and used multiple locations in Hartford to process, store and distribute narcotics. Perdomo was a supplier of heroin and fentanyl to Oliveras.
Perdomo, Oliveras and other members of the organization were arrested on July 19, 2018. On that date, investigators executed 10 search warrants and seized approximately 2.7 kilograms of fentanyl, one kilogram of heroin, approximately 500 grams of crack cocaine, 100 grams of cocaine, eight firearms, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, cash, and other evidence of narcotics trafficking activity. The drugs and firearms were found at a stash house Oliveras maintained, a storage unit he rented, and the residences of his associates.
On August 2, 2018, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Perdomo, Oliveras and 14 co-defendants with various offenses.
Perdomo has been detained since his arrest. On October 21, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Perdomo, a citizen of the Dominican Republic lawfully residing in the U.S., faces immigration proceedings at the conclusion of his prison term.
Oliveras pleaded guilty to narcotics and firearm offenses and, on January 15, 2020, was sentenced to 186 months of imprisonment.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments. Agencies assisting the investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Connecticut Department of Correction, and the East Hartford, New Britain, Newington and West Hartford Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Connecticut Dentist Pays over $148K to Settle Improper Billing AllegationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney John H. Durham and Connecticut Attorney General William Tong today announced that EAN JAMES, D.M.D., has entered into a civil settlement with the federal and state governments in which he will pay more than $148,000 to resolve allegations that he caused overpayments to be paid by the Connecticut Medicaid Program.
James is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who practices at Hartford County Oral Surgery in Bristol and Rocky Hill. The government’s allegations against James arise out of billing Medicaid for sedation and anesthesia services without a valid permit to perform those services.
In order for a dentist to administer moderate or deep sedation or general anesthesia to patients during dental procedures, the State of Connecticut requires the practitioner to have an active permit to perform conscious sedation, issued by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (“DPH”). This conscious sedation permit must be renewed annually. If the annual deadline to renew the conscious sedation permit lapses, there is a 90-day grace period during which a dentist may still administer anesthesia and sedation under the expired permit and may still apply for a renewal. Once the grace period expires, the permit becomes void. The dentist may not administer anesthesia or sedation, and must apply for a new permit if he or she wishes to resume providing those services.
On April 30, 2018, James’ conscious sedation permit lapsed. He failed to renew his permit and, on August 1, 2018, the 90-day grace period expired. Despite not having an active permit, James continued to provide anesthesia and sedation services to Medicaid patients undergoing certain oral surgical procedures, and billed Medicaid for these services. The government alleges that these claims for sedation services performed without a valid permit were improper.
To resolve his liability, James will pay $148,632.23 to the federal and state governments for conduct occurring between August 1, 2018, and June 7, 2019.
This matter was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Kaczmarek, and by Assistant Attorney General Michael Cole of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Task Force at (203) 777-6311.
Indictment Charges Five Men for Involvement in Bridgeport Courthouse ShootingRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging five Bridgeport men with multiple offenses stemming from their alleged involvement in an afternoon shooting in front of a state courthouse in Bridgeport in January.
Today’s announcement was made by John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Joseph T. Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Fairfield Judicial District; Bridgeport Police Chief Armando J. Perez; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England.
The indictment, which was returned on August 5 and unsealed today following the arrest of four of the five defendants, charges
MARQUIS ISREAL, 24
ASANTE GAINES, 23
DESTINE CALDERON, 25
DIOMIE BLACKWELL, 23
LAHEEM JONES, 25Isreal, Calderon, Blackwell and Jones were arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Holly B. Fitsimmons via video conference and are detained. Gaines is detained in state custody on unrelated charges.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address escalating violence in Bridgeport, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals and Bridgeport Police are actively investigating members of multiple Bridgeport-based groups, including members of the “Greene Homes Boys” or “Hots” (“GHB/Hots”), a group based in the Charles F. Greene Homes Housing Complex in Bridgeport’s North End, whose members are involved in narcotics trafficking and numerous acts of violence, including murder. At various times, GHB/Hots members have formed alliances with other Bridgeport groups, including the Original North End (“ONE”) to target rival gang members.
On January 27, 2020, at 12:11 p.m., Bridgeport Police responded to the area of 172 Golden Hill Street in Bridgeport after a Shot Spotter activation detected approximately 20 shots being fired in front of the state courthouse located there. Upon arrival, investigators discovered that four victims – Trevon Wright, Khalil Heard, Jaffar Ali, Jaheim Warren – had been shot while sitting inside a black Chevrolet Impala. Wright was shot in the side of his chest, and has been left paralyzed. Heard sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his back, shoulder and wrist. Ali was grazed in the head and shot in the left thumb, and Warren was grazed in the ribs. The victims’ vehicle had approximately 23 entry bullet holes in the driver’s side and windshield area.
As alleged, this shooting is part of a larger ongoing investigation targeting the GHB/Hots, ONE and rival gangs.
The indictment charges Isreal, Gaines, Calderon, Blackwell and Jones with one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, attempted murder/aiding and abetting in assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted murder, all in violation of the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering (“VCAR”) statute. The assault offense carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and the attempted offenses carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. The five defendants are also charged with conspiracy to commit murder/conspiracy to commit assault with a dangerous weapon. The conspiracy to commit murder offense carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and the conspiracy to commit assault offense carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years.
The indictment also charges Isreal with one count of using and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least 10 years, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine base (“crack”) and fentanyl, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
“The federal charges against these five defendants are the result of an extensive investigation conducted by a partnership of law enforcement entities formed to address the surge in violent crime in the city of Bridgeport,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Bridgeport State’s Attorney’s Office are jointly supervising the investigation, and federal and state prosecutors worked seamlessly to ensure that appropriate charges were brought. I applaud the collaborative efforts of the Bridgeport Police Department, ATF, FBI and DEA in bringing those who are alleged to be responsible for this reckless and violent incident to stand trial for their actions. I also thank the forensic examiners at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services for their timely and expert analysis pertaining to DNA and ballistic evidence that has been critical to this investigation. Finally, I want to stress that while this is a significant and substantial prosecution that will assist in quelling violence in Bridgeport, our work is far from over. We continue to jointly investigate other violent acts in Bridgeport, and the groups, gangs or individuals responsible for them.”
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to United States Attorney John H. Durham for his strong commitment to public safety in the city of Bridgeport,” said Chief Perez. “I also want to thank all of our federal and state partners. This was a great effort on everyone’s part.”
“Continued cooperation among local, state, and federal agencies is essential to stem the rising tide of violence in our community so that our youth can avail themselves to opportunities in education and employment, and all residents can enjoy peace and security,” said State’s Attorney Corradino. “I look forward to more successful interagency coordination and express my appreciation to all of the outstanding work by all those involved in this investigation.”
“This investigation is an example of ATF’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners at the Bridgeport Police Department, DEA and FBI, said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brady. “Together we identified, targeted, investigated and arrested alleged violent criminals. Today’s arrests should serve as a warning that we will not tolerate gang related violence and those who cause it.”
“This indictment and these arrests are the result of the around the clock investigative work by city, state and federal law enforcement despite the ongoing challenges in our communities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sundberg. “The alleged brazen violent acts by these individuals showed their blatant disregard for life of innocent people entering and exiting the court house. We will continue to vigorously pursue those bad actors that disrupt and diminish the quality of life for law abiding citizens.”
“As we all know, drug trafficking in our communities, along with the gun and physical violence that often accompanies it, is a serious threat to our families and communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Boyle. “These crimes rob the neighborhoods of safety and hold law abiding citizens of Connecticut hostage to drug-fueled lawlessness. This is unacceptable and will not be allowed to happen. DEA and its local, state and federal partners are dedicated to bringing to justice those that commit these crimes.”
“The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Scientific Services forensic analysts utilized the NIBIN and CODIS databases to provide timely forensic investigative leads to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies,” said Dr. Guy M. Vallaro, Director of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing investigation is being 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 Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory and the Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, Rahul Kale, Peter D. Markle and Karen L. Peck.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that this prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program and Project Longevity. 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.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LUIS MIGUEL ROSARIO-PERALTA, 29, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in Stamford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department’s Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit identified Rosario-Peralta as a large-scale fentanyl trafficker. In July 2019, investigators intercepted Rosario-Peralta on a wiretap negotiating the sale of kilogram quantities of narcotics. Rosario-Peralta was arrested on July 5, 2019, in Yonkers, New York, after he traveled to a drug stash location there and picked up approximately three kilograms of fentanyl.
Peralta has been detained since his arrest. At sentencing, which is not scheduled, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department, with the assistance of the Yonkers Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Vizcarrondo.
Waterbury Cocaine Distributor Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEAN CARLOS FABAL-GONZALEZ, 26, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall to 40 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury and Naugatuck Police Departments into a heroin and cocaine trafficking operation headed by Keith Jordan of Waterbury. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Jordan was receiving large quantities of heroin and cocaine from various suppliers and selling to drugs to other distributors and street-level customers. Fabal-Gonzalez supplied cocaine to Carlos Morais of Waterbury who, in turn, supplied cocaine to Jordan.
On March 13, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Fabal-Gonzalez, Jordan, Morais and 26 other individuals with various federal offenses related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine.
Fabal-Gonzalez was arrested on March 20, 2019. A search of his residence at the time of his arrest revealed is residence revealed a handgun and more than $31,000 in cash.
On January 21, 2020, Fabal-Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine.
Fabal-Gonzalez has been detained since his arrest. He is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and may face immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Jordan and Morais previously pleaded guilty. On February 20, 2020, Morais was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment. Jordan awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force, Waterbury Police Department and Naugatuck Police Department, with the critical assistance of the U.S. Secret Service, New York Field Office. The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Dave Vatti and Nathaniel J. Gentile.
West Haven Man Charged with Ammunition Possession and Cocaine Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging BRIAN MELENDEZ, 31, of West Haven, with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school.
The indictment was returned under seal on July 29, and Melendez was arrested on July 31. Following his arrest, Melendez appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector via videoconference. He is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for August 7.
As alleged in the indictment, on January 7, 2020, Melendez possessed .22 caliber ammunition and a distribution quantity of cocaine within 1,000 feet of the Washington Elementary School in West Haven.
It is further alleged that, in 2008, Melendez was convicted in North Carolina of possession of a weapon of mass death and destruction. In 2010, he was convicted in Connecticut of carrying a pistol or revolver with a permit.
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.
If convicted, Melendez faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on the firearm charge, and 40 years of imprisonment on the cocaine distribution charge.
U.S. Attorney Durham 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 West Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. Doherty.
Two Men Sentenced for Involvement in New Haven-Based Drug RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that two men involved in a New Haven-based drug trafficking organization were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny. JAMAINE JACKSON, also known as “Jack,” 46, of Bridgeport, was sentenced to 77 months of imprisonment, and THEODORE SMITH, also known as “Ted,” 38, of New Haven was sentenced to 42 months of imprisonment. Judge Chatigny also ordered each defendant to serve three years of supervised release when he is released from prison.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencings occurred via videoconference.
This matter stems from an investigation headed by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force and New Haven Police Department that targeted drug trafficking and related acts of violence by members, former members and associates of the “Island Brothers” street gang in New Haven. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, also revealed that the drug trafficking organization had established a base of operation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The investigation subsequently identified a second drug trafficking network that involved the large-scale distribution of heroin.
During the investigation, Brian Backman of New Haven and Anderson Atkinson of Hamden were identified as suppliers of heroin to members of the drug trafficking organization. Jackson conspired with Backman, Anderson and others to acquire heroin and sell it to his own customers.
Smith, who resided in Fitchburg for a time, distributed crack cocaine and heroin. He also wire-transferred proceeds of his drug sales to his Connecticut associates.
Twenty-seven individuals were charged as a result of this investigation.
On November 22, 2019, Jackson pleaded guilty one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and Smith pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”) and heroin.
Jackson’s criminal history includes 13 convictions for drug offenses, and convictions for assault, strangulation and burglary. Smith also has a lengthy criminal history, which includes multiple convictions for narcotics and assault offenses.
Backman and Atkinson previously pleaded guilty. On March 11, 2020, Backman was sentenced to 121 months of imprisonment. Atkinson awaits sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, Hamden Police Department, East Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan, Peter D. Markle and Elena L. Coronado.
Navy Technician Sentenced to Prison for Sexually Abusing Minor at Groton Sub BaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHAZZMAN K. CHUNG, 29, of Groton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for sexually abusing a minor on the grounds of the Naval Submarine Base in Groton.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Chung, a technician in the U.S. Navy, met a 13-year-old boy (the “victim”) on the Grindr dating application. Chung and the victim then communicated via text messages and phone calls. The victim’s Grindr profile indicated that he was 18 years old, but he told Chung that he was 14 years old. On December 19, 2018, the victim feigned illness and stayed home from school. On that date, Chung picked up the victim at the victim’s residence and drove back to the Naval Submarine Base in Groton. In his barracks, Chung engaged in illegal sexual activity with the victim.
Chung was arrested on state charges on April 9, 2019, and on a federal criminal complaint on October 17, 2019. On February 24, 2020, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of sexual abuse of a minor.
Judge Shea ordered Chung, who is released on a $25,000 bond, to report to prison in 90 days.
This investigation was conducted by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Connecticut State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. 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.
Man Admits Robbing Banks in East Haven and Windsor Locks While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GARY W. BORNMAN, 58, of New Haven, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today to two counts of bank robbery and admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal case.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the guilty plea proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 29, 2019, Bornman drove a female accomplice to the Citizens Bank located at 430 Foxon Boulevard in East Haven. While Bornman waited outside, his accomplice entered the bank wearing a disguise and a red wig, approached a teller, and demanded money. The teller handed over approximately $1,003.
On January 27, 2020, Bornman drove a male accomplice to the People’s United Bank located at 20 Main Street in Windsor Locks. While Bornman waited outside, his accomplice entered the bank, approached a teller and showed a note demanding money. The teller hand over approximately $1,056. Bornman’s car was captured on surveillance video from a nearby business.
In June 2001, Bornman was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 235 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for bank robbery and firearm possession offenses. He was released from prison in October 2018.
Bornman has been detained since February 12, 2020, when he was arrested for violating his supervised release.
Bornman is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on October 27, 2020, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years on the bank robbery offenses, and additional penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, East Haven Police Department and Windsor Locks Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.
New Haven Crack Distributor Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIN JONES, also known as “Cree,” 43, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement identified Jones and his girlfriend, Bianca Daniels, as crack cocaine suppliers in the Farnham Court area of New Haven. In November 2018 and March 2019, investigators made controlled purchases of crack from Jones and Daniels.
Jones and Daniels were arrested on related state charges on March 6, 2019. A search of their residence on that date revealed approximately 29 grams of crack and approximately 52 grams of powder cocaine.
On July 16, 2019, Jones pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Jones, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on October 26.
Daniels pleaded guilty on July 15, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria del Pilar Gonzalez and Sarah P. Karwan.
U.S. Attorney's Office Commemorates 30th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
New Haven – The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the nation’s preeminent civil rights law for providing access and equal opportunity for people with disabilities, was signed into law on July 26, 1990, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to play a critical role in the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under this landmark legislation.
“The Americans with Disabilities Act has been critical in protecting the civil rights of all persons with disabilities,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “The ADA seeks to eliminate disability discrimination in services, programs and activities that most Americans take for granted, but for too long were largely inaccessible to individuals with disabilities. Whether in schools, civic life, or the day-to-day activities and access to goods and services that we all enjoy, the ADA requires that we take necessary steps to ensure access for all. As our office celebrates the 30th anniversary of this important law, we also rededicate ourselves to continue our work in this important area.”
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut has taken a comprehensive and pragmatic approach to enforce the ADA.
For years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s ADA enforcement action and outreach efforts have worked to ensure that places of public accommodation are accessible. The office has settled with numerous Connecticut financial institutions, hotels, restaurants, recreational facilities, transportation companies and other businesses to ensure accessibility for all. The office also has conducted extensive training and outreach to ensure that places of public accommodation are complying with the mandates of the ADA. For example, in February 2020, the office settled a case with Progressive Insurance Company to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities at all Progressive Casualty Insurance Company locations across the country.
In 2014, the office launched an Education Working Group to address numerous complaints that educational institutions were discriminating against children with disabilities. The office subsequently entered into various settlement agreements and letters of resolutions with educational institutions, to protect the rights of people with disabilities, especially children. Since 2014, the office has settled cases with local and national day care centers, afterschool programs, elementary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions, to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities. Just last month, the office settled a case with Bradford Child Care Services, Inc., a Pennsylvania-based company that owns Tender Care Learning Centers in Pennsylvania and Connecticut, to resolve allegations that Tender Care was not operating in compliance with the ADA because it was discriminating against children with epilepsy.
As part of the Justice Department’s Barrier Free Healthcare Initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office conducted extensive outreach on the ADA, and has settled numerous cases with hospitals and other healthcare providers. These settlements have ensured that individuals with disabilities receive equal access to services, are provided with effective communication, and are not discriminated against because of their use of service animals. In 2019, the office settled with Concentra, a national health care company, to ensure effective communication for deaf and hard of hearing individuals at Concentra’s patient-facing facilities throughout the U.S.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work with the State of Connecticut and local governments across the state to ensure equal access for people with disabilities. As part of the Justice Department’s ADA Voting Initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section and Disability Rights Section worked with state and local governments to ensure polling locations in Connecticut had accessible equipment and removed architectural barriers. The office, through the Justice Department’s ADA Intercity Rail Initiative, worked with Connecticut’s Department of Transportation to resolve allegations that the New London Rail Station has not been accessible to individuals with mobility disabilities, as required by the ADA.
Finally, the office has conducted enforcement actions against housing providers to protect individuals with disabilities and, in recent years, settled two cases against the Bridgeport Housing Authority (BHA). The first settlement addressed allegations that the BHA violated the Fair Housing Act (FHA) by refusing to provide reasonable accommodations to a woman with disabilities who lived with her children in one of the housing authority’s properties. The second settlement, which involved both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section, resolved allegations that the BHA discriminated against persons with disabilities, in violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Title II of the ADA, and the FHA, and secured $1.5 million dollars to compensate hundreds of victims.
Over the past 30 years, the U.S. has undertaken the hard work of changing attitudes about disability, tearing down barriers to equality, and dismantling the systems that have historically excluded people with disabilities. Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office commemorates the many ways that the ADA has transformed our society—by replacing exclusion with access, segregation with integration, and limitations with self-determination.
For more information about the ADA, please visit www.ada.gov, or call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY).
To file a complaint with the Justice Department, please visit the Civil Rights Division’s reporting portal at www.civilrights.justice.gov.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that a business that serves the public, or a public entity, in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
North Branford Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraud and Tax Offenses Stemming from Embezzlement SchemesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MELISSA MEOLE, 35, of North Branford, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden to fraud and tax offenses stemming from embezzlement schemes.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Meole was employed by Bridgeport Health Care Center Inc. (“BHCC-INC”), a corporation that operates a nursing and rehabilitation facility in Bridgeport known as Bridgeport Health Care Center (“BHCC”). Prior to November 2018, BHCC-INC also operated a second nursing and rehabilitation facility in Bridgeport known as Bridgeport Manor. Meole worked in BHCC-INC’s business office and was responsible for processing payroll and for handling the finances of the Bridgeport Manor resident trust account. From 2015 to October 2018, Meole stole more than $415,000 by writing checks to cash out of the facilities’ resident trust accounts, which held the personal funds of residents. She then deposited the cash into her bank account. She also stole more than $29,000 by writing false payroll checks to current and former BHCC employees and then depositing those checks into her bank account by forging the employees’ signatures.
After Meole’s employment with BHCC-INC was terminated in October 2018, Meole defrauded another employer of more than $9,000 by stealing and fraudulently depositing into her own account certain checks that were returned to the company, often for incorrect addresses. She also defrauded three banks in a check kiting scheme.
For the 2015 through 2018 tax years, Meole failed to report $487,523 income, most of which was fraudulently obtained, to the Internal Revenue Service, resulting in a tax loss of $103,217.
Meole pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of filing a false tax returns, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years. Meole also has agreed to pay restitution of $456,594.56 to victims of her schemes, and $103,217, plus interest and penalties, to the IRS. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
Meole was arrested on a criminal complaint on September 17, 2019. She is released on a $200,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor – Employee Benefits Security Administration, Boston Regional Office, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David E. Novick and Neeraj N. Patel.
Danbury Man Admits $1.1 Million Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY TEIXEIRA, 50, of Danbury, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez to a fraud offense related to $1.1 million embezzlement scheme.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, for more than 25 years, Teixeira was employed by Joseph Merritt & Company (“JMC”), a Hartford-based printing company. Teixeira most recently oversaw the JMC branch located in Danbury. Between approximately January 2012 and February 2019, Teixeira defrauded JMC and its customers by presenting sales orders, or test sales orders, to customers as though they were actually invoices. Customers, believing they were paying JMC for the work, then delivered payments into accounts that Teixeira controlled. Teixeira also stole printing-related inventory from JMC inventory and sold it online, but manipulated invoices to deceive JMC’s systems into thinking the company had sold the inventory. The loss attributable to Teixeira through these schemes is approximately $1.1 million.
Teixeira pleaded guilty to one count of 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 Vanessa L. Bryant on November 12, 2020.
Teixeira was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on December 12, 2019, and he was subsequently released on a $50,000 bond. He has been detained since June 1, 2020, after Judge Bryant determined that Teixeira had violated the conditions of his release and revoked his bond. An investigation revealed that Teixeira spent more than $48,000 while released on bond, in violation of court-imposed restrictions on his financial activity.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Danbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr. and Amanda S. Oakes.
Watertown Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ORLANDO MARTINEZ, also known as “Bolo,” 52, of Watertown, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 70 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department revealed that Nestor Sosa-Ortiz operated a Waterbury-based drug trafficking organization that received large quantities of heroin and fentanyl from suppliers in Connecticut and New York and distributed the narcotics throughout New Haven County. The organization used an apartment located at 330 Bishop Street in Waterbury to store kilogram-quantities of heroin and fentanyl, and to process and package the drugs for street sale. After Nestor Sosa-Ortiz was arrested in New York City on a separate federal heroin and fentanyl trafficking charge in May 2019, he continued to control his drug network while incarcerated by using smuggled cell phones to communicate with various co-conspirators.
The investigation revealed that Martinez purchased bulk quantities of heroin and fentanyl from a member of the organization who distributed narcotics from the Corner Mini market at 52 East Farm Road in Waterbury. Martinez then sold the drugs to his own customer base.
Sixteen individuals were charged as a result of this investigation.
Martinez and several of his codefendants were arrested on October 29, 2019. In association with the arrests, law enforcement officers executed five search warrants at locations in Waterbury, including the Bishop Street apartment and the Corner Mini Market, and seized approximately six kilograms of suspected heroin/fentanyl, approximately 100,000 bags of suspected heroin/fentanyl packaged for street distribution, approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills disguised as Percocet pills, one firearm and approximately $50,000 in cash.
Martinez has been detained since his arrest. On February 27, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl.
Martinez’s criminal history includes five convictions for narcotics offenses, and he was on special parole with the state at the time of his federal arrest.
Sosa-Ortiz pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department. The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis, Lauren Clark and Brendan Keefe.
Stamford Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing, Selling FirearmRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEVIN GENIS, 27, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 28, 2019, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of a Century Arms International 7.62 caliber AK pistol and 10 rounds of ammunition from Genis for $900.
In November 2015, Genis was convicted in state court of three counts of possession with intent to sell narcotics. 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.
Genis was on state probation at the time he illegally possessed and sold the firearm.
Genis has been detained since his arrest on June 27, 2019. On February 7, 2020, he pleaded guilty today one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Stamford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria del Pilar Gonzalez and Brendan Keefe.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Shelton Woman Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling $260K from EmployerRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BARBARA J. BUCHANAN, 60, of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for embezzling more than $260,000 from her employer. Judge Arterton also ordered Buchanan to serve the first six months of supervised release in home confinement, and to perform 100 hours of community service.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Buchanan was the payroll manager for a Connecticut company. Between approximately 2014 and September 2019, Buchanan made false entries and adjustments in the payroll system in order to wire company funds into her personal bank account. She also made false journal entries in the company’s tax records in an effort to hide her fraudulent activities. Through the scheme, Buchanan embezzled approximately $220,000 from the company.
Buchanan also used a company American Express card to make approximately $40,000 in personal purchases.
Buchanan paid restitution of $260,202.52 prior to sentencing.
On March 11, 2020, Buchanan pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Buchanan, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on December 1, 2020.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.
Connecticut Substance Abuse Treatment Provider Pays over 354K to Settle Improper Billing AllegationsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that RECOVERY NETWORK OF PROGRAMS, INC. (“RNP”), a healthcare organization that provides substance abuse and mental health services in Fairfield County, has entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments in which it will pay $354,367 to resolve allegations that it caused overpayments for urine drug testing services to be paid by the Connecticut Medicaid Program.
RNP entered into contracts with the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services ("DSS") to provide behavioral health and substance use disorder services to Medicaid beneficiaries. Medicaid reimburses methadone clinics, such as RNP, utilizing a weekly rate payment for each Medicaid patient provided methadone treatment. Regulations issued by the State of Connecticut in 2013 made it clear that the weekly payment was a “bundled” rate that included intake evaluation; initial physical examination; on-site drug abuse testing and monitoring; and individual, group and family counseling services.
On September 3, 2014, Medicaid issued a Provider Bulletin to all methadone clinics reminding them that the weekly rate payment included reimbursement for on-site drug abuse testing and monitoring.
On February 1, 2015, DSS published on its website an Audit Protocol for methadone clinics. The Audit Protocol stated that if a DSS audit found Medicaid paid another laboratory provider for drug testing within a week of the date a methadone clinic was paid for methadone treatment, Medicaid would reduce the methadone clinic's payment for the methadone treatment service by the cost of the laboratory service.
DSS conducted an audit of RNP and found that both RNP and an independent laboratory billed Medicaid for drug testing performed by the laboratory, contrary to DSS’ weekly rate payment regulation. In January 2016, DSS issued an Audit Report warning RNP that continued non-compliance with the weekly rate payment rule would result in financial disallowances in future audits.
The government alleges that, despite clear guidance from the Medicaid program and the audit finding indicating that on-site drug testing was part of the bundled rate, RNP routinely referred urine drug tests for RNP’s patients to an outside, independent laboratory. As a result, Medicaid paid for the claims twice, once to RNP pursuant to the bundled rate and a second time to the outside laboratory.
To resolve its liability, RNP will pay $354,367 to the federal and state governments for conduct occurring between March 1, 2017 and October 17, 2017.
“Overbilling of Medicaid and other government health insurance programs cannot be tolerated and providers who fail to follow the rules, especially after multiple warnings, face serious consequences,” stated U.S. Attorney Durham.
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot and by Assistant Attorneys General Michael Cole and Greggory O’Connell of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.
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.