District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Narcotics Distribution and Firearm Possession OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DYZHAE RICHARDSON, 23, of Hartford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford. During the investigation, investigators made two controlled purchases of heroin/fentanyl from Richardson in August and September 2019.
Richardson was arrested on September 13, 2019. On that date, a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm handgun, additional loose rounds of 9mm ammunition, approximately 100 wax folds of heroin, a quantity of crack cocaine and approximately $2,500 in cash. A search of Richardson’s person also revealed approximately $1,000 in cash.
Richardson has been detained since his arrest.
Richardson’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics and weapon 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.
Richardson pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for April 14, 2020.
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes 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 Michael J. Gustafson as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Eastern Connecticut Drug Trafficker Guilty of Cocaine, Heroin and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CARLOS DELGADO, also known as “Los,” 50, of Mansfield, has been convicted of drug trafficking and firearm possession offenses.
According to the evidence presented during a trial before U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven, in 2018, law enforcement began investigating an eastern Connecticut drug trafficking organization headed by Delgado. The investigation revealed that Delgado was having kilogram quantities of cocaine shipped through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico to various locations in eastern Connecticut. He and his associates distributed the drugs, and mailed cash proceeds from narcotics sales back to individuals in Puerto Rico. During the investigation, investigators seized two packages containing $26,860 and $9,900 in cash, respectively, that Delgado had mailed to addresses in Puerto Rico.
Delgado was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on July 9, 2018. On that date, a search of Delgado residence, vehicle and a third location revealed more than one kilogram of heroin, four firearms, narcotics packaging materials, and approximately $74,000 in cash.
Delgado has been detained since his arrest.
On January 21, 2021, the jury found Delgado guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine; and one count of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. The jury found Delgado not guilty of one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Today, the jury found Delgado guilty of one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon.
Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for April 16, 2020, at which time Delgado faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of life in prison.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, Connecticut State Police, Willimantic Police Department, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The DEA Task Force includes participants from the Bristol, East Hartford, Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Willimantic and Windsor Locks Police Departments, and the Food and Drug Administration.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.
Willimantic Heroin Trafficker Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JESUS OMAR VAZQUEZ-MARTINEZ, 35, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in May 2018, the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and Willimantic Police Department, while investigating a heroin/fentanyl overdose death that occurred in August 2017, received information that Xavier Diaz, also known as “Coco,” was operating a heroin distribution ring in Willimantic. The investigation revealed that drug purchasers called a phone shared by Diaz, Vazquez-Martinez and other members of the conspiracy to place an order for heroin. Thereafter, a “runner” would meet the purchaser to complete the transaction.
The investigation connected the August 2017 overdose death, and several non-fatal overdoses, to drugs distributed by the Diaz organization.
Diaz and other members of his organization were arrested on October 15, 2018. On that date, a search of Diaz’s residence revealed more than 100 grams of heroin, a stolen firearm, and ammunition. In addition, a search of a storage unit connected to the organization revealed more than $20,000 in cash.
Vazquez-Martinez has been detained since his arrest on state narcotics charges in April 2018. On October 28, 2019, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
Diaz pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on November 25, 2019, was sentenced to five years of imprisonment.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
New England U.S. Attorneys Urge Congress to Extend Ban on Fentanyl AnaloguesRead the Press Release
In 2017, almost 50,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses. It’s a sad reality that New England as a whole has been particularly hard hit by opioids. In fact, per capita, of the 12 states across the country with the most opioid overdose fatalities, all six of our states make the list. Much of that is due to illicitly produced fentanyl.
To maintain and build upon a recent decline in opioid overdose deaths nationwide, law enforcement must have all the necessary tools at their disposal. One such tool is the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) 2018 order making all fentanyl-related drugs illegal in the United States. Unfortunately, that order was temporary and will expire in just a few weeks. The Senate recently passed bipartisan legislation approving a 15-month extension of the temporary order. While this is a step in the right direction and the House should follow suit and pass the Senate’s bill, a longer term solution is needed. A permanent ban on all fentanyl analogues would send a strong message to the cartels and sophisticated drug operations that pedal illicit fentanyl that the United States is serious about addressing this crisis and their actions will not be tolerated.
Illicit fentanyl is manufactured in labs in China and Mexico. It is 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. So powerful, in fact, that only a couple milligrams – the size of a few grains of salt – can kill the average person.
Fentanyl, however, is unique. Because it is made in labs using chemicals, its structure is easily manipulated. And the drug cartels that manufacture and traffic this poison into our neighborhoods understand American laws and know how to exploit them. They know that by changing a single molecule in the chemical structure of fentanyl, they have essentially created a new drug. One that, unlike fentanyl, is not illegal in the United States. These drugs, known as “fentanyl analogues,” do as fentanyl does: create more addicts and kill more Americans. Yet, the analogues – which can be up to 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine – will all become legal if Congress fails to act.
The DEA’s 2018 decision to temporarily schedule – that is, to make illegal – all fentanyl-related substances was a response to the extraordinary legal loophole exploited by drug traffickers. In April 2019, China also outlawed all fentanyl-related substances. This is extraordinary progress, with one caveat. Unlike China’s law, the United States’ has an expiration date.
On Feb. 6, 2020, the DEA’s temporary order expires, and all drugs seized by U.S. investigators over the past two years that have tested positive as fentanyl analogues will no longer be illegal. If Congress fails to pass the SOFA legislation it will have a dramatic impact not just on the prosecutors and law enforcement officers who spend their lives investigating and prosecuting drug dealers, but on communities already hard hit by the opioid epidemic, many of which are right here in New England.
Despite recent reductions in opioid deaths across New England for the first time in decades, prosecuting drug dealers – particularly those who peddle heroin and fentanyl – remains a top priority for each of our offices. But our federal resources are not infinite; we need all the help we can get. Passing this legislation would provide invaluable support to us as prosecutors and the entire law enforcement community as we continue to combat the opioid crisis in New England and all throughout America.
A number of organizations have voiced opposition to the proposed legislation, arguing that the bill does not “embrace public health approaches to the overdose crisis.” We agree that a comprehensive approach to the crisis is needed, and a permanent fentanyl analogue ban should be viewed as part of a holistic effort. But time is running out: there is no doubt that drug traffickers are eagerly awaiting the temporary order’s expiration to start flooding our communities with these dangerous drugs. The passage of this legislation is quite literally a matter of life and death.
There should be nothing partisan about declaring fentanyl analogues illegal, any more than there is partisanship about the dangers of ricin or cyanide. And there is certainly nothing partisan about saving lives and bringing justice to those who profit from addiction and even death. For the safety of our New England communities, we urge Congress to pass legislation making permanent the DEA’s temporary scheduling of all fentanyl-related drugs.
Christina E. Nolan is the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont
Aaron L. Weisman is the United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island
Scott W. Murray is the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire
Andrew E. Lelling is the United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts
Halsey B. Frank is the United States Attorney for the District of Maine
John H. Durham is the United States Attorney for the District of ConnecticutConnecticut U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects More Than $22 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2019Read the Press Release
New Haven – U.S. Attorney John H. Durham today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut collected $22,755,127.63 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2019. $6,357,454.91 was collected in criminal actions and $16,397,672.72 was collected in civil actions.
Overall, the Justice Department collected a total of just over $9.3 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2019.
“This past fiscal year, the talented men and women of our Connecticut office helped to recover more than $22 million for victims of crime and to help us fund important federal, state and local law enforcement efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “We are committed to seeking justice for victims, taking back ill-gotten gains from lawbreakers, and protecting the integrity of important government programs.”
The largest civil collections in the District of Connecticut were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct, or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights or environmental laws. In addition, civil debts owed to several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Internal Revenue Service, Small Business Administration and Department of Education, were collected by the U.S. Attorney’s Office from debtors located in Connecticut.
All of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s criminal recoveries in fiscal year 2019 were the result of successful enforcement against criminal defendants who committed various types of crime, with the largest recoveries in cases involving wire and securities fraud.
Nationally, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and victims of federal crimes. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid directly to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are also collected by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and paid to the department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the District of Connecticut, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $3,776,349 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2019. Of this amount $1,606,053 was collected in civil cases and $1,841,763 was collected criminal cases. $328,533 was collected administratively. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 68 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and approximately 54 staff members at offices in New Haven, Hartford and Bridgeport.
Man Involved in 2009 Kidnapping and Murder Sentenced to Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HAROLD COOK, also known as “Oink,” 42, of Bloomfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to life in prison for his role in the kidnapping, robbery and the execution-style murder of Charles Teasley, 35, of West Hartford, in January 2009.
According to evidence presented during trial, on January 12, 2009, Hartford Police responded to Colebrook Street in response to a 911 call concerning a dead body being found in the back seat of a vehicle parked on the street. Upon arrival, Charles Teasley was found dead in the back seat of his own vehicle, a 1999 Acura TL. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head and face, and his hands were zip-tied behind his back.
The investigation revealed that Cook, Gerund Mickens, Terrell Hunter and Jesus Ashanti were involved in committing armed robberies of persons they believed to be drug dealers operating in the greater Hartford area. On January 9, 2009, an individual advised Cook that he had arranged to conduct a cocaine transaction with Teasley. The individual provided the particulars of the planned transaction to Cook so that Teasley could be kidnapped and robbed of drugs and money. After Teasley arrived at the arranged location, Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti kidnapped Teasley by using zip-ties to bind his hands and forcing him back into the rear seat of his own vehicle. In the vehicle, they threatened Teasley at gunpoint, assaulted him and forced him to make a telephone call directing his girlfriend to bring to Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti a safe that Teasley had kept at his and his girlfriend’s West Hartford residence. They drove to the residence and acquired the safe. Cook, Mickens and Hunter then drove Teasley to the Colebrook Street area of Hartford, and Ashanti followed them in a separate car. On the way, Cook and Hunter shot Teasley in the head causing his death. After arriving on Colebrook Street, Cook, Mickens and Hunter left the Acura and Teasley’s body, and then fled the area in the car driven by Ashanti.
Cook, Mickens and Hunter have been detained since their arrests on April 4, 2017. On August 21, 2018, a jury found them guilty of one count of kidnapping resulting in death, one count of using a firearm during a kidnapping and causing a death, and one count of using a firearm during a Hobbs Act robbery and causing a death.
On January 13, 2020, Judge Underhill sentenced Mickens to life in prison. Hunter awaits sentencing and also faces a mandatory term of life imprisonment.
Ashanti pleaded guilty to related charges on July 16, 2018, and also awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force, Hartford Police Department and the Cold Case Homicide Unit of the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Durham, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis and Peter D. Markle, and Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Reed Durham, who has been cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.
Hartford Man Who Sold Fentanyl and Other Drugs 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 JEREMY RODRIGUEZ, 22, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 121 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking fentanyl and other drugs.
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 supplied wholesale quantities of narcotics to Rodriguez and other Hartford-area drug dealers, and used multiple locations in Hartford to process, store and distribute narcotics.
Rodriguez stashed and sold narcotics at his Spring Street residence and a Bedford Street location.
Oliveras, Rodriguez 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.
Rodriguez was arrested at his Spring Street residence. A search of his home at the time of his arrest revealed approximately 115 grams of unpackaged fentanyl, approximately 1,500 bags of fentanyl with a net weight of 23 grams, and a .45 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number. A search of the Bedford Street location revealed a .357 caliber revolver.
On August 2, 2018, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Oliveras, Rodriguez and 14 co-defendants with various offenses.
Rodriguez has been detained since his arrest. On October 23, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine base (“crack”) and cocaine.
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.
Bridgeport Twins Involved in Violent Robbery and Carjacking of Ansonia Delivery Driver are SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTOINE SNELL and TREYQUANE SNELL, both 21 of Bridgeport, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to prison terms of 64 months and 72 months, respectively, for committing a violent robbery and carjacking of a food delivery driver in Ansonia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 21, 2016, Antoine and Treyquane Snell, who are twin brothers, and a juvenile male, placed a food order with an Ansonia restaurant to be delivered to a location on Dwight Street. After the driver arrived at the location, the three males ordered the driver out of his car, attacked him and stole the car. The victim suffered serious injuries, including multiple broken bones in his face and bleeding in his brain.
On August 14, 2019, the each brother pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery.
The juvenile involved in the robbery and carjacking was charged, convicted and sentenced in state court.
Antoine and Treyquane Snell will serve three years of supervised release when they are released from prison.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ansonia Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas P. Morabito and Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
Man with Long Criminal History Pleads Guilty to Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that STEVEN A. FINKLER, 55, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to credit card fraud and identity theft offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August 2017, Finkler stole credit cards from two of his employer’s customers and used the cards to make more than 40 fraudulent charges in Connecticut and New York. The charges included Finkler’s purchase of jewelry for his girlfriend, Apple products and electronic devices, and other high-end consumer and retail goods for either himself or his friends. The total loss to the victims was $20,892.75.
In September 2018, Finkler, using another individual’s identity, opened a membership at a fitness center with gym locations throughout Connecticut. Finkler also used the same stolen identity to create accounts with mobile device payment applications. Between September 2018 and May 2019, Finkler visited multiple gym locations and stole credit cards from lockers and other locations while the victims were located elsewhere in the gym. Using the stolen credit cards, and the mobile device payment applications, he made approximately $144,000 in fictitious charges to bank accounts that he created and controlled. He then returned the credit cards to the victims’ wallets before the victims returned to the locker room. At least 49 individuals were victimized through this scheme.
Finkler pleaded guilty to one count of access device fraud (credit card fraud), one count of wire fraud, and two counts of aggravated identity theft. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for April 1, 2020, at which time Finkler faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
Finkler also has agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $145,682.08.
Finkler has been detained since his arrest on August 15, 2019.
Finkler has a criminal history that spans 35 years and includes numerous convictions, including five federal convictions stemming from various fraud schemes.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, and the Wallingford, Avon, North Haven, Madison, Glastonbury and Branford Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala Nagala and Margaret Donovan.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that Steven Finkler has also used the name “Andrew Finkler,” as well as other aliases. Individuals who believe they have been victimized by this scheme, or by this defendant, are encouraged to call the U.S. Secret Service at 203-865-2449.
Contractor Charged with Lying to OSHA InvestigatorsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael C. Mikulka, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging LUIS F. ESTRADA, 46, of Bridgeport, with making false statements and submitting false documents to the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”).
The indictment was returned on January 2, 2020. Estrada appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven, entered a plea of not guilty to the charges, and was released on a $75,000 bond.
As alleged in the indictment, Estrada is the owner of a construction company named L.L.E. Construction, LLC. In February 2018, Estrada and L.L.E. Construction entered into a written contract to perform roof repairs and other construction services at a property located on Main Street in Bridgeport. In February and March 2018, Estrada was provided with three checks totaling $11,000 for performing the work. On March 1, 2018, a compliance officer with OSHA visited the property and observed what he believed to be various safety infractions by construction workers who were making the roof repairs. The officer then initiated an on-site inspection into the suspected infractions. Estrada was not present at the Main Street property at the time, but spoke to the compliance officer by mobile phone.
It is further alleged that, on May 22, 2018, OSHA compliance officers served Estrada with a subpoena that demanded documents and records related to L.L.E. Construction’s work at the Main Street property in February and March 2018. On July 30, 2018, Estrada hand-delivered a written response stating that he “did not do any work for the ‘LLE Roofing Project,’” that “[t]here is no payroll because [he] did not work on the ‘LLE Roofing Project,’” and that he “do[es] not have any contract or any documents regarding the ‘LLE Roofing Project.’”
The indictment charges Estrada with one count of making false statements to the U.S. Department of Labor, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and one count of falsification of records in a federal investigation, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
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 U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret M. Donovan.
Armed New Haven Drug Dealer Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that SHANNON WICKER, also known as “Bishop,” 34, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 16, 2019, law enforcement in New Haven conducted a court-authorized search of a Chapel Street apartment and found a loaded .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol; quantities of heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana; items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and other items. Wicker, who was present during the search, was arrested on related state charges at that time.
Wicker has been detained since his federal arrest on November 6, 2019.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2020, at which time Wicker faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Wicker’s criminal history includes multiple state felony convictions, including convictions for weapon in a motor vehicle, sale of illegal hallucinogens or narcotics, sale of a controlled substance, possession of narcotics, tampering with evidence, and failure to appear.
This matter is being investigated by the New Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosive. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret M. Donovan.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Prolific Hartford Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JULIO OLIVERAS, also known as “Cuzzo Jay,” 34, of Hartford and New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 186 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses.
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. Oliveras 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.
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 Oliveras and 15 co-defendants with various offenses.
Oliveras has been detained since his arrest. On October 22, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
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.
Nursing Home Operator Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement and Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHAIM STERN, 71, of Flushing, New York, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to embezzlement and tax offenses related to his operation of nursing homes in Bridgeport and Waterbury.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Stern was the principal operator of the Bridgeport Health Care Center (“BHCC”), Bridgeport Manor, and the Rosegarden Health and Rehabilitation Center LLC (“Rosegarden”) in Waterbury, which were privately owned nursing and rehabilitation facilities. Between approximately 2011 and 2018, Stern stole approximately $4.1 million from the BHCC Pension Plan, over which he was the trustee, principally by diverting the money to a purported charity, called Em Kol Chai, which Stern controlled, as well as to himself and other entities. Also, in approximately February 2015, Stern misapplied $305,608.06 from BHCC Health Plan by diverting the money from a stop-loss insurance plan that was intended to pay for an employee health claim, and instead used it for other purposes, including Em Kol Chai, the operation of the BHCC, and for Stern’s personal use.
In addition, from at least January 2017 through March 2018, Stern failed to, and caused BHCC and Rosegarden to fail to, pay over employment taxes it collected from BHCC and Rosegarden employees. And, from January 2017 through June 2018, Stern failed to, and caused BHCC and Rosegarden to fail to, pay BHCC and Rosegarden’s share of employment taxes. The total tax loss resulting from Stern’s conduct is $4,356,409.85.
Stern pleaded guilty to one count of theft or embezzlement from an employee benefit plan, one count of theft or embezzlement in connection with healthcare, and one count of willful failure to pay tax. Stern is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven on April 8, 2020, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
As part of his plea agreement, Stern has agreed to make restitution to Pension Plan participants in the amount of approximately $4.1 million; to participants in the Health Plan with unpaid claims; and to the IRS in the total amount of approximately $2.4 million.
Stern is released on a $500,000 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, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David E. Novick and Neeraj N. Patel.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison for Trafficking Cocaine from Puerto Rico to ConnecticutRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERICK SUAREZ, 31, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 97 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine from Puerto Rico to Connecticut through the U.S. Mail.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating a drug trafficking organization that was sending Priority Mail parcels containing kilogram-quantities of cocaine through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico to Connecticut and elsewhere. The investigation revealed that Suarez coordinated shipments of cocaine from individuals in Puerto Rico to addresses in New Britain, Hartford, Newington, East Hartford and Bridgeport, as well as Springfield, Massachusetts. Investigators identified more than 50 suspect parcels that were mailed from Puerto Rico, and intercepted five of the suspect parcels, each of which contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine.
On April 10, 2018, investigators arrested several members of the cocaine trafficking ring, including Jerry Rodriguez, also known as “Bebo,” of Hartford. On that date, a search of Rodriguez’s residence revealed approximately 400 grams of cocaine, approximately 160 grams of heroin, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and a loaded .45 caliber handgun. Also on that date, investigators searched Suarez’s residence, as well as two storage units used by Suarez and one storage unit used by Rodriguez in West Hartford. The search of Suarez’s storage units revealed more than $50,000 in cash and a search of Rodriguez’s storage unit revealed additional items used to process and package narcotics.
Suarez was arrested on April 12, 2018. On April 18, 2018, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Suarez, Rodriguez and five other individual with conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Suarez pleaded guilty on September 10, 2019.
Suarez has been detained since his arrest.
Rodriguez has pleaded guilty and is detained while awaiting 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. The DEA Puerto Rico Caribbean Corridor Strike Force and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Newark Division, San Juan (P.R.) Office, have assisted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Hartford Man with Violent Criminal History Returns to Prison for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TYSHAWN COLEMAN, 30, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing ammunition.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of August 5, 2017, Hartford Police stopped a car after a witness had reported that the car was involved in a fatal shooting on Edgewood Street less than 30 minutes earlier. Coleman was sitting in the front passenger seat. An officer conducted a pat-down of Coleman and retrieved two clear zip-lock bags from his pocket. One of the bags contained marijuana, and the other contained a .45 caliber bullet.
Prior to August 2017, Coleman had sustained two felony convictions for conspiracy to commit murder, three felony convictions for accessory to first-degree assault, one felony conviction for first degree assault, and one felony conviction for sale of a controlled substance.
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.
Coleman has been detained since his arrest. On October 24, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIANO IRIZARRY, 36, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for firearm and drug offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of January 1, 2019, New Haven Police officers assigned to a New Year’s Eve crime prevention detail responded to a disturbance and a report of an individual with a gun in front of a nightclub on Hamilton Street in New Haven. At the scene, a bystander identified Irizarry as being in possession of a gun. After ignoring various commands from officers, Irizarry opened the driver’s side door of his vehicle and made furtive movements in the area of the steering wheel. He then closed the door and surrendered to officers. A subsequent search of the area beneath the steering wheel revealed a loaded .40 caliber Glock 27 pistol.
The firearm had been reported stolen in a residential burglary in New Haven in March 2015.
Irizarry’s criminal history includes felony drug convictions in 2000 and 2010, and a felony conviction in August 2000 for illegal sexual contact with a minor.
Irizarry was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on February 6, 2019, and was released on a $50,000 bond. On June 17, 2019, he sold four bags of heroin, some of which contained fentanyl, to an individual working with law enforcement. He has been detained since his arrest on June 27, 2019.
On September 30, 2019, Irizarry pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of distributing a controlled substance while on pretrial release.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
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.
New Haven Gang Member Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that SEDALE PERVIS, also known as “Scope,” 27, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 144 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a violent street gang.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2016, the New Haven Police Department’s Shooting Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating numerous unsolved shootings that had occurred in New Haven and Hamden. Ballistic examination of recovered cartridge cases determined that three firearms were used in 18 shootings committed in or around New Haven in 2016. The investigation revealed that the firearms were possessed by members and associates of the Goodrich Street Boys (“GSB”), a New Haven street gang, and that GSB members also were involved in a number of other shootings in 2016, many of them retaliatory against rival gang members.
On August 3, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 13-count indictment charging Pervis and five other GSB members with racketeering, attempted murder, firearm and narcotics trafficking offenses. The indictment alleged that, between September 2015 and May 2016, GSB members and associates were involved in six gang-related shootings that caused injuries to five individuals.
The investigation revealed that Pervis oversaw, managed and facilitated numerous shootings for which GSB members were responsible.
Pervis previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In pleading guilty, Pervis admitted that a firearm that he had been holding was going to used in two shootings. As to one of the shootings, Pervis and other GSB members conspired to kill an individual who they believed had been disrespectful to a GSB member. On May 27, 2016, GSB members ambushed the individual and his friend as the pair were walking on a busy street in New Haven. The individual, who survived the attack, identified GSB member Milton Westley as an assailant. Westley first shot the victim in the stomach. After the victim collapsed to the ground, Westley stood over him and shot him in the head. Another GSB member shot the second victim in the hand as he attempted to shield his face.
The victim who was shot in the stomach and head continues to recover from his injuries. He was in a coma for several weeks and had to learn to walk and talk again. This victim had been shot at by GSB members twice prior to May 27, 2016.
GSB members also shot at rival gang members on February 6, 2016, in a densely populated residential area; March 13, 2016, during a heavily attended St. Patrick’s Day parade in downtown New Haven; and July 21, 2016, during which an innocent bystander was shot in the chest through her bedroom window.
GSB members also used social media to post pictures and videos of themselves with firearms, and used social media to threaten rivals, including individuals who might cooperate with law enforcement.
The investigation further revealed that Pervis and other GSB members were involved in the acquisition and distribution of heroin, cocaine and marijuana.
Pervis has been detained since May 1, 2017.
Pervis is the fifth GSB member to be sentenced. On October 24, 2019, Michael Via, also known as “Mike Live,” was sentenced to 78 months in prison; on October 30, 2019, Michael Belle, also known as “MB,” was sentenced to 87 months in prison; on October 31, 2019, Milton Westley, also known as “Reese,” was sentenced to 156 months in prison, and on November 4, 2019, Clifford Brodie, also known as “Cliff G,” was sentenced to 168 months in prison. A sixth GSB member, Dejuan Ward, also known as “Hot Boi,” has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that federal prisoners are required to serve at least 85 percent of their prison term and are not eligible for parole.
U.S. Attorney Durham further noted that federal law prohibits any retaliation against a federal witness. If persons retaliate against a federal witness “because of attendance at or testimony in a criminal case, the maximum term of imprisonment which may be imposed for the offense under this section shall be the higher of that otherwise provided by law or the maximum term that could have been imposed for any offense charged in that case.” Because the maximum term charged in the case was life imprisonment, anyone who tampers with a federal witness in this case faces life imprisonment.
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.
This investigation is being conducted by ATF and the New Haven Police Department. The FBI, Hamden Police Department and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office have provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of this investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter D. Markle, Rahul Kale and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Former New Haven Tax Preparer is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DEVON WILLIAMS, 30, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to eight months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for preparing false tax returns
According to court documents and statements made in court, Williams formerly owned and operated Perfect Preparers, LLC, a tax preparation business based in New Haven. Between approximately 2014 and 2017, Williams prepared numerous federal tax returns for clients that contained inflated deductions, including false deductions for unreimbursed employee expenses, charitable donations, and mortgage interest. Some returns contained false Schedule C (sole proprietorship business) information. Losses suffered by the IRS as a result of his fraud totaled at least $550,000.
Judge Hall ordered Williams to pay restitution of $550,000.
On October 3, 2019, Williams pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting the preparation of a false tax return.
As a result of Williams’ fraudulent conduct, many of his clients’ filed tax returns will need to be amended. Williams’ clients are required to resolve their own tax liability with the IRS.
Williams, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 4, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.
West Haven Man Involved in Meriden Carjacking 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 DON MEEKER, 33, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 73 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a Meriden carjacking
According to the evidence presented during Meeker’s trial, on January 1, 2016, two men from out of state who were driving a rented 2015 Volkswagen Passat were victims of an armed carjacking in the vicinity of Hobart Street and Myrtle Street in Meriden. The victims reported that they had asked an individual, later identified as Kyle Valentine, for directions at a gas station. Valentine told the victims to follow a car in which Valentine was a passenger. After traveling a few minutes, the car stopped. Valentine and Elbert Llorrens then exited the car and approached the Passat. Llorens pointed a handgun at one of the victims who was sitting in the passenger seat of the car, opened the door and stated “I want everything.” The victims exited the car and Llorens and Valentine stole their wallets and cell phones and then drove away in the Passat.
The investigation revealed that Meeker drove the car that the carjacking victims followed, and that Meeker provided the handgun to Llorens. After the robbery, Meeker, Llorens and Valentine spilt the money stolen from the victims.
On December 12, 2017, a jury found Meeker guilty of one count of taking a motor vehicle from a person by force and violence or by intimidation.
Llorens and Valentine, both of New Haven, previously pleaded guilty and have been sentenced.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Haven, Meriden, Milford, New Haven and West Haven Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas P. Morabito and Patrick F. Caruso.
Norwalk Man Involved in Drug Trafficking Ring Sentenced to 35 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JUAN CARLOS FIGUEROA, 40, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 35 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between March and June 2018, Figueroa and others trafficked kilogram quantities of narcotics, including cocaine and methamphetamine, from a source of supply in New Rochelle, New York, into Norwalk and the surrounding area. On May 31, 2018, Figueroa and a co-conspirator, Rafael Lopez-Macias, traveled to New Rochelle to obtain two kilograms of cocaine from a source.
Figueroa has been detained since his arrest on October 11, 2018. On that date, a search of his residence revealed a drug press machine and other items used to process and package narcotics.
On May 6, 2019, Figueroa pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
On March 27, 2019, Lopez-Macias, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and one count of reentry of removed alien. On July 3, 2019, he was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, and the New Rochelle, Norwalk and Stamford Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Lauren C. Clark.
Man Who Supplied Crack to New Haven Drug Ring Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIC BURRUSS, also known as “E,” 40, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford 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, 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.
Burruss supplied crack cocaine to one of the drug trafficking organizations.
On July 9, 2019, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 15-count indictment charging Burruss and 24 others with federal narcotics offenses related to the distribution of crack cocaine, cocaine and heroin.
Burruss has been detained since his arrest on July 10, 2019. On September 25, 2019, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Burruss’ criminal history dates to 1996 and includes nine felony convictions, including five for drug-related offenses and one for a firearm offense.
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.
Felon Caught with a Gun in East Hartford Sentenced to 30 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ELVIN GONZALEZ, 38, Norwich, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 30 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 August 9, 2018, East Hartford Police arrested Gonzalez after he was found in possession of a Charter Arms .44 caliber revolver and a quantity of marijuana.
Gonzalez’s criminal history includes state convictions for sale of hallucinogen/narcotics and escape, and a federal conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In August 2005, he was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment for the federal firearm offense.
On September 3, 2019, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Gonzalez, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on January 17.
This matter was investigated by the East Hartford Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JORDAN RODOFSKY, 57, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing oxycodone.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between May and September 2018, law enforcement made controlled purchases of various quantities of oxycodone from Rodofsky. During one transaction, on August 7, 2018, investigators purchased 96 30mg oxycodone pills from Rodofsky for $3,400.
Rodofsky was arrested on September 11, 2018. On June 12, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, oxycodone.
Rodofsky, who is released on a $150,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on March 12, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.
Bloomfield Man Involved in 2009 Kidnapping and Murder Sentenced to Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GERUND MICKENS, also known as “Breeze,” 44, of Bloomfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to life in prison for his role in the kidnapping, robbery and the execution-style murder of Charles Teasley, 35, of West Hartford, in January 2009.
According to evidence presented during trial, on January 12, 2009, Hartford Police responded to Colebrook Street in response to a 911 call concerning a dead body being found in the back seat of a vehicle parked on the street. Upon arrival, Charles Teasley was found dead in the back seat of his own vehicle, a 1999 Acura TL. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head and face, and his hands were zip-tied behind his back.
The investigation revealed that Mickens, Harold Cook, Terrell Hunter and Jesus Ashanti were involved in committing armed robberies of persons they believed to be drug dealers operating in the greater Hartford area. On January 9, 2009, an individual advised Cook that he had arranged to conduct a cocaine transaction with Teasley. The individual provided the particulars of the planned transaction to Cook so that Teasley could be kidnapped and robbed of drugs and money. After Teasley arrived at the arranged location, Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti kidnapped Teasley by using zip-ties to bind his hands and forcing him back into the rear seat of his own vehicle. In the vehicle, they threatened Teasley at gunpoint, assaulted him and forced him to make a telephone call directing his girlfriend to bring to Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti a safe that Teasley had kept at his and his girlfriend’s West Hartford residence. They drove to the residence and acquired the safe. Cook, Mickens and Hunter then drove Teasley to the Colebrook Street area of Hartford, and Ashanti followed them in a separate car. On the way, Hunter and Cook shot Teasley in the head causing his death. After arriving on Colebrook Street, Cook, Mickens and Hunter left the Acura and Teasley’s body, and then fled the area in the car driven by Ashanti.
Cook, Mickens and Hunter have been detained since their arrests on April 4, 2017. On August 21, 2018, a jury found them guilty of one count of kidnapping resulting in death, one count of using a firearm during a kidnapping and causing a death, and one count of using a firearm during a Hobbs Act robbery and causing a death.
Cook and Hunter each awaits sentencing and faces a mandatory term of life imprisonment without parole.
On July 16, 2018, Ashanti pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death, one count of using a firearm during a kidnapping and causing a death, and one count of using a firearm during a robbery and causing a death. He also awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force, Hartford Police Department and the Cold Case Homicide Unit of the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Durham, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis and Peter D. Markle, and Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Reed Durham, who has been cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.
New Haven Man Charged with Illegal Possession of 2 GunsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging CARLOS BARNES, also known as “Buddha,” 28, of New Haven, with possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon.
The indictment was returned on January 2, 2020. Barnes appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and entered a plea of not guilty to the offense. Barnes has been detained since his arrest by Hamden Police on related state charges on October 12, 2019.
The indictment alleges that, on October 12, 2019, Barnes possessed a Taurus Millennium G2 9mm handgun and a Springfield XD-40 .40 caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number. Prior to that date, Barnes was convicted in state court of carrying a pistol without a permit, sale of illegal drugs, and robbery in the first degree.
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, Barnes faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hamden Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret M. Donovan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Michigan Man Living in the Philippines Charged with Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jason J. Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), today announced that JASON KELLER, 34, originally of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, has been charged in a two-count indictment with child enticement and child pornography offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in September 2018, Keller, using the moniker “Eddie Buttered Toast,” contacted a 14-year-old female in Connecticut and claimed he was a 17-year-old boy from Chicago. At the time, Keller was living in the Philippines. Keller then sent the minor victim a series of grooming emails that eventually coaxed the minor victim into sending photos of herself engaged in sexually explicit conduct to Keller. Some of the emails Keller sent to the minor victim included sexually explicit images of himself.
On December 19, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Keller with one count of enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, and one count of receipt of child pornography. Keller was located and arrested in the Philippines in June 2019. He was subsequently removed from the Philippines and returned to the U.S. on December 12, 2019.
On January 9, 2020, Keller appeared in New Haven federal court for a bond hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector, who ordered Keller detained pending trial.
If convicted of the charges in the indictment, Keller faces 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 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 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Marshals Service, International Investigations Branch, with the assistance of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, Fugitive Search Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Clark.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for its assistance in this matter.
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.
Massachusetts Woman Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LATOYA McKREITH, 37, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 15 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 30, 2018, McKreith and Laprese Gollman were arrested after they drove to New Haven in an attempt to purchase four kilograms of cocaine. Investigators seized approximately $100,000 from Gollman at the time of his arrest.
On February 12, 2019, McKreith pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine. McKreith, who was released on bond, was remanded to custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at the conclusion of the sentencing proceeding.
Gollman, of Springfield, Massachusetts, also pleaded guilty and, on October 15, 2018, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by eight years of supervised release.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the New Haven and Hamden Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
New Haven Man Guilty of Gun Possession and Marijuana Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JAMIE MIDDLEBROOK, 20, of New Haven, has been convicted of firearm possession and drug trafficking offenses.
According to the evidence presented during a trial before U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven, in the afternoon of November 1, 2019, New Haven Police detectives patrolling the area of Grand Avenue and Hamilton Street saw Middlebrook standing on a corner. As the police cruiser approached Middlebrook, he ran through a parking lot. During a pursuit, detectives observed Middlebrook duck down and place a firearm behind the tire of a pickup truck on the ground in the parking lot. The firearm, a loaded SCCY CPX-1, 9mm pistol, was recovered, and Middlebrook was apprehended after a foot chase a few blocks away from the parking lot. Investigators subsequently retrieved a bag that Middlebrook left on the corner where he was standing before he fled. The bag contained approximately 19 grams of marijuana packaged for individual sale.
Middlebrook’s criminal history includes a state felony conviction, in 2018, for sale of a crack cocaine. In November 2019, Middlebrook was serving two separate terms of conditional discharge stemming from state convictions.
Yesterday, the jury found Middlebrook guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and not guilty of one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Today, before the jury returned a verdict on the third count of the indictment, which charged Middlebrook with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Middlebrook pleaded guilty to the offense.
Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for April 6, 2020 at which time Middlebrook faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
This investigation was conducted by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria del Pilar Gonzalez and Margaret M. Donovan.
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.
Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Promising $5,000 to Have Ex-Wife MurderedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMES ERIK GODIKSEN, 57, formerly of Clinton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for hiring an individual to murder Godiksen’s former spouse. Judge Bryant also ordered Godiksen to pay a $10,000 fine.
According to the evidence presented during a trial in this matter, while he was incarcerated at New Haven Correctional Center in 2016, Godiksen reached out to other inmates seeking a person who would be willing to kill Godiksen’s former wife. Between September 10 and September 14, 2016, Godiksen and an ATF special agent acting in an undercover capacity spoke multiple times by phone. During these conversations, Godiksen offered to pay the undercover agent $5,000 to murder his “ex-wife,” and provided the agent with a physical description of his former wife, her phone number, her home address, her place of work and the route she typically drove to work. He also told the undercover agent how he would like his former wife to be murdered. Godiksen stated to the undercover agent “I want her killed, if that’s possible . . . . Head cut off would be nice.”
Godiksen also offered the undercover agent additional money if he encountered his former wife’s current boyfriend and killed him, too.
Godiksen was arrested on September 14, 2016, after he met with the undercover agent and provided him with a “down payment” of $80, some of which was to be used to purchase a knife. Godiksen has been detained since his arrest.
On July 20, 2018, a jury found Godiksen guilty of one count of murder for hire.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clinton Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Dave Vatti.
Hartford Man Who Threatened Tow Truck Operator with Gun Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS QUINTANA, 28, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 27 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for threatening a tow truck operator with a gun.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 29, 2018, Quintana pointed a firearm at a tow truck operator who had started the process of towing Quintana’s car, which had been improperly parked in a private lot on Garden Street in Hartford. After the tow truck operator removed the car from the tow hitch and Quintana walked away, the victim’s partner called police. Officers responded to the scene, apprehended Quintana who was nearby, and retrieved a loaded Ruger P95 9mm millimeter handgun that Quintana had discarded as police arrived.
Quintana’s criminal history includes felony convictions for possession of narcotics with intent to sell, and carrying a pistol without 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.
Quintana has been detained since his federal arrest on October 24, 2018. On August 16, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Connecticut Violent Crime Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Clark and Michael Gustafson.
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.
Waterford Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RODNEY COTE, 54, of Waterford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to nine months of imprisonment, followed by six months of home confinement and three years of supervised release, for distributing oxycodone.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2018, law enforcement learned that Cote was obtaining a monthly prescription for 120 80mg oxycodone pills and selling the pills for cash. The investigation revealed that Cote had been filling the monthly prescription for at least three years. On four occasions between May and July 2018, investigators made controlled purchases of 120 pills from Cote in exchange for $2,000. On September 20, 2018, investigators purchased 240 pills for $5,000. Cote was arrested on November 7, 2018, after he agreed to sell another 240 pills.
On March 4, 2019, Cote pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, oxycodone.
As part of his sentence, Cote was ordered to forfeit $19,700.
Cote, who is released on a $75,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on April 7, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Naugatuck Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANA NUNEZ, also known as Ana Pagoaga, 48, of Naugatuck, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to filing false tax returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Nunez owned and operated Nunez MultiServices, LLC, a tax return preparation service located in Naugatuck. From tax year 2011 and continuing at least through tax year 2014, Nunez falsified information on tax returns she prepared for clients and caused the returns to be filed with the Internal Revenue Service. On the returns, Nunez routinely inflated income or created fictitious income; falsified expenses, including education and child care expenses, and falsified deductions, such as business mileage.
Nunez pleaded guilty to two counts of aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years on each count. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Susan L. Wines and John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANGEL RODRIGUEZ, also known as “Red,” 26, formerly of Manchester, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement identified Rodriguez as a significant distributor of fentanyl. On February 4, 2019, investigators arranged a controlled purchase of 200 grams of fentanyl from Rodriguez in exchange for $13,000. Rodriguez was arrested on that date after he met the purchaser an automotive business on Wethersfield Avenue in Hartford in possession of approximately 200 grams of fentanyl. At the time of his arrest, Rodriguez also possessed a loaded 9mm pistol and approximately $2,600 in cash. A subsequent search of Rodriguez’s Manchester residence revealed more than 200 grams of marijuana, a .45 caliber rifle, three boxes of ammunition, and other firearm-related items.
200 grams of fentanyl is the equivalent of approximately 8,000 doses.
On October 15, 2019, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Rodriguez, who is currently released on a $100,000 bond and residing in Hartford, is required to report to prison on March 25, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes 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.
El Salvadoran National Involved in Bridgeport Shooting Death Admits Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DOUGLAS ALEXANDER RIVAS, 37, a citizen of El Salvador, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to illegal reentry by a removed alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2003, Rivas was convicted in Connecticut state court of misdemeanor offenses, including criminal trespass in the first degree, criminal mischief in the second degree, and reckless endangerment in the first degree. For these convictions, he received an 11-month suspend sentence and three years of probation. In March 2007, Rivas was removed to El Salvador.
Rivas subsequently illegally reentered the U.S.
On April 25, 2017, Rivas was arrested, in Florida, in connection with the shooting death of a 36-year old man at the El Paraiso Restaurant in Bridgeport on September 25, 2016. He has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for March 30, 2020, at which time Rivas faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.
On November 8, 2019, in relation to the 2016 shooting death, Rivas pleaded guilty in state court to manslaughter in the first degree, and criminal possession of a firearm. He awaits sentencing for these offenses.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Connecticut Resident Admits Making Numerous Hoax ThreatsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GARY JOSEPH GRAVELLE, also known as Roland Prejean, 52, last residing in New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to seven charges related to his threatening to kill, injure and intimidate people and explode property in Connecticut and elsewhere. He also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release that followed his earlier federal convictions for sending threatening communications.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in September 2018, Gravelle used the U.S. mail, e-mail and telephone to threaten to harm people and explode property in Connecticut, Vermont and Washington. Certain letters that Gravelle mailed contained a white powdery substance and statements that the substance was Anthrax, a biological agent and toxin. Gravelle made threats to various mental health providers and facilities in New Haven, U.S. Probation Officers, a U.S. District Court Judge, an international airport in Vermont, a federal prison in Washington, occupants of a building in Old Saybrook, a credit union in Bristol, and organizations and religious centers in Connecticut. He also sent a letter threatening to kill the President of the United States.
Gravelle pleaded guilty to five counts of maliciously conveying false information about an explosive, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count; one count related to the sending of hoax Anthrax letters, and offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and one count of making threats against the President, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
On July 19, 2013, Gravelle was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 70 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for mailing numerous threatening letters in 2010. Gravelle was released from prison in 2015 and, in September 2018, was still under federal supervision.
In pleading guilty, Gravelle also admitted that he failed to comply with conditions of his supervised release, namely not violating any federal or state law by engaging in the threatening conduct in September 2018.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for March 26, 2020.
Gravelle has been detained since his arrest on September 8, 2018.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with the assistance of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and many local police and fire departments, including departments from Bristol, Guilford, Groton, Hartford, Middletown, New Haven, Old Saybrook, Southington and Stamford, Yale University, and Burlington, Vermont. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
Milford Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Charge Stemming from Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on January 3, 2020, ANTHONY AMATO, 31, of Milford, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 26, 2019, the Milford Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a Milford rooming house on a report of a drug overdose at the location. Inside the residence, a 28-year-old male was pronounced deceased. At the scene, investigators interviewed witnesses and collected evidence related to narcotics use, including needles and wax folds, some of which contained suspected heroin.
The investigation revealed that the overdose victim and Amato, who resided in another room in the rooming house, were together in the afternoon of August 24, 2019. On August 29, 2019, a court-authorized search of Amato’s room revealed multiple ripped wax folds and other narcotics-related evidence. Some of the wax folds were marked with the same stamp as the wax folds found in the victim’s room. Laboratory analysis of the wax folds revealed fentanyl and heroin residue.
Subsequent review of text communications between Amato and the victim revealed that Amato provided the victim with heroin in August 24, 2019.
Amato’s criminal history includes multiple convictions for narcotics-related charges in Connecticut, including a conviction for sale of narcotics for which he is currently on state probation.
Amato has been detained since his federal arrest on September 10, 2019. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for March 30, 2020, at which time Amato faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and the Milford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
Former Connecticut Resident Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that THERESA FOREMAN, 58, of St. Cloud, Florida, formerly of Madison, Connecticut, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for a wide-ranging tax evasion scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Foreman operated Equinox Home Care, LLC, a home healthcare staffing agency based in Stratford, Connecticut. Beginning as early as 2012, Foreman took money out of the company by depositing or cashing, and causing to be deposited or cashed, checks written to individuals who did not actually work for Equinox Home Care. Between May 2012 and December 2013, approximately $413,000 in payroll checks to these “ghost employees” were deposited into accounts controlled by Foreman’s brother. During the same period, approximately $465,000 was withdrawn from the accounts in cash, cash back from deposits, or checks payable to Foreman. Foreman also had employees cash company checks and return the funds to her, and she cashed or caused to be cashed mileage reimbursement checks made out to other individuals and used the funds for her own benefit.
The investigation also revealed that between August 2014 and November 2015, Foreman made or caused to be made 101 cash deposits totaling $580,580 to a bank account in a family member’s name.
Foreman failed to report the amounts that she received through this scheme on her federal tax returns for 2012, 2013, and 2014. Foreman also owed tax for the 2010 and 2011 tax years and, on a statement submitted to the IRS in March 2013, provided false information about her income and assets. On the statement, Foreman falsely indicated that she had no monthly income. She also failed to declare ownership of a property in Saint Cloud, Florida, which she had purchased jointly with her brother in March 2012; failed to declare a bank account held in the name of her adult son, but which she controlled and used; and failed to declare recent purchases of a 2012 Chevrolet Corvette and a 2013 Cadillac Escalade.
Foreman’s conduct for the 2010 through 2014 tax years resulted in a loss of $641,941.46 to the Internal Revenue Service. Judge Bolden ordered Foreman to pay all back taxes, plus penalties and interest.
On March 4, 2019, Foreman pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion.
Foreman, who is released on a $10,000 bond, is required to report to prison on February 28, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter S. Jongbloed and Jennifer R. Laraia.
New Haven Oxycodone Dealer is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MILTON VEREEN, also known as “M.D.,” 40, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing oxycodone.
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 and around New Haven. Vereen was an oxycodone distributor who sometimes redistributed oxycodone supplied to him by Butler and, at other times, supplied Butler with oxycodone.
Butler, Vereen and several other members of the organization were arrested on federal criminal complaints on February 6, 2018. On February 8, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 30-count indictment charging 19 individuals with various offenses.
On April 25, 2019, Vereen pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, oxycodone. Vereen, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 17, 2020.
Butler pleaded guilty on August 9, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
This matter is being 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.
Member of Southeastern Connecticut Drug Ring Sentenced to 71 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROYSHAWN ALLGOOD, also known as “Boy Roy,” 30, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 71 months of imprisonment, followed by five 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. Allgood received narcotics from another member of the conspiracy and then distributed the drugs to users and other street-level distributors.
Allgood and 10 co-conspirators were arrested on February 21, 2019. On March 5, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Allgood and 23 other individuals with various offenses. On June 4, 2019, Allgood pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, 100 grams or more of heroin, and 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Allgood, who was released on bond, was remanded to custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at the conclusion of the sentencing proceeding.
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.
Griswold Hotel to Make Changes to Comply with American with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement agreement with the AmericInn by Wyndham Hotel in Griswold to resolve allegations that the hotel had not been operating in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”).
The settlement agreement resolves an ADA complaint filed by an individual with disabilities alleging that the AmericInn by Wyndham Hotel, Griswold, owned and managed by Champion Griswold, LLC, was not accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. The hotel is in the process of making the changes required by the settlement agreement, which include significant improvements to designated accessible guest rooms, accessible public restrooms, eating and recreation areas and the addition of signage for parking spaces, for individuals with disabilities. The hotel will continue to make improvements over the next three years.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate “places of public accommodation,” including hotels, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities. The Department of Justice is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that the AmericInn by Wyndham, Griswold Hotel’s management has worked quickly and cooperatively with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the ADA issues without litigation.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that a hotel or any other place of public accommodation in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ndidi N. Moses of the District of Connecticut in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
Middletown Used Car Dealer Admits Defrauding Lenders, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that GEORGE HAJATI, 41, of Cromwell, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of wire fraud stemming from an auto loan fraud scheme. Hajati also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release that followed a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Hajati owned and operated a used car dealership located at 1075 Newfield Street in Middletown known as Car Nation, LLC, Car Nation CT, LLC, and Middletown Motorcars. In connection with automobile loan applications for multiple borrowers, Hajati, and employees at his direction, submitted documents and statements to victim lenders that falsely represented the borrower’s employment, salary, sources of income, and the fact and amount of a down payment. The false documents included fictitious or altered borrower pay stubs and income verification letters purportedly from the Social Security Administration. Hajati falsely indicated that borrowers made salaries they did not make, worked at jobs they did not work, received income from the Social Security Administration they did not receive, and made down payments they did not make. In some instances, the borrower was not aware of, and did not consent to, Hajati using his or her personal identifying information to obtain automobile loans in these ways.
Between approximately April 2016 and July 2019, Hajati defrauded victim lenders of $654,952.56 through this scheme.
Hajati was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on July 2, 2019.
Hajati was previously convicted of federal conspiracy and fraud offenses related to a Hartford-area mortgage fraud scheme that defrauded various lenders of more than $1 million. In August 2015, Hajati was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. He was released from federal prison in August 2016, and was on supervised release at the time of the auto loan fraud.
Hajati is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford on March 6, 2020, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years for the fraud offense, and two years of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
Hajati is released on a $560,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
Bethany Attorney Pleads Guilty to Federal Tax ChargesRead 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 WILLIAM S. PALMIERI, 56, of Bethany, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to two counts of willful failure to pay income taxes.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Palmieri is an attorney with a practice specializing in civil rights law. Between 2006 and 2014, Palmieri reported to the Internal Revenue Service, but did not pay, all the income taxes he owed, even though he had the ability to make substantially greater tax payments during that time.
As of December 2017, Palmieri owed $227,709 in taxes, interest and penalties.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2020, at which time Palmieri faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a fine, and restitution to the IRS.
Palmieri is released on bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Stamford Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Surgical Glove Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that THOMAS J. CONNERTON, 67, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 108 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating an investment scheme that defrauded more than 70 individuals, including several women he met on a dating website, of more than $2 million.
According to the evidence presented during his trial, Connerton was the founder, president, and CEO of Safety Technologies, LLC (“Safety Tech”), a Connecticut company that had its principal place of business at various times in Simsbury, Madison, Westport and Stamford. Safety Tech was founded in 2006, purportedly for the purpose of developing and commercializing what was represented to be a highly durable puncture and cut resistant material that was to be used in the surgical glove market and other related markets. Safety Tech had not obtained any patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and Connerton did not register Safety Tech’s securities with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
Beginning in approximately June 2009, Connerton induced victim-investors to provide him funds and to purchase Safety Tech securities by falsely representing that the valuation of Safety Tech was realistically in the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars, that a lucrative deal to sell or license his glove technology was imminent, and that he would use their funds for research and development, product testing, and to bring the product to market. Connerton offered his investors small amounts of equity in Safety Tech through “Subscription Agreements” or investments contracts through which he sold what he described as “Units.”
Several of the victim-investors were women who were drawn into the scheme after Connerton met them on a popular dating website.
Connerton made numerous other false representations to victim-investors, including stating in September 2015, “I will go on the record to state that there is not a single investor that will lose one dollar invested in Safety Technologies.”
Even though Connerton represented to victim-investors and potential victim-investors that the funds they invested would be used to fund research and development, for product testing, for business expenses and for legal fees, he used invested funds to pay personal expenses including, on two separate occasions, to purchase two diamond engagement rings from Tiffany & Co. Connerton also used funds to repay loans to an earlier investor.
Through this scheme, Connerton defrauded more than 70 victim-investors of more than $2.2 million.
The investigation also revealed that Connerton engaged in monetary transactions in an attempt to conceal from the FBI and the SEC the nature and source of funds received by Safety Tech from the sale of Safety Tech securities. Connerton negotiated checks and purchased bank checks in order to move the fraudulent proceeds from one account to another.
The investigation further revealed that Connerton willfully failed to pay $293,033 in federal income taxes between 2003 and 2015.
On September 17, 2018, a jury found Connerton guilty of 12 counts of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, 16 counts of securities fraud, four counts of money laundering and one count of tax evasion.
The government is seeking full restitution for the victim-investors and forfeiture of the two engagement rings that Connerton purchased with proceeds of the fraud scheme. Connerton also owes more than $500,000 in back taxes, interest and penalties. Restitution will be determined after additional court proceedings.
Connerton has been detained since his arrest on March 9, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division.
U.S. Attorney Durham also acknowledged the important assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael S. McGarry and Lauren C. Clark.
South Windsor Couple Charged with Defrauding Immigrant Clients, USCISRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment yesterday charging BABAR KHAN, 41, and KHATIJA KHAN, 38, both of South Windsor, with offenses related to scheme through which individuals seeking immigration services were defrauded.
The Khans were arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson and were released on $50,000 bonds.
As alleged in the indictment, Babar and Khatija Khan, who are married, operated JLLAS CORP. and EIMAAN LLC, which were created to provide services to clients involved in proceedings with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). Between approximately May 2015 and January 2018, the Khans recruited clients who sought some form of immigration status, relief or benefit. Many of these clients are aliens residing in the U.S. without legal status and had limited education, a limited ability to understand English, and little to no knowledge of the documents that the Khans were filing with USCIS on their behalf.
The indictment alleges that Khatija Khan represented herself as an attorney with a background in immigration matters, even though she was not an attorney. The Khans prepared petitions and applications for their clients that contained information that they knew to be false. They also fabricated false documents to support their clients’ applications with USCIS without their clients’ knowledge. They then mailed, or caused to be mailed, these fraudulent applications and documents to USCIS, where they were received and made part of the official Alien file of each respective client.
It is alleged that many of the Khans’ clients received no relief from USCIS despite paying the Khans significant amounts of money.
The indictment charges Babar Kahn with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, two counts of mail fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. Khatija Khan is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and one count of mail fraud. The conspiracy and fraud charges carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and the tax charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Individuals who believe they have been victimized by this scheme contact Ines Cenatiempo, Victim-Witness Coordinator of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, at [email protected] or by phone at 203-821-3757.
Hartford Gang Member Involved in Violent Kidnapping and Assault Sentenced to More Than 13 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PEDRO CARILLO, also known as “P,” 25, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 161 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for a kidnapping and violent assault he committed with four other members of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation (“Latin Kings”).
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 26, 2018, Carillo’s brother, Anthony Carillo, and another associate, Josue Franco, lured an individual (“the victim”) to a residence on Benton Street in Hartford. When the victim entered the residence, Jonathan Otero and Luis Pitt were waiting. Anthony Carillo, Franco, Otero and Pitt then threatened, assaulted and tortured the victim, prevented him from leaving the residence, and demanded a ransom. After the victim was restrained, Pedro Carillo arrived at the residence and participated in the ongoing assault and torture of the victim, which included burning him with cigarettes, pistol-whipping him and throwing a dart into his foot.
The defendants forced the victim to call someone to deliver money in exchange for his release. The victim then called his father. Franco grabbed the phone and told the victim’s father if he did not deliver $500 they were going to kill his son. After the call, Otero put a bullet in the victim’s hand and told him he would use that bullet to shoot him in the head if the victim could not get the ransom money. The victim was then transported to different locations in Hartford in an effort to collect ransom before he was eventually released.
The victim was treated at a hospital for a fractured cheekbone, a facial laceration, a concussion and other injuries.
Pedro Carillo’s criminal history includes two felony assault convictions and he was on probation for those offenses when he committed this violent assault. In June 2017, he was seriously wounded in a gang-related shooting.
Pedro Carillo is currently detained. On September 13, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of using, carrying and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The other four defendants also pleaded guilty to related charges. On December 10, 2019, Otero was sentenced to 154 months of imprisonment; on December 16, 2019, Franco was sentenced to 132 months of imprisonment, and on December 18, 2019, Anthony Carillo was sentenced to 125 months of imprisonment. Pitt is detained while awaiting sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes 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 Hartford Police Department’s Major Crimes Division has provided critical assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Hamden Man Charged with Attempting to Travel to Fight for IsisRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that KEVIN IMAN McCORMICK, 26, of Hamden, has been charged by indictment with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
McCormick was arrested on October 21, 2019, and charged by federal criminal complaint. On October 30, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging McCormick with the offense. The affidavit in support of the criminal complaint was unsealed today.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in October 2019, McCormick made several statements to others expressing a desire to travel to Syria and to fight for ISIS. In one conversation, McCormick stated “I gotta fight bro, because those people, Abu Masa and ISIL, they fought for me bro, I know it, I can feel it, in my heart. So it’s my time to fight . . . It just is what it is bro, it’s just my – it’s just my time to go bro.” When McCormick was asked to elaborate on where he would like to travel, McCormick responded, “I don’t know, I don’t know bro – it’s gotta be like Syria. Where ISIL is at….whichever place is easiest, whichever place I can get there the fastest, the quickest, the easiest, and where I can have a rifle and I can have some people bro. That’s what I need, I need a rifle and I need some people, I need Islamic law, I need, that’s what I need, because if I have these things, it’s going to be very hard to kill me.”
It is also alleged that, on October 12, 2019, McCormick attempted to board a flight from Connecticut to Jamaica, but was prevented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. McCormick subsequently told an individual that he wanted to travel to Jamaica, and then onward to Syria to join ISIS. He also indicated that he wanted to acquire weapons.
It is further alleged that, on October 19, 2019, McCormick made a video during which he pledged allegiance to ISIS and its leader, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. Also on that date, he purchased a plane ticket from Toronto, Canada, to Amman, Jordan. On October 21, 2019, McCormick was arrested after he traveled to a small private airport in Connecticut where he expected to board a plane that would fly him to Canada.
McCormick has been detained since his arrest.
The charge of conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 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.
This matter is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) with the assistance of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The FBI’s JTTF includes participants from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department, Norwich Police Department, Hartford Police Department, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department, Town of Groton Police Department, UConn Police Department, Yale Police Department, and New York Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito and Trial Attorney Justin Sher from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
Former Postal Employee Who Stole Mail is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CAREEMA LEWIS, 33, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to three years of probation for stealing mail while employed by the U.S. Postal Service. Judge Bolden ordered Lewis to perform 100 hours of community service while she is on probation.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between September 2018 and January 2019, while she was employed as a postal worker at the U.S. Post Office in Plymouth, Lewis stole numerous pieces of mail, specifically, greeting cards that contained gift cards or other items of value. When confronted by investigators in January 2019, Lewis admitted that she stole “between 20 and 50” gift cards from the mail. Lewis subsequently surrendered approximately 10 gift cards that she had stolen from greeting cards, and approximately 17 pieces of stolen mail that she had in her vehicle and her purse.
On September 26, 2019, Lewis pleaded guilty to one count of theft of mail by a postal employee.
Restitution will be determined after additional court proceedings.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret M. Donovan.
Individuals who believe they are a victim of mail theft may file a complaint by calling 888-USPS-OIG or by clicking this link.
Connecticut Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, John H. Durham, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, today announced that Kevin Iman McCormick, 26, of Hamden, Connecticut, has been charged by indictment with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
McCormick was arrested on Oct. 21, 2019, and charged by federal criminal complaint. On Oct. 30, 2019, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging McCormick with the offense. The affidavit in support of the criminal complaint was unsealed today.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in October 2019, McCormick made several statements to others expressing a desire to travel to Syria and to fight for ISIS. In one conversation, McCormick stated “I gotta fight bro, because those people, Abu Masa and ISIL, they fought for me bro, I know it, I can feel it, in my heart. So it’s my time to fight . . . It just is what it is bro, it’s just my – it’s just my time to go bro.” When McCormick was asked to elaborate on where he would like to travel, McCormick responded, “I don’t know, I don’t know bro – it’s gotta be like Syria. Where ISIL is at….whichever place is easiest, whichever place I can get there the fastest, the quickest, the easiest, and where I can have a rifle and I can have some people bro. That’s what I need, I need a rifle and I need some people, I need Islamic law, I need, that’s what I need, because if I have these things, it’s going to be very hard to kill me.”
It is also alleged that, on Oct. 12, 2019, McCormick attempted to board a flight from Connecticut to Jamaica, but was prevented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. McCormick subsequently told an individual that he wanted to travel to Jamaica, and then onward to Syria to join ISIS. He also indicated that he wanted to acquire weapons.
It is further alleged that, on Oct. 19, 2019, McCormick made a video during which he pledged allegiance to ISIS and its leader, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. Also on that date, he purchased a plane ticket from Toronto, Canada, to Amman, Jordan. On Oct. 21, 2019, McCormick was arrested after he traveled to a small private airport in Connecticut where he expected to board a plane that would fly him to Canada.
McCormick has been detained since his arrest.
The charge of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
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 matter is being investigated by FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) with the assistance of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The FBI’s JTTF includes participants from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department, Norwich Police Department, Hartford Police Department, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department, Town of Groton Police Department, UConn Police Department, Yale Police Department, and New York Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito and Trial Attorney Justin Sher from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
New Haven Crack Dealer Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TORRENCE GAMBLE, also known as “Bones” and “Bone,” 46, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 92 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his participation 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 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 and around New Haven. Gamble was a trusted associate of Butler who headed the organization’s crack distribution in the Vernon Street area of New Haven.
Butler, Gamble and several other members of the organization were arrested on federal criminal complaints on February 6, 2018. On February 8, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 30-count indictment charging 19 individuals with various offenses.
Gamble’s criminal history includes multiple convictions related to the sale of drugs, and a conviction for criminal possession of a firearm.
Gamble has been detained since his arrest. On August 12, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine base. (“crack”).
Butler pleaded guilty on August 9, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
This matter is being 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.
New Britain Man Who Shot Girlfriend and Her 2 Children Sentenced for Federal Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JERMAINE SCOTT, also known as “Maine G,” 39, formerly of New Britain, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 57 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the morning of March 29, 2017, New Britain Police responded to a residence in New Britain after a report that Scott had shot and seriously wounded his girlfriend and two of his girlfriend’s children at the residence. The victims subsequently reported that Scott, who was lying in bed, became angry when he thought the children were being too loud as they were getting ready for school. After an argument ensued, Scott retrieved a gun from behind the headboard of the bed, chased his girlfriend’s 17-year-old daughter into the bathroom and shot her in the stomach and thigh. He then shot his girlfriend’s 12-year-old son in his leg, and then his girlfriend in her stomach. Scott then fled the residence.
All three victims survived their injuries
Investigators conducted a search of the residence and recovered a .40 caliber pistol, four spent .40 caliber bullet shell casings, and more than 63 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition.
Scott was apprehended in Middletown on September 18, 2017. On May 16, 2019, he pleaded guilty in New Britain Superior Court to three counts of assault in the first degree. On July 24, 2019, he was sentenced to a 30-year term of imprisonment, no portion of which is suspended.
Scott has a criminal history that spans 20 years and includes convictions for firearm, drug, burglary, larceny and other 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.
On September 4, 2019, Scott pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Scott’s federal sentence will run concurrently with his state sentence.
This matter was investigated by the New Britain Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service Violent Fugitive Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.