District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hartford Man Charged with Recording Sexual Abuse of MinorRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERTO ACOSTA-TORRES, 59, of Hartford, was arrested today and charged in a federal criminal complaint with production of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
Acosta appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for December 23.
As alleged in the complaint, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Acosta’s Hartford residence earlier today and seized a Sony camcorder and two thumb drives. Preliminary analysis of the thumb drives revealed hundreds of videos of child pornography, including at least two videos of Acosta sexually abusing a minor victim.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a criminal complaint 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 Hartford and Manchester Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Hartford Gang Member Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY CARILLO, also known as “Boogie,” 21, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 125 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 and 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. 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, Carillo’s brother, 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.
Anthony Carillo and others then drove the victim to different locations in Hartford in an effort to collect ransom. Carillo eventually released the victim.
The victim was treated at a hospital for a fractured cheekbone, a facial laceration, a concussion and other injuries.
Anthony Carillo has been detained since his arrest on October 4, 2018. On September 24, 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, and on December 16, 2019, Franco was sentenced to 132 months of imprisonment. Pitt and Pedro Carillo are 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 Sentenced to Prison for Firearm and Narcotics OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CLEMENTE HOLMES, also known as “Cavali” and “Vali,” 30, of Hamden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for firearm and narcotics offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2019, law enforcement made two controlled purchases of narcotics from Holmes at his Goodrich Street residence. On January 22, 2019, a court-authorized search of the residence revealed distribution quantities of fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine, as well as a loaded 9mm handgun. Holmes was arrested on state charges on that date.
In February 2019, investigators made a controlled purchase of crack cocaine from Holmes, who had posted bond after his state arrest.
Holmes was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on February 26, 2019. At the time of his arrest, a search of his residence revealed more heroin packaged for distribution. He has been detained since his arrest.
In 2012, Holmes was convicted in state court of sale of narcotics and possession of a pistol without a permit.
On September 3, 2019, Holmes pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, one count of possession of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”) with intent to distribute, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Haven Safe Streets Gang Task Force and the East Haven, Hamden and New Haven Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.
Ansonia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ABDUL JALIL HUMPHREY, 26, of Ansonia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating Humphrey in 2017 after a report that Humphrey had stolen a firearm out of a car in Stratford. During the investigation, Humphrey s denied stealing this firearm. In May 2018, ATF special agents examined a video of Humphrey handling a firearm in the summer of 2017. Analysis of the video revealed that the firearm was a Taurus, PTIII Millennium G2, 9mm pistol, which had been purchased by Humphrey’s friend at a gun shop in North Carolina on June 21, 2017.
Humphrey’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for sale of a controlled substance and assault in the second 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.
Humphrey was arrested on October 30, 2018. On August 19, 2019, he pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Humphrey, who is released on a $25,000 bond pending, is required to report to prison on February 18, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the ATF and New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
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.
U.S. Attorney's Office Reaches ADA Settlement with Newtown RestaurantRead 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 settlement agreements with the Market Place Kitchen & Bar (the “Market Place”) in Newtown and its landlord, Mesa Contractors, to resolve allegations that the restaurant facility and its premises did not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”).
The settlement agreements resolve an ADA complaint filed by an individual with disabilities alleging that the Market Place was not fully accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. The Market Place and Mesa Contractors are in the process of making the changes required by the settlement agreements. As part of its settlement agreement with the government, the Market Place will provide accessible dining tables throughout its restaurant facility, ensure equivalent service for individuals in the restaurant’s bar area, ensure access to the restaurant’s patio area, post accessible signage, and ensure that the restaurant’s restrooms meet accessibility requirements. As part of its settlement agreement with the government, Mesa Contractors will increase accessible parking spaces in the parking lot at 32 Church Hill Road in Newtown.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants and bars, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. Federal law also bars the landlord of a place of public accommodation 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 Justice Department 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 owners of Market Place Kitchen & Bar and Mesa Contractors cooperated throughout this investigation and he thanked their commitment to make changes in order for their facilities to comply with the requirements of the ADA.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica H. Soufer of the District of Connecticut in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
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.
West Haven, Connecticut Man Arrested After Attempting to Travel to the Middle East to Join and Fight for ISISRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that Ahmad Khalil Elshazly, 22, of West Haven, Connecticut, has been charged by a federal criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Elshazly was arrested yesterday. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was ordered detained.
“As alleged in the complaint, Elshazly was bent on supporting ISIS. Worried that his efforts here would be too small and that he would be stopped at the airport, he planned to travel overseas aboard a container ship to join and fight for ISIS,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “The National Security Division is committed to identifying and holding accountable those who continue to seek to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to targeting and stopping those who wish to cause mayhem, both in the U.S. and abroad, before they are successful,” said U.S. Attorney John H. Durham for the District of Connecticut. “I thank the FBI’s JTTF and all the agencies involved in the lengthy investigation that culminated in yesterday’s arrest. Their work has saved lives.”
“It is crucial the citizens of Connecticut, and across the country, know we at the FBI and our task force partners are unwavering in our work to successfully identify and disrupt potential terrorist activities, as this case demonstrates,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Brian C. Turner of the New Haven Division. “Through nonstop intelligence gathering and great investigative techniques, we will continue to pursue those who seek to bring harm to U.S. citizens and dismantle potential terrorist actions wherever they may be.”
As alleged in the criminal complaint, beginning in approximately September 2018, Elshazly, a U.S. citizen, has made numerous statements to others, both in person and through online messaging applications, expressing a desire to travel to Syria and the surrounding area to fight on behalf of ISIS. In February 2019, Elshazly stated that he had saved approximately $1,000 with the intention of using the money to travel to Jordan to transit to Syria to be with ISIS.
It is further alleged that, in October 2019, during a meeting with other individuals, Elshazly made numerous statements supporting ISIS, including, “…they say, War has started and we are marching to it…..but all doors are closed, closed. I am talking to myself now, asking myself, How do I get there? How can I help Muslims? How can I do anything?” He further stated, “God willing! May this country [United States] burn the same way they burned Muslims! May they burn in fire at the end!” Elshazly made these statements in a public venue. When he was asked to lower his voice when talking loudly, Elshazly proclaimed “I am not scared.”
During the same meeting, it is alleged that Elshazly said, “…I want to go to the caliphate and fight there. I can kill maybe…like a hundred kaffir. I can kill them. A hundred kaffirs. If I do something here how many kaffirs could I kill? One, two, three and then I get shot and I die. It is more benefitting if I go there, I could kill more and will get more faithful rewards.”
It is further alleged that, in December 2019, Elshazly sent another individual a series of YouTube videos explaining how various high-powered firearms and other weaponry work.
It is alleged that, because he was concerned about being stopped by law enforcement at an airport, Elshazly arranged to travel by ship to Turkey. Elshazly provided another individual with $500 that Elshazly believed would be used to pay for a portion of his trip. On Dec. 15, 2019, Elshazly was arrested after he arrived in Stonington, Connecticut, where he expected to board a boat to begin his trip.
The charge of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) with the assistance of the Stonington Police Department, New Haven Police Department and Connecticut State Police. 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. 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, Groton Police Department, UConn Police Department, Yale Police Department, New York Police Department, and the US Marshals Service.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and Jennifer Burke from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
West Haven Man Arrested after Attempting to Travel to Middle East to Join and 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 AHMAD KHALIL ELSHAZLY, 22, of West Haven, has been charged by a federal criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Elshazly was arrested yesterday. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was ordered detained.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, beginning in approximately September 2018, Elshazly, a U.S. citizen, has made numerous statements to others, both in person and through online messaging applications, expressing a desire to travel to Syria and the surrounding area to fight on behalf of ISIS. In February 2019, Elshazly stated that he had saved approximately $1,000 with the intention of using the money to travel to Jordan to transit to Syria to be with ISIS.
It is further alleged that, in October 2019, during a meeting with other individuals, Elshazly made numerous statements supporting ISIS, including, “…they say, War has started and we are marching to it…..but all doors are closed, closed. I am talking to myself now, asking myself, How do I get there? How can I help Muslims? How can I do anything?” He further stated, “God willing! May this country [United States] burn the same way they burned Muslims! May they burn in fire at the end!” Elshazly made these statements in a public venue. When he was asked to lower his voice when talking loudly, Elshazly proclaimed “I am not scared.”
During the same meeting, it is alleged that Elshazly said, “…I want to go to the caliphate and fight there. I can kill maybe…like a hundred kaffir. I can kill them. A hundred kaffirs. If I do something here how many kaffirs could I kill? One, two, three and then I get shot and I die. It is more benefitting if I go there, I could kill more and will get more faithful rewards.”
It is further alleged that, in December 2019, Elshazly sent another individual a series of YouTube videos explaining how various high-powered firearms and other weaponry work.
It is alleged that, because he was concerned about being stopped by law enforcement at an airport, Elshazly arranged to travel by ship to Turkey. Elshazly provided another individual with $500 that Elshazly believed would be used to pay for a portion of his trip. On December 15, 2019, Elshazly was arrested after he arrived in Stonington, Connecticut, where he expected to board a boat to begin his trip.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to targeting and stopping those who wish to cause mayhem, both in the U.S. and abroad, before they are successful,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “I thank the FBI’s JTTF and all the agencies involved in the lengthy investigation that culminated in yesterday’s arrest. Their work has saved lives.”
“As alleged in the complaint, Elshazly was bent on supporting ISIS,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “Worried that his efforts here would be too small and that he would be stopped at the airport, he planned to travel overseas aboard a container ship to join and fight for ISIS. The National Security Division is committed to identifying and holding accountable those who continue to seek to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations.”
“It is crucial the citizens of Connecticut, and across the country, know we at the FBI and our task force partners are unwavering in our work to successfully identify and disrupt potential terrorist activities, as this case demonstrates,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Turner. “Through nonstop intelligence gathering and great investigative techniques, we will continue to pursue those who seek to bring harm to U.S. citizens and dismantle potential terrorist actions wherever they may be.”
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 a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) with the assistance of the Stonington Police Department, New Haven Police Department and Connecticut State Police. 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 Attorneys Justin Sher and Jennifer Burke from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Heroin, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERTO ANTHONY TORRES, also known as “Toni,” 52, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and New Haven Police Department revealed that Malbin Rubiera-Herrera, also known as “Chaca,” acquired heroin and cocaine from sources in Connecticut and New Jersey and distributed the drugs through a network of associates, including Torres, in the greater New Haven area. Between October and December 2018, investigators made controlled purchases of heroin and cocaine from Rubiera-Herrera. Subsequent court-authorized wiretaps revealed a widespread narcotics trafficking conspiracy that involved the trafficking of kilogram-quantities of heroin into Connecticut.
Between January and April 2019, Torres was intercepted numerous times on recorded calls ordering distribution quantities of heroin from Rubiera-Herrera. After one call, investigators observed Rubiera-Herrera and Torres completing the transaction at Torres’ New Haven residence.
On June 5, 2019, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Torres, Rubiera-Herrera and 12 other individuals with heroin, cocaine and fentanyl trafficking offenses.
Torres has been detained since his arrest on June 10. On September 24, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin.
A search of Rubiera-Herrera’s residence at the time of arrest on April 30, 2019, revealed approximately 300 grams of fentanyl. He pleaded guilty on June 20.
In July 2016, Torres was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin. He was released from prison in April 2017.
Judge Meyer sentenced Torres to 48 months of imprisonment for distributing heroin, and a consecutive 24 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, East Haven Police Department, Easton Police Department, Orange Police Department, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor’s Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force.
The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and S. Dave Vatti.
Hartford Gang Member Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSUE FRANCO, also known as “Sway,” 24, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 132 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, Franco and Anthony Carillo 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. Franco, Otero, Pitt and Carillo 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.
Franco and others then drove the victim to different locations in Hartford in an effort to collect ransom.
The victim was eventually released. He was subsequently treated at a hospital for a fractured cheekbone, a facial laceration, a concussion and other injuries.
Franco has been detained since his arrest on October 16, 2018. On September 19, 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. Pitt, Anthony Carillo and Pedro Carillo are 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.
Two New Haven Residents Charged with Trafficking Heroin and FentanylRead 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 eight-count indictment charging JAMES COOPER, also known as “Jimi” and “Bamboo,”48, and MINISHA SUMLER, also known as “Mish,” 30, both of New Haven, with narcotics trafficking offenses.
The indictment was returned on December 10, and both defendants were arrested yesterday. Cooper is detained, and Sumler was released today on a $25,000 bond.
As alleged in court documents, between August and November 2019, law enforcement made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of heroin and fentanyl from Cooper and Sumler.
The indictment charges Cooper and Sumler with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and with additional counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and fentanyl. If convicted, Cooper and Sumler face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count of conviction.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Hamden Police Department. The Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.
Pharmacist Admits Tampering with Infusion NarcoticsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced CARL MANCINI, 43, of Wolcott, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to one count of tampering with a consumer product.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Mancini was employed as a licensed pharmacist by a Connecticut company that prepared home or hospice care intravenous infusions for a variety of medical conditions, including pain management. As part of his duties, Mancini was responsible for formulating infusions of the correct concentration for specific patients pursuant to the orders of their physician. Between approximately January and June 2019, Mancini accessed a secure area of his workplace and took vials of hydromorphone hydrochloride and morphine sulfate pentahydrate that were intended to be used to formulate infusion for patients. He used a syringe to withdraw the narcotics from the vials and reinjected saline into the vial so that it would appear as if the narcotics were not missing. In order to hide his tampering, Mancini used specialized crimping tools to reseal the vials. He then returned the vials to the secure area at his workplace.
Mancini tampered with dozens of vials through this scheme. Laboratory testing of a sample of vials Mancini tampered with revealed that virtually all of the active drug had been removed and replaced with saline.
Mancini is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford on March 11, 2020, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Mancini is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the Cromwell Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, Drug Control Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
Pennsylvania Woman Who Stole from Mother Pleads Guilty to Failing to File Tax ReturnsRead 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 JENNIFER O’BRIEN, 51, of South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to failing to file federal tax returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between 2012 and 2014, O’Brien served as Power of Attorney for her mother and had control over funds intended for her mother’s benefit. At the time, O’Brien was known as Jennifer Brokaw and resided with her mother in Hebron, Connecticut. While O’Brien used some of her mother’s money for her mother’s benefit, she misappropriated more than $510,000 for her own use. She also failed to file federal income tax returns for the 2012, 2013 and 2014 tax years, resulting in a loss of $139,007 to the IRS.
O’Brien pleaded guilty to three counts of willful failure to file tax returns, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of one year on each count. O’Brien also will be required to cooperate with the IRS to pay all back taxes, interest and penalties.
O’Brien is released pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Laraia.
Danbury Man Charged in $1.1 Million Embezzlement SchemeRead 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, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a 10-count indictment charging ANTHONY TEIXEIRA, 50, of Danbury, with wire fraud offenses related to an embezzlement scheme. The indictment was returned on December 11, 2019, and Texiera was arrested yesterday.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, for more than 25 years, Teixeira was employed by Joseph Merritt & Company (“JMC”), a Hartford-based printing company. Teixeira most recently oversaw the JMC branch located in Danbury. Between approximately January 2012 and February 2019, Teixeira defrauded JMC and its customers by presenting sales orders, or test sales orders, to customers as though they were actually invoices. Customers, believing they were paying JMC for the work, then delivered payments into accounts that Teixeira controlled. Teixeira also stole printing-related inventory from JMC inventory and sold it online, but manipulated invoices to deceive JMC’s systems into thinking the company had sold the inventory. The loss attributable to Teixeira through these schemes is approximately $1.1 million.
The indictment charges Teixeira with 10 counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.
Teixeira is released on a $50,000 bond.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Danbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
South Windsor Cocaine Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 8 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Joseph W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division, announced that IGNACIO BRUNO, 33, of South Windsor, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 102 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Bruno coordinated the shipment of cocaine through the U.S. Mail from suppliers in Puerto Rico to various addresses in Connecticut and elsewhere in the northeastern U.S. Bruno’s co-conspirator, Juan Lugo Del Valle, mailed some of the parcels at Bruno’s direction from Puerto Rico. Bruno paid certain Connecticut residents to use their residences to receive cocaine parcels that had been mailed. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement personnel seized multiple kilograms of cocaine that were attributable to Bruno.
Bruno has been detained since his arrest on April 12, 2018. On September 18, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine.
“Today’s sentencing should give fair warning to those who use the U.S. Mail to distribute cocaine and other illegal narcotics, that Postal Inspectors will investigate and seek prosecution of those individuals,” said Inspector in Charge Cronin. “We will vigorously pursue traffickers who put our communities at risk by allowing these highly addictive drugs into our state.”
Lugo Del Valle pleaded guilty to the same offense and, on November 19, 2019, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Hartford and Southington Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Dave Vatti.
Incarcerated Bridgeport Man Charged with Attempting to Murder Federal Grand Jury WitnessRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on December 4, 2019, a federal grand jury in Bridgeport returned an indictment charging VAUGHN THOMAS, also known as “Fettiboy LV,” 20, of Bridgeport, with retaliating against a federal grand jury witness.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, between September and November 2019, while he was incarcerated in state custody, Thomas solicited other inmates to murder a federal grand jury witness. He also wrote letters to non-incarcerated individuals instructing them to murder the witness, and made phone calls to make sure his instructions were followed.
The indictment charges Thomas with one count of obstructing justice by attempting to kill a witness, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of obstructing justice by threatening to engage in conduct intended to cause bodily injury to a witness, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Thomas has been in state custody since May 15, 2019. He appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport and entered a plea of not guilty to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Connecticut State Police and Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Bridgeport Woman Sentenced to Prison for Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LATRICE M. COLVIN, 33, of Bridgeport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 30 days of imprisonment, followed by seven months of home confinement and two years of supervised release, for operating a credit card fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between September 2015 and July 2017, Colvin used the internet, including the dark web, to obtain the personal identifying info of numerous victims. She then contacted credit card companies and used the victims’ information to change the mailing address on certain accounts to her own address, and also to apply for and obtain fraudulent credit cards in the names of victims. After fraudulently obtained cards were mailed to her residence, she used them and to buy merchandise in person and online, and to obtain cash advances at ATMs.
Thirty-seven individuals, many of whom were elderly, were victimized through this scheme. Judge Arterton ordered Colvin to pay restitution of $27,718.35 to the financial institutions that covered the loss of the victimized individuals.
On July 9, 2019, Colvin pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud.
Colvin, who is released on a $25,000 bond, is required to report to prison on February 11, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
New Haven Crack Dealer Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HUSAIN REDMOND, also known as “Pullie,” 39, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 63 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a New Haven drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force initiated an investigation into a New Haven drug trafficking organization headed by Jermayne Butler. The investigation, which included physical surveillance, 13 controlled purchases of narcotics, and court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, revealed that members of the organization were distributing crack cocaine and oxycodone in the New Haven area.
Redmond was intercepted on a wiretap communicating with Butler. The conversations confirmed that Butler supplied crack cocaine to Redmond, who sold the drug to customers in and around New Haven.
Butler, Redmond 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.
Redmond has been detained since his arrest. On August 5, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine base. (“crack”).
Butler pleaded guilty to the same offense on August 9, 2019. He 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.
Indictment Charges 2 Men with Offenses Stemming from 2015 Shooting at New Haven RestaurantRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and New Haven Police Chief Otoniel Reyes today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging TYTHRONE FORD, 26, of Bridgeport, and TREIZY LOPEZ, 23, of New Haven, with robbery and firearm offenses stemming from the attempted robbery of a New Haven restaurant, during which an employee was shot, in April 2015.
This matter stems from a “cold case” investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the New Haven Police Department. It is alleged that, on April 11, 2015, Ford and Lopez entered the Smokin’ Wings restaurant, located on Congress Avenue in New Haven, and demanded money at gunpoint. Lopez subsequently discharged a firearm, shooting a female employee in the stomach.
The indictment charges Ford and Lopez with one count of Hobbs Act robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. In addition, Lopez is charged with carrying, using, brandishing and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Ford is charged with the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Ford was arrested yesterday and is detained. Lopez is currently incarcerated in state custody after being convicted of offenses related to a violent robbery in Bridgeport in April 2015.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter D. Markle, Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, and Nathaniel J. Gentile.
Ellington Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SIMON HESSLER, 47, formerly of Ellington, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of production of child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2016 and November 2018, Hessler engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a minor female, and he used a used a cellular phone to produce images of the sexual abuse. The minor victim was under the age of 12 at the time of Hessler’s conduct. Hessler kept dozens of these images on a USB drive. Forensic analysis of the USB drive also revealed hundreds of other images and videos of suspected child pornography, including images depicting sadistic or masochistic conduct, and thousands of images of child erotica.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.
Hessler is also facing charges in two state jurisdictions. In the Hartford Judicial District, he is charged with commercial sex abuse of a minor under the age of 15, and attempt to commit sexual assault in the first degree. In the Tolland Judicial District, he is charged with four counts of risk of injury to a minor, and sex assault in the fourth degree. Under the terms of his federal plea agreement, Hessler will not argue for a sentence less than the statutory maximum of 30 years, to run concurrent with any sentence to be imposed in the state courts.
Hessler is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill on March 4, 2020.
Hessler has been detained in state custody since November 13, 2018.
This matter is being investigated by the Connecticut State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the Hartford and Tolland State Attorney’s Offices for their cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Bridgeport Man Guilty of Crack and Cocaine Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in New Haven has found ROCKY SAMAS, also known as “Twin,” 48, of Bridgeport, guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”), and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The verdicts were returned this afternoon before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer.
According to the evidence disclosed during the two-day trial, between August and October 2018, investigators conducted three controlled purchases of crack cocaine from Samas in Bridgeport. On November 6, 2018, Samas was arrested on a federal criminal complaint. On that date, investigators searched his Bridgeport residence and seized approximately 80 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 200 grams of powder cocaine, approximately $14,000 in cash, and two digital scales.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for March 19, 2020, at which time Samas faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
Samas is released on a $200,000 bond pending sentencing.
Samas’ criminal history includes multiple drug convictions, including a federal conviction in 2005 for possession with intent to distribute and distribution of crack and powder cocaine. On September 21, 2005, he was sentenced to 240 months of imprisonment for those offenses. He was subsequently resentenced to 96 months of imprisonment, pursuant to changes in the federal sentencing guidelines for crack cocaine offenses, and was released from federal prison in December 2011.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, and the Stamford and Bridgeport Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria del Pilar Gonzalez, Hal Chen and Joseph Vizcarrondo.
North Carolina Man Charged with Committing 3 Murders in Connecticut in November 2015Read the Press Release
United States Attorney John H. Durham, New Haven State’s Attorney Patrick Griffin, Special Agent in Charge Brian C. Turner of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hamden Police Chief John Cappiello and New Haven Police Chief Otoniel Reyes today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging EDWARD MICHAEL PARKS, also known as “Lee” and “Trouble,” 33, of Raleigh, North Carolina, with kidnapping and murdering two individuals in Hamden, and killing a third victim in New Haven to stop him from advising law enforcement what had occurred.
As alleged in statements made in court, on November 16, 2015, Parks was in an apartment on Shelton Avenue in New Haven to conduct an illegal sale of firearms. Damian Connor and Tamar Lawrence were also present in the apartment. When another individual left the apartment with firearms that he had not paid for, Parks, who was armed, held Connor and Lawrence against their will. Parks collected money and valuables from Connor and Lawrence, and then forced them to travel in Connor’s car to Hamden where Connor said he could get more money. They were followed in another vehicle by Devante Williams and another individual. After the vehicles arrived at 676 Mix Avenue in Hamden, Parks shot and killed Connor and Lawrence. Parks then left the scene with Williams and others in the second vehicle and returned to New Haven.
It is further alleged that, when Parks appeared to believe that Williams was anxious about the murders of Connor and Lawrence, Parks shot and killed Williams in the area of Sherman Court in New Haven.
The indictment charges Parks with two counts of kidnapping resulting in death, and one count of witness tampering by killing. If convicted of the charges, Parks faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life, or death if the government seeks the death penalty in this matter.
Parks is currently incarcerated in federal custody following an unrelated conviction for drug and firearm offenses in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
“This prosecution represents a tragic example of how lives can be ruined when firearms are illegally possessed and traded,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “I thank our partners in the FBI, Hamden Police Department, New Haven Police Department and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office for their collaborative work in bringing to justice an individual we allege to be responsible for three cold-blooded killings.”
“This case is a great example of the results obtained from cooperative efforts between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies,” said State’s Attorney Griffin.
“The investigation by the Hamden and New Haven police departments into these horrific murders has resulted in justice being served, and today our community is safer for it,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Turner.
“I would like to thank the families of the victims for their patience and trust,” said Hamden Chief Cappiello. “I hope this indictment gives them some sense of peace and closure. I would also like to thank New Haven Detective Sergeant Bertram Ettienne, Hamden Detective Jomo Crawford, the FBI Safe Street Violent Task Force and the Offices of the U.S. Attorney and New Haven State’s Attorney. This case demonstrates that by working together we were able to get a violent individual off the streets.”
“Today, after 4 years of an in-depth homicide investigation, the New Haven Police Department and our law enforcement partners are able to bring justice to the family of Devante Williams,” said New Haven Assistant Chief Karl Jacobson. “We would like to extend a special thank you to the Williams family for their patience and understanding while investigators worked diligently to make this day a reality. We would also like to thank our law enforcement partners, the New Haven Police homicide detectives, Hamden Police homicide detectives, U.S Attorney’s Office, New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Correction as justice would not have prevailed without them.”
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hamden Police Department and New Haven Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan, Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, and Assistant State’s Attorney Seth Garbarsky, who has been cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.
Hartford Gang Member Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JONATHAN OTERO, also known as “Jax,” 26, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 154 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, Josue Franco and Anthony Carillo lured an individual (“the victim”) to a residence on Benton Street in Hartford. When the victim entered the residence, Otero and Luis Pitt were waiting. Otero, Pitt, Franco and Carillo 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.
Otero and others then drove the victim to different locations in Hartford in an effort to collect ransom.
The victim was eventually released. He was subsequently treated at a hospital for a fractured cheekbone, a facial laceration, a concussion and other injuries.
Otero has been detained in state custody on an unrelated firearm offense since April 19, 2018. On September 13, 2019, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of carrying and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The other four defendants have pleaded guilty to related charges and are detained while awaiting sentencing.
Otero’s criminal history includes convictions for assault, firearm, threatening and narcotics offenses.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes 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.
Statement of U.S. Attorney John H. DurhamRead the Press Release
“I have the utmost respect for the mission of the Office of Inspector General and the comprehensive work that went into the report prepared by Mr. Horowitz and his staff. However, our investigation is not limited to developing information from within component parts of the Justice Department. Our investigation has included developing information from other persons and entities, both in the U.S. and outside of the U.S. Based on the evidence collected to date, and while our investigation is ongoing, last month we advised the Inspector General that we do not agree with some of the report’s conclusions as to predication and how the FBI case was opened.”
Fourth Defendant Convicted in Immigrant Kidnapping and Extortion Scheme Sentenced to 135 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUCILO CABRERA, 46, of Bronx, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 135 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a kidnapping and extortion scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on several occasions, Cabrera and his co-conspirators targeted individuals after they exited buses at the Port Authority in New York. The victims included women, men and children from Central American countries who did not speak English and were seeking asylum in the U.S. Some of the victims planned to travel from New York to Connecticut. After the victims were told that their connecting bus was not available and that they would provide transportation, the co-conspirators coerced the victims into vehicles. Cabrera and others would then drive the victims around, sometimes for hours, and refused to release them until they or their families agreed to pay the co-conspirators an exorbitant amount of money, on average more than a $1000.
At times, co-conspirators posed as an immigration officer to intimidate the victims further.
Cabrera, who is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and a Lawful Permanent Resident of the U.S., has been detained since his arrest on June 22, 2016. On March 9, 2018, a federal jury in Bridgeport found Cabrera and two co-conspirators, Francisco Betancourt and Carlos Antonio Hernandez, guilty of kidnapping, extortion and conspiracy offenses. On November 14, 2019, Betancourt was sentenced to 168 months of imprisonment, and on November 18, 2019, Hernandez was sentenced to 96 months of imprisonment.
On October 12, 2018, a fourth defendant, Pascual Rodriguez, pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping. On July 2, 2019, he was sentenced to 135 months of imprisonment.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa Richards.
Meeting Scheduled for Victims of Man Who Stole from Charity Founded to Help Veterans and Military FamiliesRead the Press Release
On August 28, 2019, KEVIN E. CREED, of Litchfield, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty in New Haven federal court to wire fraud related to a scheme in which he stole approximately $1.4 million from the Friends of Fisher House Connecticut, a charity he established with the purported purpose to raise funds to support the building and maintenance of a veterans comfort home in West Haven.
On November 15, 2019, U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall issued a ruling establishing that:
- Friends of Fisher House Connecticut is a victim of Creed’s fraudulent scheme, as defined under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act.
- Any individual or entity targeted through direct solicitations that relied on false representations by Creed, to include person-to-person contact, online media, or fundraisers planned by Creed or his staff for the benefit of Friends of Fisher House Connecticut, is a victim under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act.
- Individuals who participated in an event coordinated by another organization or individual, such as runners in charity races, are not considered to be victims under the statute, because that individual was not directly or proximately harmed by Creed’s fraudulent scheme.
- Fisher House National and the veterans who may have benefited in the future from the pilfered funds are not statutory considered victims of Creed’s wire fraud.
All victims who donated to the Friends of Fisher House Connecticut have a right to be heard at any proceeding regarding the plea and also have the reasonable right to confer with the government regarding the plea. Representatives of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Assistant U.S. Attorney assigned to this matter are available for such conference in person, by telephone or by e-mail.The U.S. Attorney’s Office has scheduled a meeting with any interested victims to be held on December 11, 2019, at 10 a.m., in the Jury Assembly Room located in the U.S. District Court, 141 Church Street, in New Haven. Identified victims of this fraud scheme, as well as individuals who believe they are victims of this fraud scheme and have not been previously contacted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, are encouraged to attend. Please RSVP to Ines Cenatiempo at [email protected] or by phone at 203-821-3757.
For victims who are unable to attend the meeting in person, a conference call line will be available:
Conference Call Dial-in Number: 888-995-9851
Passcode: 3406517In order to accommodate the many victims in this case, the conference call with be “listen-only,” and all phone participants will be muted. Victims with follow-up questions or concerns will be encouraged to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office by e-mail or phone after the call.
Hartford Man with Lengthy Criminal History Pleads Guilty to Possessing Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID FRANCIS, 41, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 28, 2019, a court-authorized search of a vehicle owned by Francis revealed a loaded Hi-Point, model C9, 9mm handgun. In a subsequent interview with investigators, Francis admitted that he had owned the firearm for approximately four years.
Francis’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug, robbery and firearm 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.
Francis is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton on February 28, 2020, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Francis is released on a $150,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Cherry.
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.
Waterbury Grocery Store Worker Sentenced to 33 Months for Defrauding Federal Food Stamp Fraud ProgramRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MUHAMMAD SHAHBAZ, 50, a citizen of Pakistan last residing in Jersey City, New Jersey, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 33 months of imprisonment for defrauding the federal food stamp program.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (“SNAP”) is administered by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and utilizes federal tax dollars to subsidize low-income households to provide them with the opportunity to achieve a more nutritious diet by increasing their food-purchasing power. SNAP recipients purchase eligible food items at retail food stores through the use of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, and SNAP benefits may be accepted by authorized retailers only in exchange for eligible items. Items such as alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, paper goods and soaps are not eligible for purchase with Food Stamp benefits, and it is a violation of the rules and regulations governing the food stamp program to allow benefits to be used to purchase ineligible items. SNAP benefits may not lawfully be exchanged for cash under any circumstances. The program is designed so that the total amount of each purchase is electronically transferred to the retailer’s designated bank account.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Shahbaz worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery, located at 43 Willow Street in Waterbury. Shahbaz was related to the store owner and often worked shifts later in the day. In 2015 and 2016, Shahbaz and others illegally allowed customers to redeem their food stamp benefits for cash and other ineligible items, including cigarettes, a tall glass bong and other items. Shahbaz charged the customers’ food stamp cards approximately double the value for these illegal transactions.
Given the stock of eligible food items at the store, the number of registers and the customer amenities, it is estimated that WB Trade Fair Grocery could lawfully redeem, at most, between $120,000 to $240,000 per year in food stamp benefits. However, during an approximately 18-month period in 2015 and 2016, food stamp redemptions at the store totaled approximately $3.2 million.
Judge Bryant ordered Shahbaz to pay approximately $1.5 million in restitution
Shahbaz was arrested on July 31, 2017. On June 14, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of food stamp fraud.
Shahbaz, who was released on bond, was remanded to custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at the conclusion of the sentencing proceeding. He faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Raul Carlos Monarca-Gonzalez, Tallat Mahmood and Tahir Shahzad, who all who worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery, previously pleaded guilty to charges related to their participation in this scheme. Monarca-Gonzalez and Mahmood were each sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment and restitution of approximately $1.5 million. Shahzad awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anastasia King and Neeraj Patel.
Torrington Financial Advisor and Securities Broker Admits Misappropriating Client FundsRead 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, today announced that LESTER BURROUGHS, 60, of Torrington, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of wire fraud related to his misappropriation of approximately $575,000 from investment clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Burroughs was a registered securities broker with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Prior to November 2019, he was the owner of Burroughs Investment Group, a full-service financial consulting firm based in Torrington. Beginning in at least 2012 and continuing through 2019, Burroughs misrepresented to certain clients that their money would be invested in legitimate guaranteed investment contracts. Instead, he used his clients’ money to pay business expenses and other clients’ “guaranteed” investment returns.
Through this scheme, Burroughs defrauded three clients of a total of approximately $575,000.
When he is sentenced, Burroughs faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. As part of his plea, he has agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $575,000 to the victims of his crime.
Burroughs is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not yet scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.
The Securities and Exchange Commission has filed related civil charges against Burroughs. (Securities and Exchange Commission v. Lester Burroughs, 3:19-cv-1913).
Norwich Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Cocaine and CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOEL HALL, also known as “Slugz,” 30, of Norwich, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for distributing narcotics.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2018, the FBI, Norwich Police Department and other law enforcement agencies began investigating a drug trafficking organization that was distributing heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Hall received cocaine from a co-conspirator and then sold cocaine and crack cocaine to his own customers.
On March 5, 2019, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Hall and 12 other individuals with narcotics trafficking offenses.
Hall has been detained since his arrest on April 28, 2019. On August 14, he pleaded guilty to one count of using a telephone to facilitate a narcotics trafficking offense.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police and Norwich, Town of Groton and Waterford Police Departments, with the assistance of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office, Baltimore Police Department and Delaware State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
Meriden Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Heroin into WaterburyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SUNJI CRAMER, 40, of Meriden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury and Naugatuck Police Departments. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that a Waterbury-based drug trafficking organization was receiving large quantities of heroin and cocaine from various suppliers and distributing narcotics in and around Waterbury. Intercepted communications indicated that Cramer supplied approximately 100 grams of heroin to Domingo Alves, also known as “Mingo,” of Waterbury, knowing that Alves intend to the distribute the drug.
On March 13, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Cramer, Alves and 27 other individuals with various offenses related to the distribution of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine.
Cramer and numerous codefendants were arrested on March 21, 2019. On that date, investigators seized approximately 3,000 bags of heroin, 400 grams of cocaine, 350 grams of fentanyl/heroin mixed, 400 grams of heroin, 10 grams of crack, 20 pounds of marijuana, fentanyl patches, a one-kilogram press, four handguns, approximately $120,000 in cash and four vehicles.
Cramer has been detained since his arrest. On September 9, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin.
Alves pleaded guilty on November 20, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force, Waterbury Police Department and Naugatuck Police Department, with the critical assistance of the U.S. Secret Service, New York Field Office. The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Dave Vatti and Nathaniel J. Gentile.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 23 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NORMAN WIGGINS, 28, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 23 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for unlawful possession of ammunition.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 5, 2018, members of the New Haven Police Shooting Task Force conducted a controlled purchase of crack cocaine from Wiggins, who was staying at a motel on Whalley Avenue. A court-authorized search of Wiggins’ motel room revealed a box of Remington .38 caliber ammunition containing four live rounds.
Wiggins’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug 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 June 13, 2019, Wiggins pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
On July 13, 2019, while he was released on bond and awaiting sentencing, Wiggins was arrested by New Haven Police at the same Whalley Avenue motel and charged with criminal possession of a firearm and breach of peace in the second degree. While Wiggins was being processed for those offenses at the New Haven Correction Center, a cavity search revealed a quantity of crack cocaine. Wiggins was subsequently charged with smuggling contraband into prison, possession of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute narcotics. He has been detained since his arrest, and the charges are pending in state court.
This matter was investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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.
Michigan-Based Prison Consultant Admits Role in Conspiracy to Defraud Federal Bureau of PrisonsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TONY TUAN PHAM, also known as “Anh Nguyen,” 50, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to conspiracy and wire fraud offenses for his role in defrauding the Federal Bureau of Prisons (“BOP”). The scheme involved coaching prospective and current federal inmates who would not otherwise require substance abuse treatment how to lie to gain admission into a BOP program that, if completed successfully, would result in a shortened prison term.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Residential Drug Abuse Program (“RDAP”) is a 500-hour substance abuse treatment program that is administered by the BOP. In order to gain admission to the RDAP, a federal inmate must meet certain criteria, including having a diagnosable and verifiable drug or alcohol abuse disorder. By successfully completing the RDAP, an inmate can qualify for up to 12 months in early release from custody.
Pham was a “Managing Partner” of Michigan-based RDAP Law Consultants, LLC. Pham, and others he supervised at RDAP Law Consultants, contacted federal criminal defendants and inmates through unsolicited emails and telephone calls with offers to assist, for a fee, those individuals in applying to, and qualifying for, the RDAP. Although Pham knew that many of the company’s clients did not abuse alcohol or drugs and were ineligible for the RDAP, he coached them how to feign or exaggerate a drug or alcohol disorder, and to make false statements to the BOP so they could gain admission to the RDAP.
Between September 2012 and January 2019, RDAP Law Consultants earned at least $2,628,137 in client fees through this scheme.
Pham was living in a residential reentry center (“halfway house”) when the scheme began.
Pham was arrested on January 23, 2019.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for March 18, 2020, at which time Pham faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 25 years. Pham is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan N. Francis and Trial Attorney Avi Perry of the Department of Justice’s Fraud Section, who has been designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for this matter.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Western District of Michigan for their assistance in this matter.
Man Who Operated "Provisional Credit" Fraud Scheme Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KISHORE BABU AMMISETTI, 31, a citizen of India, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 28 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating a “provisional credit” scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Ammisetti used Facebook Marketplace and other media to victimize individuals, primarily of Indian decent, who advertised items for sale or rooms for rent. Through this scheme, Ammisetti would contact a victim to express interest in purchasing an item or renting a room. He would then gather the victim’s bank account information and other personal information under the guise of making a deposit to the victim’s bank account. He also would offer to provide a “deposit” directly into the victim’s account via a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) transfer.
Ammisetti would then contact the victim’s bank and, posing as the victim, would claim to have made an ATM deposit that did not register on the victim’s bank account. While researching the “unregistered deposit,” the bank would credit the victim’s account with a provisional credit. Ammisetti would then contact the victim and claim that the provisional credit to the victim’s bank account was a mistaken transfer by Ammisetti to the victim’s account. Ammisetti would then request either a full or partial refund of that money, which the victim would provide via a P2P transfer. After the bank determined that there was no unregistered deposit to the victim’s account, the funds provided as a provisional credit would be removed from the account.
Ammisetti stole at least $860,000 from approximately 500 victims through this scheme.
The investigation revealed that Ammisetti often operated this scheme while staying at casino hotels in Connecticut.
Ammisetti has been detained since his arrest on January 25, 2019. On April 17, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud.
Ammisetti entered the U.S. in 2013 on a student visa, which was revoked in 2014. He faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with the assistance of the Mohegan Tribal Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
Citizen of Peru Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering U.S. after Being DeportedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CESAR RUBEN YLLESCAS, 45, a citizen of Peru last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 10 months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 1, 2014, Yllescas was arrested by Hartford Police for possession of narcotics. On December 21, 2015, he pleaded guilty in state court to the drug offense and to a charge of failing to appear for a related court appearance. Yllescas served approximately six months of imprisonment and was removed to Peru in June 2016.
Yllescas was arrested on May 8, 2019, in Hartford, and has been detained since his arrest. On September 11, he pleaded guilty to illegal reentry.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret M. Donovan.
Milford Man Involved in Marijuana Trafficking Ring Sentenced to Nearly 8 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that Robert Capelli, 34, of Milford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 95 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a large-scale marijuana trafficking conspiracy. Judge Arterton also ordered Capelli to pay a $30,000 fine.
According to court documents and the evidence presented during Capelli’s trial, in 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration began investigating a Piper single-engine aircraft, owned by Donald Burns of Milford, that was making regular flights between Stratford, Connecticut, and northern California via the southwest United States. On June 28, 2017, Burns flew the aircraft from northern California to Lubbock, Texas. The next day, Burns flew the aircraft from Texas to Arkansas, and then to West Virginia and Connecticut, where he landed in the evening at Sikorsky Airport in Stratford. After it landed, a law enforcement search of the plane revealed approximately 400 pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed packages, and Burns was arrested. Investigators determined that the marijuana was intended for Capelli, Scott Bodnar, Terrell Givens and others to distribute in Connecticut.
The investigation revealed that, for more than two years, Capelli and his associates earned millions of dollars by trafficking nearly two tons of marijuana from California to Connecticut. Members of the conspiracy also laundered more than $6 million to purchase marijuana in California, maintain properties for distribution in Connecticut, pay Burns to transport the marijuana, and for other expenses related to the conspiracy.
On July 25, 2019, a jury found Capelli guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, and one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. Capelli was found not guilty of one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, and one count of money laundering.
As part of this case, Capelli also has forfeited $55,000.
Capelli, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on January 14, 2020.
On May 2, 2019, Bodnar, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. On September 4, 2019, he was sentenced to 55 months of imprisonment and ordered to forfeit his 2012 Toyota Camry.
On May 3, 2019, Givens, of Beacon Falls, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. On September 11, 2019, he was sentenced to 55 months of imprisonment and ordered to forfeit his 2009 Jaguar XF and jewelry valued at approximately $8,000.
On May 6, 2019, Burns, of Milford, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana. He also has agreed to forfeit the Piper aircraft. Burns awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force, the Federal Aviation Administration’s Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP), the Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations Center, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Stratford, Derby and West Haven Police Departments, and the Second Judicial Drug Task Force in Jonesboro, Arkansas.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Marc Silverman.
Middlefield Man Sentenced to Prison for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL CALLAN, 70, of Middlefield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to six months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for filing false tax returns that substantially underreported his income.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Callan is an emergency response consultant who operates Callan & Company, based in Middlefield, and the website MikeCallan.com. Callan was audited by the Internal Revenue Service in May 2015. At the time of the audit, Callan had not filed federal income tax returns for the 2010 through 2015 tax years. Callan subsequently signed and filed individual federal income tax returns for the 2010 through 2012 tax years that significantly underreported the income he received from his business. The returns were then filed by his tax preparer.
For 2010, Callan reported $151,533 in total income from Callan & Company, but actually earned $217,925; in 2011, Callan reported $146,071 in total income from Callan & Company, but actually earned $219,094, and in 2012, Callan reported $160,558 in total income from Callan & Company but actually earned $257,745.
Callan also received more than $276,000 in total income from Callan & Company for the 2013 through 2015 tax years, but failed to file a return for each of those years.
Callan owes the IRS $263,172 in back taxes, interest and penalties.
On May 29, 2019, Callan pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return.
Callan, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on February 26, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and Michael S. McGarry.
Southbury Movie Theater Makes Changes to Comply with Americans 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 Riverview Theater, LLC doing business as Riverview Cinemas 8 (“Riverview”) in Southbury, to resolve allegations that the movie theater facility was not 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 Riverview’s movie theater facility was not fully accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. Riverview is in the process of making the changes required by the settlement agreement. The changes include providing additional accessible parking spaces, ensuring that there are accessible tables in the lobby seating area, installing accessible signage, ensuring that the theater has sufficient hearing aid compatible assistive listening receivers, lowering countertops for its vendor café, and ensuring that its restrooms are fully accessible. Riverview will continue to make improvements over the next six months.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including movie theaters, 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 Justice Department 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.
“This office is committed to enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act so that individuals with disabilities are able to access and enjoy Connecticut’s movie theaters and other places of public accommodation,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “I commend the owners of Riverview Cinemas for their cooperation throughout our investigation and their clear commitment to complying with the requirements of the ADA.”
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica H. Soufer of the District of Connecticut in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
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.
Simsbury Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Company of More Than $500,000Read 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 PAMELA HILL, 55, of Simsbury, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffery A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of wire fraud related to an embezzlement scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between 2013 and 2018, Hill embezzled $518,161.48 from a company where she was employed as a controller. Hill wrote company checks to herself, applied signature stamps with the owner’s signature to the checks, and deposited the checks into her own bank account. She also issued electronic payments to her bank account and disguised the payments to make them appear to payments to vendors. When the company’s CFO questioned Hill about a vendor payment in December 2018, Hill provided the CFO with an altered bank statement that falsely reflected the payment had been credited back to the company’s account.
The investigation also revealed that Hill defrauded a separate individual for whom she provided bookkeeping services.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for March 2, 2020, at which time Hill faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Hill is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Laraia.
East Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that EYISIEL ORTEGA, also known as “EG,” “D” and “E,” 20, of East Hartford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to drug distribution and gun possession offenses.
This matter stems from an investigation headed by the ATF and East Hartford Police Department into drug trafficking and related acts of violence by a group of individuals operating out of the Mayberry Village housing complex in East Hartford.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between September and November 2017, investigators conducted controlled purchases of crack cocaine from Ortega. Ortega was arrested on November 7, 2017. On that date, a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a loaded .380 caliber Ruger LCP semi-automatic pistol, 20 loose rounds of ammunition, approximately 30 grams of crack cocaine, a quantity of fentanyl and $4,530 in cash. The firearm had been reported stolen in Georgia.
Ortega pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least five years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
Ortega has been detained since his arrest.
This investigation is being conducted by the ATF and East Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Correction and the Minot (N.D.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
APRN Who Received Kickbacks from Insys Therapeutics for Prescribing Fentanyl Spray is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HEATHER ALFONSO, 46, of South Carolina, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to three years of probation for engaging in a kickback scheme related to fentanyl spray prescriptions.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Alfonso formerly resided in Connecticut and was employed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at Comprehensive Pain and Headache Treatment Center (CPHTC) located in Derby. As part of her practice, Alfonso prescribed various controlled substances, including Subsys, a fentanyl-based sublingual spray that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration solely for the management of breakthrough pain in cancer patients. Subsys was manufactured and sold by Insys Therapeutics, an Arizona-based pharmaceutical company.
A review of Medicare Part D prescription drug events for prescribers of Subsys showed that Alfonso was responsible for approximately $2.5 million in claims and was the highest prescriber of the drug in Connecticut. Interviews with several of Alfonso’s patients, who were Medicare Part D beneficiaries and were prescribed Subsys, revealed that most of them did not have cancer, but had taken the drug to treat their chronic pain. Medicare and most private insurers did not pay for Subsys unless the patient had an active cancer diagnosis and an explanation that the drug was needed to manage the patient’s cancer pain.
An investigation revealed that Insys Therapeutics representatives were inducing medical practitioners around the country to prescribe Subsys over other similar medications by paying the medical practitioners to participate in hundreds of sham “Speaker Programs.” The Speaker Programs, which were typically held at high-end restaurants, were ostensibly designed to gather licensed healthcare professionals who had the capacity to prescribe Subsys and educate them about the drug. In truth, the events were usually just a gathering of friends and co-workers, most of whom did not have the ability to prescribe Subsys, and no educational component took place. “Speakers” were paid a fee that ranged from $1,000 to several thousand dollars for attending these dinners. At times, the sign-in sheets for the Speaker Programs were forged to make it appear that the programs had an appropriate audience of healthcare professionals.
Between approximately January 2013 and March 2015, Insys Therapeutics paid Alfonso approximately $83,000 to act as a “speaker” for more than 70 dinner programs. In many instances, the dinner programs were only attended by Alfonso and an Insys Therapeutics sales representative. In other instances, the programs were attended by CPHTC staff and Alfonso’s friends, none of whom had licenses to prescribe controlled substances.
Alfonso’s conduct resulted in a loss to Medicare of $2,564.501.64. Judge Arterton ordered Alfonso to pay full restitution, jointly and severally with other defendants convicted in this scheme.
On June 25, 2015, Alfonso pleaded guilty to one count of receiving kickbacks in relation to a federal healthcare program.
Several other individuals affiliated with Insys Therapeutics, and medical practitioners involved in this kickback scheme, have been charged and convicted in the District of Connecticut and in other Districts across the U.S. On May 2, 2019, a federal jury in Boston found John N. Kapoor, the founder and former Executive Chairman of Insys Therapeutics, and four other former Insys executives guilty of racketeering conspiracy.
In sentencing Alfonso, Judge Arterton credited Alfonso’s prompt acceptance of responsibility, her assistance to the government’s prosecution of other defendants, and the extensive testimony she provided during the trial in the District of Massachusetts.
In June 2019, Insys Therapeutics agreed to pay a total of $225 million to resolve criminal and civil investigations of the company.
The investigation in the District of Connecticut has been conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas P. Morabito, Sarah P. Karwan and Richard M. Molot.
U.S. Attorney Durham encouraged individuals who suspect health care fraud to report it by calling the Health Care Fraud Task Force (203) 785-9270 or 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
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 XAVIER DIAZ, also known as “Coco,” 30, of Willimantic, 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 Diaz was operating a heroin distribution ring in Willimantic. The investigation revealed that drug purchasers called a phone shared by 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.
On October 29, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
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.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Drugs, Violating ProbationRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHARLES KELLEY, 45, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing narcotics, and for violating the conditions of his probation from a prior federal drug conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in April 2018, law enforcement received information that Kelley was engaged in drug trafficking activity in Hartford. On April 5, 2018, a court-authorized search of Kelley’s residence revealed approximately 66 grams of fentanyl, 42 grams of cocaine, 76 grams of crack cocaine, cocaine base, eight grams of heroin, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and $6,542 in cash. Kelley was arrested on state charges at that time.
Kelley has been detained since his federal arrest on November 7, 2018. On April 25, 2019, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”).
This is Kelley’s third federal narcotics conviction, and he was on federal probation following a conviction in January 2016 for distributing heroin and cocaine.
Judge Meyer sentenced Kelley to 36 months of imprisonment for distributing narcotics, and a consecutive 12 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his probation.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force and the Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police. The FBI 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 Dave Vatti.
Waterbury Man Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TERRANCE SAUNDERS, 33, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 79 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
This matter stems from a statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 23, 2016, the Shelton Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a suspected overdose at a Shelton residence. At the residence, medical personnel pronounced a 45-year-old female victim deceased. Investigators collected drug and non-drug evidence, including folds containing suspected heroin, and the victim’s cell phone.
Analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed numerous contacts, including multiple text messages on March 22, 2016, between the victim and Saunders’ cell phone in which the victim arranged to acquire drugs. Investigators subsequently conducted controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Saunders and his associate, Rashad Johnson, by contacting Saunders’ phone.
Saunders was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on December 27, 2018. On June 24, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
Saunders, who was released on a $100,000 bond prior to sentencing, was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service to begin serving his sentence.
Johnson, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty on June 19, 2019. On October 15, he was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Shelton, Ansonia and Monroe Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Illegally Possessing and Selling FirearmsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDRE JOHNSON, also known as “Cuzz Crip” and “Cuzzy Blue,” 31, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing and selling firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement made three controlled purchases of firearms from Johnson. During the third purchase, on February 28, 2019, Johnson sold a Taurus model PT 24/7 Pro DS 9mm, a loaded extended magazine and a loaded standard magazine in exchange for $900.
Johnson’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for illegal possession of an assault weapon and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Johnson has been detained since his arrest on April 11, 2019. On July 31, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Haven Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
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.
Enfield Man Sentenced to 34 Months in Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAMON SANCHEZ, also known as “Rome,” 28, of Enfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 34 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division into the trafficking of narcotics and associated violence in Hartford’s South End by members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation (“Latin Kings”). The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that two alleged members of the Latin Kings operated separate drug trafficking organizations that distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine. The organizations used multiple locations to process, package, store and distribute narcotics, and possessed firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities.
Sanchez regularly supplied cocaine to one of the drug trafficking organizations.
Sanchez has been detained since his arrest on July 3, 2018. On August 1, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, cocaine.
This matter has been investigated by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes 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 Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
East Haven Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Role in Scheme That Defrauded Illinois Company of MillionsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN T. FINKLE III, 58, of, East Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a scheme to defraud an Illinois-based company of more than $3 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Finkle was employed by JST, a supplier of electronic components based in Waukegan, Illinois. Between approximately February 2015 and December 2018, Finkle conspired with Kenneth Pedroli to defraud JST through a scheme involving purchases of electronic components that Pedroli made from JST for a business he operated in Islandia, New York. As part of the scheme, Finkle instructed Pedroli to place his orders and list prices at a fraction of JST’s published prices. After Pedroli’s orders were submitted to JST at the discounted prices, the products were shipped from JST to Pedroli. Finkle instructed Pedroli to pay only a portion of the invoiced price and to make the payments directly to Finkle, which Pedroli did. Finkle deposited the payments into his personal checking account, and provided a portion of the funds to another JST employee who manipulated the accounting records of JST to make it appear that Pedroli had paid JST for the products he received.
JST was defrauded of $3,359,058.69 through this scheme. Judge Hall ordered Finkle to make full restitution.
Finkle, who is released on a $500,000 bond, is required to report to prison on January 8, 2020.
On July 16, 2019, Finkle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
Pedroli, of Stony Brook, New York, pleaded guilty to the same offense on April 29, 2019, and awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
New Haven Crack Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OSVALDO SAEZ, 32, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a New Haven drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force initiated an investigation into a New Haven drug trafficking organization headed by Jermayne Butler. The investigation, which included physical surveillance, 13 controlled purchases of narcotics, and court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, revealed that members of the organization were distributing crack cocaine and oxycodone in the New Haven area.
Saez received distribution quantities of crack cocaine from another member of the conspiracy and sold the drug to customers in New Haven.
Saez, Butler 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.
Saez has been detained since January 16, 2019, when his bond was revoked. On July 30, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine base. (“crack”).
Butler pleaded guilty to the same offense on August 9, 2019. He 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 Resident Admits Possessing Child Pornography, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jason J. Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Boston, today announced that BRIAN HERNDON, 45, of New Britain, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to one count of possession of child pornography. Herndon also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 12, 2009, Herndon was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing child pornography. He was released from federal prison in May 2014. On September 1, 2015, U.S. Probation officers searched Herndon’s residence and seized a laptop. Subsequent forensic examination of the laptop revealed approximately 2,269 images and 74 videos of child pornography.
Herndon is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford on February 24, 2020, at which time Herndon faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years for possessing child pornography, and up to two years in prison for violating the conditions of he supervised release.
Herndon is released on bond and remains under court supervision pending sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
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.
Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Third Illegal Reentry ConvictionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FABIOLA BASTIAN MOJICA, 39, a citizen of Mexico recently residing in Stamford, was sentenced today U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in May 2003, Bastian Mojica, who at the time was a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., was convicted in Stamford superior court of possession of a hallucinogen/marijuana. Bastian Mojica’s lawful permanent residence status was revoked and, in November 2003, she was removed to Mexico.
In October 2005, Bastian Mojica was arrested by Greenwich Police and was subsequently convicted in state court of evading responsibility resulting in injury/property damage, and possession of marijuana. She was also convicted in federal court of reentry of a removed alien and sentenced to 15 months of imprisonment. In January 2008, Bastian Mojica was removed to Mexico.
In July 2008, Bastian Mojica was arrested in Stamford. She was again removed to Mexico in August 2008.
In January 2010, Bastian Mojica was apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol in Columbus, New Mexico. She was subsequently charged in the District of New Mexico with illegal reentry of a removed alien, and with violating the conditions of her supervised release related to her prior conviction for illegal reentry. She was convicted of both offenses and, following the completion of an 18-month sentence, was removed to Mexico in April 2011.
On October 23, 2018, Bastian Mojica was arrested by Stamford Police for a motor vehicle violation, and was subsequently charged with failure to appear. On March 7, 2019, after her identity was confirmed through a fingerprint analysis, she was arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging her with illegal reentry.
Bastian Mojica has been detained since her federal arrest. On May 7, 2019, she pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a removed alien
Bastian Mojica will be removed to Mexico at the completion of her prison term.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
State Inmate Sentenced to Nearly 8 Years in Prison for Running Cocaine and Crack Ring While IncarceratedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WESTLEY NORTHRUP, also known as “Piff,” 31, formerly of Meriden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 94 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for operating a drug trafficking ring while he was incarcerated.
This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force that included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of crack cocaine, and seizures of cocaine and cash proceeds. The investigation revealed that Northrup operated a cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring while he was incarcerated in state custody at the Cheshire Correctional Institution. The investigation, which included consensually-recorded prison calls, revealed that Northrup conspired with others to purchase cocaine from suppliers, convert some of the cocaine to crack cocaine, and then distribute crack and cocaine through a network of dealers in central Connecticut.
On July 20, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging Northrup and 10 other individuals with various offenses. On July 9, 2018, Northrup pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”).
Since September 2016, Northrup has been serving a five-year state prison term for distributing cocaine. He will begin serving his 94-month federal sentence when he completes his state sentence.
This matter was investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Middletown and New Britain Police Departments. The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.