District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Citizen of Guatemala Pleads Guilty to Immigration ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HECTOR OVIDIO DIAZ GARRIDO, 41, a citizen of Guatemala last residing in Norwalk, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to one count of reentry of a removed alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Diaz Garrido, who has never held legal status in the U.S., was deported from the U.S. to Guatemala in June 2011 following his March 2010 conviction in Connecticut Superior Court in Norwalk for felony assault on a police officer.
In April 2012, Diaz Garrido was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol in Weslaco, Texas. His prior order of removal was reinstated and he was again deported to Guatemala.
On November 6, 2014, Diaz Garrido, using the name “Jimy Diaz,” was arrested by the Norwalk Police Department and charged with operating under the influence of alcohol. On March 20, 2015, Diaz Garrido, again using the name “Jimy Diaz,” was arrested by Norwalk Police on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while under suspension. Diaz Garrido’s true identity was confirmed through fingerprint analysis in November 2018 after he was convicted of operating while under the influence, operating a motor vehicle while under suspension, and three separate counts of failure to appear, and he had served his state sentence.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2019, at which time Diaz Garrido faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Hartford Man Charged with Narcotics and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment yesterday charging ORLANDO SOTO, 27, of Hartford, with narcotics and firearms offenses.
As alleged in the indictment, on July 9, 2018, Soto possessed fentanyl and crack cocaine, which he intended to distribute, along with three handguns. Prior to July 2018, Soto had been convicted in state court of felony narcotics, larceny and firearm offenses.
Soto has been detained in state custody since his arrest by Hartford Police on July 9, 2018.
The indictment charges Soto with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of possession of firearms by a convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Leonard C. Boyle and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.
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.
Citizen of the Domincan Republic Charged with Fentanyl Distribution and Gun Possession OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging DANIEL JIMENEZ DE LA CRUZ, 33, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in Waterbury, with fentanyl distribution and firearm possession offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, Jimenez was arrested on September 20, 2018, after special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant at his Waterbury residence. Outside of Jimenez’s bedroom window, agents found a trash bag that contained a powdery substance that that later tested positive for fentanyl. The trash bag also contained a loaded Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver.
Jiminez has been detained since his arrest.
The indictment charges Jiminez with one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years, and one count of possession of a firearm by an alien illegally or unlawfully in the U.S., an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
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.
Rhode Island Man Guilty of Trafficking Heroin into Southeastern ConnecticutRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found EDDY PENA, 30, of Providence, Rhode Island, guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, one kilogram or more of heroin. The trial before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea began on February 11 and the jury returned the verdict this morning.
According to court documents, statements made in court and the evidence introduced during the trial, this matter stems from an investigation that began after several heroin overdoses in southeastern Connecticut, including two overdose deaths involving a heroin and fentanyl mix that occurred in January 2016. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Pena regularly supplied Michael Luciano, of New London, with large quantities of heroin. Luciano, who also received heroin from sources in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, distributed the drug through a network of street-level dealers in southeastern Connecticut.
The evidence at trial in also indicated that Pena supplied heroin to individuals in Providence, Rhode Island, and Fall River, Massachusetts, as early as 2012.
Pena has been detained since his arrest on November 14, 2017. On that date, investigators executed 12 federal search warrants and seized more than three kilograms of heroin from other members of the conspiracy, and approximately $14,000 in cash from Pena.
On December 12, 2017, a grand jury in Hartford returned a 25-count superseding indictment charging Pena, Luciano and 19 other individuals with various heroin trafficking offenses.
Prior to his trial, on February 4, 2019, Pena pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of heroin with intent to distribute.
When he is sentenced, Pena faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
On June 27, 2018, Luciano pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. On January 29, 2019, he was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Homeland Security Investigations, Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East and the New London, Norwich, Waterford, Attleboro (Mass.) and Freetown (Mass.) Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Dave Vatti and Geoffrey M. Stone.
New York Felon Found with Loaded Gun at New Haven Train Station Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL LAWRENCE, 26, of Mount Vernon, New York, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal count to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 22, 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security, MTA Police Department, Connecticut State Police, New Haven Police Department and Orange Police Department conducted a criminal interdiction and enforcement operation at Union Station in New Haven. During the course of a random inspection of Lawrence, a DEA special agent found a loaded .38 caliber handgun, and a small quantity of marijuana, in Lawrence’s backpack. The gun was reported stolen in Alabama in July 2018.
In 2015, Lawrence was convicted in New York of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth 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.
Lawrence is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea on May 15, 2019, at which time Lawrence faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Lawrence is currently incarcerated in New York for violating his probation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dave Vatti.
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.
Enfield Man Who Sold Heroin and Fentanyl to Overdose Victim Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER FELICIANO, 29, of Enfield, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution, of heroin and fentanyl.
This matter stems from an ongoing 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, at approximately 8:55 a.m., on October 8, 2017, Enfield Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Enfield and found an unresponsive 24-year-old male in the home. The victim was pronounced deceased. Officers searched the immediate area and located narcotics paraphernalia. Officers also seized the victim’s phone. An analysis of Facebook messages and telephone contacts revealed that the victim had ordered heroin/fentanyl from Feliciano the day before the victim was found deceased.
The offense carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
Feliciano is detained pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Enfield Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
United States Announces Memorandum of Understanding Ensuring Compliance with Voter Registration RequirementsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Connecticut through the Connecticut Secretary of the State to help ensure compliance with federal law regarding maintenance of voter registration lists. Under the agreement, Connecticut will coordinate its statewide voter registration database with Connecticut Department of Public Health records to identify registered voters who have died.
Section 303 of Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA) requires states to implement a computerized statewide voter registration list and, along with Section 8 of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA), includes requirements for maintaining this computerized list. As part of these requirements, a state must coordinate its voter registration lists with state agency records on death for purposes of removing the names of deceased voters from its voter rolls.
“The requirements of HAVA and the NVRA help ensure that voter registration records remain accurate and current,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice appreciates Connecticut’s cooperative efforts to ensure its list maintenance procedures comply with the protections and procedures of HAVA and the NVRA.”
The parties’ agreement requires the Connecticut Secretary of the State to create and implement an administrative plan that includes procedures to coordinate the State’s voter registration list with Connecticut Department of Health records on deaths. The agreement also requires the state to report certain data relating to the coordination of these databases and list maintenance activities resulting from that coordination.
More information about the Help America Vote Act, the National Voter Registration Act, and other federal voting laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section. Complaints about voter registration practices may be reported to the Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931.
Three Men Charged with Defrauding Illinois Company of More Than $1.5 MillionRead 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 grand jury in New Haven has returned a seven-count indictment alleging that JOHN T. FINKLE III, 57, of East Haven, Connecticut; STEVEN C. GOLD, 46, of Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, and KENNETH J. PEDROLI, 59, of Stony Brook, New York, operated a scheme that defrauded an Illinois-based company of more than $1.5 million.
The indictment was returned on February 13, and Finkle surrendered to law enforcement this morning. Following his arrest, he appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven, entered a plea of not guilty to the charges, and was released on a $500,000 bond secured by his East Haven residence and a rental property in East Haven owned by his wife. Gold and Pedroli will be arraigned in the near future.
As alleged in the indictment, Finkle and Gold were employed by an Illinois-based supplier of electronic components, identified in the indictment as “Company A.” Finkle was primarily employed in sales for the company and Gold operated the accounting and billing systems for the company. Pedroli purchased electronic components from Company A for a business he operated in Islandia, New York.
The indictment alleges that between approximately February 2015 and December 2018, Finkle, Gold and Pedroli defrauded Company A through a scheme involving purchases that Pedroli made from the company. As part of the scheme, Finkle instructed Pedroli to place his orders and list prices at a fraction of Company A’s published prices. After Finkle submitted Pedroli’s orders to Company A at the discounted prices, the products were shipped from Company A to Pedroli. Finkle instructed Pedroli to pay only a portion of the invoiced price and to make the payments directly to Finkle. Pedroli then wrote checks to Finkle, which Finkle deposited into his personal bank account.
It is further alleged that Finkle instructed Gold to apply fictitious credits to the invoices in order to reduce the amount of money Pedroli owed Company A. Finkle then wrote checks to Gold, which Gold deposited into his personal bank account.
It is alleged that Company A was defrauded of more than $1.5 million, and that Finkle profited more than $500,000, through this scheme.
The indictment charges each defendant with one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. The indictment also charges Finkle with two counts of wire fraud, Gold with two counts of wire fraud, and Pedroli with two counts of mail fraud. Each of these charges also carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
New Britain Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ORLANDO QUIROS, also known as “O” and “Gordo, 42, formerly of New Britain and Suffield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 136 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for cocaine trafficking and firearm possession offenses.
This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force into a central Connecticut cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of crack cocaine and seizures of cocaine and cash proceeds, revealed that Westley Northrup, also known as “Piff,” operated a cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring while he was incarcerated in state custody at the Cheshire Correctional Institution. Northrup conspired with Carlos Roman, also known as “Frizz,” of Middletown, to purchase cocaine from suppliers, including Omar Rivera, convert some of the cocaine to crack cocaine, and then distribute crack and cocaine through a network of dealers.
Further investigation revealed that Rivera, of New Britain, was being supplied with cocaine by Quiros, who regularly received packages containing multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico. Quiros’s operation was assisted by individuals who agreed to accept delivery of the packages.
On July 12, 2017, law enforcement officers intercepted and seized approximately $210,000 in cash that Quiros had in a vehicle he was driving from Connecticut to New York.
Quiros and others involved in this narcotics trafficking conspiracy were arrested on July 26, 2017. On that date, investigators executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately seven kilograms of cocaine, several pounds of marijuana, four firearms, and nearly $100,000 in cash.
One of the firearms, and approximately $90,000 in cash, were found in a Hartford apartment that Quiros maintained.
Investigators also seized from Quiros a 2016 Maserati and 2016 BMW 6 Series.
On July 17, 2018, Quiros pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Northrup, Roman and Rivera pleaded guilty to related charges. On April 12, 2018, Roman was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment. Northrup and Rivera await sentencing.
This matter has been 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, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby and Middletown Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
Hartford Resident Charged with Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging MICHAEL SZWARC, 31, last residing in Hartford, with one count of receipt of child pornography.
The indictment was returned on February 5, 2019. Szwarc, who had been detained in state custody since September 8, 2018, appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and entered a plea of not guilty to the charge. He is detained pending trial.
As alleged in the indictment, between June and September 2018, Szwarc received images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The indictment further alleges that, in October 2013, Szwarc was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court of possession of child pornography.
If convicted of the federal charge, due to his alleged prior conviction, Scwarc faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
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 matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Office of Adult Probation. 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.
Torrington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Manufacturing and Selling Machine GunsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SEAN DEY, 40, of Torrington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by 12 months of home confinement and three years of supervised release, for illegally manufacturing and selling machine guns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2017 and April 2018, Dey manufactured machine guns, including AK-47-style and AR-style machine guns, suppressors, and other firearms. Dey entered into an agreement with George Jaiman, of Bridgeport, to sell machine guns, suppressors and firearms to third parties for profit. Neither Dey nor Jaiman possessed a valid license to deal firearms.
On March 28, 2018, in Bridgeport, Jaiman possessed an AK-47 style machine gun and an AR-style machine gun bearing a suppressor, neither of which had a serial number.
On April 3, 2018, Dey transferred an AR-style machine gun, which he had manufactured, to another individual for cash.
Dey was arrested on April 11, 2018. On October 25, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage unlawfully in the business of selling firearms, and one count of unlawful possession and transfer of a machine gun.
On October 26, 2018, Jaiman pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a machine gun. He awaits sentencing.
Dey, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 29.
Judge Thompson ordered Dey to perform 100 hours of community service when he is released from prison.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Tobacco Wholesaler Sentenced to 3 Years for Defrauding Connecticut of $5.8 Million in TaxesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RISHI MALIK, 46, a citizen of India residing in Fairfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to three years of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for defrauding the State of Connecticut of more than $5.8 million in taxes due on tobacco products imported into the state.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the State of Connecticut imposes tax on tobacco products imported into Connecticut for distribution within Connecticut. Tobacco amounts purchased, and taxes due, are reported on Forms OP-300, which are filed with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
For several years until 2012, Malik and a partner operated Connecticut Discounts LLC, a tobacco wholesale business based in Bridgeport. Through that company, Malik obtained tobacco products from out-of-state suppliers and distributed the products to a network of clients who offered tobacco products for retail sale. While operating Connecticut Discounts, Malik caused OP-300 forms to be filed with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, which underreported the amount of tobacco he imported into the state for distribution.
In June 2012, Malik sold Connecticut Discounts to Pavan Vaswani, who continued the tobacco wholesale business under the name KDV Discounts, LLC. From approximately June 2012 to April 2017, Malik frequently assisted Vaswani in importing tobacco products from out-of-state suppliers, including suppliers in Pennsylvania. Malik frequently drove to Pennsylvania to pick up products that he delivered to KDV in Connecticut. He also participated in making orders, and sometimes delivered payments in cash.
Between January 2013 and April 2017, KDV acquired almost $12 million in tobacco products, primarily cigars and other products, from suppliers in Pennsylvania, and distributed these products to hundreds of customers in Connecticut that stocked tobacco products for retail sale. On the OP-300 forms that Vaswani filed with the Department of Revenue Services on behalf of KDV, the amounts reported were a small fraction of what KDV actually acquired. Through this scheme, Vaswani failed to report approximately $5,821,057 in tax to the State of Connecticut.
In 2014, Malik registered Discount Deals, LLC, with an address in Sciota, Pennsylvania. Malik held out Discount Deals to be a tobacco distribution business. However, the unit he rented was not a space for a legitimate tobacco business and was maintained to create the appearance that Discount Deals was a legitimate Pennsylvania-based tobacco wholesaler. Between 2014 and at least April 2017, to subvert other federal regulations regarding interstate transport of smokeless tobacco, Malik used Discount Deals to purchase more than $1.1 million in smokeless tobacco products from Pennsylvania suppliers. A substantial amount of these smokeless tobacco products were provided to KDV for distribution in Connecticut. Discount Deals made no tax payments to the State of Connecticut between 2014 and 2017, and approximately $400,000 in smokeless tobacco tax was not reported to Connecticut or other states.
Malik and Vaswani were arrested on January 11, 2018.
Judge Hall ordered Malik to pay restitution of $5,821,057.
On October 30, 2018, Malik pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and to violate the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act (“CCTA”), and one count of wire fraud.
On August 21, 2018, Vaswani, of West Haven, pleaded guilty to the same offenses. He awaits sentencing.
Malik, who is released on $1.2 million bond, is required to report to prison on March 13, 2019.
Malik faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, Criminal Investigations Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer R. Laraia and Michael S. McGarry.
Colchester Woman Charged with Fraud Offense Stemming from 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 grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging VICKI MILLER, 56, of Colchester, with one count of wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.
Miller was arrested this morning. Following her arrest, she appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $50,000 bond.
As alleged in the indictment, from approximately June 2017 until August 2018, Miller was employed as a bookkeeper by Greylock Property Group LLC and its owner. Beginning in approximately July 2017, Miller used her access to her employers’ bank accounts to embezzle their money by making withdrawals at ATMs, writing checks to herself, and transferring funds to her own accounts.
It is alleged that Miller stole more than $400,000 through this scheme.
If convicted of the charge in the indictment, Miller faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and 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 with the assistance of the Town of Groton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Francis.
Massachusetts Woman Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LATOYA McKREITH, 36, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 30, 2018, McKreith and Laprese Gollman were arrested after they drove to New Haven in an attempt to purchase four kilograms of cocaine. Investigators seized approximately $100,000 from Gollman at the time of his arrest.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for May 8, 2019, at which time McKreith faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. McKreith is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
Gollman, of Springfield, Massachusetts, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on October 15, 2018, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by eight years of supervised release.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the New Haven and Hamden Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
New Haven Heroin Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CURTIS DRAUGHN, also known as “Kirk,” 63, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 15 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
This matter stems from an ongoing 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, following the December 2016 overdose death of a 33-year-old New Haven man, investigators determined that the victim had called “Kirk” prior to his overdose. In May 2017, investigators contacted “Kirk,” who was identified to be Draughn, asking about purchasing heroin. In May, June and August 2017, investigators made three controlled purchases of heroin from Draughn.
Draughn was arrested on October 25, 2017. On October 23, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
East Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALEXANDER PEDRAZA, 28, of East Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of sex trafficking of a minor.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Pedraza promoted the prostitution of a 16-year-old girl by advertising the victim’s prostitution services and soliciting clients on Backpage.com. In March 2017, he harbored the victim in motel rooms he rented in Hartford, Windsor and East Windsor, where clients met the victim and paid for sex acts. Pedraza also had sexual contact with the victim.
The investigation also revealed that, between September and December 2016, Pedraza engaged in sex trafficking of at least two 18-year-old females.
Pedraza has been detained since his arrest on May 26, 2017.
When he is sentenced, Pedraza faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of life imprisonment. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Windsor Police Department, through the Connecticut Human Trafficking Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Sarala V. Nagala.
Waterbury Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that, FELIX COLON, 21, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the fall of 2017, the FBI, ATF and Waterbury Police Department began an investigation into drug trafficking by suspected members of “Addicted to Money,” also known as “ATM,” a violent street gang operating in Waterbury. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of heroin and crack cocaine, resulted in federal charges against 11 individuals.
Intercepted communications revealed that Colon purchased and sold distribution quantities of heroin.
Colon was arrested on July 17, 2018. On that date, a search of his residence revealed approximately 56 gross grams of heroin packaged for distribution, approximately 41 gross grams of marijuana, a .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol, .40 and .45 caliber ammunition, a digital scale, and multiple cell phones.
The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) has identified the seized .40 caliber pistol as the firearm that was used in a shooting of a member of a rival gang in Waterbury in May 2017. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
Colon has been detained since his arrest. On November 16, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Waterbury Police Department’s Gang Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick F. Caruso and Natasha M. Freismuth.
Former Waterbury Resident Sentenced to Prison for Violating Sex Offender Registration LawsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ISMAEL SANCHEZ COLON, 44, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 10 months of imprisonment, three months of home confinement and five years of supervised release, for violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2001, Sanchez Colon was convicted in the State of Wisconsin of the felony offense of causing a child between the ages of 13 and 18 to view sexual activity, and he was subsequently ordered to comply with sex offender registration requirements for a period of 15 years after completion of a five-year term of probation.
In March 2009, Sanchez Colon advised the State of Wisconsin that he had moved to Puerto Rico.
Sanchez Colon began residing in Connecticut in approximately April 2016, based on evidence that he obtained food stamps and Husky healthcare benefits at that time, and did not register as a sex offender in this state, as required by law. He subsequently began working at a restaurant in Waterbury, and he obtained a Connecticut driver’s license. Between April 2016 and March 2018, Sanchez Colon was registered in Puerto Rico, and he traveled to Puerto Rico to update his registration. At no time did Sanchez Colon advise Wisconsin and Puerto Rico of his Connecticut residence.
Sanchez Colon’s non-compliance with sex offender registration requirements in Connecticut was discovered when he used his Waterbury address in the process of renewing his U.S. passport.
Sanchez Colon has been detained since his arrest on April 12, 2018. On September 5, 2018, he pleaded guilty to the SORNA violation.
Sanchez Colon has two previous convictions for SORNA violations, and he has a SORNA charge pending in Colorado.
Sanchez Colon will reside in Puerto Rico when he is released from prison.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Identity Theft and Unemployment Benefits Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RICHARD M. LACH, 32, of Richton Park, Illinois, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating a scheme to defraud state unemployment insurance programs in Connecticut and 37 other states.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Lach fraudulently filed claims with the Connecticut Department of Labor for unemployment benefits in the names of identity theft victims, using their names, dates of birth and social security numbers. Lach directed that the unemployment benefits be directly deposited to Green Dot debit cards that he opened in the names of other identity theft victims. For claims that were approved, the unemployment benefits were deposited to the Green Dot cards, and Lach withdrew the funds or otherwise spent the funds for his own personal use and benefit.
In addition to fraudulently obtaining unemployment benefits from the Connecticut Department of Labor, Lach fraudulently filed or attempted to file for unemployment benefits, in the names of identity theft victims, from unemployment agencies in Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington DC, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
In some cases, Lach purchased the personal information of identity theft victims through online websites, including a website that sold the information for $1, in bitcoins, per identity. Lach shared his account on that website. He also shared his Green Dot cards, and several email accounts he used, with other individuals so that they also could file fraudulent claims for unemployment benefits.
In total, Lach and others purchased identity information for approximately 845 identity theft victims through LACH’s account on the website that sold the information. Between February 2017 and January 2018, Lach and others filed approximately 380 fraudulent claims for unemployment benefits in the names of identity theft victims. If the state agencies had approved and paid benefits on all 380 claims, the total loss from this scheme would have exceeded $3.8 million. However, the state agencies approved and paid benefits on only 42 of the claims, resulting in an actual loss of $54,006.
Lach also fraudulently purchased cars and obtained car loans in the names of two identity theft victims. In September 2017, he fraudulently purchased a car for approximately $59,000 from a dealership in Florida and had it shipped to Illinois. Lach provided copies of a fake driver’s license and utility bill in the name of in an identity theft victim in order to obtain a car loan to purchase the vehicle. Similarly, in January 2018, Lach fraudulently purchased a car for approximately $83,000 from a dealership in Tennessee. Again, LACH provided copies of a fake driver’s license, utility bill, W-2, and paystub in the name of an identity theft victim. The cars were recovered and returned to the dealerships.
Judge Meyer ordered Lach to pay restitution in the total amount of $65,866.09 to the victim states and the two car dealerships.
Lach has been detained since his arrest on February 2, 2018. On August 30, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, Office of the Chief State’s Attorney, Connecticut Department of Labor, New York State Department of Labor, State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and Matteson (Illinois) Police Department, with assistance from the state unemployment agencies in the other states.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Hartford Felon Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Possessing Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRANDON SPENCE, also known as “Spun,” 31, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a loaded handgun.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 12, 2018, Hartford Police received information that Spence was in possession of a firearm on Enfield Street. When officers encountered Spence on Enfield Street, Spence fled on foot. During the pursuit, Spence discarded a Bryco Arms, model T380, .380 caliber firearm, loaded with seven rounds of ammunition. The firearm was recovered, and Spence was arrested after officers found him hiding under the porch of a house on Greenfield Street.
Spence’s criminal history includes multiple convictions related to the illegal possession of firearms.
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 October 29, 2018, Spence pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Mexican National Sentenced to Prison for Reentering the U.S. after Being Deported Multiple TimesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE LUIS MERINO HERNANDEZ, also known as “Jose Mendez,” 50, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to seven months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported. Merino Hernandez is a citizen of Mexico last residing in Waterbury.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2005, Merino Hernandez was removed from the U.S. to Mexico after he sustained convictions in New York. He illegally reentered the U.S. and was encountered by ICE while he was incarcerated in New York in November 2010. He was again removed to Mexico in January 2011.
U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents encountered Merino Hernandez in Tucson, Arizona, three times in May and June 2011. After the third encounter, he was charged in the District of Arizona with illegal reentry. He was convicted of the offense, sentenced to 120 days of imprisonment, and removed to Mexico in October 2011.
On June 9, 2018, Merino Hernandez was arrested in Waterbury and charged with four counts of risk of injury of a minor, one count of interfering/resisting arrest, one count of breach of peace and one count of assault 3rd degree. He has been detained since his arrest. On September 10, 2018, Merino Hernandez pleaded guilty in state court to one count of reckless endangerment in the first degree. He was sentenced to 11 months of imprisonment, execution suspended, and three years of probation.
On November 19, 2018, Merino Hernandez pleaded guilty in Hartford federal court to one count of reentry of a removed alien.
Merino Hernandez will be removed to Mexico when he completes his federal sentence.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with the assistance of the Waterbury Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Norwalk Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSEPH DANIELS, also known as “Sean,” 36, of Norwalk, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Norwalk Police arrested Daniels on May 15, 2018, after officers had made multiple controlled purchases of narcotics from him. On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of Daniels’ residence, car, and storage units he rented, and seized approximately 190 grams of heroin, other drugs, drug paraphernalia, and more than $59,000 in cash.
Daniels has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for April 26, 2019. The charge carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. However, because Daniels has a prior conviction for a felony drug offense, he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Daniels’ criminal history includes a federal conviction for distributing crack cocaine. In June 2003, he was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 43 months of imprisonment for that offense.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Norwalk Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that VINCENT JONES, 50, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of bank robbery.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Jones attempted to rob the Key Bank located at 245 Main Street in East Haven on July 31, 2017; robbed the Webster Bank located at 247 Boston Post Road in Orange of $5,469 on July 31, 2017, and robbed the Bank of America located at 1331 Boston Post Road in Milford of $6,578 on August 8, 2018.
Jones has been detained since August 9, 2018, when he was arrested on related state charges.
The charge of bank robbery carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Haven, Orange, Milford, New Haven and Waterbury Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Citizen of Honduras Pleads Guilty to Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GREGORIO ANDERSON ROMERO, 36, a citizen of Honduras last residing in New Britain, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of reentry of a removed alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Romero, who has never held legal status in the U.S., was deported from the U.S. to Honduras in April 2009 following a conviction for attempted arson, and 366-day sentence, in Florida.
Romero subsequently reentered the U.S. illegally.
On August 12, 2018, Romero was arrested by the New Britain Police Department and charged with assault and disorderly conduct offenses. He has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for April 25, 2019, at which time Romero faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the assistance of the New Britain Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Town of Bethlehem Agrees to Increase Accessibility in Order 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 the Town of Bethlehem, Connecticut, to resolve allegations that Bethlehem’s Town Hall and Memorial Hall buildings were not operating in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”).
The settlement agreement resolves an ADA complaint filed by an individual with disabilities alleging that Bethlehem’s Town Hall and Memorial Hall facilities were not accessible to individuals with physical disabilities. Bethlehem is in the process of making changes to both facilities as required by the settlement agreement, including improving the accessibility of entrances and access routes, increasing the number of accessible parking spaces and adding van accessible parking spaces, adding accessible features to restrooms, and providing accessible signage. Bethlehem is also updating its policies and procedures to ensure access for individuals with disabilities to the Town Clerks’ Office, the Registrar of Voters, and the First Selectman’s Office. Bethlehem will continue to make improvements and changes to enhance accessibility over the next 23 months.
Under federal law, public entities are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities. The Department 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 commended the leadership of the Town of Bethlehem for having worked cooperatively and collaboratively with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the ADA issues expeditiously and without litigation.
“Among the most important protections provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act are those ensuring individuals with disabilities have access to public services, such as voting and participating in civic activities and town meetings,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “Our Office is committed to enforcing the ADA, which requires public entities, including municipalities, to provide access to individuals with disabilities. We greatly appreciate the willingness of the Town of Bethlehem and the commitment of its First Selectman to greatly increase the accessibility and usability of Bethlehem’s Town Hall and Memorial Hall facilities.”
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that a public entity or place of public accommodation in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
Jamaican National Sentenced for Passport Fraud OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NEVILLE S. NICHOLSON, 62, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in the Bronx, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to approximately 12 months of imprisonment, time already served, for passport fraud offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2014, Nicholson submitted an application for a U.S. passport, in the name of another individual, at the Ferguson Library in Stamford, Connecticut. With his application, Nicholson provided the passport acceptance agent with a false birth certificate, a fraudulent New York State driver’s license, and his photograph for inclusion in the passport. Nicholson then signed under oath claiming to be the other individual. The U.S. Department of State subsequently issued a passport to Nicholson.
Nicholson used the fraudulent passport to travel between New York and Jamaica in 2014 and 2016.
Nicholson has been detained since his arrest on related New York state charges on September 1, 2017. He was transferred to federal custody on January 19, 2018.
On November 1, 2018, Nicholson pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement in a passport application, and two counts of using a passport secured by false statement.
At the conclusion of today’s sentencing, Nicholson was transferred to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is subject to removal proceedings.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, with assistance from the New York City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Citizen of India Charged with Operating "Provisional Credit" Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Boston, today announced that KISHORE BABU AMMISETTI, 30, a citizen of India, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with fraud offenses stemming from an alleged “provisional credit” scheme.
As alleged in the complaint, 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.
The complaint further alleges that 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.
It is alleged that Ammisetti stole at least $800,000 from more than 400 victims through this scheme. The investigation has revealed that Ammisetti often operated this scheme while staying at casino hotels in Connecticut.
Ammisetti was arrested on January 25, 2019. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford and was ordered detained.
It is alleged that Ammisetti entered the U.S. in 2013 on a student visa, which was revoked in 2014.
The complaint charges Ammisetti with bank fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and wire fraud, which 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 HSI with the assistance of the Mohegan Tribal Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
Southeastern Connecticut Heroin Trafficker Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL LUCIANO, 33, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 144 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation that began after several heroin overdoses in southeastern Connecticut, including two overdose deaths involving a heroin and fentanyl mix that occurred in January 2016. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Luciano regularly obtained large quantities of heroin from sources in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and distributed the drug through a network of street-level dealers in southeastern Connecticut.
Luciano has been detained since his arrest on November 14, 2017. On December 12, 2017, a grand jury in Hartford returned a 25-count superseding indictment charging Luciano and 20 other individuals with various heroin trafficking offenses. On June 27, 2018, Luciano pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
Luciano’s criminal history includes a federal conviction in the District of Rhode Island for possession with intent to distribute heroin. In September 2010, he was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment for that offense.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Homeland Security Investigations, Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East and the New London, Norwich, Waterford, Attleboro (Mass.) and Freetown (Mass.) Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Dave Vatti and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Connecticut Art DealerRead 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 HAROLD GORDON, 69, of Templeton, Massachusetts, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of wire fraud.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in approximately October 2012, Gordon began communicating by phone and email with a respected art dealer and appraiser (the “victim”) in Connecticut, to induce the victim to purchase a tall antique desk, commonly known as a “secretary desk.” In these communications, Gordon falsely represented to the victim that the desk was decorated and dedicated as a Civil War memorial for a Connecticut soldier who died at the Battle of Antietam while fighting for the Union Army. These misrepresentations included Gordon’s claims that the surviving soldiers in the fallen soldier’s Connecticut regiment had crafted the desk to serve as a war memorial for the deceased soldier’s family; that other than cleaning the vintage clock, Gordon had done nothing else to refurbish or decorate the desk; and that Gordon had purchased the desk from a descendant of the deceased Connecticut soldier.
In early March 2014, the victim examined the secretary desk at Gordon’s Massachusetts residence, and then took subsequent steps to confirm the desk’s authenticity. The victim then purchased the desk from Gordon for $64,500. At Gordon’s request, the victim provided the payment in three separate checks.
In February 2015, the victim sold the desk to a museum and non-profit institution in Connecticut. After completing this transaction, the victim sent Gordon an additional payment of $25,000 because the victim had made a significant profit from the sale.
In February 2018, various third parties made inquiries to the victim about the authenticity of the secretary desk. The victim contacted Gordon, who admitted that he had refurbished and decorated the desk himself, created the false narrative about the desk’s history, and targeted the victim to purchase it due to the victim’s respected stature in the American folk art community. The victim then made full restitution to the institution that had purchased the desk from him.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for April 23, 2019, at which time Gordon faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MIGUEL MARTINEZ, also known as “Nitro,” 34, of Hartford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for firearm and drug offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a law enforcement investigation headed by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford. In May 2018, Martinez and nine other alleged members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation were charged with offenses related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine in Hartford. Four of the defendants, including Martinez, were charged with firearm offenses.
On June 8, 2017, Martinez sold a Taurus 9mm pistol, loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition, to an individual working with law enforcement. At the time of the sale, Martinez was a convicted felon and stated that the gun had been used to pistol whip someone and that it may still have blood on it. On June 23, 2017, Martinez sold heroin and fentanyl to the same individual.
Martinez was arrested on May 10, 2018. On August 9, 2018, while he was released on bond and wearing an electronic monitoring device, Martinez sold crack cocaine to an undercover police officer. His bond was revoked on August 22, 2018. On October 16, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and fentanyl.
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Hartford Man Admits to Sex Trafficking of Two MinorsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HIRAN SANCHEZ, also known as “Ivan” and “Pablo,” 21, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of sex trafficking of a minor.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sanchez recruited two minor victims to engage in commercial sex acts. Sanchez trafficked the first victim, who was 15 at the time, in the summer of 2016, and the second victim, who was 16, in April and May 2017. After Sanchez advertised the victims’ prostitution services on Backpage.com, he transported the victims to Hartford-area hotels to meet with clients who paid them for sex. The victims provided all of the money they earned to Sanchez.
Sanchez has been detained since his arrest on January 22, 2018.
The charge of sex trafficking of a minor carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Sanchez is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson on May 8, 2019.
This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut State Police and Hartford Police Department, through the Connecticut Human Trafficking Task Force, and with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala V. Nagala and Nancy V. Gifford.
January 2019 is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Operators of Prison Consultation Company Charged with Conspiring to Defraud Federal Bureau of PrisonsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation in New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a nine-count indictment charging three Michigan residents with conspiracy and fraud charges stemming from an alleged scheme to qualify prospective and current federal inmates who do not require substance abuse treatment for admission into a Federal Bureau of Prisons program that, if completed successfully, will result in a shortened prison term.
Charged in the indictment, which was returned on January 15, 2019, are TONY TUAN PHAM, also known as “Anh Nguyen,” 49, of Grand Rapids, Michigan; SAMUEL COPENHAVER, 47, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and CONSTANCE MOERLAND, 33, of Hudsonville, Michigan. The three defendants were arrested on January 23.
According to the indictment, the Residential Drug Abuse Program (“RDAP”) is a 500-hour substance abuse treatment program that is administered by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (“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.
The indictment alleges that Pham, Copenhaver and Moerland were managing partners of Michigan-based RDAP Law Consultants, LLC. The defendants solicited prospective and current federal inmates, including individuals in Connecticut, through telephone calls and emails with offers of assistance in applying to, and qualifying for, the RDAP. For a fee, the defendants coached and advised prospective and current inmates on how to gain admission to the RDAP by lying to the BOP about the existence, duration and extent of a qualifying substance abuse disorder.
“The indictment alleges that these defendants profited by coaching federal inmates and prospective inmates to lie about substance abuse issues in order to be released from prison well before each sentencing judge intended,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “This is a scheme that defrauds the public by taking advantage of an important Bureau of Prisons treatment program that exists to help rehabilitate inmates with real addiction problems in order to prepare them for life after prison.”
“This indictment illustrates the depths to which federal investigators will go to uncover fraud of all types,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Turner. “The alleged fraudulent methods used to defraud government programs will not be tolerated and will continue to be vigorously investigated.”
“In this alleged RDAP scheme, the fraudsters not only undermined the authority of the judicial system to administer fair and impactful sentences, but they diverted vital substance abuse treatment from inmates who really needed it,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge O’Connell. “IRS-CI’s tracing of fees allowed investigators to uncover the breadth of this alleged fraud and we are proud of our role in this collaborative law enforcement effort.”
The indictment charges Pham, Copenhaver and Moerland with one count of conspiracy, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. The indictment also charges Pham and Copenhaver with multiple counts of wire fraud, and offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by 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. The prosecution in the District of Connecticut was facilitated by significant assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith George Thomas of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for its assistance in this matter.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Illegal Gun Possession, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RASCELL LEGGETT, 32, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 22, 2011, Leggett was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing marijuana and crack cocaine in Hartford. He was released from federal prison in February 2015. Leggett subsequently violated the conditions of his supervised release and, in June 2016, was sentenced to an additional four months of imprisonment, followed by two years and eight months of supervised release. He was released from federal prison in November 2016.
In August 2017, Leggett was arrested by Hartford Police and charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and illegal operation of a motor vehicle under suspension. Leggett subsequently failed to appear for a federal supervised release violation hearing on November 6, 2017.
On December 18, 2017, investigators arrested Leggett after they stopped a vehicle he was operating on Albany Avenue in Hartford. A search of the car revealed 148 bags of heroin, a Ruger 9mm pistol loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition, and $655 in cash. A search of Leggett’s person revealed approximately four grams of crack cocaine.
At the time of his arrest, Leggett also had an active Hartford Police arrest warrant for attempted first degree assault with a firearm, criminal possession of a weapon, and risk if injury to a minor. The charges stemmed from an incident on December 13, 2017, when Leggett fired a gun into a car occupied by a woman and her minor child.
Leggett has been detained since his arrest. On October 17, 2018, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Judge Hall sentenced Leggett to 60 months of imprisonment for possessing a firearm, and a consecutive 24 months of imprisonment for violating his supervised release.
Leggett has also pleaded guilty in state court to offenses stemming from the shooting on December 13, 2017, and awaits sentencing.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, which 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 provided valuable assistance to the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Two Men Charged in Eastern Connecticut Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on December 18, 2018, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a five-count superseding indictment charging CARLOS DELGADO, also known as “Los,” 49, of Mansfield, and LUIS ALAMO, 42, of Willimantic, with narcotics trafficking and firearm offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, earlier this year the DEA Hartford Task Force, Willimantic Police Department and Connecticut State Police began investigating an eastern Connecticut drug trafficking organization headed by Delgado. The investigation revealed that Delgado was having kilogram quantities of cocaine shipped through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico to various locations in Eastern Connecticut. He distributed the drugs with the assistance of Alamo and others, and mailed cash proceeds from narcotics sales back to individuals in Puerto Rico.
During the investigation, investigators seized quantities of cocaine and heroin, five firearms, including an AK-15 rifle, and more than $140,000 in cash.
Delgado has been detained since his arrest on a federal criminal complaint on July 9, 2018.
Alamo was arrested yesterday and is released on a $50,000 bond.
The indictment charges Delgado and Alamo with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine. If convicted of this charge, based on the quantity of cocaine involved in the conspiracy, Delgado faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of life in prison, and Alamo faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
The indictment also charges Delgado with one count of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life; one count of possession of firearm by a previously convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years, and one count of money laundering, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA Hartford Task Force, Connecticut State Police, Willimantic Police Department, the Willimantic Police Department, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The DEA Task Force includes participants from the Bristol, East Hartford, Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Willimantic and Windsor Locks Police Departments, and the Food and Drug Administration.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Freismuth.
Hartford Meth Dealer Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MICHAEL BOBOWSKI, 43, of Hartford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, d-methamphetamine hydrochloride, also known as “ice” and other street names.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August and September 2018, investigators conducted two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Bobowski at his Whitney Street residence. The investigation revealed that, between May and October 2018, Bobowski conspired to distribute between 100 and 150 grams of d-methamphetamine hydrochloride.
Bobowski was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 4, 2018.
Bobowski is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson on March 14, 2019, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. He is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and Middletown Police Department, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The DEA Task Force includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby and Middletown Police Departments, the U.S. Marshals Service and the IRS – Criminal Investigation Division.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.
Norwalk Man Admits to Escaping from Waterbury Halfway HouseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRANDEN HUERTAS, 37, formerly of Norwalk, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to escaping from custody.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 22, 2018, Huertas escaped from custody at the Chase Center in Waterbury. Huertas had been confined to the Chase Center to complete a 60-month prison term for unlawful possession of a firearm.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for March 20, 2019, at which time Huertas faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Clark.
Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to Role in Phishing Scheme that Victimized Connecticut School EmployeesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OLUKAYODE IBRAHIM LAWAL, 36, a citizen of Nigeria last residing in Smyrna, Georgia, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to a conspiracy charge stemming from a scheme to obtain the personal identifying information of school employees in Connecticut and elsewhere.
According to court documents and statements made in court, special agents from the FBI’s cybercrime squad in New Haven and the IRS have been investigating “phishing” emails that were sent to various school districts in Connecticut last year.
In March 2017, an employee of the Groton Public Schools received an email that appeared to be sent by another Groton school system employee. The email contained a request to send W-2 tax information for all employees of the school system. The recipient of the email responded by sending copies of the W-2 information for approximately 1,300 Groton Public Schools employees. After the W-2 information was emailed, approximately 100 suspicious Forms 1040 were filed electronically with the IRS in the names of victims of the Groton phishing scheme. The 100 tax returns claimed refunds totaling $491,737. Approximately three of the returns were processed, and $23,543 in fraudulently-obtained funds were electronically deposited into various bank accounts. The other returns were not processed because they were suspected of being fraudulent.
Lawal controlled or used certain email accounts involved in this phishing scheme. A co-conspirator of Lawal sent personal identifying information, including names and Social Security Numbers, of at least 10 employees to an email account that Lawal used. Lawal then sent the victims’ personal identifying information to another co-conspirator.
The investigation further revealed that in February 2017, in a related scheme, Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden was victimized by a phishing e-mail that requested W-2 forms for its employees. Approximately 103 employee W-2 forms were compromised as a result of phishing e-mail. The IRS confirmed that 33 victims had fraudulent tax returns filed electronically with the IRS, claiming refunds in the amount of $314,184. The returns were not processed because they were suspected of being fraudulent.
Lawal pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, an offense that carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for March 14, 2019.
Lawal entered the U.S. on a visitor’s visa on November 24, 2016, and failed to depart on his scheduled departure date of December 1, 2016. He has been detained since his arrest on May 9, 2018.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarala V. Nagala.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the FBI and IRS in Atlanta, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, for their valuable assistance in this matter.
New Haven Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging EDWARD LUGO, 37, of New Haven, with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
The indictment was returned on December 13, 2018. Lugo appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and entered a plea of not guilty to the charge.
As alleged in the indictment, on September 19, 2018, Lugo possessed a 9mm Kel-Tec Model P-11 pistol and more than 100 rounds of assorted ammunition.
It is further alleged that Lugo’s criminal history includes felony convictions in Connecticut and New York for firearm, weapon, drug, larceny and possession of stolen property 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.
If convicted of the charge, Lugo faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Lugo has been detained since his arrest on September 19.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Statewide Narcotics Task Force, New Haven Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret E. Maigret.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
New Britain Man Charged with Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition as a Convicted FelonRead 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 Hartford Police Chief David Rosado today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment yesterday charging JOHN ANDERSON, 37, of New Britain, with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
As alleged in the indictment, on October 11, 2018, Anderson possessed a Ruger, Model EC9S, 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number, and six rounds of 9mm ammunition. Anderson’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for burglary in the third degree 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.
Anderson has been detained in state custody since his arrest by Hartford Police on October 11.
If convicted of the charge, Anderson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.
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.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Paying Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity over SkypeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIAM GAUVIN, 43, of Andover, Massachusetts, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for paying a minor to engage in sexual activity over Skype.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately October 2016 and March 2017, Gauvin, using the name “Will Wiggins,” solicited a 17-year-old boy in Connecticut to engage in sexually explicit conduct over Skype. In exchange for the minor victim transmitting visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct to Gauvin, Gauvin paid the minor victim more than $3,000 using PayPal. Gauvin also asked the minor victim to persuade his brother, who was 15, to engage in sexually explicit conduct in exchange for money.
Gauvin resided in Worcester, Massachusetts, at the time of the criminal conduct.
The investigation revealed that Gauvin also paid other minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct online.
GAUVIN was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on November 1, 2017. On September 25, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography.
Gauvin, who is released on a $100,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on February 15, 2019.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Worcester Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham. United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUQMAN GOTTI, formerly known as Timothy Pennington, 37, of Manchester, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to a child pornography offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2017, Gotti and a 13-year-old boy were communicating through the Kik messaging application. After the boy informed Gotti that he was 14 years old, Gotti asked the boy for pictures and sent the boy a sexually explicit image of himself, intending that the boy send Gotti a sexually explicit picture in return. The boy then sent sexually explicit pictures of himself to Gotti. Later in the conversation, Gotti told the boy “I already went to jail over a 14 year old not trying to go through that again.” Gotti then asked the boy for more sexually explicit pictures. In response, the boy sent GOTTI another sexually explicit photograph and video of himself.
Gotti pleaded guilty to one count of accessing with intent to view child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. However, based on Gotti’s prior felony conviction in the state of Connecticut for second degree sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl, the government’s position is that Gotti faces enhanced penalties of a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Gotti’s name in 2000, when he sustained the sexual assault conviction, was Timothy Pennington. Gotti legally changed his name from Timothy Pennington.
Gotti was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on April 25, 2018. He has been in state custody on related charges since November 14, 2017.
A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manchester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Pilar Gonzalez
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.
Windsor Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Guns and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, announced that DAVID McKEMMIE, JR., 30, of Windsor, was arrested today and charged by federal criminal complaint with possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.
Following his arrest, McKemmie appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was ordered detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for December 21, 2018.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, at approximately 6:20 a.m. today, ATF special agents conducted a court-authorized search of McKemmie’s residence at 61 Park Avenue in Windsor. McKemmie was arrested after investigators collected from his bedroom nine handguns, two AR15 rifles, an AR15 pistol that had no markings, more than 500 rounds of ammunition, and various firearms parts and materials used in the construction of firearms.
It is alleged that McKemmie is a previously convicted felon.
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 the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut State Police and Windsor Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
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.
Stamford Man on Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Drug Dealing ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ALBERT LEE ROBINSON, 57, of Stamford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Robinson 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 16, 2004, Judge Underhill sentenced Robinson to 188 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine. Robinson was sentenced as a career offender based on prior convictions for burglary, narcotics and robbery offenses. Robinson was released from prison in August 2017 and began serving his five-year term of supervised release.
On August 14, 2018, Stamford Police arrested Robinson on state charges after he was found in possession of approximately 17 grams of heroin, 19 grams of crack cocaine, 14 grams of powder cocaine and a quantity of marijuana, much of which was packaged for distribution. Officers also seized a digital scale and $2,052 in cash.
On September 5, 2018, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Robinson with one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances on August 14.
On September 6, 2018, members of the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and Stamford Police Department executed a federal arrest warrant for Robinson. At this time of his arrest, Robinson possessed a bag of powder cocaine on his person.
Robinson has been detained since his federal arrest.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2019, at which time Robinson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years for distributing controlled substances, and an additional term of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Elena L. Coronado.
Jamaican National Convicted of Marijuana Trafficking, Firearms and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on December 18, 2018, a federal jury in Hartford found ANDREW DAVIS, 38, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Hamden, guilty of marijuana trafficking, firearm possession and money laundering offenses.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, in 2013, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Connecticut State Police began an investigation into individuals who were moving large amounts of marijuana from the Southwestern United States to Connecticut. During the investigation, investigators intercepted four packages, each containing approximately eight kilograms of marijuana, from the U.S. Mail, and made multiple controlled purchases of the drug from a member of the trafficking ring.
Davis was arrested on February 1, 2017, after investigators conducted court-authorized searches of a Hamden apartment that Davis shared with his girlfriend, Shanice Goffe; a storage unit in West Haven that was rented in Goffe’s name, and two Bridgeport apartments that Davis maintained under different aliases.
A search of the Hamden residence revealed more than one pound of marijuana, a loaded 9mm handgun, boxes of .45 caliber ammunition, $62,409 in cash, and numerous false identifications, including a U.S. passport, all of which contained a photo of Davis. A search of the storage unit revealed approximately 33 kilograms of marijuana, ammunition and firearm magazines, additional false identifications, and $350,100 in cash. A search of a Bridgeport apartment rented in the name of “Cordel Freckleton” yielded one firearm, and a search of an apartment rented in the name of “Andrew Carter” revealed more than 60 pounds of marijuana and two firearms, one of which was stolen.
Investigators also seized a 2014 BMW X6, a 2016 Honda Accord, and a 2008 Honda Odyssey, all of which were registered to Goffe and had been purchased with proceeds of the marijuana trafficking enterprise.
The investigation further revealed that Davis, using the name “Steve Williams,” was under investigation in 2008 for marijuana trafficking. In August 2008, Bridgeport Police conducted a search of Davis’s Bridgeport apartment and discovered a fake identification, photos of Davis/Williams, three firearms, extended magazines, ammunition, drug packaging paraphernalia, marijuana packaged for resale, and eight UPS receipts for packages that had not arrived. Bridgeport Police subsequently seized the UPS packages, which contained a total of more than 75 pounds of marijuana. “Williams” was never located.
At the time of Davis’s federal arrest on February 1, 2017, investigators seized more than 40 identification cards with false names, including the names of the addressees of the 2008 Bridgeport packages. When presented to U.S. Marshals and asked his name, Davis said, “Let’s go with Steve Williams.”
The jury found Davis guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Davis is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson on March 13, 2019.
On November 20, 2017, Goffe pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. On February 28, 2018, she was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment.
This matter has been investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of Bridgeport Police Department, U.S Customs and Border Patrol and the U.S. Marshals Service.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Prospect Man Charged with Illegally Purchasing and Possessing 11 FirearmsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned a 15-count indictment charging FRANK MOSS, 31, of Prospect, with offenses related to the illegal purchase and possession of firearms.
The indictment was returned on December 4, 2018. Moss appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven, entered a plea of not guilty to the charges and was released on a $50,000 bond.
As alleged in the indictment, on seven dates between June 14, 2017 and November 1, 2017, Moss, being an unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substances, made false statements in connection with the purchase of 11 firearms at gun stores in Wolcott, Seymour and Waterbury.
The indictment charges Moss with eight count of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm by representing that he was not an unlawful user of, or addicted to, controlled substances. The indictment also charges Moss with seven counts of possession of a firearm by an individual who is an unlawful user of, or addicted to, any controlled substance.
If convicted, Moss faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Freismuth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Distributing Cocaine and CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE RODRIGUEZ, also known as “Juice,” 48, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine and crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a law enforcement investigation headed by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford. In May 2018, Rodriguez and nine other alleged members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation were charged with offenses related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine in Hartford. Four of the defendants also were charged with firearm offenses.
The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, revealed that Rodriguez distributed crack and powder cocaine that he purchased from an ALKN member.
Rodriguez’s criminal history includes more than 20 convictions. In September 2017, he was shot four times during an apparent drug robbery.
Rodriguez has been detained since his arrest on May 7, 2018. On September 25, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Distributing Drugs Involved in 2 Enfield Overdose DeathsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHRISTOPHER BARRETO, 29, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing drugs involved in two overdose deaths in Enfield in 2016.
This matter stems from an ongoing 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, at approximately 9:52 a.m., on August 26, 2016, the Enfield Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Enfield and found an unresponsive 31-year-old male in the upstairs bedroom of the residence. The victim was pronounced deceased. Officers searched the immediate area and seized one empty white wax fold and six full white wax folds that contained suspected heroin. Officers also seized the victim’s iPhone. An analysis of text messages revealed that the victim had ordered heroin from an individual in the evening of August 25, 2016.
According to the State of Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner, the victim’s death was determined to be caused by “acute fentanyl and ethanol intoxication.”
At approximately 8:23 p.m., on October 27, 2016, the Enfield Police Department and emergency personnel responded to another residence in Enfield and found an unresponsive 36-year-old man outside the house. The victim was transported to the hospital for medical attention and pronounced deceased. Officers subsequently recovered the victim’s cell phone and 20 white wax folds that contained suspected heroin. Analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed that the victim had purchased heroin from the same individual two days before his death.
Connecticut’s Chief Medical Examiner concluded the victim died as a result of the “combined effects of fentanyl, furanyl fentanyl and heroin.”
Analysis of text messages revealed that both victims purchased heroin from an individual who had purchased the heroin from Barreto. The text messages also revealed that Barreto was consistently dealing narcotics from April 2016 until he was arrested on August 10, 2017.
At the time of his arrest, investigators seized approximately 2,000 wax folds of heroin from Barreto’s residence.
On August 1, 2018, Barreto pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribution, and distribution of, controlled substances.
Barreto has been detained since October 22, 2018, when he bond was revoked.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Enfield Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
El Salvadoran National Pleads Guilty to Reentering the U.S. after Being DeportedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALFREDO DAGOBERTO HERCULES-SANTOS, 40, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of reentry of removed alien. Hercules-Santos is a citizen of El Salvador last residing in New Britain.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2005, Hercules-Santos was removed from the U.S. to El Salvador. He illegally reentered the U.S., was found in the U.S. in November 2012, and was removed to El Salvador in January 2013. He again illegally reentered the U.S., was found in the U.S. in May 2014, and was removed to El Salvador in June 2014.
Hercules-Santos illegally reentered the U.S. a third time. On August 19, 2018, the Vernon Police Department arrested Hercules-Santos and charged him with driving under the influence after he crashed an SUV he was driving into an unmarked Vernon Police cruiser. At the time, he had a separate driving under the influence case pending in New Britain Superior Court. Both cases were resolved with guilty pleas.
Hercules-Santos has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Bolden scheduled sentencing for February 19, 2019, at which time Hercules-Santos faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the assistance of the Vernon Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.
Citizen of Honduras 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 ERICK SANABRIA-HERNANDES, 34, a citizen of Honduras last residing in Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 15 months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sanabria-Hernandes was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol in May 2004 after he illegally crossed the border from Mexico. On August 23, 2005, he failed to appear at a scheduled immigration hearing in San Antonio, Texas, and was ordered removed in absentia by an immigration judge.
In December 2005, Sanabria-Hernandes was arrested by the Stamford Police Department on charges of carrying/selling a dangerous weapon and threatening second degree. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 18 months of incarceration. In August 2007, he was removed to Honduras.
On July 10, 2017, Sanabria-Hernandes, using the alias Mery Sanabra-Hernandez, was arrested by Stamford Police after a domestic incident and charged with assault third degree, disorderly conduct, unlawful restraint second degree, strangulation second degree, and interfering with an emergency call. He was convicted of strangulation second degree and risk of injury and sentenced to nine months of incarceration.
Sanabria-Hernandes was charged with one count of illegal reentry and was transferred into federal custody on April 30, 2018. He pleaded guilty to the offense on September 19, 2018.
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 Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss.
Willimantic Teen Charged with Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and Willimantic Police Chief Roberto Rosado today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging MOHAMMADREZA KAMALI, also known as “Reza,” 18, of Willimantic, with several firearms offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, the investigation into Kamali began after law enforcement learned that Kamali was offering to sell firearms to individuals in Connecticut. On November 2, 2018, Kamali was arrested on a federal criminal complaint after he sold four AR-15 style firearms, which he had built himself after ordering parts on the internet, to an undercover ATF special agent.
On November 14, 2018, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Kamali with one count of dealing in firearms without a license, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. The three-count superseding indictment returned today adds one count of possession of a firearm made in violation of the National Firearms Act, and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. Both of these charges, which carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count, relate to Kamali’s alleged sale of a short-barreled rifle to the undercover ATF agent.
Kamali has been released on a $50,000 bond since November 29, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Willimantic Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Clark.