District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Waterbury Man Charged with Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on June 27, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging JOHNATHEN LOPEZ, 28, of Waterbury, with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. LOPEZ was arrested on July 2, 2018.
As alleged in the indictment and statements made in court, on April 27, 2017, members of the Waterbury Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit arrested LOPEZ after he was found in possession of a Glock 27 .40 caliber handgun. The firearm, which had been reported stolen during a burglary in Waterbury, is connected to shootings currently under investigation in Waterbury.
The indictment alleges that, prior to April 2017, LOPEZ had been convicted in state court of felony drug and weapon offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
If convicted of this charge, LOPEZ 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 Waterbury Police Department’s Gang Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Caruso and Natasha Freismuth.
Waterford Psychologist Pays $126,760 to Settle Allegations under the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
United States Attorney John H. Durham and Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen today announced that ARLENE WERNER, PhD., has entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments and has paid more than $126,000 to resolve allegations that she violated the federal and state False Claims Acts.
WERNER is licensed as a Psychologist in the State of Connecticut and the owner of a private psychology practice in Waterford. She is enrolled as a provider in the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program (“CMAP”), which includes the state’s Medicaid program.
It is alleged that WERNER billed Medicaid for psychotherapy services that were not provided and that she billed Medicaid for family psychotherapy sessions for multiple family members when she should have billed one family member for individual psychotherapy services.
To resolve the allegations under the federal and state False Claims Acts, WARNER has paid $126,760.09 in order to reimburse the Medicaid program, which covers conduct occurring from January 2011 to July 18, 2016.
“It is imperative that providers accurately bill Medicaid and other insurance programs,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “Working with our federal and state partners, we will continue to protect the integrity of the Medicaid program to ensure its recipients receive the healthcare services they need.”
Under the False Claims Act, the government can recover up to three times its actual damages, plus penalties of $11,181 to $22,363 for each false claim.
This case stems from a larger investigation into fraudulent activity in the area of behavioral health services, which has been jointly conducted by the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. Through the Medicaid program, the State of Connecticut provides coverage for mental health and counseling services to citizens who cannot otherwise afford health insurance. “Behavioral health” includes a wide variety of health care providers who provide care on an outpatient basis, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed alcohol and drug counselors.
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Thidemann, and Assistant Attorney General Antonia Conti of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311.
Bank Manager Charged with Embezzling $850KRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday alleging that STEPHEN CARBONELLA, 59, of Hamden, embezzled funds from his employer, Webster Bank Corporation, where he served as bank manager of the Orange branch office.
CARBONELLA was arrested this morning. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven, entered a plea of not guilty and was released on a $200,000 bond.
According to the indictment and statements made in court, between approximately 2003 and 2017, CARBONELLA withdrew more than $850,000 from account holders’ certificate of deposit (CD) accounts at Webster Bank, without the knowledge or consent of the account holders, and used the embezzled funds for his own purposes. He also took steps to conceal his misconduct, including by forging signatures and falsifying documents.
The indictment charges CARBONELLA with one count of embezzlement by a bank officer or employee, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 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 prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
New Haven Man Charged with Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment today charging ANTHONY DUNCAN, also known as “Heavy D,” 31, of New Haven, with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
As alleged in the indictment, on November 24, 2017, in New Haven, DUNCAN possessed a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber handgun. Prior to that date, DUNCAN had been convicted in state court of felony drug, robbery and weapon offenses.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
If convicted of the charge, DUNCAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
DUNCAN has been detained since June 26, 2018, when he was arrested on a federal criminal complaint.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
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 our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl Involved in Norwich OverdoseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FELIX LOPEZ, also known as “Pablo,” 23, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release for distributing narcotics to a Norwich overdose victim last year.
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, on September 13, 2017, Norwich Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a report of an untimely death at a residence in Norwich. Responding officers were informed that the decedent, a 20-year-old woman, had an addiction to heroin. At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including the victim’s cell phone.
The State of Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner subsequently determined that the victim died from acute fentanyl and heroin intoxication.
The investigation revealed that LOPEZ had sold narcotics in and around Hartford since at least January 2016, and that he supplied heroin and fentanyl consumed by the victim shortly before the victim died.
LOPEZ was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on November 13, 2017. At the time of his arrest, he possessed a quantity of crack cocaine.
LOPEZ has been detained since his arrest. On April 5, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”) and fentanyl.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Norwich, Hartford and Manchester Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Hamden Restaurant to Make Changes to Comply with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached settlement agreements with Ibiza Restaurant (“Ibiza”) and Mangos, LLC (“Mangos”) in Hamden, to resolve allegations that Ibiza was not operating in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”). Ibiza leases its premises from Mangos.
The settlement agreements resolve an ADA complaint filed by an individual with physical disabilities alleging that Ibiza did not meet the ADA’s requirements for accessibility. Ibiza and Mangos are in the process of making the changes to the physical premises of Ibiza as required by the settlement agreements. Mangos has committed to increasing accessible parking for Ibiza and its other commercial tenant, remediating the sidewalk from the parking area to the tenant business entrances, adding a ramp from the sidewalk to the tenant business entrances and ensuring that the tenant business entrances are accessible. Ibiza has committed to increasing accessibility in the interior of the restaurant, including constructing an accessible restroom. Mangos will continue to make improvements over the next year and Ibiza will make improvements over the next 18 months.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities. The Justice Department also is authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that the owners of Ibiza and Mangos have cooperated with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the ADA issues without the need for litigation.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
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.
Husband and Wife Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a 17-count indictment yesterday charging KWASI GYAMBIBI, 40, of Stamford, and KAKRA GYAMBIBI, 37, formerly of New Canaan and currently residing in Maryland, with health care fraud offenses.
KWASI GYAMBIBI was arrested this morning in Stamford. He was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven, entered not guilty pleas to the charges, and was released on bond. KAKRA GYAMBIBI is expected to appear in federal court to answer the charges by July 2, 2018.
As alleged in the indictment, KWASI GYAMBIBI and KAKRA GYAMBIBI are married. KWASI GYAMBIBI was formerly employed by the State of Connecticut and worked at UConn-Stamford, and KAKRA GYAMBIBI is a physician who worked as a hospitalist at Stamford Hospital. Advantage Pharmacy was a compounding pharmacy located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. As a compounding pharmacy, Advantage created compound prescription drugs specifically tailored for individual patients who had a medical need for a compound drug, by mixing together individual ingredients in the exact strength and dosage prescribed by the health care provider to meet the unique needs of a patient. One tube of a compound drug cream prepared and dispensed by Advantage Pharmacy typically cost health care benefit programs thousands of dollars, and some individual tubes of cream cost more than $10,000 for a one-month supply. KWASI GYAMBIBI acted as, and eventually became, a sales representative for Advantage Pharmacy.
The indictment alleges that, in 2014 and 2015, KWASI and KAKRA GYAMBIBI engaged in a scheme to defraud the State of Connecticut Pharmacy Benefit Plan, TRICARE and other health care programs by submitting prescriptions for compound pharmacy medications prepared and dispensed by Advantage Pharmacy. Although the prescriptions were signed by KAKRA GYAMBIBI, she did not treat, examine, or even meet with the patients for whom the prescriptions were written. Based on these false and misleading claims, the victim health care programs paid Advantage Pharmacy for the compound prescription drugs. Advantage Pharmacy, in tum, paid commissions of between 15 percent to 25 percent to sales representatives, including KWASI GYAMBIBI’s cousin.
The indictment further alleges that KWASI GYAMBIBI and KAKRA GYAMBIBI also induced the victim health care programs to pay Advantage Pharmacy more than $280,000 for their own compound prescription drugs.
It is alleged that the scheme resulted in more than $1.5 million in losses to the victim health care programs.
The indictment charges each defendant with 16 counts of health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Each of the counts 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 investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau Investigation. U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Connecticut for their assistance with the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon.
This indictment is announced as part of a national health care fraud takedown. Earlier today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and other federal law enforcement officials announced the largest ever health care fraud enforcement action involving 601 charged defendants across 58 federal districts, including 165 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving more than $2 billion in false billings. Of those charged, 162 defendants, including 76 doctors, were charged for their roles in prescribing and distributing opioids and other dangerous narcotics. Thirty state Medicaid Fraud Control Units also participated in today’s arrests. In addition, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that, since July 2017, it has excluded 2,700 individuals from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs, which includes 587 providers excluded for conduct related to opioid diversion and abuse.
“Health care fraud is a betrayal of vulnerable patients, and often it is theft from the taxpayer,” said Attorney General Sessions. “In many cases, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists take advantage of people suffering from drug addiction in order to line their pockets. These are despicable crimes. That’s why this Department of Justice has taken historic new steps to go after fraudsters, including hiring more prosecutors and leveraging the power of data analytics. Today the Department of Justice is announcing the largest health care fraud enforcement action in American history. This is the most fraud, the most defendants, and the most doctors ever charged in a single operation—and we have evidence that our ongoing work has stopped or prevented billions of dollars’ worth of fraud. I want to thank our fabulous partners with the FBI, DEA, our Health Care Fraud task forces, HHS, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, Medicare, and especially the more than 1,000 federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers from across America who made this possible. By every measure we are more effective at finding and prosecuting medical fraud than ever.”
Former Norwich Pharmacist Charged with Forging Prescriptions to Acquire Oxycodone and AlprazolamRead 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 on June 20, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 12-count indictment charging ERIC TINGLEY, 42, formerly of Lebanon, Connecticut and currently residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, with using forged prescriptions to acquire thousands of oxycodone and alprazolam tablets from the Connecticut pharmacy where he was employed.
TINGLEY was arrested yesterday in Rhode Island. Following his arrest, he appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and is detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.
As alleged in the indictment, TINGLEY was a licensed pharmacist employed at a pharmacy in Norwich. Between approximately October 2016 and July 2017, TINGLEY forged approximately 183 prescriptions for oxycodone and approximately 26 prescriptions for alprazolam, and filled the forged prescriptions at the pharmacy where he worked. Through these forged prescriptions, TINGLEY unlawfully obtained more than 35,000 oxycodone tablets and more than 2,000 alprazolam tablets. He then distributed the drugs for his own benefit.
The indictment charges TINGLEY with one count of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and alprazolam, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and 11 counts of obtaining oxycodone and alprazolam by fraud and forgery, and offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of four 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 Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi M. Perry and John T. Pierpont, Jr.
This indictment is announced as part of a national health care fraud takedown. Earlier today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and other federal law enforcement officials announced the largest ever health care fraud enforcement action involving 601 charged defendants across 58 federal districts, including 165 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving more than $2 billion in false billings. Of those charged, 162 defendants, including 76 doctors, were charged for their roles in prescribing and distributing opioids and other dangerous narcotics. Thirty state Medicaid Fraud Control Units also participated in today’s arrests. In addition, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that, since July 2017, it has excluded 2,700 individuals from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs, which includes 587 providers excluded for conduct related to opioid diversion and abuse.
“Health care fraud is a betrayal of vulnerable patients, and often it is theft from the taxpayer,” said Attorney General Sessions. “In many cases, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists take advantage of people suffering from drug addiction in order to line their pockets. These are despicable crimes. That’s why this Department of Justice has taken historic new steps to go after fraudsters, including hiring more prosecutors and leveraging the power of data analytics. Today the Department of Justice is announcing the largest health care fraud enforcement action in American history. This is the most fraud, the most defendants, and the most doctors ever charged in a single operation—and we have evidence that our ongoing work has stopped or prevented billions of dollars’ worth of fraud. I want to thank our fabulous partners with the FBI, DEA, our Health Care Fraud task forces, HHS, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, Medicare, and especially the more than 1,000 federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers from across America who made this possible. By every measure we are more effective at finding and prosecuting medical fraud than ever.”
Cheshire Man Admits to Distributing Narcotics to Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that THOMAS J. HALLERAN, 36, of Cheshire, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and/or 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, on July 25, 2017, Southington Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Southington where they encountered an unresponsive 31-year-old female on the floor. The female was pronounced deceased. Investigators seized five folds of suspected heroin/fentanyl, two empty folds, other drug paraphernalia, and the victim’s cellphone.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Connecticut concluded that the victim’s death was caused by the combined effects of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, methadone, alprazolam and alcohol.
Analysis of the seized cellphone revealed that HALLERAN had been supplying heroin/fentanyl to the victim for approximately six weeks, and that he delivered heroin/fentanyl to the victim at her residence on the night of July 24, 2017.
HALLERAN is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford on September 21, 2018. The offense carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
HALLERAN is detained pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Southington Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Worcester Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MOHAMED H. ABDI, also known as “Vic,” 26, of Worcester, Massachusetts, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 135 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for sex trafficking.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between late December 2016 and January 5, 2017, ABDI and his girlfriend used threats, force and coercion to cause a female victim to engage in prostitution. ABDI and his girlfriend advertised the victim’s prostitution services on Backpage.com and other websites, rented Connecticut hotel rooms where the victim engaged in prostitution, and transported the victim to engage in sexual acts with customers at the hotels and private residences in Connecticut and elsewhere. In addition, ABDI provided the victim with heroin, but withheld the drug from the victim until after she provided sexual services to additional customers. ABDI and his girlfriend also warned the victim not to contact police and made threats against the victim and her child.
ABDI has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on January 5, 2017. On April 4, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion.
As a condition of his supervised release, ABDI will be required to register as a sex offender.
This matter was investigated by the Connecticut Human Trafficking Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department and the Worcester Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Tolland and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office for their cooperation and assistance in the prosecution of this matter.
Texas Man Admits to Enticing Minors to Engage in Sexual Activity over the InternetRead 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, announced that TRAVIS W. MCCOY, 24, of Houston, Texas, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately August 2015 and March 2017, while he was attending college and living in New London, McCOY used internet-based video chatting services, including Kik and Google Hangouts, and internet-based gaming systems, such as Xbox Live, to entice four minor males between the ages of 9 and 14 to engage in sexually explicit conduct over video-chatting services, such as Skype. McCOY either took screen shots of the minors engaged in sexual activity, or requested and received from the minors digital images and videos in which the minors are depicted engaging in sexual activity. McCOY also sent sexually explicit images and videos of himself to the minor victims.
The investigation revealed that McCOY initially met one of the minor victims at a summer camp in Texas where McCOY had worked as a camp counselor.
The investigation also revealed that McCOY maintained three Dropbox accounts and gave the password to one of the accounts to a person living in Los Angeles as a way to share and receive child pornography. The Dropbox accounts contained 120 images and 158 videos of child pornography. There is no evidence that McCOY distributed any of the images or videos he received from the four minor victims he enticed.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for September 24, 2018, at which time McCOY faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
McCOY was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on June 28, 2017. He is detained pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the New London Police Department and the Houston Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
New Haven Gang Member Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEITH YOUNG, also known as “Capo,” “Bapo” and “Poncho,” 28, of Hamden, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 180 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a violent New Haven street gang.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures. The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies. YOUNG was a member and leader of the RSGB. In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities. The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms and used drug addicts as straw purchasers of firearms. Members then brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members.
YOUNG had a role in three gang-related murders in 2011. On June 24, 2011, Donell Allick was shot and killed as he stood in his New Haven home. The investigation revealed that, on that date, Benton, YOUNG, Luis Padilla and Kavon Rogers drove in a car searching for a rival gang leader that Benton intended to murder. Instead, Benton encountered Allick, with whom Benton was angry over a drug transaction. After Benton, Padilla and YOUNG exited the car, Benton fired multiple shots through an open kitchen window, killing Allick. Benton, Padilla and YOUNG then returned the car, where Rogers had been waiting. Rogers then drove to a location where Benton hid the gun.
In September 2011, RSGB leadership ordered Robert Short, also known as “Santana,” to murder Darrick Cooper, who was a leader of a rival gang and seen as a threat. In the early morning hours of September 19, 2011, Short lured Cooper to a location in Hamden and shot Cooper in the back of the head as Cooper walked up a staircase. The investigation revealed that YOUNG had offered to help Short kill Cooper. YOUNG was with Short and Cooper shortly before Cooper’s murder and, after the murder, YOUNG drove Short to a location to dispose of the firearm used in the murder.
In December 2011, YOUNG and Trevor Murphy, also known as “Snookie,” planned a robbery of drugs and cash from Joseph Zargo, and YOUNG provided a firearm for Murphy to use. Murphy ordered a quantity of ecstasy from Zargo and, just after midnight on December 23, 2011, Murphy met Zargo on Houston Street in New Haven. After Murphy took ecstasy pills from Zargo, he pulled out a firearm. When Zargo reached into his pocket, Murphy shot Zargo once in the chest. Zargo died later that morning. After the murder, Murphy fled the scene and met up with YOUNG, who had watched the robbery and murder unfold from a nearby location.
YOUNG has been detained since his arrest on September 30, 2015. On February 13, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a pattern of racketeering activity, and one count of money laundering related to the transferring of drug proceeds from Maine to Connecticut through Western Union.
As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine. The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.
Benton, Padilla, Rogers, Short and Murphy pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation. On October 4, 2017, Benton and Short were sentenced to 40 years of imprisonment and 30 years of imprisonment, respectively; on October 5, 2017, Murphy was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment, and on April 9, 2018, Rogers was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment. Padilla awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut State Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hamden Police Department. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office also provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of the investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Kaoutzanis and Peter Markle. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.
Mexican National Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Prison for Trafficking Heroin into ConnecticutRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE DAVID SILVA PESTANO, 33, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 87 months of imprisonment for trafficking heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, SILVA PESTANO and others conspired to traffic multi-kilogram quantities of heroin from Mexico to the Bridgeport, Connecticut area. On multiple occasions between approximately April 2015 and March 2017, SILVA PESTANO personally transported more than 30 kilograms of heroin into Connecticut.
On February 14, 2017, SILVA PESTANO was arrested in Nogales, Arizona, after he crossed the border on a motorcycle carrying 11.94 kilograms of heroin in a concealed compartment.
On March 16, 2017, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging SILVA PESTANO and six other individuals with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and related offenses. SILVA PESTANO also was charged in the District of Arizona with possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. The Arizona case was transferred to the District of Connecticut for further prosecution.
SILVA PESTANO has been detained since his arrest. On December 22, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
SILVA PESTANO will be deported to Mexico when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, and Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Vizcarrondo and Alina Reynolds.
Man on Federal Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Making False StatementRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALAN D. ZALESKI, 57, of New Britain, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to one count of making a false statement to the U.S. Probation Office and the U.S. District Court.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 3, 2011, ZALESKI was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 101 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing machine guns and numerous other unregistered weapons. He was released from federal prison in December 2015 and began serving this three-year term of supervised release. As part of his reporting requirements while under court supervision, ZALESKI submits online monthly reports to the U.S. Probation Office and ultimately to the U.S. District Judge responsible for his criminal case. The online reporting form states that ZALESKI must answer the questions completely and correctly, and further warns ZALESKI that making a false statement may result in federal prosecution.
On his monthly reports to the U.S. Probation Office, ZALESKI has reported that he lives in New Britain.
On March 23, 2018, the FBI interviewed the owner of a property at 863 Shuttle Meadow Avenue in Berlin and learned that ZALESKI has rented this property for years and remains as the current renter. This was the same location the FBI searched in 2006 over a period of three days in which dozens of automatic machine guns and semi-automatic firearms, multiple rifles and handguns, as well as silencers, fragmentation grenades, chemical grenades, smoke grenades and various homemade pipe bombs and IEDs were located and seized. In 2006, the property was protected by booby-traps, including tripwires connected to percussion explosives and camouflaged plywood boards on the ground with nails protruding through them.
At no time has ZALESKI reported to the U.S. Probation Office his affiliation with any storage space or rental property, or association to any property located at 863 Shuttle Meadow Avenue in Berlin, thus preventing the U.S. Probation Office’s ability to supervise ZALESKI and ensure that he was in compliance with all of the conditions of his release.
ZALESKI is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall on September 20, 2018, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
ZALESKI is released on bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Hartford Gang Member Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing Heroin and CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIC SMITH, also known as “Hood,” 30, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 40 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and crack cocaine in Hartford.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK) in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood. The investigation followed a series of reports of shots fired in the area, and a homicide that was committed on Cherry Street in October 2015. The prosecution was built on court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, all of which revealed that OSK members, including SMITH, acquired heroin and crack cocaine and then sold the drugs on the streets of Hartford.
SMITH has been detained since his arrest on February 10, 2017. On March 30, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”) and heroin.
Sixteen individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Father and Son Admit to Fraudulent Sales of Titanium to Connecticut Defense SubcontractorRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN J. PALIE, JR., 62, of Tiverton, Rhode Island, and JOHN J. PALIE III, 42, of Plymouth, Massachusetts, waived their right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to fraud offenses stemming from their having sold titanium to a Connecticut defense subcontractor.
According to court documents and statements made in court, JOHN PALIE, JR. is the owner and Chief Executive Officer of A&P Alloys, Inc. (“A&P”), a company in West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, that acquired and sold specialty metals, including titanium. JOHN PALIE III was a manager at A&P, having responsibilities for, among other things, the purchase and sale of titanium, and the preparation of titanium orders for shipment and delivery to customers. In pleading guilty, PALIE JR. and PALIE III admitted that they arranged two separate titanium sales to a Connecticut-based aircraft parts manufacturer that involved false representations about the source and quality of the titanium. The aircraft parts manufacturer supplies titanium parts to a company that manufactures aircraft engines, including engines for U.S. Air Force fighter jets.
In April and May 2012, PALIE JR. and PALIE III arranged a sale of 11 pieces of titanium to the Connecticut aircraft parts manufacturer, representing that the titanium had been certified as meeting an advanced aerospace quality standard when, in fact, it had never been certified as such. The order listed the engine manufacturer as the end buyer of the titanium.
In 2013, PALIE JR. and PALIE III arranged another sale of titanium to the Connecticut aircraft parts manufacturer with the engine manufacturer as the end buyer. In August 2013, PALIE III arranged for 400 pieces of titanium, along with certificates stating that the titanium originated from a particular mill and satisfied an advanced aerospace quality standard, to be delivered to the aircraft parts manufacturer. Due to concerns about the quality of the titanium, the engine manufacturer directed the aircraft parts manufacturer not to accept the titanium. PALIE III agreed to replace the 400 pieces with other titanium that satisfied the quality standard in question. However, instead of replacing the titanium, he arranged for the returned 400 pieces to be sandblasted and re-stamped with the manufacturer’s mark of a different titanium mill so that they appeared to be replacements for the returned pieces. In November 2013, PALIE III had the falsely labeled pieces, along with false certificates, shipped back to the aircraft parts manufacturer.
The government contends that the losses sustained by the multiple victim companies that purchased fraudulently misrepresented titanium total $1,328,000.
PALIE JR. and PALIE III each pleaded guilty to two counts of mail fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for September 19, 2018.
PALIE JR. and PALIE III are released pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Kopel.
Former Shelton Resident Admits Embezzling $326K from EmployerRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MIRIAM DUBAY, 65, of Purcellville, Virginia, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of wire fraud related to her embezzlement of over $326,000 from her employer.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DUBAY, who formerly resided in Shelton, was the bookkeeper for a small, family-owned business in Shelton. DUBAY was the only accounting person for the business, and she had access to the company’s bank accounts, check stock, accounting books and records, and petty cash. She also was responsible for depositing business checks and cash payments from customers into the company’s bank account.
From at least as early as April 2010 and continuing through October 2016, DUBAY engaged in a scheme to defraud her employer by writing checks on company check stock made out to “cash” and either forging the signature on the checks by hand or by using a fraudulently obtained signature stamp. DUBAY either deposited the checks into her personal bank account or cashed the checks at the bank where her employer maintained its business account. DUBAY forged 168 separate checks totaling $239,851.68.
As part of this embezzlement scheme, DUBAY also stole 108 customer cash payments totaling $86,279 instead of depositing the cash into the business’s bank account.
DUBAY is scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2018, at which time she faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
DUBAY was released on a $20,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Shelton Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service and the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan L. Wines.
Bristol Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Distribution Charge Stemming from Overdose InvestigationRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROGER TUSCANO, 48, of Bristol, pleaded guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 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, on April 26, 2017, the Southington Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence for an unresponsive 54-year-old female who had suffered an apparent drug overdose. Responders attempted lifesaving measures on the victim, including administering naloxone, with minimal effect. The victim was then transported to the hospital. At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including four wax folds that contained heroin.
The victim died on April 28, 2017.
The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that the victim’s death was caused by a combination of heroin and clonazepam.
On May 3, 2017, the Bristol Police Department conducted a court-authorized search of TUSCANO’s residence and seized 175 wax folds of suspected heroin, some of which had the same brand stamp as the wax folds found with the victim on April 26. Investigators also seized three cellphones from the residence.
The investigation, which included witness interviews and analysis of TUSCANO’s cell phones, revealed that the victim purchased heroin from TUSCANO at a gas station in New Britain on the morning of April 26, 2017.
TUSCANO was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 25, 2017.
Chief Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2018, at which time TUSCANO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. TUSCANO is detained pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Southington and Bristol Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Stamford Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraud Offense Stemming from Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CANDACE RISPOLI, 31, of Stamford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately January 2012 until June 2016, RISPOLI was employed by Lodestone Management Consultants, later known as Infosys Consulting (the “Company”). Beginning in approximately 2013, RISPOLI worked for the Company from her former home in East Haven, which she shared with her then-boyfriend, Michael Miano. In her capacity as a Company employee, RISPOLI had an American Express credit card to use to pay for travel, entertainment and other business expenses incurred by the Company’s employees and potential employees.
From approximately 2013 until July 2016, RISPOLI wrongfully charged more than $250,000 of her own and Miano’s personal expenses to the Company’s American Express card. RISPOLI also wrongfully transferred more than $800,000 in funds from the Company’s American Express card to PayPal and Venmo accounts controlled by RISPOLI and Miano. To conceal her scheme, RISPOLI altered the Company’s American Express account statements and created false billing summaries, which she emailed to the Company’s accounting firm.
In pleading guilty, RISPOLI has agreed to pay $1,098,176 in restitution.
Wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
RISPOLI is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
On September 1, 2017, Miano, 31, of Branford, guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud related to this scheme. He awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Cherry and Jonathan Francis.
Norwalk Doctor Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution, Health Care Fraud 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, announced that Dr. BHARAT PATEL, 71, of Milford, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to narcotics distribution and health care fraud offenses.
“The investigation revealed that this defendant profited by prescribing highly addictive painkillers to individuals who were either addicted to opioids, or who turned around and illegally distributed the pills they received,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “As a result of his criminal conduct, tens of thousands of pills were dispensed to individuals who didn’t need them and shouldn’t have them. I thank the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the Norwalk Police Department and the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office for their efforts in this case, which has put a corrupt medical practice that helped fuel the opioid epidemic permanently out of business.”
“The DEA is committed to enforcing the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) by ensuring that all registrants are in compliance and abide by DEA’s distribution regulations,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Boyle. “The actions by Dr. Patel contributed to the widespread abuse of opiates, which is a gateway to heroin addiction and is devastating our communities. In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic DEA is committed to improve public safety and public health by working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure these rules and regulations are strictly followed. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement in Connecticut and our great partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately 2011 to July 2017, PATEL was a physician operating out of Family Health Urgent Care, formerly known as Immediate Health Care, located at 235 Main Street in Norwalk. During this time, PATEL saw numerous patients who had no legitimate medical purpose to see PATEL and only came to his medical practice in order to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances, primarily hydrocodone or oxycodone. Some of those patients were enrolled in Medicaid or Medicare and paid for PATEL’s services, and had the prescriptions paid for, by those programs.
PATEL knew, and also was advised by pharmacists and his staff, that the prescriptions he was providing to his patients were medically unnecessary. For example, PATEL had patients to whom he prescribed oxycodone or hydrocodone whose urine/blood tests showed no signs of opioid ingestion. He also had patients to whom he prescribed oxycodone or hydrocodone whose urine/blood tests showed that they had other narcotics in their systems and that a prescription for oxycodone or hydrocodone would be a contraindication. PATEL ignored the warnings and continued to prescribe controlled substances to these patients outside of the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
On numerous occasions, PATEL wrote prescriptions to patients who paid him $100 in cash for each prescription. At times, PATEL provided patients medically unnecessary prescriptions for oxycodone or hydrocodone, which he left at a liquor store next door to his practice. Patients retrieved the prescriptions by exchanging an envelope with cash in it for the prescriptions.
In pleading guilty, PATEL admitted that he wrote hundreds of medically unnecessary prescriptions for oxycodone and hydrocodone, and received $158,523.95 as a result of this and related criminal conduct.
PATEL pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and hydrocodone, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count health care fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton on September 12, 2018.
PATEL has agreed to forfeit $158,523.95 to the government. He also agrees to forfeit and surrender his federal controlled substances registration to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
PATEL has been detained since his arrest on July 12, 2017.
This investigation is being conducted by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Norwalk Police Department, with the critical assistance of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Two Connecticut Residents Charged with Operating Extensive Immigration Marriage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Boston, and Christopher W. Fonda, Supervisory Immigration Officer for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of Fraud Detection and National Security, today announced the unsealing of a 14-count indictment charging JODIAN STEPHENSON, also known as “Jodian Gordon,” 34, of Bridgeport, and DONOVAN LAWRENCE, 62, of Milford, with various federal offenses related to an extensive immigration marriage fraud scheme.
The indictment was returned on June 5 and STEPHENSON and LAWRENCE were arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport and were released on bonds in the amount of $350,000 and $100,000, respectively.
As alleged in the indictment, STEPHENSON has operated Stephenson Immigration and Legal Services, LLC, in Bridgeport, and LAWRENCE has operated Donovans Accounting Services, LLC, in Bridgeport. Between approximately July 2012 and July 2017, STEPHENSON, LAWRENCE and others conspired to arrange sham marriages between U.S. citizens and non-citizens residing in the U.S. for the purpose of the non-citizens’ applying for and obtaining “lawful permanent residence” status, also known as a “green card.” As part of the alleged scheme, STEPHENSON and LAWRENCE made and filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service false documents, including fraudulent green card applications and false tax returns in the names of the allegedly “married” couples.
The indictment identifies nine false marriages that resulted in the filing of fraudulent green card applications. During the investigation, is it alleged that STEPHENSON offered to arrange a sham marriage for a federal law enforcement agent working in an undercover capacity, and help obtain a green card for the undercover agent, in exchange for a proposed fee of $20,000. STEPHENSON then introduced the undercover agent to a U.S. citizen, advised them about the ways they could create the appearance that they were validly married and living together as husband and wife, and helped the undercover agent obtain a marriage license in exchange for a cash payment of $5,000 from the undercover agent.
The indictment charges STEPHENSON and LAWRENCE with one count of conspiracy to commit immigration marriage fraud and make false statements, and six counts of making false statements. These charges carry a maximum term of imprisonment of five years on each count. The indictment also charges STEPHENSON with seven counts of immigration documents fraud, an offense that carries 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 each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service, Office of Fraud Detection and National Security. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry K. Kopel.
Nigerian National Admits Role in Phishing Scheme that Victimized Glastonbury School EmployeesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DANIEL ADEKUNLE OJO, 34, a citizen of Nigeria residing in Durham, N.C., pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to fraud and identity theft offenses stemming from a scheme to obtain the personal identifying information of school employees in Connecticut and elsewhere, and to file false tax returns in the names of those identity theft victims.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2017, an employee of the Glastonbury Public Schools received an email that appeared to be sent by another Glastonbury 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 1,600 Glastonbury Public Schools employees. After the W-2 information was emailed, approximately 122 suspicious Forms 1040 were filed electronically with the IRS in the names of victims of the Glastonbury phishing scheme. The 122 tax returns claimed tax refunds totaling $596,897. Approximately six of the returns were processed, and $36,926 in fraudulently-obtained funds were electronically deposited into various bank accounts.
OJO controlled or used an aol.com email account and a gmail.com email account involved in this phishing scheme. A search of OJO’s gmail account revealed emails implicating him in the scheme. One email contained six W-2 forms of employees of Glastonbury Public Schools, and the employees’ personal identifying information.
This ongoing investigation by special agents from the FBI’s cybercrime squad in New Haven and the IRS includes phishing incidents that victimized the Groton Public Schools, and the Bloomington Independent School District in Bloomington, Minnesota.
OJO pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of aggravated identity theft, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least two years. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for September 13, 2018.
OJO has been detained since his arrest on August 3, 2017. The investigation revealed that OJO entered the U.S. on a visitor’s visa in May 23, 2016, and failed to depart on his scheduled departure date of June 8, 2016.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, with the assistance of the Durham (N.C.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarala V. Nagala.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 45 Months in Prison for Distributing Heroin, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIAM MARRERO-BENITEZ, 25, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 45 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 14, 2016, Hartford Police officers conducting a heroin trafficking investigation attempted to stop a vehicle MARRERO-BENITEZ was driving in the area of New Britain Avenue and Broad Street. MARRERO-BENITEZ accelerated from the scene at a high rate of speed, striking the front of a police vehicle, swerving through traffic, ignoring red lights and stop signs, and nearly striking at least two other vehicles head-on. Officers pursued MARRERO-BENITEZ on I-84 East into East Hartford where MARRERO-BENITEZ drove off the road and down an embankment, and then fled the vehicle and ran into the woods. An officer caught up to MARRERO-BENITEZ and, after a struggle during which the officer was kicked in the head, MARRERO-BENITEZ was apprehended. At the time of his arrest, MARRERO-BENITEZ possessed 138 wax folds containing heroin.
In May 2015, MARRERO-BENITEZ, who was on state probation at the time, illegally possessed and sold a rifle to an individual working with law enforcement. He subsequently pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon and, on July 7, 2016, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. He was released from federal prison in October 2016.
On March 29, 2018, MARRERO-BENITEZ pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
Judge Covello sentenced MARRERO-BENITEZ to 27 months of imprisonment on the heroin offense, and a consecutive 18 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his federal supervised release.
MARRERO-BENITEZ has been detained since December 14, 2016.
This matter was investigated by the Hartford Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone and Michael J. Gustafson.
Connecticut U.S. Attorney's Office Celebrates Annual U.S. Attorney's AwardsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut hosted its annual United States Attorney’s Office Law Enforcement Awards Ceremony yesterday in New Haven. The ceremony at the City of New Haven’s aldermanic chambers recognized more than 160 individuals for their investigative efforts and other contributions to 31 significant federal criminal prosecutions and civil cases in Connecticut. Approximately 60 of the award recipients are members of local police departments from across Connecticut.
“We in the U.S. Attorney’s Office are persistently mindful that our work and success are dependent on the dedicated efforts of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners,” said U.S. Attorney John H. Durham. “On behalf of everyone in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, my sincere congratulations to all of our award recipients.”
In addition to the criminal and civil case awards, U.S. Attorney Durham presented several special awards during the ceremony.
The U.S. Attorney’s Award for Outstanding Investigator was presented to Special Agent Maria Papageorgiou of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, for her expertise in complex financial fraud and tax investigations during her 17-year career in Connecticut.
The U.S. Attorney’s Award for Outstanding Partnership was presented to Tammy Sneed, Director of Gender Responsive Adolescent Services for the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. Ms. Sneed has been essential in coordinating services for human trafficking victims and assisting with local, state and federal investigations involving the sex trafficking of children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Outstanding Citizen Award was presented to Jose Casanova, Marvin Dixon and Jacqueline Marciano, whose quick thinking and disregard for their own safety helped to save the life of Hartford Police Officer Jill Kidik, the victim of a stabbing attack, on May 17, 2018.
The National Security and Major Crimes Unit Award was presented to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent Allison Haimila for her dedicated investigative work in child exploitation cases.
The Financial Fraud and Public Corruption Unit Award was presented to a team of FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation special agents that investigated an extensive “pump-and-dump” securities fraud scheme that resulted in more than $20 million in losses to thousands of investors.
The Violent Crimes and Narcotics Unit Award was presented to The Justice Education Center, Inc., a West Hartford-based non-profit organization. For more than a decade, the Justice Education Center and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have worked cooperatively on a number of initiatives, including Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a federal initiative to reduce violence in inner cities and develop prevention and early intervention programs to curb juvenile crime.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 68 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and 57 staff members at offices in New Haven, Bridgeport and Hartford.
Alien Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on June 14, 2018, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging MIGUEL ANGEL ARCOS-VASQUEZ, also known as “Dimas Fernando Herrarte,” 26, with one count of illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported. ARCOS-VASQUEZ, a citizen of either Mexico or Guatemala, last resided in Norwalk.
ARCOS-VASQUEZ appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and entered a plea of not guilty to the charge.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, ARCOS-VASQUEZ illegally entered the U.S. in or before 2014. In March 2014, he was arrested by the Stratford Police Department for a burglary offense. In April 2014, he also was charged with failure to appear. He was not encountered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at this time.
It is also alleged that, in January 2016, ARCOS-VASQUEZ attempted to enter the U.S. three times through Texas, but was removed to Mexico after each attempt.
It is further alleged that, on January 24, 2017, ARCOS-VASQUEZ was arrested by the Stamford Police Department on charges of threatening in the first degree. On January 27, 2017, under the name of Dimas Herrarte-Ramirez, he was charged by the Norwalk Police Department with sale of a hallucinogen/narcotic and criminal possession of a firearm. ARCOS-VASQUEZ has been detained since that time, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement was notified.
In October 2017, the state charges against ARCOS-VASQUEZ were resolved and he is currently serving a sentence of five years of imprisonment, execution suspended after two years.
If convicted of the charge of illegal reentry, ARCOS-VASQUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.
Immigration authorities are in the process of determining if ARCOS-VASQUEZ is a citizen of Mexico or Guatemala.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated 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.
State Correctional Officer Who Illegally Distributed Steroids is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NICHOLAS AURORA JR., 34, of Hamden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to three years of probation, the first six months of which AURORA must serve in home confinement, for illegally distributing steroids. Judge Bolden also ordered AURORA to pay a $2,000 fine and perform 200 hours of community service.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2017, the Statewide Narcotics Task Force West conducted a court-authorized search of another individual’s residence in Hamden and seized approximately 25,000 pills and 530 vials of anabolic steroids. Subsequent analysis of the individual’s cell phone revealed numerous text messages relating to AURORA’s purchase and redistribution of steroids.
The investigation revealed that AURORA was purchasing steroids from his source of supply every two weeks. He personally used some of the steroids, and sold some, at a profit, to coworkers.
AURORA is a correctional officer with the Connecticut Department of Correction.
On March 14, 2018, AURORA pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids.
This matter is being investigated by the Connecticut State Police, Statewide Narcotics Task Force West, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.
Shelton Man Charged with Distributing Counterfeit DrugsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that KAMIL GOLEBIOWSKI, 26, of Shelton, was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint charging him with various drug offenses related to the illegal distribution of counterfeit drugs. The charges stem from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
Following his arrest, GOLEBIOWSKI appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was ordered detained.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, on July 9, 2017, the Seymour Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a report of a suspected overdose at a residence in Seymour. At the residence, medical personnel pronounced a 29-year-old male deceased. Investigators seized drug and non-drug evidence from the scene, including the victim’s cell phone.
The State of Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s cause of death to be acute intoxication due to the combined effects of cocaine, etizolam, fentanyl, flubromazolam and heroin.
The complaint alleges that analysis of the victim’s cell phone identified two individuals who purchased heroin and what they believed to be Xanax pills for the victim shortly before the victim died. GOLEBIOWSKI was subsequently identified as a source of supply for Xanax pills.
It is further alleged that, between August 2017 and May 2018, investigators made multiple controlled purchase of Xanax pills from GOLEBIOWSKI. Analysis of the pills revealed that they were counterfeit. In early June 2018, investigators intercepted two packages mailed from Canada and addressed to GOLEBIOWSKI. The packages contained approximately 1,400 counterfeit Xanax pills.
The complaint charges GOLEBIOWSKI with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a controlled substance; possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a counterfeit substance; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and use of a telecommunications facility in the distribution of narcotics.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, Shelton Police Department and Seymour Police Department, with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Ansonia Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JACOB FREEMAN, 22, of Ansonia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine. Judge Meyer ordered FREEMAN to serve the first three months of his supervised release in home confinement.
According to court documents and statements made in court, FREEMAN, Jason Walker and Marquice Rumley were members of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked large quantities of crack cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley. The investigation revealed that members of the organization shared the same cellphone to service drug customers in shifts over a 24-hour period. Members of the drug trafficking organization also shared vehicles and serviced customers together. Between May and September 2017, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of crack from FREEMAN and other members of the drug trafficking organization.
FREEMAN has been detained since his arrest on November 15, 2017. On February 27, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
Walker and Rumley pleaded guilty to the same charge. On June 19, 2018, Walker was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment. Rumley awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Ansonia and Derby Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Former Waterbury Resident Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Sex Offender Registration LawRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BYRON ELLIOTT VAUGHN, 32, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2009, VAUGHN was convicted in the Commonwealth of Virginia of rape. He was sentenced to 10 years of incarceration, suspended after serving two years, and 15 years of probation. VAUGHN also was ordered to comply with lifetime sex offender registration requirements.
VAUGHN was released from prison in November 2009, registered as a sex offender in Virginia and verified his registration as required through 2012.
In 2015, VAUGHN failed to update his sexual offender registration in Virginia, failed to advise Virginia of his change of residence to Connecticut, and failed to register in Connecticut as a sex offender when he moved to Connecticut and applied for employment in Waterbury in November 2016. VAUGHN worked a hospital in Waterbury until he was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service on August 9, 2017, on a violation of probation warrant that was issued in Virginia in December 2015.
VAUGHN has been detained since his arrest. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for September 12, 2018, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
VAUGHN was convicted in Virginia of the probation violation and was sentenced to 77 months of imprisonment suspended after 60 months.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Heroin Trafficking and Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ONEL ARANA-GERVACIO, also known as “Arana Ricardo Leon Cepeda,” 44, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Houston, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment for heroin trafficking and immigration offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 21, 2016, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office in Alabama conducted a motor vehicle stop of a car hauler that was carrying a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. A search of the Malibu, which was registered to ARANA, revealed that it contained a hidden compartment (“trap”), which is commonly used to conceal and transport illegal contraband, including narcotics, firearms and currency. Law enforcement officials obtained court authorization to install tracking devices on the vehicle and, between October 2016 and January 2017, HSI agents observed it at various locations in Connecticut and Rhode Island.
On January 17, 2017, agents located the Malibu at 1091 Maple Avenue in Hartford. On January 20, 2017, surveillance officers observed activity on another vehicle located at the Maple Avenue residence consistent with manipulating a mechanical hidden compartment. Officers then observed ARANA place two duffel bags into that second vehicle and then drive off. At approximately 8:30 p.m., a Hartford Police cruiser pulled the car over. The vehicle also contained a hidden trap, but a search revealed no contraband.
A subsequent search of 1091 Maple Avenue revealed more than six kilograms of heroin, approximately 500 grams of cocaine and a “finger press,” which is used to process bulk quantities of heroin into 10-gram-bags known as “fingers.” Agents also seized drug distribution materials, including sifters, grinders, scales, vacuum sealers and kilo wrappers, which were coated in heroin residue and field-tested positive for the presence of fentanyl.
Agents then searched the Malibu, which was located in the garage of 1091 Maple Avenue, and recovered approximately $260,000 in cash from inside the trap.
Laboratory testing of the seized heroin revealed that some of it contained fentanyl.
The investigation revealed that in October 2013, a U.S. Border Patrol agent encountered ARANA near Hidalgo, Texas, and determined that ARANA had unlawfully entered the U.S. from Mexico. He was removed to Mexico on November 2, 2013.
ARANA has been detained since his arrest on January 20, 2017. On February 2, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, one kilogram or more of heroin, and one count of illegal reentry.
ARANA will be deported when he is released from prison.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Hartford Police Department and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Baldwin County (Ala.) Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Gustafson and David T. Huang.
Citizen of Ecuador Admits to Illegally Reentering U.S., Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ENRIQUE FAJARDO MARIN, 40, a citizen of Ecuador recently residing in Danbury, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of illegally reentering the U.S.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2011, FAJARDO was convicted in Danbury Superior Court of illegal sexual contact with a minor and risk of injury. He was sentenced to 18 years of incarceration, execution suspended after 10 years, with 20 years of probation. FAJARDO also was required to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years.
On February 5, 2016, after he was released from state custody, FAJARDO was deported from the U.S. to Ecuador.
On June 28, 2017, FAJARDO was arrested in Worcester, Massachusetts. The investigation revealed that FAJARDO illegally reentered the U.S. and had been residing in Danbury since approximately December 2016. FAJARDO also had failed to register as a sex offender in Connecticut.
FAJARDO has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for September 12, 2018, at which time FAJARDO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of Connecticut State Parole. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Ansonia Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing CrackRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JASON WALKER, 30, of Ansonia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine. Judge Meyer ordered WALKER to serve the first three months of his supervised release in home confinement.
According to court documents and statements made in court, WALKER, Jacob Freeman and Marquice Rumley were members of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked large quantities of crack cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley. The investigation revealed that members of the organization shared the same cellphone to service drug customers in shifts over a 24-hour period. Members of the drug trafficking organization also shared vehicles and serviced customers together. Between May and September 2017, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of crack from WALKER and other members of the drug trafficking organization.
WALKER was arrested on November 15, 2017. On March 12, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
Freeman and Rumley pleaded guilty to the same charge and await sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Ansonia and Derby Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Alleged Latin Kings Members and Associates Charged with Trafficking Narcotics in Hartford's South EndRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief David Rosado today announced that an investigation into the gang-related trafficking of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine and associated violence in Hartford’s South End has resulted in federal charges against 13 alleged members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation (“Latin Kings”).
The following 11 individuals are charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and/or cocaine base (“crack cocaine”):
JIMMY FLORES, a.k.a. “Cuz-o,” 34, of East Hartford
NELSON FERRY, a.k.a. “300,” 28, of East Hartford
JULIAN BRAVO, a.k.a. “Pretty,” 23, of Hartford
JEFFREY FERRY, a.k.a. “30,” 31, of Manchester
YASIL SANTOS, a.k.a. “Lilo,” 23, of Hartford
RICHARD COLON, a.k.a. “Droopy,” 39, of Hartford
BRIAN MATOS, a.k.a. “Buddha,” 28, of Hartford
DANNIE DARLING, a.k.a. “Danny” and “David,” 30, of Hartford
CHARLENE MORALES, 35, of East Hartford
MARISOL FERRY, f.k.a. “Marisol Hernandez,” 25, of East Hartford
NOEL CORTES, 54, of HartfordJeffrey Ferry also is charged with possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
These defendants, with the exception of Santos and Cortes who are in state custody, were arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and are detained. Two individuals are being sought by law enforcement.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, this matter stems from a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’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. The investigation, which has included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that that Jimmy Flores, also known as “Cuz-o,” and Nelson Ferry, also known as “300,” operated separate drug trafficking organizations comprising members of the Latin Kings in Hartford’s South End. Both drug trafficking organizations distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine, and use multiple locations to process, package, store and distribute narcotics. Both organizations also possessed firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities.
The complaint further alleges that the Nelson Ferry drug trafficking organization operated a “trap house” at 149 Wethersfield Avenue in Hartford as a distribution point for drug customers. On May 22, 2018, Julian Bravo was shot and seriously wounded in an apparent robbery of that location.
The complaint alleges that, on June 3, 2018, Jeffrey Ferry, also known as “30,” and Yasil Santos, also known as “Lilo,” were arrested on state charges after intercepted communications revealed that Jeffrey Ferry had a gun and planned to meet someone to settle a dispute. Hartford Police officers stopped a car Ferry was driving and located a loaded 9mm pistol in the car’s glove box. Santos was in the car’s passenger seat.
In association with today’s arrests, investigators executed federal search warrants at two locations in Hartford and three locations in East Hartford and seized approximately 150 grams of fentanyl, approximately 20 grams of crack cocaine, other narcotics, and two firearms.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Springfield Man Admits Role in ATM "Jackpotting" SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ARGENYS RODRIGUEZ, 22, of Springfield, Massachusetts, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud stemming from an ATM “jackpotting” scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement agencies and ATM manufacturers have been investigating malware attacks on ATM machines in Connecticut and elsewhere. In a scheme commonly referred to as “jackpotting,” individuals use malware that is designed to cause an ATM to eject all of the U.S. currency contained in the machine. As part of the scheme, individuals dressed as legitimate repair technicians install malware on an ATM. Other individuals then proceed to extract all of the cash from the ATM.
On January 27, 2018, Citizens Bank investigators contacted police after they observed what appeared to be a jackpotting attack on an ATM in Cromwell. On that date, Cromwell Police encountered RODRIGUEZ and Alex Alberto Fajin-Diaz near an ATM that had been compromised with malware and was in the process of dispensing $20 bills. A search of RODRIGUEZ and Fajin-Diaz’s vehicle revealed tools and electronic devices consistent with items needed to compromise an ATM machine to dispense its cash contents. RODRIGUEZ and Fajin-Diaz were found in possession of approximately $5,600 in cash, but the investigation revealed that a total of $63,200 was taken from the ATM on that date.
The investigation further revealed that, on January 22, 2018, RODRIGUEZ, Fajin-Diaz and others illegally obtained $63,820 from a Citizens Bank ATM in Rhode Island.
RODRIGUEZ is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on September 26, 2018, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. RODRIGUEZ is released on a $250,000 bond pending sentencing.
Fajin-Diaz, 32, a citizen of Spain, pleaded guilty to the same charge on June 12, 2018, and awaits sentencing. He has been detained since his arrest on January 27.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, U.S. Secret Service, Connecticut State Police, Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, Middlesex State’s Attorney’s Office, Cromwell Police Department, Middletown Police Department and Greenwich Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
Owner of Meriden Transportation Broker Firm Sentenced to Prison for $600,000 Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DIGBY KERR, 50, of Meriden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for defrauding four manufacturing companies of more than $600,000.
According to court documents and statements made in court, KERR owned and operated Transportation Cost Management, LLC (“TCM”), which was in the business of brokering shipping contracts between manufacturers and trucking companies. As part of its business, TCM would receive shipping invoices from trucking companies, process the invoices, and forward the billing information to the manufacturers. The manufacturers would transmit the payment funds to TCM for remittal to the trucking companies. TCM would then remit payment to the trucking companies and send confirmation reports to the manufacturers indicating that payment had been made to the trucking companies. The manufactures compensated TCM for providing this service.
Between approximately December 2016 and April 2017, KERR and TCM failed to remit $603,489.30 in payment funds that TCM received from four manufacturers to the trucking companies that transported goods for those victim manufacturers. TCM, at KERR’s direction, e-mailed confirmation reports to the victim manufacturers that falsely represented that the manufacturers’ payments had been properly forwarded to the trucking companies.
Judge Meyer ordered KERR to pay restitution of $603,489.30.
On March 26, 2018, KERR pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
KERR, who is released on a $100,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on July 23.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
U.S. Attorney's Office Employees, Local Investigators, Honored Today at Justice Department CeremonyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut and several local investigators were recognized by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 34th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
A total of 162 individuals were honored at the ceremony held today in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building. The Connecticut honorees received a Director’s Award for Superior Performance by a Litigative Team for their outstanding work investigating and prosecuting the Red Side Guerilla Brims, a violent New Haven-based street gang.
In addressing the award recipients and guests, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said, “Today’s honorees earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, they earned the gratitude of our fellow citizens – the people whose communities you made safer, whose lives you improved, and whose trust you rewarded. Today, we pause to honor and recognize a small portion of your work.”
In January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures. The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies. In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities. The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms and used drug addicts as straw purchasers of firearms. Members then brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members.
As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine. The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.
Benton pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation and admitted that he participated in four gang-related murders and one attempted murder. On October 4, 2017, he was sentenced to 40 years of imprisonment.
Director’s Award recipients include Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector, and Paralegal Specialist Kori Arsenault of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut; ATF special agents Daniel Prather, Michael Zeppieri, Scott Riordan, and Brian Ross; Karl R. Jacobson and Misty Fitch of the New Haven Police Department; Craig Burnett of the Connecticut Department of Correction; Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine, and the late Christopher Gardner of the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency.
“’Operation Red Side’ was an intensive investigation that dismantled a violent New Haven street gang whose members and associates were responsible for many murders, attempted murders, shootings, armed robberies and home invasions,” said U.S. Attorney John H. Durham. “This gang trafficked crack cocaine and heroin, ruined lives from New Haven to Bangor, Maine, and used their drug trade to illegally acquire firearms. This investigative and prosecution team solved seven homicides and put more than 20 dangerous individuals behind bars, providing justice for the victims’ families and making the New Haven community a safer place to live. I could not be more proud of their efforts.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 68 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and 57 staff members at offices in New Haven, Bridgeport and Hartford.
Wallingford Man Charged with Federal Heroin and Amphetamine Distribution 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 grand jury in Hartford returned a four-count superseding indictment yesterday charging TIMOTHY ESTRIDGE, 37, of Wallingford, with drug trafficking offenses.
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, on December 16, 2017, the Wallingford Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a Wallingford residence after a 9-1-1 call reported the untimely death of a 38-year-old male. The caller who reported the death did not leave contact information and was not on scene when responders arrived. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, where investigators seized evidence of illicit drug use, including a small plastic baggy containing approximately eight suspected oxycodone pills, a glass dish with white powder residue, a broken credit card, prescription pill bottles, piece of wax folds commonly used as heroin packaging, and a used plastic syringe.
The State of Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s cause of death to be intoxication of a combination of heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, alprazolam, amphetamine, and ethanol.
It is alleged that, on multiple occasions between July and December 2017, ESTRIDGE possessed and distributed heroin and amphetamines. It is further alleged that ESTRIDGE supplied narcotics to the overdose victim shortly before the victim was found dead.
The indictment charges ESTRIDGE with two counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, amphetamine. The charges carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.
ESTRIDGE has been detained since his arrest on a federal criminal complaint on April 3, 2018.
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’s New Haven Task Force and the Wallingford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Gang-Related Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DELTON PYLES, also known as “Koolie,” 29, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a violent New Haven street gang.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures. The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies. In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities. The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms and used drug addicts as straw purchasers of firearms. Members then brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members.
PYLES was a member of the RSGB. The investigation revealed that PYLES was a crack cocaine dealer in the New Haven area, and he supplied other RSGB members with distribution quantities of crack. On March 19, 2012, PYLES and others were involved in a shootout with a rival gang on South Genessee Street in New Haven. Although more than 20 rounds were fired, no one was injured. The gun that PYLES used during the shooting had been acquired from a straw purchaser in Maine.
PYLES has been detained since his arrest on June 26, 2015. On September 8, 2015, he pleaded guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.
As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine. The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.
Benton pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation and admitted that he participated in four gang-related murders and one attempted murder. On October 4, 2017, he was sentenced to 480 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut State Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hamden Police Department. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office also provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of the investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Kaoutzanis and Peter Markle. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.
Middletown Man Charged with Stealing More Than $900K from Employer, Family MemberRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that STEPHEN T. GIONFRIDDO, 67, of Middletown, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with wire fraud stemming from an alleged scheme in which he embezzled approximately $490,000 from his former employer, and then embezzled approximately $457,000 from a family member to pay back his former employer.
GIONFRIDDO appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $200,000 bond.
According to the criminal complaint, GIONFRIDDO was convicted of federal wire fraud and mail fraud offenses in 2006 for embezzling more than $633,000 from clients while acting as their attorney.
The complaint alleges that, from approximately December 2013 through September 2017, while GIONFRIDDO was working as a paralegal at a law firm in greater Hartford, he made bogus requisitions for approximately $377,895.67 in checks purportedly to pay client expenses. GIONFRIDDO converted these funds for his personal use. GIONFRIDDO also forged the signature of one of the firm’s partners in order to fraudulently convert a certificate of deposit (CD) of approximately $112,748.21 to a check, which funds he also converted for his personal use. In total, GIONFRIDDO stole $490,648.88 from the law firm.
The complaint further alleges that principals at the law firm confronted GIONFRIDDO about the theft of funds in late September 2017, and GIONFRIDDO promised to repay the firm. GIONFRIDDO then stole from a family member by taking approximately $45,000 from a checking account and approximately $217,000 from an online trading account. He also caused a hardship withdrawal of $195,000 to be made against his family member’s defined contribution plan by impersonating his family member on recorded telephone calls with the plan’s provider and submitting bogus paperwork.
If convicted of wire fraud, GIONFRIDDO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan L. Wines.
Former President of Hartford Nonprofit Arrested for Stealing from HUD ProgramsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that STEVEN F. HARVIN, 53, of New Haven, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with wire fraud and theft from programs receiving federal funds.
After his arrest, HARVIN appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $50,000 bond.
According to the complaint, the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (“HOPWA”) Program is a federal program dedicated to the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS. Under the HOPWA Program, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) makes grants to local communities, states and nonprofit organizations for projects that benefit low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families. HUD is also responsible for administering the Section 8 housing program, which provides federally subsidized housing to low income tenants.
As alleged in the complaint, HARVIN is a reverend and, from approximately August 2015 to September 2016, he served as President of Zezzo House, a non-profit organization in Hartford that provides housing for individuals and families with health challenges, including HIV/AIDS. HUD provides HOPWA funds to the City of Hartford, which in turn provides the HOPWA funds to organizations in the Hartford area, including Zezzo House. Zezzo House also receives Section 8 funding.
The complaint alleges that, from approximately January 2016 to September 2016, HARVIN diverted thousands of dollars in federal funds to his personal use. During this time, Zezzo House received $70,722 in HOPWA funds, some of which HARVIN withdrew in cash for himself or spent on personal expenditures. HARVIN also diverted funds from rent checks from Section 8 tenants to his personal use.
The charge of wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and the charge of theft from programs receiving federal funds carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Hartford Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Bronx Resident Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Supplying Heroin to New Haven Drug RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PABLO JOSE CRUZ, 46, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in the Bronx, N.Y., was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for supplying heroin to a New Haven drug trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad targeted a New Haven-based heroin trafficking organization led by Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, revealed that the Gonzalez brothers purchased bulk quantities of heroin from CRUZ and other New York suppliers and sold the heroin through a network of redistributors in New Haven and elsewhere. CRUZ regularly traveled from New York to Connecticut to deliver up to a kilogram of heroin at a time to the Gonzalez organization.
The investigation resulted in federal charges against 24 individuals.
CRUZ was arrested on March 15, 2017. On that date, a search of a vehicle that CRUZ traveled in to drive to a stash house used by Bienvenido Gonzalez led to the seizure of a kilogram of heroin. A search of the stash house resulted in the seizure of another 400 grams of heroin and $10,000 in cash.
CRUZ has been detained since his arrest. On January 23, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
CRUZ, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Bienvenido Gonzalez and Antonio Gonzalez pleaded guilty to related charges. On March 28, Bienvenido Gonzalez was sentenced to 144 months of imprisonment. Antonio Gonzalez awaits sentencing.
The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments. The New Haven, East Haven and West Haven Police Departments, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.
Southington Restaurant to Make Changes to Comply with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement agreement with the Smokin’ with Chris Restaurant in Southington, to resolve allegations that the restaurant was 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 mobility disabilities alleging that the Smokin’ with Chris facility was not accessible. The restaurant is in the process of making the changes to its facility required by the settlement agreement, including creating accessible parking spaces, adding an accessible entry route and entrance to the restaurant, providing a ramp to the accessible entrance, constructing an accessible restroom, and adding accessible seating in the dining, bar, and patio areas. Smokin’ with Chris will continue to make improvements to its facility over the next year.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities. The Justice Department is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted the commitment of the owners of Smokin’ with Chris to work collaboratively with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the ADA issues and to increase the restaurant’s accessibility without litigation.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act, which ensures that individuals are able to access and enjoy the state’s restaurants and other places of public accommodation,” stated U.S. Attorney Durham. “We appreciate the cooperation of the owners of Smokin’ with Chris throughout our investigation and their readiness to agree to remediate the restaurant’s architectural barriers.”
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
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.
New Haven Gang Member Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIE GARVIN, also known as “Tank” and “Black,” 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 132 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a violent New Haven street gang.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures. The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies. In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities. The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms and used drug addicts as straw purchasers of firearms. Members then brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members.
GARVIN was an active member of the RSGB. He traveled frequently to Maine and sold crack cocaine and heroin in the Bangor area. He also coordinated the purchase of several firearms, which he transported to New Haven for his use and the use of other RSGB members.
The investigation also revealed that GARVIN regularly robbed other drug dealers for cash in the New Haven area. On December 22, 2011, GARVIN and an associate shot and seriously wounded an individual during an attempted robbery. On April 26, 2013, GARVIN and another individual robbed a marijuana dealer at gunpoint, stealing approximately $800, a quantity of marijuana and other items.
On June 8, 2014, GARVIN was arrested on state charges after he was found in possession of a loaded .22 caliber firearm.
In December 2014, a grand jury in Connecticut returned an indictment charging GARVIN with robbery and firearm offenses and, in February 2015, a grand jury in Maine returned an indictment charging GARVIN with narcotics and firearm offenses. On July 30, 2015, he pleaded guilty in Connecticut to possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. GARVIN also agreed to have his Maine case transferred to Connecticut and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and conspiracy to violate federal firearms laws.
GARVIN has been detained since his arrest on December 23, 2014.
As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine. The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.
Benton pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation and admitted that he participated in four gang-related murders and one attempted murder. On October 4, 2017, he was sentenced to 480 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut State Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hamden Police Department. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office also provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of the investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Markle and Jocelyn Kaoutzanis. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.
Shelton Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Downloading Child Pornography from the Dark WebRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL HULL, 61, of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operation revealed that HULL was accessing the dark web to search for, view and download child pornography. On May 31, 2017, HSI agents and Shelton Police officers conducted a court-authorized search of HULL’s Shelton residence and seized approximately 16 electronic devices, including computers and external hard drives. Forensic analysis of the seized devices revealed 13 images and 126 videos of child pornography, including many images and videos depicting children younger than 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Among the items seized were two encrypted tablets and an encrypted hard drive that could not be searched.
The investigation also revealed that HULL had a video camera installed in his bathroom. The camera was connected to a VCR that captured images of individuals, including children, who used his bathroom. Agents located and seized several VHS tapes containing these recordings in the home.
HULL has been detained since his arrest on May 31, 2017. On January 30, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography.
As part of the sentence, pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015, Judge Underhill ordered HULL to pay a special assessment of $5,000, which is used to fund victim services.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Shelton Police Department and the Connecticut Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss.
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.
Robbery Getaway Driver Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY VITO, 28, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of aiding and abetting an armed bank robbery in Thomaston last year, and admitted that he aided and abetted two other commercial robberies on the same day.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 8, 2017, VITO drove Anthony Provost to the Mobil Gas Station and Dunkin Donuts located at 750 Straits Turnpike in Middlebury. Provost first threatened the cashier at the Mobil station with what appeared to be a firearm, and instructed her to open the cash register and provide her with all of its contents. The cashier complied and provided him with $578. The cashier also complied with Provost’s demand that she give him cigarettes valued at approximately $131. Provost then went to the cashier at the Dunkin Donuts, lifted his shirt to display what appeared to be a firearm and demanded money. During the robbery, when a customer entered the premises, Provost pointed the firearm at her and told her to keep her hands out of her pocketbook. The cashier gave Provost approximately $350. Provost then fled the premises in the vehicle driven by VITO.
VITO then drove Provost to the Thomaston Savings Bank located at 508 South Main Street in Thomaston. At the bank, Provost handed the teller a note stating “Robbery 20’s, 50’s, 100’s, quiet.” Provost also displayed what appeared to be a firearm. After the teller gave him money, Provost told her to get money from the other teller. The teller complied, and Provost left the bank with $1,471. Provost and VITO then fled the scene.
On December 9, 2017, Provost was arrested by Waterbury Police officers in a motel room that was occupied by VITO and another individual. At the scene, officers recovered a silver and beige handled CO-2 powered BB gun, a black ski mask, a gray ski mask, $542 in cash, and multiple packs of cigarettes. Officers also seized a red Ford Explorer that had been used during several of the robberies. VITO was arrested shortly thereafter.
Provost and VITO have been detained since their arrests.
VITO is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill on August 31, 2018, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 25 years.
On April 26, 2018, Provost pleaded guilty to one count of armed bank robbery and admitted that he committed these robberies and several others in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire late last year. He awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Waterbury, Southington, Thomaston, Putnam, Avon, Middlebury, Shrewsbury (Mass.) and Nashua (N.H.) Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.
New Haven Gang Member Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY HARTSELL, also known as “Pop Off,” 37, of New Haven, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 90 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a violent New Haven street gang.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures. The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies. In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities. The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms, brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members. HARTSELL served as second-in-command of the RSGB.
In September 2011, leaders of the RSGB, including Benton and HARTSELL, ordered Robert Short, also known as “Santana,” to murder Darrick Cooper, who was a leader of a rival New Haven gang and seen as a threat. On September 19, 2011, Short lured Cooper to a location in Hamden. Short then shot Cooper in the back of the head as Cooper walked up a staircase.
On May 17, 2016, HARTSELL pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering.
As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine. The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.
Benton and Short pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation, and both admitted to participating in the murder of Darrick Cooper. Benton also admitted that he participated in three other gang-related murders and one attempted murder.
On October 4, 2017, Benton was sentenced to 480 months of imprisonment. Short awaits sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that federal prisoners are required to serve at least 85 percent of their sentenced term of imprisonment and are not eligible for parole.
HARTSELL will begin serving his federal sentence after he completes a state sentence for an unrelated offense.
This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut State Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hamden Police Department. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office also provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of the investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Markle and Jocelyn Kaoutzanis. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.
Executive of Yacht Sharing Club Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding InvestorsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ANDREW DEME, 52, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for defrauding investors in a yacht sharing club.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DEME was the President and sole Director of Waters Club Worldwide, Inc. (“WCW”). In November 2016, WCW completed a merger with Petrus Resources Corporation and the merged company subsequently changed its name to Waters Club Holdings, Inc. (“Waters Club”). DEME became President, Chief Executive Office and Chief Financial Officer of Waters Club. According to a Waters Club document used to solicit investors and business partners, Waters Club sought to “introduce a revolutionary Sharing Economy model to yachting” by “form[ing] a membership-based Club with a fleet of yachts strategically located in the world’s leading cruising regions that members can share and use interchangeably for their yachting vacations.”
Promoters that DEME hired, including Thomas Heaphy, Jr. and Brian Ferraioli, made certain misrepresentations to prospective investors in Waters Club, including that money would be used to develop the business and fund the operations of Waters Club, and that promoters were not being paid commissions for recruiting investors. In truth, DEME knew that approximately half of all the money paid by investors for shares of Waters Club was paid to Heaphy and Ferraioli as sales commissions. Due in part to these payments, Waters Club lacked the capital to develop its membership-based club, did not pursue an IPO, and the shares purchased by investors were unsalable.
Heaphy and Ferraioli recruited at least 12 investors to pay a total of at least $1,289,500 for shares of Waters Club stock. Heaphy’s total gain from the scheme was $307,658, and Ferraioli’s total gain was $297,546. One of the victims of this investment scheme was a Connecticut resident who invested $475,000 in Waters Club.
Judge Meyer ordered DEME to pay restitution in the amount of $1,289,500.
DEME was arrested on December 5, 2017. On March 15, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
DEME, who is released on a $100,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on July 12, 2018.
Heaphy, of East Moriches, New York, and Ferraioli, of Sayville, New York, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge. On May 7, 2018, they were each sentenced to 72 months of imprisonment for their roles in this scheme and an unrelated investment fraud scheme.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Meriden Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Role in Cocaine and Crack RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHANE BLAKE, 35, of Meriden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking narcotics.
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 Carlos Roman, also known as “Frizz,” of Middletown served as a primary distributor of narcotics for the organization, and that he regularly converted, or “cooked,” cocaine into crack cocaine. During the investigation, an undercover officer made five controlled purchases of redistribution quantities of crack from Roman.
On April 11, 2017, Roman was arrested in possession of approximately 500 grams of cocaine. A subsequent search of his residence revealed a .380 caliber handgun. While Roman was incarcerated, BLAKE assisted the drug trafficking organization by obtaining cocaine and converting it to crack cocaine for distribution.
On July 20, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging BLAKE, Roman and nine other individuals with various offenses.
BLAKE has been detained since his arrest on July 26, 2017. On March 8, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Roman previously pleaded guilty to one count of with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. On April 12, 2018, he was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment.
This matter is being 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 New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, East Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden and Derby Police Departments, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
Woodbury Restaurant to Make Changes to Comply with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement agreement with the Good News Restaurant and Bar (“Good News”) in Woodbury to resolve allegations that the restaurant was 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 physical disabilities alleging that the restaurant did not meet the ADA’s requirements for accessibility. The restaurant is in the process of making the changes required by the settlement agreement, including ensuring the availability of accessible parking, creating an accessible entrance and providing an accessible entry route to the new accessible entrance, constructing an accessible restroom, increasing accessible seating within the restaurant, bar and patio area, and ensuring that the route to the patio area is accessible. Good News will continue to make improvements over the next eighteen months.
Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability. The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities. The Justice Department is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that the owners of Good News have worked with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in a collaborative manner to address the ADA issues complained of without the need for litigation.
“Our office is committed to enforcing the ADA, and we appreciate that the Good News Restaurant and Bar has agreed to take the steps outlined in the settlement agreement in order to greatly increase the accessibility of the restaurant,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.
Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY). More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
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.
California Man Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Prison for Robbery Spree, Cross-Country PursuitRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID E. BYERS, 35, of Solana Beach, California, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 88 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for engaging in an east coast robbery spree and subsequent cross-country pursuit.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 19, 2017, BYERS, wearing a bandana over his face and displaying what appeared to be the handle from a handgun, robbed a Gulf gas station in Nesconset, N.Y., of $300. On April 20, he robbed a Chase Bank branch in Stony Brook, N.Y., of $2,107. On April 24, BYERS, wearing a bandana over his face and displaying what appeared to be a handgun, robbed a Citgo gas station in Greenwich, Conn., of $223. On April 25, again wearing a bandana over his face, he robbed a Chase Bank branch in Greenwich of $8,722. On April 26, BYERS returned to the Chase Bank branch in Greenwich and robbed it of $3,391.
On April 28, 2017, Greenwich Police saw BYERS driving a vehicle and attempted to apprehend him, but he drove away at a high rate of speed, subsequently abandoned the vehicle on I-95 and evaded police on foot. He then stole another vehicle in Port Chester, N.Y., placed a stolen license plate on the vehicle, and proceeded to drive to California.
Pennsylvania State Police attempted to apprehend BYERS in Pennsylvania by deploying a tire deflation device, but BYERS was able to abandon the vehicle and fled on foot. He then stole a pickup truck that had keys in it. At a rest stop, he stole Maryland license plates, put them on the truck and continued driving west.
On May 1, 2017, BYERS engaged the Arizona State Police in a high-speed chase before abandoning the vehicle and fleeing on foot.
BYERS was arrested in San Diego on May 2, 2017, and has been detained since his arrest. On November 7, he pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery.
Judge Shea ordered BYERS to pay restitution of $14,753.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Greenwich Police Department, Suffolk County (N.Y.) Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Arizona State Police and San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.