District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Plainfield Man Charged with Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment today charging RYAN STONE, 30, of Plainfield, with one count of production of child pornography.
The indictment alleges that between March 30 and April 1, 2017, STONE used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a video depiction of such conduct.
If convicted of the offense, STONE faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of life.
STONE has been in state custody since April 19 when he was arrested for criminal trespass in the first degree and criminal violation of a restraining order.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 Homeland Security Investigations and the Plainfield Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Tax Offenses Stemming from Stock "Pump and Dump" SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRIAN FERRAIOLI, 40, of Sayville, N.Y., waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to conspiracy and tax offenses stemming from his role in a securities fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2009 and July 2016, FERRAIOLI conspired with others, including Christian Meissenn, William Lieberman, Damian Delgado and Thomas Heaphy, to defraud investors through a stock “pump and dump” scheme. FERRAIOLI and his co-conspirators induced investors to purchase securities by making false and misleading representations in calls, emails and press releases concerning the securities and the issuing companies, thereby causing the price of those securities to become falsely inflated. The issuing companies, which were essentially shell companies with virtually no legitimate business activities, included Terra Energy Resources Ltd. (stock symbol “TRRE”); Mammoth Energy Group, Inc. (stock symbol “MMTE”), a company that later became Strategic Asset Leasing Inc. (stock symbol “LEAS”); Trilliant Exploration Corporation (stock symbol “TTXP”); Hermes Jets, Inc. (stock symbol “HRMJ”), which later became Continental Beverage Brands Corporation (stock symbol “CBBB”); Dolat Ventures, Inc. (stock symbol “DOLV”), and Fox Petroleum, Inc. (stock symbol “FXPT”).
FERRAIOLI’s numerous misrepresentations induced investors to purchase securities, thus causing the share price of the securities to become artificially inflated. Certain of FERRAIOLI’s co-conspirators then sold their own preexisting positions in the securities at a profit. They then allowed he price of the securities to fall, leaving investors with worthless and unsalable stock. As a result, victim investors lost approximately $19.5 million.
FERRAIOLI received approximately 25 percent of all money that he induced individuals to invest. His personal gain from the scheme totaled approximately $1.25 million. FERRAIOLI disguised the income by having the funds flow through the trust accounts of various attorneys, including Corey Brinson in Connecticut, into bank accounts in the name of various shell entities under FERRAIOLI’s control. FERRAIOLI’s failure to pay taxes on approximately $1.1 million in income from this scheme, as well as unrelated income, during the 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2016 tax years resulted in a loss of $305,733 to the Internal Revenue Service.
FERRAIOLI pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of tax evasion, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer on November 6, 2017.
At sentencing, FERRAIOLI will be ordered to pay restitution to his victims, as well as back taxes, interest and penalties to the Internal Revenue Service.
On November 8, 2016, Meissenn, also known as “Christian Nigohossian,” of Suffield, Conn., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. He awaits sentencing.
On January 20, 2017, Brinson, of Hartford, pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from specified unlawful activity. On April 13, 2017, he was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment.
Lieberman, Delgado and Heaphy each previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. They await sentencing.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Connecticut Department of Banking and the Hartford and Stamford Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi M. Perry and Peter S. Jongbloed.
Citizens with information that may be helpful to this ongoing investigation, or who believe they may have been victimized by this scheme, are encouraged to contact the FBI at (203) 777-6311.
Investigation of Gang-Related Shootings in New Haven Results in Federal Charges against 6 MenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly, ATF Special Agent in Charge Mickey D. Leadingham and New Haven Police Chief Anthony Campbell today announced that a long-term investigation into numerous shooting incidents in New Haven has resulted in federal racketeering, attempted murder, firearm and narcotics trafficking offenses against alleged members and associates of a local New Haven street gang.
According to statements made in court, the New Haven Police Department’s Shooting Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives have been investigating approximately 40 unsolved shootings in New Haven and Hamden. Ballistic examination of recovered cartridge cases has determined that three firearms were used in 18 shootings committed in or around New Haven last year. It is alleged that the three firearms were possessed by members and associates of the Goodrich Street Boys (“GSB”), a New Haven street gang, and that GSB members also were involved in a number of other shootings in 2016, many of them retaliatory against rival gang members.
On August 3, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 13-count indictment charging the following six New Haven residents with conspiring to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity that includes multiple shootings and narcotics trafficking:
MILTON WESTLEY, a.k.a. “Reese,” 19
CLIFFORD BRODIE, a.k.a. “Cliff G,” 20
SEDALE PERVIS, a.k.a. “Scope,” 25
DEJUAN WARD, a.k.a. “Hot Boi,” 20
MICHAEL BELLE, a.k.a. “MB,” 18
MICHAEL VIA, a.k.a. “Mike Live” 20WESTLEY, BRODIE, BELLE and VIA were arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Holly B. Fitzsimmons in Bridgeport and were ordered detained.
PERVIS and WARD were previously arrested and are detained in federal custody.
The indictment alleges that the six defendants have been affiliated with “GSB,” which has ties to Goodrich Street in the Newhallville area of New Haven and currently has members and associates living throughout the city of New Haven. Recently, GSB has aligned with Fruit Town Piru (a Bloods sect) against rival criminal organizations in New Haven including an alliance of street gangs known as Starrblock, West Read Street (“WR2”), Read St. (“R2”), and Slutwave. GSB members and associates have been engaged in the distribution of heroin, crack cocaine and marijuana and, as a part of its criminal enterprise, have committed acts of violence, including assaults and attempted murder.
The indictment alleges that, between September 2015 and May 2016, GSB members and associates were involved in six gang-related shootings that caused injuries to five individuals. The indictment further alleges that GSB members and associates also distributed heroin, crack cocaine and marijuana.
“This investigation, which has been a great collaboration between our Office, ATF and the New Haven Police Department, has utilized cutting-edge ballistic analysis to connect 18 recent shootings to three handguns that, we allege, were possessed by GSB members and associates,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The indictment specifically alleges that GSB members were involved in multiple shootings and, as a result, five individuals suffered gunshot wounds. Studies show, and this investigation seems to confirm, that an incredibly small percentage of a city’s population is responsible for most of the gun violence that occurs there. The murder rate in New Haven has plummeted in recent years, and we will continue to identify and root out violent actors to ensure that this positive trend continues.”
“These arrests demonstrate the outstanding partnership between the ATF, the New Haven and Hamden Police Departments, and the United States Attorney’s Office,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Leadingham. “We share a strong commitment to working together to remove illegal firearms, drugs and violent criminals that compromise the safety of our communities.”
“This investigation in another example of terrific collaboration between the New Haven Police Department, ATF and U.S. Attorney’s Office to reduce violent crime in New Haven,” said Chief Campbell. “We believe that members of this gang were responsible for a large percentage of the shootings that occurred in our city in 2016. Together with our federal law enforcement partners we will continue to remove violent individuals from the community and make New Haven a safe place to live.”
U.S. Attorney Daly noted that this prosecution is a Project Longevity enforcement action. Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it.
“Project Longevity aims to deter violence and not simply react to it,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “However, if a group or gang, such as GSB, engages in gun violence, they will become the focus of all the law enforcement partners who participate in the Project Longevity Intelligence meetings held at the NHPD four days a week, and appropriate federal and state criminal violations will be charged.”
In addition to the racketeering conspiracy charge, the indictment charges each of the defendants with carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and/or drug trafficking crime. WARD and BRODIE are also charged with committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering (VCAR), specifically attempted murder, and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. PERVIS is charged with knowing transfer of a firearm for use in a crime of violence, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. WARD is charged with receipt of a firearm by an individual who is addicted to a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. WESTLEY and BRODIE are charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and cocaine base (“crack”). Finally, BRODIE and BELLE are charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, marijuana.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the New Haven Police Department. The FBI, Hamden Police Department and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office have provided critical assistance in the investigation.
An instrumental component of this investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.
This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis, Peter D. Markle and Rahul Kale.
West Haven Woman Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Fraud and Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMILA WILLIAMS-STEVENSON, 37, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating a fraud and identity theft scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2012 and July 2016, WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Lorena Coburn worked together to steal personal identifying information from victims and commit fraud using the stolen information. The sources of the personal identifying information included patients at Yale New Haven Hospital, where WILLIAMS-STEVENSON worked as a care companion.
As part of the scheme, WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Coburn submitted to the U.S. Postal Service change of address applications for their victims so that the victims’ mail, including checks that were intended for the victims, would be diverted from the victims’ true addresses to addresses that were controlled by WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Coburn. WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Coburn also stole checks from residential and business mailboxes and then counterfeited the checks so that they were payable to their identity theft victims. They then opened bank accounts in the names of identity theft victims, deposited the stolen and counterfeit checks into those accounts, and then withdrew the funds from those accounts.
WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Coburn also obtained a life insurance policy in the amount of $75,000 in the name of an identity theft victim, and WILLIAMS-STEVENSON was named as the beneficiary on the policy. Forensic analysis of WILLIAMS-STEVENSON’s iPhone, which was seized at the time of her arrest, revealed a series of text messages between WILLIAMS-STEVENSON and Coburn discussing how they might be able to cause the death of this victim in order to collect on the life insurance policy.
More than 30 individuals were victimized through this scheme, resulting in an attempted loss of more than $150,000 to banks and victims.
WILLIAMS-STEVENSON was arrested on July 21, 2016. On that date, agents executed searches at WILLIAMS-STEVENSON’s house and storage unit and found more than 200 unique credit and debit cards in the names of various identity theft victims.
Judge Bolden ordered WILLIAMS-STEVENSON to pay restitution of $53,365.37 to various financial institutions and a university that suffered financial losses.
WILLIAMS-STEVENSON has been detained since her arrest. On December 12, 2016, she pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Coburn, of West Haven, pleaded guilty to the same charges on November 30, 2016, and is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force and the West Haven, New Haven and Orange Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarala V. Nagala.
Nigerian National Charged in Phishing Scheme that Victimized Glastonbury School EmployeesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, today announced that DANIEL ADEKUNLE OJO, 33, a citizen of Nigeria residing in Durham, N.C., was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint charging him with fraud and identity theft offenses stemming from a scheme to obtain the personal identifying information of school employees in Connecticut and elsewhere.
Following his arrest at his Durham residence, OJO appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge in Greensboro, N.C., and was ordered detained pending his transfer to the District of Connecticut.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, special agents from the FBI’s cybercrime squad in New Haven and the IRS have been investigating “phishing” emails that were sent to various school districts in Connecticut earlier this year.
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.
The complaint alleges that OJO controlled or used an aol.com email account and a gmail.com email account involved in this phishing scheme, and that he participated in the scheme to obtain the Glastonbury school system employees’ personal identifying information and use it for personal gain.
This ongoing investigation also includes phishing incidents that victimized the Groton Public Schools, and the Bloomington Independent School District in Bloomington, Minnesota.
As to the Groton Public Schools, in March 2017, a school system employee emailed copies of the W-2 information for approximately 1,300 employees. After the W-2 information was sent, approximately 66 suspicious Forms 1040 were filed electronically with the IRS in the names of victims of the Groton phishing scheme. The tax returns claimed tax refunds totaling $364,188. The fraudulent tax returns were not processed by the IRS because they were flagged as being part of an identity theft scheme, and no money was released in connection with the returns.
The complaint alleges 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.
“Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly cunning in exploiting technology to steal identifying information from unwitting victims,” said U.S. Attorney Deirdre Daly. “Fortunately, our cyber investigators are skilled at cracking these crimes and catching these fraudsters. To help avoid becoming a victim, always remember when you click on a link or send an email, check – and then double check – that the link you’re being asked to open, or the email address you are responding to, is authentic. A single mistake can lead to a lot of misery. I commend the FBI cybercrime squad and IRS for quickly bringing this individual to justice. This investigation is ongoing.”
“The individuals that conduct these phishing schemes have one goal: To steal personal information for financial gain,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Ferrick. “This case is particularly disturbing due to the methods used and the targeted victims. Cybercrimes are on the rise so we need corporations and the general public to be cognizant of their day to day computer use and vulnerabilities. We will continue to utilize our best resources and top law enforcement personal to bring cybercriminals to justice.”
“Investigating identity theft and refund fraud is a top priority for IRS Criminal Investigation,” said Special Agent in Charge Garland. “Stealing identities and filing false tax returns is a serious crime that harms innocent taxpayers. This arrest, in cooperation with the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office, should serve as a strong warning to those who are considering similar conduct. Law enforcement will aggressively pursue cyber-criminals who undermine the integrity of the U.S. tax system.”
The complaint charges OJO with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and aggravated identity theft, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least two years.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 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, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina.
Hartford Man Charged with Distributing Heroin and CrackRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NEFTY RODRIGUEZ, 24, of Hartford, was arrested today on an indictment charging him with one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
The charge stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
The indictment, which was returned on July 19, 2017, alleges that RODRIGUEZ sold heroin and crack cocaine between June 2015 and September 2015.
RODRIGUEZ appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.
The charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 Manchester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.
West Hartford Man Sentenced to 34 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that SAMUEL CORTES, 28, of West Hartford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 34 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2014, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force received information that David Alvarado, also known as “Flaco,” was distributing heroin to street-level dealers and drug customers in the vicinity of his residence on Wethersfield Avenue in Hartford. Between August 2014 and May 2015, investigators made eight controlled purchases of heroin from Alvarado. A wiretap investigation revealed that Alvarado was being supplied with heroin by CORTES and other individuals.
On May 26, 2015, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of Alvarado’s residence and seized raw heroin, bagged heroin, heroin stamps, digital scales, thousands of wax folds, and other items used to process and package heroin. Investigators also seized a 9mm Beretta pistol with a loaded magazine, and numerous rounds of ammunition.
CORTES has been detained since his arrest on November 30, 2016. On May 8, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Owner of Environmental Training Company Admits to Falsely Certifying Lead Abatement Course CompletionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Tyler C. Amon, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in New England, announced that STEPHEN CRAIG, 66, of Essex, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of making a false statement to the federal government.
According to court documents and statements made in court, STEPHEN CRAIG owned Boston Lead Company LLC (BLC), a Connecticut corporation that provided industrial hygiene and safety services. Doing business as Environmental Training and Assessment (ETA), BLC offered a variety of training courses to individuals working with lead paint and asbestos. STEPHEN CRAIG was the training manager and a primary instructor for those courses, and his son, Matthew Craig, provided hands-on instruction and assisted with course administration, including the grading of examinations.
ETA’s lead and asbestos training courses were subject to regulation under the training provider accreditation requirements of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). TSCA allowed states to obtain U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) authorization to administer and enforce the standards, regulations and other requirements of the TSCA’s lead and asbestos programs, including the approval of training courses. The State of Connecticut received such authorization for all lead and asbestos programs except the lead program that covered renovations, repairs and painting. Individuals in Connecticut who perform lead abatement activities must be certified by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH). To obtain certification, an individual must successfully complete an approved 32-hour lead abatement worker initial training course. ETA applied for and received approval from CT DPH to offer a wide range of lead and asbestos training courses, including lead abatement worker initial and refresher courses.
In August 2011, ETA offered a lead abatement training course at its Middletown facility. STEPHEN CRAIG was the training manager and primary course instructor, and Matthew Craig provided the hands-on training and graded the exams. An undercover EPA agent attended the course under the fictitious identity, seeking a lead abatement worker initial course completion certificate. The agent skipped the first two days of the course, and was two hours late on the third day. Thereafter, the agent attended the course for a total of approximately 15 hours, including approximately three hours of hands-on training. STEPHEN CRAIG was aware that agent did not attend the full training course.
At the conclusion of the course, the agent paid STEPHEN CRAIG $525 in cash and was allowed to sit for the lead abatement worker examination, which was proctored and graded by Matthew Craig. The agent intentionally failed the examination. Although Matthew Craig knew that the agent had failed the examination, Matthew Craig completed questions that the agent had left blank and corrected a sufficient number of incorrectly answered questions to bring the examination grade to a passing grade of 80 percent.
On August 12, 2011, ETA issued a false Certificate of Completion to the agent that stated that the agent had successfully completed a 32-hour lead abatement worker initial training course and passed an examination in accordance with CT DPH standards.
“Asbestos and Lead removal training providers, like Stephen Craig’s businesses, are entrusted with keeping safe the supervisors, workers and the public that hire them,” stated Special Agent in Charge Amon. “Sham trainers will continue to be a focus for EPA enforcement since they pose too great a risk to the public health.”
STEPHEN CRAIG is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on November 2, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000.
Matthew Craig previously pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement and, on March 14, 2013, was sentenced to two years of probation and ordered to perform 100 hours of community service.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Queens Resident Sentenced to 14 Months in Prison for Trafficking EcstasyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PHILLIP STEWART, 46, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Queens, N.Y., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 14 months of imprisonment for distributing ecstasy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, STEWART conspired with Collin Fletcher and others to sell ecstasy to customers in Connecticut, New York and elsewhere. On October 27, 2016, and again on November 1, 2016, investigators made two controlled purchases of ecstasy from Fletcher.
STEWART and Fletcher were arrested on November 18, 2016, after they attempted to sell approximately 10,000 capsules of ecstasy to an undercover officer. The capsules had a combined weight of approximately 923 grams of MDA.
MDA (Methylenedioxyamphetamine) is an analogue of MDMA (Methylenedioxymethamphetamine), and they are both commonly known as “ecstasy.”
On March 29, 2017, STEWART pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, MDA and MDMA.
STEWART faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Fletcher, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Bridgeport, pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on May 12, 2017, was sentenced to 20 months of imprisonment. He also faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes officers from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi Perry.
Long Island Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Tax Offenses Stemming from Stock "Pump and Dump" SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that THOMAS HEAPHY, JR., 42, of East Moriches, N.Y., waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to conspiracy and tax offenses stemming from his role in a securities fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2011 and July 2016, HEAPHY conspired with others, including Christian Meissenn, William Lieberman and Damian Delgado, to defraud investors through a stock “pump and dump” scheme. HEAPHY and his co-conspirators induced investors to purchase securities by making false and misleading representations in calls, emails and press releases concerning the securities and the issuing companies, thereby causing the price of those securities to become falsely inflated. The issuing companies, which were essentially shell companies with virtually no legitimate business activities, included Terra Energy Resources Ltd. (stock symbol “TRRE”); Mammoth Energy Group, Inc. (stock symbol “MMTE”), a company that later became Strategic Asset Leasing Inc. (stock symbol “LEAS”); Trilliant Exploration Corporation (stock symbol “TTXP”); Hermes Jets, Inc. (stock symbol “HRMJ”), which later became Continental Beverage Brands Corporation (stock symbol “CBBB”); Dolat Ventures, Inc. (stock symbol “DOLV”), and Fox Petroleum, Inc. (stock symbol “FXPT”).
HEAPHY’s numerous misrepresentations induced investors to purchase securities, thus causing the share price of the securities to become artificially inflated. Certain of HEAPHY’s co-conspirators then sold their own preexisting positions in the securities at a profit. They then allowed he price of the securities to fall, leaving investors with worthless and unsalable stock. As a result, victim investors lost millions of dollars.
HEAPHY received approximately 25 percent of all money that he induced individuals to invest. His personal gain from the scheme totaled approximately $719,000. HEAPHY disguised the income by having the funds flow through the trust accounts of various attorneys, including Corey Brinson in Connecticut, into bank accounts in the name of various shell entities under HEAPHY’s control. HEAPHY’s failure to pay taxes on this income resulted in a loss of $147,345 to Internal Revenue Service.
HEAPHY pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of tax evasion, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer on October 20, 2017.
At sentencing, HEAPHY will be ordered to pay restitution to his victims, as well as back taxes, interest and penalties to the Internal Revenue Service.
On November 8, 2016, Meissenn, also known as “Christian Nigohossian,” of Suffield, Conn., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. He awaits sentencing.
On January 20, 2017, Brinson, of Hartford, pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from specified unlawful activity. On April 13, 2017, he was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment.
On May 10, 2017, Lieberman, of Boca Raton, Fla., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. He awaits sentencing.
On May 12, 2017, Delgado, of Orlando. Fla., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of tax evasion. He awaits sentencing.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Connecticut Department of Banking and the Hartford and Stamford Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi M. Perry and Peter S. Jongbloed.
Citizens with information that may be helpful to this ongoing investigation, or who believe they may have been victimized by this scheme, are encouraged to contact the FBI at (203) 777-6311.
17 Charged with Distributing Cocaine and Crack in Central ConnecticutRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England and Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge for the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, today announced the unsealing of two indictments charging a total of 17 individuals with federal narcotics offenses related to the trafficking cocaine and crack cocaine in central Connecticut.
Thirteen of the 17 defendants were arrested on July 26, and three defendants have been incarcerated in state custody. One defendant is currently being sought.
This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force that has included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of crack cocaine, and seizures of cocaine and cash proceeds. According to statements made in court, it is alleged that Westley Northrup, formerly of Meriden, operated a cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring while he was incarcerated in state custody. Northrup conspired with Carlos Roman, of Middletown, to purchase cocaine from suppliers including Omar Rivera, convert some of the cocaine to crack cocaine, and then distribute crack and cocaine through a network of dealers. Further investigation revealed that Rivera, of New Britain, was being supplied by Orlando Quiros, of Suffield, who regularly received packages containing multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico. Quiros’ operation was assisted by individuals who agreed to accept delivery of the packages, and by Steven Riccelli, a U.S. Postal Service employee.
During the course of the investigation, law enforcement officers intercepted and seized approximately $240,000 in cash that Quiros had in a vehicle he was driving from Connecticut to New York.
On July 26, law enforcement executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately seven kilograms of cocaine, several pounds of marijuana, three firearms, and nearly $100,000 in cash.
“The seizure of seven kilograms of cocaine in this case makes clear that these defendants were significant drug traffickers with multiple sources in Connecticut, as alleged in the indictments,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with the DEA, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our state and local law enforcement partners to shut down these drug pipelines and prosecute those responsible.”
“DEA is committed to investigating and dismantling large-scale drug trafficking organizations like this one operating in the central Connecticut area,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Ferguson. “This prolific organization was responsible for supplying kilogram quantities of cocaine throughout the state of Connecticut. As we all know, drug trafficking, along with the gun and physical violence that often accompanies it, is a serious threat to our families and our communities. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative local, state and federal law enforcement efforts in Connecticut and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek and bring to justice anyone who engages in these crimes.”
“The arrest of these individuals is an example of the commitment of Postal Inspectors and their law enforcement partners to bring to justice anyone who uses the U.S. Mail to facilitate the transport of illegal drugs, ensuring the safety of the mail, our employees and customers,” said Inspector in Charge Binkowski.
On July 20, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging
WESTLEY NORTHRUP, a.k.a. “Piff,” 29, of Meriden
CARLOS ROMAN, a.k.a. “Frizz,” 37, of Middletown
DENISE HERNANDEZ, a.k.a. “Booty,” 29, of Meriden
RIGOBERTO HERNANDEZ, a.k.a. “Tito,” 36, of Meriden
SHANE BLAKE, 34, of Bristol
OMAR RIVERA, a.k.a. “O,” 34, of New Britain
ANTONIO MIRANDA, a.k.a. “Tone” and “Primo,” 28, of New Britain
CALVIN VAUGHN, a.k.a. “Squeaks,” 34, of Middletown
TURON DAVIS, a.k.a. “Slim,” 39, of Middletown
KASEAN WHITE, a.k.a. “Slay,” 29, of Middletown
DERRICK BRYANT, 26, of MiddletownEach of the defendants in this indictment are charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”). If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of narcotics charged, Northrup, Roman and Rivera face a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life; Denise Hernandez, Rigoberto Hernandez, Blake, Miranda and Kasean White face a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and Vaughn, Davis and Bryant face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
The indictment also charges Roman with multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, crack cocaine and/or cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession of firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime.
On July 20, 2017, the grand jury in New Haven returned a three-count indictment charging
ORLANDO QUIROS, a.k.a. “O” and “Gordo,” 40, of Suffield
LEONEL QUIROS, a.k.a. “Haze,” 33, of New Britain
COREY BEST, 32, of Bloomfield
LISETTE PEREZ, 34, of Springfield, Mass.
STEVEN RICCELLI, 42, of Unionville
LUIS ARROYO, 56, of New Britain
OMAR RIVERA, a.k.a. “O,” 34, of New Britain (also charged in the Northrup indictment)Each of the defendants in this indictment are charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted of this charge, with the exception of Rivera, each defendant faces a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Rivera faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years on this charge.
The indictment also charges Orlando Quiros, Leonel Quiros and Best one count of attempt to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and Orlando Quiros with one count of use of a facility in interstate commerce to distribute the proceed of drug trafficking.
Northrup, Roman and Miranda have been incarcerated in state custody. Kasean White is currently being sought.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by 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 U.S. Marshals Service, ATF, FBI and the Suffield, Bloomfield and Springfield (Mass.) Police Departments assisted with the arrests.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JUSTIN PARKER, also known as “Tre,” 31, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 70 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, PARKER was identified as a large-scale distributor of heroin in the greater New Haven area. On multiple occasions between January and March 2016, PARKER sold heroin to an ATF agent working in an undercover capacity. When investigators first attempted to arrest him on March 30, 2016, PARKER fled the scene and was observed discarding what appeared to be packets of heroin out of the window of his vehicle. He was apprehended the next day at a hotel in Milford.
After his arrest, PARKER admitted that he had thrown five “bricks” (250 bags) of heroin from his car window when he fled from law enforcement.
PARKER has been detained since his arrest on March 31, 2016. On May 4, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and Peter D. Markle.
Citizen of the Dominican Republic Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that WILMER ANTONIO GOMEZ-RODRIGUEZ, 30, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in New York, N.Y., was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 87 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin. Judge Bryant also ordered GOMEZ-RODRIGUEZ to pay a $15,000 fine.
On September 10, 2015, a jury found GOMEZ-RODRIGUEZ guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, one kilogram or more of heroin, and one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 100 grams or more of heroin.
Accoring to trial testimony and the evidence disclosed during the trial, this matter stems from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and the Norwalk Police Department into suspected cocaine and heroin distribution by Omar Andrade. In September 2014, Andrade agreed to provide one kilogram of heroin to a DEA Task Force officer acting in an undercover capacity. Andrade, GOMEZ-RODRIGUEZ and Joel A. Estrella-Disla, were arrested on September 30, 2014, after they delivered approximately one kilogram of heroin to a pre-arranged location in Norwalk.
GOMEZ-RODRIGUEZ has been detained since September 10, 2015. He faces immigration proceedings when he is released from prison.
Andrade and Estrella-Disla each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin. On January 6, 2016, Andrade, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment. On March 2, 2016, Estrella-Disla, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
Citizen of the Dominican Republic Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the U.S. after DeportationRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LUIS MANUEL RODRIGUEZ BURGOS, 36, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty yesterday in Bridgeport federal court to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, RODRIGUEZ BURGOS was admitted to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident in 1995. In September 2005, RODRIGUEZ BURGOS was convicted in Arizona of attempted transportation of narcotic drugs for sale and was sentenced to more than three years of imprisonment. In August 2006, he was deported from the U.S. to the Dominican Republic.
In August 2012, local law enforcement encountered RODRIGUEZ BURGOS in New York City and alerted federal immigration authorities. In October 2012, he was again removed to the Dominican Republic.
RODRIGUEZ BURGOS illegally reentered the U.S. and, in October 2015, was arrested in Bridgeport for narcotics offenses. He pleaded guilty in state court to sale of certain illegal drugs and conspiracy, and is currently scheduled to be sentenced on those offenses in October
On this federal immigration offense, RODRIGUEZ BURGOS is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill on October 18, at which time he 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 (ICE). The case in being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Stamford Resident Admits to Operating Extensive Immigration Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID NIKOLASHVILI, 52, a citizen of the Republic of Georgia residing in Stamford, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to engaging in an immigration fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, NIKOLASHVILI operated an immigration fraud scheme through which he obtained false immigration status from U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services for approximately 50 to 60 citizens of European countries. As part of the scheme, after aliens paid NIKOLASHVILI between $12,000 and $16,000, he would arrange sham marriages between the aliens and U.S. citizens in order to obtain immigration benefits for the aliens. The U.S. citizens were paid to enter into the sham marriages.
NIKOLASHVILI pleaded guilty to one count of making a false swearing in an immigration matter, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on October 27, 2017.
NIKOLASHVILI was arrested on June 21, 2016. He is released on a $75,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Office of Fraud Detection and National Security Unit, and U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Indictment Charges Doctors with Drug Distribution, Health Care Fraud and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport returned an indictment today charging Dr. BHARAT PATEL, 70, of Milford, and Dr. RAMIL MANSOUROV, 47, of Darien, with narcotics distribution, health care fraud and money laundering offenses.
PATEL was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on July 12 and is detained. MANSOUROV was apprehended by the Canada Border Services Agency on an immigration offense on July 13 and is currently detained in Canada.
As alleged in court documents, PATEL and MANSOUROV are physicians who operated out of Family Health Urgent Care, located at 235 Main Street in Norwalk. The medical practice was formerly known as Immediate Health Care, which was owned by PATEL. In approximately 2012, MANSOUROV purchased the practice from PATEL and renamed it Family Urgent Health Care, and PATEL continued to work at the practice. PATEL and MANSOUROV have been participating providers with Medicare and the Connecticut Medicaid Program. Beginning in approximately 2013, the Drug Enforcement Administration received information that PATEL and MANSOUROV may be writing prescriptions for controlled substances outside the scope of legitimate medical practice.
It is alleged that PATEL regularly provided prescriptions for narcotics, including oxycodone and hydrocodone, to patients that he knew were addicted or had been arrested for distributing or possessing controlled substances. On numerous occasions, PATEL provided prescriptions to patients who paid him $100 in cash for each prescription. In certain instances, PATEL would write prescriptions for individuals who were not his patients in exchange for cash. At times, when PATEL was not available, MANSOUROV provided PATEL’s patients with unnecessary prescriptions. PATEL and MANSOUROV also regularly provided post-dated prescriptions to individuals, sometimes with dates that matched future dates when the doctors would be out of the country.
It is alleged that certain individuals who paid PATEL cash for prescriptions paid for the filled prescriptions by using a state Medicaid card, and then illegally distributed the drugs. The investigation revealed that in 2014 alone, more than $50,000 in cash deposits were made into PATEL and his wife’s bank accounts, and that some of these funds were used to purchase PATEL’s current residence.
It is further alleged that between November 2013 and December 2016, MANSOUROV defrauded the state’s Medicaid program of more than $4 million by billing for home visits that he never made, billing for nursing home visits that he never made, billing for office visits that never happened, and billing for visits that he claimed took place on dates on which he was actually out of state or out of the country. Billing records also reveal that, on some occasions, MANSOUROV and PATEL billed Medicaid for the same patient on the same day at two different locations.
It is alleged that MANSOUROV moved some of the stolen funds to a bank account in Switzerland.
The five-count indictment charges PATEL and MANSOUROV with 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. The indictment also charges MANSOUROV with two counts and PATEL with one count of money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of PATEL’s Milford residence, MANSOUROV’s Darien residence, $16,521.25 seized from a safe deposit box rented by PATEL, and money judgments equal to the proceeds of PATEL and MANSOUROV’s alleged criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 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, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments.
U.S. Attorney Daly thanked the Canada Border Services Agency and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine for their assistance in this matter.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Georgia Man Charged with Trafficking MarijuanaRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging SHAMAR MADDEN, also known as “Sheist,” 37, of Atlanta, Georgia, with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.
The indictment was returned under seal on July 6 and MADDEN was arrested yesterday in Atlanta. He appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge in Atlanta and is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for tomorrow.
The indictment alleges that between August 2016 and February 2017, MADDEN, Malek Long and others conspired to distribute marijuana.
If convicted of the offense, MADDEN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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.
On May 12, 2017, Long, of New Haven, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to the same charge. In pleading guilty, Long admitted that he and others had used the U.S. Mail to ship substantial quantities of marijuana from California to New Haven, and then distributed the marijuana throughout the area. As part of the investigation, on February 22, 2017, law enforcement searched two storage lockers that Long maintained at a self-storage facility in West Haven and seized approximately $404,000 in cash.
Long awaits sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, New Haven Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
Stratford Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY LEE PAROWSKI, 30, of Stratford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of distribution of heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2017, the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and Milford Police Department received information that PAROWSKI was distributing heroin to numerous individuals. In April 2017, investigators conducted two controlled purchases of heroin from PAROWSKI, the second of which occurred in a Milford motel room that PAROWSKI had rented. On April 20, investigators approached PAROWSKI as he exited the motel carrying a cardboard box. PAROWSKI dropped the box and ran, and was observed discarding items as he ran. He was apprehended after a brief pursuit. A search of PAROWSKI’s person, the cardboard box and the area of the chase revealed approximately 190 dose bags of heroin, 66 grams of additional heroin, and items used to process and package heroin for street sale. A subsequent search of PAROWSKI’s Stratford residence revealed $32,210 in cash.
The charge of distribution of heroin carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
PAROWSKI has been detained since his federal arrest on April 25.
The DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force includes members from the Bridgeport, Stamford, Stratford, Norwalk and Milford Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
North Franklin Man Sentenced to Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSEPH SUDIK, 62, of North Franklin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to three months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for tax fraud.
According to court documents and statements made in court, SUDIK operated a general dentistry practice, and also served as the trustee of the Walter S. Sudik Trust, a trust his uncle created. The primary purpose of the Trust was to provide money to Walter Sudik’s living siblings or their spouses to ensure they were properly cared for in their remaining years. Walter Sudik died in July 2010. Following his uncle’s death and while serving as the trustee, SUDIK took more than $248,000 from the Trust without authorization and was paid $35,500 by the Trust for fiduciary fees for his services as trustee and reimbursement for closing his dental office to act as trustee. On his 2010 and 2011 federal tax returns, SUDIK willfully failed to report a total of $284,167 in unreported income and failed to pay $63,229 in income taxes.
On his 2010 federal tax return, SUDIK falsely reported taxable income of $25,026 and a tax due of $1,419. On his 2011 federal tax return, SUDIK falsely reported only $1,230 in taxable income and a tax due of $1,171.
Judge Arterton ordered SUDIK to pay $63,229, plus interest and penalties, to the Internal Revenue Service, and a total of $65,317 to three of the four beneficiaries of the Trust. The fourth beneficiary, SUDIK’s mother, did not wish to be part of a restitution order. SUDIK previously returned $116,488 to the four Trust beneficiaries after he learned he was under criminal investigation. Also, just prior the sentencing hearing, his attorney tendered each of the three beneficiaries a check in the amount of $10,000. The beneficiaries will receive restitution before the IRS.
On May 10, 2016, SUDIK pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return. He was ordered to report to prison on or before September 26, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
Bridgeport Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned an indictment charging TYESHON KING, 30, of Bridgeport, with one count of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.
The indictment was returned on July 12, 2017, and KING was arrested the next day.
The indictment alleges that on March 24, 2017, KING possessed a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a Taurus .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and 28 rounds of assorted .40 caliber ammunition, all of which were manufactured out of state.
The indictment further alleges that, in May 2007, KING was convicted in state court of attempted assault in the first degree.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
The charge of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
KING has been detained since his arrest on July 13, 2017.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Vizcarrondo and Alina Reynolds.
Shelton Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Prison for Robbing 4 Connecticut BanksRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SCOTT TAYLOR, 47, formerly of Shelton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 188 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for robbing four branches of Chase Bank last year.
According to court documents and statements made in court, TAYLOR robbed the Chase Bank at 184 Main Street in Westport on June 2, 2016; the Chase Bank at 1561 Boston Post Road in Milford on June 24, 2016; the Chase Bank at 50 Washington Street in Norwalk on July 6, 2016, and the Chase Bank at 1855 Main Street in Stratford on July 13, 2016. During each of the robberies, TAYLOR handed a teller a note demanding cash and told the teller that he had a gun.
TAYLOR stole a total of approximately $23,300 during the first three robberies, and $1,000 during the July 13 robbery. When he was arrested at the Stratford train station shortly after the July 13 robbery, he possessed $998 in cash and 33 folds of heroin.
Judge Bryant ordered TAYLOR to make full restitution.
TAYLOR has been detained since his arrest. On January 30, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery.
TAYLOR’s criminal history includes a 1999 federal conviction for bank robbery, stemming from his robbery of three Connecticut banks, for which he received a sentence of 37 months of imprisonment. In addition, in 2006, he was convicted in state court of robbing a bank in Milford in August 2005, and was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment, with 12 years to serve. In February 2016, after his release from prison, he began serving a three-year term of probation.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Westport, Milford, Norwalk and Stratford Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.
U.S. Attorney Daly thanked the assistance and cooperation of the State’s Attorneys for the Judicial Districts of Ansonia/Milford, Fairfield and Stamford/Norwalk.
Former Virtual Currency CEO Pleads Guilty to $9 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, 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 HOMERO JOSHUA GARZA, 32, of Texas, formerly of Somers, Conn., waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of wire fraud related to his role in his companies’ purported generation and sale of virtual currency.
According to court documents and statements made in court, “virtual currency” is a digital representation of a value that can be traded and functions as a medium of exchange. Virtual currency generally is not issued or guaranteed by any jurisdiction or government, and its value is decided by consensus within the community of users of the virtual currency. A virtual currency generally self-generates units of currency through a process called “mining.” A virtual currency “miner” is computer hardware that runs special computer software to solve complex algorithms that validate groups of transactions in that virtual currency. Once a complex algorithm is solved, a unit of currency, such as a bitcoin, is awarded to the individual operating the miner. This process is known as “mining.”
Between approximately May 2014 and January 2016, GARZA, through GAW, GAW Miners, ZenMiner, and ZenCloud, companies he founded and operated, defrauded victims out of money in connection with the procurement of virtual currency on their behalf. The companies sold miners, access to miners, and the right to purchase a virtual currency called “paycoin,” as well as “hashlets.” A hashlet entitled an investor to a share of the profits that GAW Miners or ZenMiner would purportedly earn by mining virtual currencies using the computers that were maintained in their data centers. In other words, hashlet customers, or investors, were buying the rights to profit from a slice of the computing power owned by GAW Miners and ZenMiner.
To generate business and attract customers and investors, GARZA made multiple false statements related to the scheme, including stating that GAW Miners’ parent company purchased a controlling stake in ZenMiner for $8 million and that ZenMiner became a division of GAW Miners. In fact, there was no such transaction. GARZA also stated that the hashlets GARZA’s companies sold engaged in the mining of virtual currency. In fact, GARZA’s companies sold more hashlets than was supported by the computing power maintained in their data centers. Stated differently, GARZA’s companies sold the customers the right to more virtual currency than the companies’ computing power could generate. GARZA also stated that the market value of a single paycoin would not fall below $20 per unit because GARZA’s companies had a reserve of $100 million that the companies would use to purchase paycoins to drive up its price. In fact, no such reserve existed.
During the scheme, GARZA, through his companies, used money his companies had made from new hashlet investors to pay older hashlet investors. The payments were money that the companies owed the older investors based on the purported mining GAW Miners and ZenMiner had done on the investors’ behalf.
The loss attributable to GARZA from the scheme was $9,182,000.
GARZA is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on October 12, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr. and Jonathan Francis.
Former Postal Clerk Pleads Guilty to Stealing MailRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANA GUITY, 30, of West Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of theft of mail matter by a U.S. postal employee.
According to court documents and statements made in court, GUITY was employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a window clerk, primarily at the post office in Westbrook, but also at post offices in Chester, North Branford and Madison. In late 2016 and early 2017, GUITY stole numerous letters from the mail, primarily greeting cards that she suspected would contain gift cards or cash. GUITY also stole several packages from the mail.
Typically, GUITY selected letters that she believed would contain items of value, removed money or a gift card from the letter, and then returned the letter to the mail stream. At times, GUITY stole the entire letter and did not return it to the mail stream. When GUITY was confronted by authorities, she had more than 35 letters mailed by others in her personal vehicle. The letters included birthday cards, holiday cards, sympathy cards and get well cards.
The investigation revealed that GUITY also stole a letter from an individual to the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
In addition, at least five packages containing cell phones that had been removed from the mail were recovered from GUITY.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2017, at which time GUITY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. She is released on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing.
GUITY is a citizen of Honduras and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
Wethersfield Resident Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Operating Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY G. SCIARRA, 54, of Wethersfield, formerly of Marlborough, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating an investment scheme that defrauded individuals and couples of more than $874,000.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2001 until May 2012, SCIARRA operated AGS Financial, through which he offered insurance, securities and other financial products. In approximately May 2012, the Connecticut Department of Insurance revoked SCIARRA’s insurance license.
Between approximately 2007 and July 2015, SCIARRA held himself out as a bona fide insurance agent and financial advisor when, in fact, he was not. Through AGS Financial, and later through an entity he described as “Westport Enterprises,” SCIARRA solicited investments from various victim-investors with promises of high annual investment returns ranging from 4 percent to 12 percent or more. SCIARRA falsely represented to investors that he would invest their funds in a bond fund or cigarette distribution business. Instead of investing any of the invested money as promised, SCIARRA diverted funds for his personal use, including to pay for restaurant meals and department store purchases, and to pay loans and other personal bills. The investigation revealed that SCIARRA made large cash withdrawals from ATMs and at Foxwoods Casino. SCIARRA also used some of the funds to make “interest” payments to other victim-investors.
During the scheme, SCIARRA made false statements to certain victim-investors, both in person and by e-mail, in an attempt to explain the various delays in the purported interest payments. In addition to telling victim-investors that their funds had been invested as represented, SCIARRA sought to prevent the discovery of the scheme by issuing payments to the victim-investors as a partial return of the principal and monies that were then due. Eventually, these payments stopped and the scheme was discovered.
Through this scheme, SCIARRA defrauded at least 12 victim-investors of $874,601.20
Judge Shea ordered SCIARRA to make full restitution.
On February 1, 2017, SCIARRA pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Judge Shea ordered SCIARRA to report to prison on August 30, 2017. SCIARRA is released on a $100,000 bond.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Banking, Securities Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.
Three Men Charged with Federal Marijuana Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a three-count indictment today charging ROBERT CAPELLI, 31, of Milford; SCOTT BODNAR, also known as “Pep,” 38, of Ansonia, and DONALD BURNS, 59, of Milford, with trafficking marijuana by airplane into Connecticut.
According to allegations contained in court documents, in 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration began investigating a Piper single-engine aircraft, owned by BURNS, that was making regular flights between Stratford, Connecticut, and northern California via the southwest United States. On June 28, 2017, BURNS flew the aircraft from northern California to Lubbock, Texas. On June 29, BURNS flew the aircraft from Texas to Arkansas, and then to West Virginia and Connecticut, where he landed in the evening at Sikorsky Airport in Stratford. A law enforcement search of the plane revealed approximately 400 kilograms of marijuana in vacuum-sealed packages contained in a duffel bag. The investigation revealed that the marijuana was intended for CAPELLI and BODNAR. Later that day, agents conducted a controlled to delivery of the marijuana to CAPELLI and BODNAR at a location in Derby, where they were arrested.
It is alleged that from 2015 to June 2017, CAPELLI, BODNAR and BURNS trafficked more than 1,000 kilograms of marijuana from California to Connecticut.
The indictment charges the three defendants with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, an offense that carries a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. The indictment also charges the three defendants with one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana on board an aircraft registered in the U.S., and one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, offenses that carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, on each count.
CAPELLI, BODNAR and BURNS were initially charged by criminal complaint and are released on bond.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration’s Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP), and the Stratford, Bridgeport and Derby Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Stamford Man Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BESIM MURIQI, 32, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 42 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing oxycodone.
This matter stems from an investigation headed by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and Stamford Police Department, with the assistance of the Fairfield Police Department.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2015, Stamford Police received information that Amonda Mendez, also known as “M-Dot” and “Dot,” was distributing a variety of narcotics in Stamford. Between February and April 2015, the DEA Task Force conducted four controlled purchases of narcotics from Mendez. A subsequent court-authorized wiretap confirmed that Mendez was distributing heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana and prescription pills, including Percocet and Xanax. In May 2015, task force agents intercepted several narcotics-related calls between MURIQI and Mendez, and also surveilled them as they traveled together to the Bronx, New York, to purchase narcotics.
Mendez was arrested on May 17, 2015, after the wiretap revealed that she was injured the previous day in a shoot-out with another individual and she might be preparing to retaliate further. MURIQI then left Connecticut.
In September 2016, agents received information that MURIQI was selling oxycodone in the Stamford area. On September 14, 2016, investigators made a controlled purchase of 10 30mg oxycodone pills from MURIQI. On October 26, 2016, investigators conducted a traffic stop of MURIQI’s vehicle in Stamford. A search of the vehicle revealed 558 30mg oxycodone pills, and MURIQI was arrested on state narcotics charges. Two days later, a search of MURIQI’s Stamford apartment revealed approximately 400 Valium tablets, 985 Xanax tablets, 15 grams of cocaine, two digital scales and narcotics packaging materials.
On April 11, 2017, MURIQI pleaded to one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone.
Mendez pleaded guilty to heroin distribution and firearm offenses and, on June 23, 2016, was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy C. Brown.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KYLE PETERSEN, 31, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing fentanyl and other controlled substances.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in late December 2015, the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and New Britain Police Department received information that PETERSEN was selling fentanyl powder, prescription pills and marijuana. DEA Task Force Officers and the New Britain Police Department Special Services Unit initiated an investigation and made multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl from PETERSEN. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, revealed that John Casadei, of Morris, used the darknet, an internet network that can only be accessed through the use of specific software or authorizations, to purchase large quantities of fentanyl that were shipped from China. Casadei also obtained and distributed various prescription pills, including Xanax and oxycodone. Casadei then supplied fentanyl and various prescription pills to Jared McBriarty, of Bristol, who in turn supplied them to PETERSEN. PETERSEN distributed the drugs to other individuals who sold them throughout central Connecticut.
The investigation revealed that PETERSEN acquired and distributed at least 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl, and attempted to acquire an additional kilogram of fentanyl, which law enforcement seized after it was shipped from China.
PETERSEN, Casadei, McBriarty and other individuals involved in this narcotics distribution ring were arrested on May 19, 2016. On that date, law enforcement a New Britain residence that PETERSEN used as a stash location and seized approximately $740,000 in cash, approximately 3.2 kilograms of MDMA (commonly known as “ecstasy”), and more than 40,000 Xanax pills. A search of PETERSEN’s residence revealed additional quantities of narcotics and more than $11,000 in cash. Law enforcement subsequently seized approximately $80,000 from PETERSEN’s bank account.
PETERSEN has been detained since his arrest. On April 26, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Casadei and McBriarty have pleaded guilty to related charges and await sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments. Agencies assisting the investigation include the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, New Britain State’s Attorney’s Office and Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Dave Vatti.
Hamden Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Oxycodone and Marijuana, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that WAYNE BRADBURY, 32, of Hamden, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to federal oxycodone and marijuana distribution and money laundering offenses. 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.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 3, 2016, a 22-year-old male purchased 30 40-milligram oxycodone pills from Tahir Farid in exchange for $900. He then consumed some of those pills, as well as other substances. On January 5, 2016, the 22-year-old male was found unresponsive at a friend’s residence in Weston. He remains unresponsive and, according to medical personnel, is in a “persistent vegetative state.”
The investigation revealed that, prior to the victim’s overdose, BRADBURY supplied oxycodone pills and marijuana to Ryan Looney who, at the time, was 19 years old. Looney then sold oxycodone pills to Farid, who then distributed a portion of them to the victim.
Typically, BRADBURY supplied Looney with drugs on credit and had Looney repay him by depositing cash into BRADBURY’s back account. BRADBURY then withdrew the cash at ATMs to pay his drug supplier.
BRADBURY pleaded guilty to one count of distributing oxycodone and marijuana to an individual under 21 years of age, an offense that carries a minimum term of imprisonment of one year and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. He also pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on October 11, 2017.
BRADBURY is detained pending sentencing.
Farid and Looney, both of Hamden, each previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, oxycodone. On November 30, 2016, Farid was sentenced to six months of imprisonment. Looney awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, U.S. Marshals Service, Weston Police Department and Monroe Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.
Citizen of the Dominican Republic Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CHRISTIAN PAULINO RODRIGUEZ, 47, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in Stamford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2016, RODRIGUEZ arranged for the sale and delivery of kilogram quantities of cocaine, for $32,000 per kilogram, to an individual working with law enforcement. DEA Task Force officers arrested RODRIGUEZ on November 15, 2016, after he coordinated the sale of approximately five kilograms of cocaine to the individual.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for October 12, 2017, at which time RODRIGUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
RODRIGUEZ has been detained since his arrest.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Stamford and Norwalk Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Vizcarrondo.
Washington Man Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Scheme Targeting Vietnamese CommunityRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HAI VAN NGUYEN, 42, of Lynnwood, Wash., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 38 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating a fraud scheme targeting members of the Vietnamese community in Connecticut and other states.
According to court documents and statements made in court, NGUYEN advertised through Facebook a purported avenue for legal sponsorship for individuals to come to the United States from Vietnam. When contacted, NGUYEN guaranteed clients that he could obtain legal entry into the U.S. for their family members through his company, New Saigon Entertainment. NGUYEN guaranteed a green card upon arrival in the U.S. and U.S. citizenship within five years. Through fraudulent representations, NGUYEN convinced two Connecticut residents to assist him in recruiting clients for his purported company. The Connecticut residents collected deposits toward NGUYEN’s $35,000 fee pursuant to more than 50 contracts from clients in Connecticut, South Carolina, Maine and Arizona.
Additional victims of NGUYEN’s fraudulent scheme were identified in Ohio and Texas.
In total, NGUYEN defrauded members of the Vietnamese community seeking legal entry for family members into the U.S. of approximately $550,000.
Judge Shea ordered NGUYEN to pay restitution in the amount of $492,025.
NGUYEN has been detained since his arrest on May 5, 2016. On April 20, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
NGUYEN also has been charged with similar conduct in the State of Ohio, where there is an arrest warrant pending.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss.
Norwich Resident Involved in Insurance Fraud Scheme Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FRANDY DUGUE, also known as “Jimmy,” 40, of Norwich, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to 100 days of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in an insurance fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between April 2011 and April 2014, DUGUE and others conspired to stage approximately 50 car crashes in eastern Connecticut for the purpose of defrauding automobile insurance companies and enriching themselves. A high percentage of these planned crashes were single-vehicle accidents on remote roads where there were no witnesses other than the occupants of the crashed vehicle. After each staged accident, the defendants filed fraudulent property damage and bodily injury claims with various automobile insurance companies. They then collected payouts on the fraudulent claims from the victim insurance companies. These payouts typically ranged from about $10,000 to about $30,000 per accident.
DUGUE was involved in five false insurance claims, four of which stemmed from staged automobile crashes. DUGUE received $11,004 from insurers based on his false claims.
Judge Meyer ordered DUGUE to pay $10,000 in restitution.
DUGUE were arrested on May 20, 2016. On August 9, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
DUGUE, a citizen of Haiti and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., faces immigration proceedings when he is released from prison.
Six other individuals involved in this scheme have been convicted and await sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Norwich Police Department and the National Insurance Crime Bureau. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi Perry and Michael J. Gustafson.
Waterbury Grocery Store Worker Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that TALLAT MAHMOOD, 64, of Waterbury, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release, for defrauding the federal food stamp program.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (“SNAP”) is administered by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and utilizes federal tax dollars to subsidize low-income households to provide them with the opportunity to achieve a more nutritious diet by increasing their food-purchasing power. SNAP recipients purchase eligible food items at retail food stores through the use of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, and SNAP benefits may be accepted by authorized retailers only in exchange for eligible items. Items such as alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, paper goods and soaps are not eligible for purchase with Food Stamp benefits, and it is a violation of the rules and regulations governing the food stamp program to allow benefits to be used to purchase ineligible items. SNAP benefits may not lawfully be exchanged for cash under any circumstances. The program is designed so that the total amount of each purchase is electronically transferred to the retailer’s designated bank account.
According to court documents, MAHMOOD worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery, located at 43 Willow Street in Waterbury. From November 2014 until June 2016, MAHMOOD and others illegally allowed customers to redeem their food stamp benefits for cash and other ineligible items.
Given the stock of eligible food items at the store, the number of registers and the customer amenities, it is estimated that WB Trade Fair Grocery could lawfully redeem at most between $120,000 to $240,000 per year in food stamp benefits. However, during this approximately 18-month period, food stamp redemptions at the store totaled approximately $3.2 million.
Judge Bryant ordered MAHMOOD to pay approximately $1.5 million in restitution.
MAHMOOD was arrested on August 18, 2016. On March 30, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful use of food stamp benefits and one count of conspiracy to commit food stamp fraud.
On April 7, 2017, Raul Carlos Monarca-Gonzalez, also an employee at WB Trade Fair Grocery, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment and restitution of approximately $1.5 million for his role in this scheme.
A third employee of the store who was involved in this scheme, Tahir Shahzad, also has pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 31.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anastasia King and Neeraj Patel.
Norwalk Doctors Charged with Operating "Pill Mill," Health Care Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that two doctors who have operated a medical practice in Norwalk have been charged by federal criminal complaint with writing prescriptions outside the scope of legitimate medical practice, health care fraud and money laundering.
Dr. BHARAT PATEL, 70, of Milford, was arrested yesterday at his residence. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport and is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for July 17.
Dr. RAMIL MANSOUROV, 47, of Darien, is currently being sought by law enforcement.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, PATEL and MANSOUROV are physicians who operated out of Family Health Urgent Care, located at 235 Main Street in Norwalk. The medical practice was formerly known as Immediate Health Care, which was owned by PATEL. In approximately 2012, MANSOUROV purchased the practice from PATEL and renamed it Family Urgent Health Care, and PATEL continued to work at the practice. PATEL and MANSOUROV are participating providers with Medicare and the Connecticut Medicaid Program. Beginning in approximately 2013, the Drug Enforcement Administration received information that PATEL and MANSOUROV may be writing prescriptions for controlled substances outside the scope of legitimate medical practice.
The complaint alleges that PATEL regularly provided prescriptions for narcotics, including oxycodone and hydrocodone, to patients that he knew were addicted or had been arrested for distributing or possessing controlled substances. On numerous occasions, PATEL provided prescriptions to patients who paid him $100 in cash for each prescription. In certain instances, PATEL would write prescriptions for individuals who were not his patients in exchange for cash. At times, when PATEL was not available, MANSOUROV provided PATEL’s patients with unnecessary prescriptions. PATEL and MANSOUROV also regularly provided post-dated prescriptions to individuals, sometimes with dates that matched future dates when the doctors would be out of the country.
It is alleged that certain individuals who paid PATEL cash for prescriptions paid for the filled prescriptions by using a state Medicaid card, and then illegally distributed the drugs. The investigation revealed that in 2014 alone, more than $50,000 in cash deposits were made into PATEL and his wife’s bank accounts, and that some of these funds were used to purchase PATEL’s current residence.
The complaint further alleges that between November 2013 and December 2016, MANSOUROV defrauded the state’s Medicaid program of more than $4 million by billing for home visits that he never made, billing for nursing home visits that he never made, billing for office visits that never happened, and billing for visits that he claimed took place on dates on which he was actually out of state or out of the country. Billing records also reveal that, on some occasions, MANSOUROV and PATEL billed Medicaid for the same patient on the same day at two different locations.
It is alleged that MANSOUROV moved some of the stolen funds to a bank account in Switzerland.
“These two doctors are charged with violating their oaths and recklessly prescribing highly addictive painkillers,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “Dr. Patel is alleged to have regularly sold to addicts solely for his own profit. Many of these patients filled the prescriptions using state healthcare benefits, and then turned around and sold the pills on the street, contributing to our devastating opioid epidemic. Some addicts referred to these defendants’ medical practice as ‘The Candy Shop.’ Dr. Mansourov is also charged with bilking state and federal governments of over 4 million dollars through a phony billing scheme. I thank the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the Norwalk Police Department and the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office for their excellent work in shuttering this medical practice.”
“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 Special Agent in Charge Ferguson. “The reckless actions by these two doctors by writing prescriptions outside the scope of their legitimate medical practice 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.”
The complaint charges PATEL and MANSOUROV with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute narcotics, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; health care fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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 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, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Attorney Involved in Scheme that Targeted Distressed Homeowners Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRADFORD BARNEYS, 51, of Odenton, Maryland, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervise release, for conspiring with Timothy W. Burke in a long-running fraud scheme that targeted distressed homeowners throughout Connecticut. BARNEYS was an attorney licensed to practice in Connecticut and has an office in Bridgeport.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately 2010 and November 2015, Timothy W. Burke, formerly of Easton, engaged in a scheme to defraud individuals, mortgage lenders and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by falsely representing to homeowners who were in, or facing, foreclosure on their homes that he would purchase their homes and pay off their mortgages. The distressed homeowners agreed to sign various documents that Burke presented to them on the understanding that, by signing the documents, they would be able to walk away from their homes without the burdens of their mortgage or other costs associated with home ownership. Burke also told homeowners that the process of negotiating with the lenders can take time and that, in the meantime, to ignore any notices regarding foreclosure. After he gained control of these houses, Burke rented out the properties to tenants by advertising the properties on craigslist.com and other means and falsely representing to tenants that Burke owned the property.
Burke or one of his agents then collected rent from tenants, and Burke used the funds for his own benefit. He also failed to negotiate with the homeowners’ mortgage lender or pay expenses associated with the home, including the homeowner’s mortgages and property taxes, and he failed to pay any rental income he was collecting to the homeowners. Many of the properties Burke purportedly purchased were ultimately foreclosed upon by the mortgage lender.
Burke undertook extensive efforts to disguise his true identity, and hide his criminal past, from his victims through the use of multiple aliases and business entities, and to conceal the sources of and expenditures from his criminal proceeds.
Between approximately 2011 to at least 2014, BARNEYS participated in dozens of meetings with Burke and with homeowners at BARNEYS’ law offices in Bridgeport. At the meetings, Burke represented to homeowners that he would purchase their properties and presented to the homeowners quitclaim deeds, management agreements, indemnification agreements, and third party authorizations.
BARNEYS was paid more than $72,000 in fees and other monies for his participation in the fraud.
At some point after BARNEYS began representing Burke in these meetings with homeowners, BARNEYS knew that Burke had no intention of buying the properties and paying the outstanding mortgages on the properties. Nevertheless, BARNEYS continued to participate in these meetings and represented that these transactions were legitimate. When questioned by homeowners about the status of their sales, BARNEYS would assure them that their sales to Burke or one of his companies were progressing as Burke promised. BARNEYS also knew that, once Burke obtained the properties from the homeowners, he would rent them out to tenants.
BARNEYS also represented Burke and his companies in eviction proceedings against tenants.
The investigation further revealed that BARNEYS engaged in separate fraud scheme similar to the scheme that Burke engineered. BARNEYS assisted two Maryland residents in purchasing a commercial property located on Boston Avenue in Bridgeport. BARNEYS then acted as a purported landlord for the property, executed long-term lease agreements with at least two tenants, and collected tens of thousands of dollars of rent without the actual owners’ knowledge or authorization and kept the funds for his own use.
On February 21, 2017, BARNEYS pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire a fraud.
BARNEYS’ law license was temporarily suspended by state authorities after he pleaded guilty, with additional proceedings scheduled to determine whether further discipline is warranted. Judge Shea ordered BARNEYS not to apply for reinstatement of his law license, and not to engage in any business related to real estate, while he is on supervised release.
On January 24, 2017, Burke pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of tax evasion. On April 28, 2017, he was sentenced to 108 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, with the critical assistance of the Middletown, Plainville, Easton and Coventry Police Departments, the Connecticut State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Huang and Sarah P. Karwan.
West Haven Woman Admits Robbing 3 Connecticut BanksRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that COURTNEY WORTHINGTON, 29, of West Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to one count of bank robbery and admitted that she robbed a total of three Connecticut banks in December and January.
According to court documents and statements made in court, WORTHINGTON robbed the TD Bank at 636 Campbell Avenue in West Haven on December 19, 2016; the Peoples Bank at 198 Amity Street in Woodbridge on January 2, 2017, and the TD Bank at 184 Route 81 on January 5, 2017. During each robbery, WORTHINGTON handed the teller a note containing threats and demanding money.
WORTHINGTON was arrested on January 5 at a hotel in East Haven. She has been detained since her arrest.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for October 11, 2017, at which time WORTHINGTON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI, the Connecticut State Police and the West Haven and Woodbridge Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Waterbury Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Charge Stemming from Overdose Death in WinstedRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PETER HASKELL, 32, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport 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, in the morning of April 17, 2016, Winchester Police officers and emergency medical personnel responded to a Winsted residence on the report of an unresponsive woman. The woman, who was 27, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Within the residence, officers located and seized several opened and unopened wax folds (“bags”) of suspected heroin/fentanyl, and other narcotics paraphernalia. Investigators also seized the victim’s cell phone.
The investigation revealed that the day before she was found dead, the victim traveled to Waterbury to purchase heroin from HASKELL.
The Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the victim’s death was caused by acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, heroin, hydrocodone and alcohol.
HASKELL was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on April 21, 2017, and has been detained since his arrest. When he is sentenced, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Winchester Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe and Fairfield Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert M. Spector and Natasha Freismuth.
Ledyard Man Who Distributed Heroin Involved in Overdose Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TIMOTHY PAPROCKI, 33, of Ledyard, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing heroin involved in an overdose death 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 April 12, 2016, Groton Town Police responded to a report of a medical emergency involving a 25-year-old male. The victim, who had used heroin, was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The investigation, which has included witness interviews and the review of cellphone records and text messages, revealed that the victim had arranged to purchase heroin from PAPROCKI. PAPROCKI then purchased the heroin from Rudy Hernandez and sold it to the victim.
PAPROCKI has been detained in state custody since his arrest on April 20, 2016. On December 20, 2016, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of distribution of heroin.
PAPROCKI has unrelated state charges pending, and Judge Shea ordered PAPROCKI to begin serving his 30-month federal sentence after he completes his state sentence.
On July 6, 2016, Hernandez, of New London, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of heroin. On November 21, 2016, he was sentenced to 34 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Town of Groton Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe and Fairfield Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Hartford Man Charged with Threatening Federal JudgeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DUSAN MLADEN, also known as David Mladen, 62, of Hartford, was arrested yesterday and charged by federal criminal complaint with threatening a federal official.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, MLADEN is currently a litigant in a proceeding pending before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the District of Connecticut, captioned In re: Eternal Enterprise, Inc. MLADEN formerly owned Eternal Enterprise, Inc., which is the owner of eight apartment buildings in Hartford, and he has continued to be active in the management and decision making for the company.
On July 5, 2017, the judge presiding over the Eternal Enterprise matter discovered in the mailbox of her residence an anonymous handwritten note containing the phrases “BACK OFF,” “YOU ARE OVERSTEPPING AUTHORITY” and “JUST WARNING FOR NOW.”
On July 10, 2017, the judge received a phone call that had been placed to her home phone number. During the call, the caller stated that he had visited the judge’s house last week and “I left a message for you.” He said that he wanted her to file an order tomorrow “extending the deadline to September 30,” and “then maybe everything will be ok.” Although the caller refused to identify himself, the judge recognized the voice as MLADEN’s. The U.S. Marshals Service subsequently confirmed that the cell phone used to make the call was at a location in the vicinity of MLADEN’s residence.
On July 11, deputy U.S. Marshals interviewed MLADEN at his residence. MLADEN was arrested after he made additional threatening statements about the judge.
Following his arrest, MLADEN appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven and was ordered detained. A detention hearing is scheduled for July 13 at 4:00 p.m.
The charge of threatening a federal official carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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. Marshals Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Nardini.
Ring Leader of Fraudulent Oxycodone Prescription Scheme Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID THOMPSON, also known as “Super Dave,” 43, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 168 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his leadership role in a scheme to distribute oxycodone that was obtained through fraudulent prescriptions.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2012, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that manufactured fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone and distributed the drug in the greater New Haven area. The investigation revealed that THOMPSON headed the organization that obtained the personal identifying information of medical practitioners and used the information to create fraudulent prescriptions. Organization members also purchased legitimate prescriptions for oxycodone from individuals. The organization then used individuals, or “runners,” to fill the fraudulent prescriptions at pharmacies throughout Connecticut. Once a runner provided his or her personal information to a member of the organization, the runner’s information was kept on file and used to create other fraudulent prescriptions.
Julian Cintron and Alejandrino DeJesus, also of New Haven, were key associates of THOMPSON who helped to recruit and transport runners to fill fraudulent prescriptions.
The investigation revealed that, between February 2013 and September 2015, the organization stole the personal identifying information of more than 50 doctors and medical professionals and fraudulently obtained more than 80,000 oxycodone pills. Investigators identified more than 800 fraudulent prescriptions passed by members of the organization using more than 270 different “patient” names.
Nearly all of the runners employed by the conspiracy held state-sponsored medical insurance, so the costs of the prescriptions were billed to Medicaid. Members of the drug trafficking organization then sold the oxycodone for $20 to $30 per 30 milligram pill.
Eleven individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.
THOMPSON has been detained since his arrest on September 10, 2015. On that date, agents searched his residence and seized approximately 12 fraudulent prescriptions and a drug ledger containing the names of “patients” and medicine codes.
On October 13, 2016, THOMPSON pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone.
DeJesus and Cintron also pleaded guilty. On November 7, 2016, DeJesus was sentenced to 132 months of imprisonment and, on April 3, 2017, Cintron was sentenced to 108 months of imprisonment.
The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy C. Brown and Robert M. Spector.
Drug Company Sales Rep Admits Role in Kickback Scheme Related to Fentanyl Spray PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NATALIE LEVINE, 33, of Scottsdale, Arizona, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of engaging in a kickback scheme that defrauded federal healthcare programs.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately March 2013 to October 2014, LEVINE was employed by Insys Therapeutics, an Arizona-based pharmaceutical company that manufactured and sold Subsys, a fentanyl-based sublingual spray that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration solely for the management of breakthrough pain in cancer patients. LEVINE was a sales representative for the company and was responsible for covering the territories that included Connecticut, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.
In pleading guilty, LEVINE admitted that she induced certain medical practitioners, including an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in Connecticut, a physician’s assistant (PA) in New Hampshire, and a physician in Rhode Island, to prescribe Subsys by paying them to participate in hundreds of sham “Speaker Programs.” The Speaker Programs, which were typically held at high-end restaurants, were ostensibly designed to gather licensed healthcare professionals who had the capacity to prescribe Subsys and educate them about the drug. In truth, the events were usually just a gathering of friends and co-workers, most of whom did not have the ability to prescribe Subsys, and no educational component took place. “Speakers” were paid a fee that ranged from $1,000 to several thousand dollars for attending these dinners. At times, the sign-in sheets for the Speaker Programs were forged so as to make it appear that the programs had an appropriate audience of healthcare professionals.
The medical practitioners were paid thousands of dollars in illegal kickbacks in order to prescribe Subsys, and induce others to prescribe Subsys, over similar medications. Medicare Part D plans authorized payment for hundreds of Subsys prescriptions written by the three medical practitioners, resulting in a loss of approximately $4.5 million.
LEVINE pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-kickback law, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000. Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for October 5, 2017.
This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas P. Morabito and Richard M. Molot.
Several other individuals affiliated with Insys Therapeutics, and medical practitioners involved in this kickback scheme, have been charged in the District of Connecticut and in other Districts across the United States.
U.S. Attorney Daly encouraged individuals who suspect health care fraud to report it by calling the Health Care Fraud Task Force (203) 785-9270 or 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
New York Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Southeastern Connecticut Drug RingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that QUADON CHAMBERS, also known as “DVD,” 30, of Queens N.Y., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.
This matter stems from a long-term investigation headed by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration into the large-scale distribution of narcotics in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation revealed that Sydney Jackson, also known as “Fatz,” and others regularly acquired kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in New York and transported the drugs to southeastern Connecticut. Much of the cocaine was converted to crack cocaine by Jackson in Connecticut, and the drugs were distributed through a network of dealers in Groton, Norwich, New London, Stonington, Westerly, R.I. and the surrounding area.
The investigation further revealed that John King, also known as “Soy,” of Queens, used an apartment on East Main Street in Norwich to store, process and package narcotics for street sale. CHAMBERS was arrested on April 28, 2015, after law enforcement officers made entry into the apartment and found him weighing and packaging narcotics for distribution. Officers seized approximately 150 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 80 grams of heroin from the apartment, and approximately $4,000 in cash from CHAMBERS’ person. Officers also searched a vehicle that was parked outside of the stash house and seized a kilogram of cocaine. The car was registered to John King.
On November 24, 2015, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 35-count superseding indictment charging CHAMBERS, Jackson, King and 10 other defendants with various narcotics trafficking and firearm offenses. In addition, approximately 20 individuals were prosecuted on related state charges.
CHAMBERS has been detained since his arrest. On November 4, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
On October 27, 2016, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”). On February 16, 2017, he was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment.
King has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut Department of Correction and Groton City, Groton Town, New London, Norwich and Waterford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dave Vatti and Joseph Vizcarrondo, with the assistance of Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Paul Narducci and David Smith of the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of New London.
Would-Be Hartford Soccer Stadium Developer Guilty of Fraud and Money Laundering OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a federal jury in Bridgeport today found JAMES C. DUCKETT JR., 45, guilty of conspiracy, fraud and money laundering offenses stemming from a scheme involving the redevelopment of Hartford’s Dillon Stadium and a plan to bring a professional soccer team to the city. The trial before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill began on June 26.
According to the evidence at trial, in September 2014, the City of Hartford entered into a professional services agreement with Mitchell Anderson and his company, Premier Sports Management Group (“PSMG”), to secure a professional soccer team and to develop a new, 9,000 seat facility at the Dillon Stadium location. Under the terms of the agreement, PSMG was entitled to receive $775,000 for serving as the project manager for the $12 million plan. In February 2015, Anderson joined with DUCKETT who agreed to be the majority owner of the professional soccer team. DUCKETT and Anderson represented to various city officials that PSMG and DUCKETT’s Black Diamond Consulting Group had merged for purposes of completing the Dillon Stadium project and securing the professional soccer team. DUCKETT represented that he was a former professional football player in the NFL and that Black Diamond was involved in a casino project and sports-related projects in Las Vegas and Atlanta.
Beginning in approximately March 2015, Anderson submitted invoices to the city for reimbursement to PSMG subcontractors working on the project. However, rather than pay the total amounts owed to PSMG’s subcontractors, DUCKETT and Anderson directed more than $1 million that PSMG received from the city to themselves, PSMG, Black Diamond, and other entities not related to the Dillon Stadium project. DUCKETT and Anderson also secured invoices from subcontractors who had not performed work for the project, which DUCKETT and Anderson caused to be submitted to the city as if the work had been performed. DUCKETT and Anderson then illegally used the proceeds of the fraud in a series of bank transactions to pay individuals and companies for expenses unrelated to the Dillon Stadium.
The investigation revealed that DUCKETT used funds that the city provided to PSMG to purchase a Range Rover that cost approximately $120,000, to pay unrelated attorneys’ fees and a $20,000 “finder’s fee” to an individual, and for other personal expenses including luxury clothing and jewelry items.
The jury found DUCKETT guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and eight counts of conducting illegal monetary transactions. The jury found DUCKETT not guilty of one count of conducting illegal monetary transactions.
Each of the conspiracy and wire fraud counts carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and each count of conducting illegal monetary transactions carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
A sentencing date is not scheduled.
DUCKETT was arrested on June 23, 2016. He is currently released on bond, on home detention with electronic monitoring.
On February 6, 2017, Anderson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, and one count of conducting illegal monetary transactions. He awaits sentencing. Anderson has agreed to make restitution in the total amount of $1,134,595.37 to the City of Hartford and two subcontractors of the Dillon Stadium project.
This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut Public Corruption Task Force, notably the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The Task Force also includes members from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development- Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The Hartford Police Department has also assisted the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Karwan and Douglas Morabito.
Citizens are encouraged to report corruption to the Connecticut Public Corruption Task Force by calling 203-238-0505.
Easton Man Involved in Steroid Distribution Ring is SentencedRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that RAYMOND J. MARTIN, 50, of Easton, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. Magistrate Judge Holly B. Fitzsimmons in Bridgeport to three years of probation and ordered to pay a fine of $10,000 for his role in a steroid distribution ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a long-term investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations revealed that Steven Santucci, a former Newtown Police sergeant, and others were receiving shipments of steroid ingredients from China and manufacturing and distributing wholesale quantities of steroids. Certain members of the conspiracy also distributed prescription pills, including oxycodone, as well as cocaine.
During the investigation, MARTIN was intercepted on a court-authorized wiretap ordering anabolic steroids and offering to sell oxycodone pills. At the time, MARTIN served as police commissioner for the Town of Easton.
MARTIN was arrested on July 14, 2015. On March 30, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.
Santucci pleaded guilty and, on August 25, 2016, was sentenced to 16 months of imprisonment, six months of home confinement, 120 hours of community service and a $5,000 fine.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Robert M. Spector.
New Milford Loan Shark Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMES BRODERICK III, 59, of New Milford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in an extortion conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in late December 2015 to early January 2016, BRODERICK lent an individual approximately $1,500 with an understanding that the individual was required to pay Broderick $1,500, plus an additional $500 in interest, within four days of the initial loan. When the individual failed to pay the loan within four days, BRODERICK asked Howard Hammer to assist him in collecting on the loan. Hammer then sent text messages to the victim that threatened harm to the victim if he failed to pay his debt. Hammer took screen shots of the threatening text messages and forwarded them to BRODERICK. BRODERICK and Hammer also discussed taking the victim’s car either as payment for the debt or as punishment for failure to pay the debt.
On January 25, 2016, members of the New Milford Police Department received a 911 call and responded to a local hotel where they found the victim of this extortion scheme, beaten and bloodied, in a room at the hotel. The victim had been stabbed eight times in back, causing internal injuries, and had suffered severe fractures to his skull and facial bones. The investigation revealed that members of the Hells Angels motorcycle club had stabbed the victim and beaten him with a hammer in connection with this extortion scheme.
BRODERICK also made several extortionate loans to a second victim. When the victim was unable to repay the usurious interest amounts, which were at least 10 percent of the principal per week, BRODERICK repeatedly threatened to use force to collect the debt. Over the course of three years, BRODERICK collected more than $20,000 in interest payments from this second victim.
BRODERICK and Hammer were arrested on May 27, 2016.
On December 7, 2016, BRODERICK pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to participate in the collection and attempted collection of an extension of credit by extortionate means.
On December 2, 2016, Hammer, of New Milford, pleaded guilty to the same charge. On June 1, 2017, he was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the FBI Violent Crime Task Force, New Milford Police Department and Connecticut State Police Western District Major Crime Squad. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
New London Man Sentenced to Nearly 20 Years in Prison for Role in 2012 HomicideRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDREW AVILES, also known as “P.A.” and “Papo,” 30, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 237 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in the September 2012 homicide of Javier Reyes of New London.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Oscar Valentin, also known as “Tato,” operated and managed a narcotics distribution enterprise at the “Green Garages,” a series of garage bays located as 12/14 Walker Street in New London. In the summer of 2011, Valentin was the intended victim of a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by former members of his enterprise in an attempt to take over narcotics distribution at the Green Garages. In September 2012, Valentin hired Nestor Pagan, also known as “Ernie” and “Naeem Medina,” to assault Javier Reyes. Pagan then hired Jose Rosado, Jr., also known as “Gugie,” and AVILES to carry out the assault of Reyes in exchange for cash.
On the evening of September 12, 2012, Reyes, 36, was stabbed multiple times outside of his apartment at 187 Huntington Street in New London, and died a short time later. He also had blunt force trauma to the back of his head.
Video surveillance at the time of the attack showed Rosado, carrying a baseball bat, and another individual, creeping toward Reyes and then running away from him about 15 seconds later.
The investigation revealed that Rosado hit Reyes with the bat, knocking him to the ground. AVILES then stabbed Reyes multiple times.
On January 22, 2015, AVILES pleaded guilty to violating the Travel Act by using a facility in interstate commerce, namely a cellular telephone, with the intent to commit a crime of violence in furtherance of an unlawful activity, and thereafter committed the crime of violence.
On May 2, 2016, a federal jury found Valentin guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, but could not reach a verdict on charges against Valentin and Pagan related to the assault of Javier Reyes. Valentin subsequently agreed that the government could prove that the murder of Javier Reyes was related to Valentin’s drug trafficking enterprise and, on June 22, 2017, he was sentenced to 201 months of imprisonment.
On August 11, 2016, Pagan pleaded guilty in state court to one count of conspiracy to commit assault first degree-aided by others. On August 23, 2016, he was sentenced to 17 years of incarceration. On that same date, the federal charges against him related to the assault of Reyes were dismissed. On March 7, 2017, as part of an unrelated case, Pagan pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. When he is sentenced on the firearm charge, as a result of a binding plea agreement, he will be sentenced to a 10-year concurrent sentence.
On July 22, 2014, Rosado pleaded guilty to one count of committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering, and aiding and abetting the same. On February 15, 2017, he was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the New London Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police’s Eastern District Major Crime Squad, the Connecticut Department of Correction, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service and the New London State’s Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Sarah Karwan, and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Paul Narducci.
DEA Task Force Investigation Dismantles Hartford-Based Heroin and Fentanyl Distribution RingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Hartford Police Chief James C. Rovella announced that the following 13 individuals were arrested today on federal charges related to the distribution of heroin and fentanyl in the Hartford area and western Massachusetts.
JOEL CORDERO, 37, of Meriden
EDWIN REYES, 34, of Hartford
GISEL DE LA CRUZ, 43, of East Hartford
ANGEL DE JESUS-CONCEPCION, a.k.a. “Blue,” 40, of East Hartford
ANTHONY ACOSTA, 28, of New Britain
GABRIEL CORDERO, 30, of Hartford
ALEXANDER PENA, 25, of East Hartford
AMARILIS PIRELA, 38, of Springfield, Mass.
JONATHAN VELEZ, 23, of Springfield, Mass.
HENRY CARABALLO, 26, of Hartford
FERNANDO TOLENTINO, Jr., a.k.a. “Humacao,” 46, of Hartford
DAILY PENA, 39, of Hartford
ANGEL RIJO-CASTILLO, 41, of Guttenberg, N.J.As alleged in criminal complaints and statements made in court, in October 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force began an investigation of an organization that was trafficking large quantities of heroin, fentanyl and other narcotics in Connecticut and western Massachusetts. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance, revealed that members of the organization were receiving bulk quantities of heroin and fentanyl from out-of-state suppliers. They then stored, processed and packaged the heroin/fentanyl in multiple locations, including apartments located at 280 Collins Street in Hartford where some of the defendants also resided, and then distributed the drug in the Hartford area, and also the Springfield and Holyoke, Massachusetts area. A significant amount of drug trafficking activity occurred at Neighborhood Supermarket, located at 316 Farmington Avenue in Hartford.
During the investigation and in association with today’s arrests, law enforcement executed 12 search warrants in Connecticut and Massachusetts and seized approximately 20 kilograms of suspected heroin, most of which was packaged for resale in hundreds of thousands of bags. Investigators also seized numerous vials of Xylazine, which is a horse tranquilizer used by narcotics traffickers as a heroin additive. Seven firearms also were seized.
“The seizure of 20 kilos of heroin makes clear this was a major drug distribution operation in the Hartford area,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The opioid epidemic continues to destroy lives in every corner of Connecticut. In partnership with the DEA, and the state and local police, we will continue to prioritize the prosecution of these responsible for trafficking this deadly drug.”
“Opioid abuse is at epidemic levels across New England and those suffering from opioid addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said Special Agent in Charge Ferguson. “But those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like fentanyl and heroin to the citizens of Connecticut need to be held accountable for their actions. Today’s seizure of pre-packaged suspected heroin and fentanyl is one of the largest in Connecticut and shows DEA’s commitment to aggressively pursue Drug Trafficking Organizations or individuals who distribute these poisons in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal partners and our strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
The complaint charges the defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, and possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin.
Following their arrests, the defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and were ordered detained.
U.S. Attorney Daly 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.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments. Agencies assisting the investigation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service and Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Bristol Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing Heroin to Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEITH ATWATER, 36, of Bristol, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 12 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing heroin that led to an overdose.
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 August 2, 2016, Bristol Police and medical personnel responded to a report of a medical emergency at a residence in Bristol. At the residence, they encountered an unresponsive 31-year-old male and pronounced him deceased shortly thereafter. Officers located and seized five empty wax folds that had contained suspected heroin, and other narcotics paraphernalia.
The investigation revealed that ATWATER had distributed the heroin consumed by the victim.
On August 23, 2016, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of heroin from ATWATER.
ATWATER was arrested on September 14, 2016. On that date, officers seized from him an additional quantity of heroin packaged for distribution.
On December 27, 2016, ATWATER pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
ATWATER who had been released on bond, was remanded to custody the conclusion of today’s court proceeding.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Bristol Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe and Fairfield Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy C. Brown.
Wallingford Man Admits to Stealing Bitcoins in Dark Web Phishing SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL RICHO, 35, of Wallingford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to fraud and money laundering offenses in connection with a scheme to steal bitcoins in an online phishing scheme.
According to the court documents and statements made in court, RICHO engaged in an online phishing scheme to steal bitcoins from individuals on the dark web. Bitcoins are a form of electronic currency, and online marketplaces on the dark web typically accept them as a payment method.
In pleading guilty, RICHO admitted that he posted fake links to online marketplaces on dark web forums. The links directed individuals to a fake login page that looked like the real login pages for the various online marketplaces. When individuals attempted to log in, RICHO stole his or her username and password. Once he had an individual’s username and password, RICHO monitored the individual’s bitcoin balance at the real marketplace. If the individual later deposited bitcoins with the real marketplace, RICHO withdrew the bitcoins before the individual could spend them and caused the stolen bitcoins to be deposited into his own bitcoin wallet. RICHO then sold the stolen bitcoins to others in exchange for U.S. currency, which was deposited into bank accounts that RICHO controlled or was provided to him through Green Dot Cards, Western Union transfers, and MoneyGram transfers.
In total, RICHO obtained more than $365,000 through his scheme. He also had more than 10,000 stolen usernames and passwords saved on his computer.
RICHO pleaded guilty to one count of access device fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and one count of money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on September 28, 2017.
As part of his plea agreement, RICHO has agreed to forfeit various computers and electronic devices, an assortment of precious coins and metals, and up to $365,000.
Since his arrest on October 5, 2016, RICHO has been released on bond with computer monitoring conditions.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Hartford Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing CrackRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT JONES, also known as “Y.O.,” 30, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from joint law enforcement investigation headed by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department that targeted a drug trafficking organization operating in Hartford’s North End that was distributing crack and powder cocaine. The investigation revealed that David Gil-Grande, of Manchester, received shipments of cocaine, secreted in sealed coffee cans, from Puerto Rico. He then supplied the cocaine to Anthony Shelton, also known as “Pretty,” Gerard Brown, also known as “Goldie,” and others, who converted much of the cocaine into crack and distributed both forms of the drug in the area of Barbour Street in Hartford.
The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, revealed that Shelton supplied crack cocaine to JONES who then sold the drug to his own customers.
Twenty individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.
JONES has been detained since his arrest on February 2, 2016. On February 15, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
JONES’s criminal history includes multiple drug-related convictions, a firearms offense, escape from custody, and multiple domestic violence incidents. He was on state probation while he engaged in the criminal conduct that resulted in this federal prosecution. He also has survived three separate shooting incidents since 2007.
Gil-Grande, Shelton and Brown have pleaded guilty to related charges. On January 31, 2017, Gil-Grande was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment. Shelton and Brown await sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, which includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and the Drug Enforcement Administration have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
New London Man Sentenced to More Than 16 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking, Role in 2012 HomicideRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that OSCAR VALENTIN, also known as “Tato,” 43, of New London, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 201 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking narcotics, and for his role in the September 2012 homicide of Javier Reyes of New London.
According to court documents and statements made in court, VALENTIN operated and managed a narcotics distribution enterprise at the “Green Garages,” a series of garage bays located as 12/14 Walker Street in New London. In the summer of 2011, VALENTIN was the intended victim of a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by former members of his enterprise in an attempt to take over narcotics distribution at the Green Garages. In September 2012, VALENTIN hired Nestor Pagan, also known as “Ernie” and “Naeem Medina,” to assault Javier Reyes. Pagan then hired Jose Rosado, Jr., also known as “Gugie,” and Andrew Aviles, also known as “P.A.” and “Papo,” to carry out the assault of Reyes in exchange for cash.
On the evening of September 12, 2012, Reyes, 36, was stabbed multiple times outside of his apartment at 187 Huntington Street in New London, and died a short time later. He also had blunt force trauma to the back of his head.
Video surveillance at the time of the attack showed Rosado, carrying a baseball bat, and another individual, creeping toward Reyes and then running away from him about 15 seconds later.
The investigation revealed that Rosado hit Reyes with the bat, knocking him to the ground. Aviles then stabbed Reyes multiple times.
On May 2, 2016, a federal jury found Valentin guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, but could not reach a verdict on charges against Valentin and Pagan related to the assault of Javier Reyes. As part of a commitment by the government not to seek a sentence of more than 235 months of imprisonment, VALENTIN subsequently agreed that the government could prove that the murder of Javier Reyes was related to VALENTIN’s drug trafficking enterprise.
On August 11, 2016, Pagan pleaded guilty in state court to one count of conspiracy to commit assault first degree-aided by others. On August 23, 2016, he was sentenced to 17 years of incarceration. On that same date, the federal charges against him related to the assault of Reyes were dismissed. On March 7, 2017, as part of an unrelated case, Pagan pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. When he is sentenced on the firearm charge, as a result of a binding plea agreement, he will be sentenced to a 10-year concurrent sentence.
On July 22, 2014, Rosado pleaded guilty to one count of committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering, and aiding and abetting the same. On February 15, 2017, he was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.
On January 22, 2015, Aviles pleaded guilty to violating the Travel Act by using a facility in interstate commerce, namely a cellular telephone, with the intent to commit a crime of violence in furtherance of an unlawful activity, and thereafter committed the crime of violence. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 29, 2017.
This matter has been investigated by the New London Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police’s Eastern District Major Crime Squad, the Connecticut Department of Correction, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Secret Service and the New London State’s Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Sarah Karwan, and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Paul Narducci.