District of Connecticut
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Man Who Defrauded Contributors to Sandy Hook-Related Charity is SentencedRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT TERRY BRUCE, 35, of Overland Park, Kan., formerly of Nashville, Tenn., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to three years of probation, the first six months of which BRUCE must spend in home confinement, for defrauding contributors to an organization he established after the December 2012 school shootings in Newtown.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the aftermath of the December 14, 2012, Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings in Newtown, BRUCE founded the 26.4.26 Foundation. The 26.4.26 Foundation solicited charitable donations for a variety of purposes, including “to help raise funds for increased school safety, families of victims, memorials to teacher heroes, awareness and prevention in schools across America.”
In early 2013, BRUCE solicited and received contributions to 26.4.26 in connection with a charity athletic event in Gilford, N.H., called the Schools 4 Schools run. BRUCE promoted the event via social media, and solicited contributions to 26.4.26 through an online PayPal account by representing to potential donors that the purpose of the event was “to help raise funds for increased school safety, families of victims, memorials to teacher heroes, awareness and prevention in schools across America.” BRUCE further represented to potential donors that “all proceeds will go to the 26.4.26 Foundation.”
Also in early 2013, BRUCE solicited contributions to 26.4.26 in connection with a charity athletic event in Tennessee called CrossFit Cares. As he had in the New Hampshire event, BRUCE promoted the event via social media, and solicited contributions to 26.4.26 through PayPal by representing to potential donors that “all proceeds will go to the 26.4.26 Foundation” and that the “mission of 26.4.26 is to provide funding for the families of victims, memorials for teacher heroes and to increase safety in schools across the country.”
Instead of using all of the donated funds to support his purported mission, BRUCE used $28,657.31 of donated funds to enrich himself and to support his personal training business. Judge Thompson ordered BRUCE to pay restitution in that amount to the Sandy Hook Special Revenue Fund, which is administered by the Newtown Board of Selectmen.
BRUCE was arrested on February 13, 2015. On May 12, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Wines.
Ledyard Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Crack, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAMIEN BRYANT, 41, of Ledyard, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”) and cocaine. BRYANT also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release that followed a previous federal conviction by committing the drug offense and associating with convicted felons while on release.
On March 5, 2010, BRYANT was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 42 months of imprisonment for distributing crack cocaine and violating the conditions of his supervised release from a previous federal conviction in the District of Rhode Island. He is currently serving a 10-year-term of federal supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2016, the Stonington Police Department received information that BRYANT was distributing crack cocaine. On March 9, 2016, members of the Regional Community Enhancement Task Force and the Ledyard Police Department executed a state search and seizure warrant at BRYANT’s residence and seized crack cocaine, cocaine, marijuana, narcotics paraphernalia and more than $14,000 in cash. BRYANT was arrested at that time.
BRYANT is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Underhill on January 7, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years for the narcotics offense, and an additional term of imprisonment of up to five years for violating his supervised release.
This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Regional Community Enhancement Task Force, and the Ledyard, Stonington and Groton Town Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John H. Durham with the assistance of Law Student Intern Joseph Falvey.
Fairfield Doctor Pleads Guilty to Illegally Prescribing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PAUL BELLOFIORE, M.D., 56, of Trumbull, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to one count of issuing unlawful prescriptions for oxycodone.
“Medical practitioners play a critical role in battling the epidemic of opioid abuse that we are experiencing,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The strict rules associated with prescribing controlled substances are in place for a reason: to help ensure that these highly-addictive narcotics aren’t abused or illegally diverted. Those who knowingly prescribe opiates in violation of federal law will be prosecuted.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, BELLOFIORE is a physician with an office in Fairfield. Two of BELLOFIORE’s longtime patients were a married couple who lived in Connecticut until approximately 2011, when they relocated to Florida.
BELLOFIORE knew that, prior to moving to Florida, the couple had unlawfully obtained forged prescriptions for opioid medications from BELLOFIORE’s former medical assistant and, as a result, he should have been aware of the possibility that the couple was abusing or diverting their medications.
After moving to Florida, the couple traveled to Connecticut approximately twice per year, during which visits they scheduled medical appointments with BELLOFIORE. At the conclusion of each appointment, BELLOFIORE provided the couple with approximately six months of predated prescriptions, including prescriptions for Oxycodone, to last until their next appointment.
At times, the couple was unable to travel to Connecticut to see BELLOFIORE and obtain their prescriptions in person, in which case BELLOFIORE left the predated prescriptions for a friend or relative of the couple to pick up from BELLOFIORE’s office. It was BELLOFIORE’s understanding that the friend or relative would fill the prescriptions each month at a pharmacy in Connecticut and mail the medications to the couple in Florida.
In approximately February 2016, BELLOFIORE provided a stack of prescriptions to a friend of the married couple. The prescriptions, which were improperly dated to make it appear that they were issued at monthly intervals after February 2016, authorized the couple to receive thousands of pills of oxycodone and Percocet, a medication containing oxycodone. BELLOFIORE also failed to include on the prescriptions the couple’s address in Florida, which might have alerted a pharmacist filling the prescriptions in Connecticut to the possibility that the medications were being abused or diverted.
The couple subsequently diverted a significant amount of their medications for profit by arranging through a middleman for street-level resale of the pills in and around Waterbury.
The Controlled Substances Act prohibits physicians from dispensing any Schedule II controlled substance, including oxycodone, without a valid written prescription. The prescription must be “dated as of, and signed on, the day when issued” and “bear the full name and address of the patient.” A practitioner also may not issue multiple prescriptions at any single time authorizing a patient to receive more than a 90-day supply of a Schedule II controlled substance.
BELLOFIORE is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on January 11, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year and a fine of up to $100,000.
BELLOFIORE was released pending sentencing. As a condition of his release, he is prohibited from writing prescriptions for controlled substances.
This investigation is being conducted by the DEA’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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Middletown Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL HUBBARD, 27, of Middletown, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from “Operation Pacifier,” an FBI investigation into Playpen, a global online forum through which registered users advertised, distributed and accessed child pornography. On February 20, 2015, the FBI seized a computer server hosting Playpen from a webhosting facility in North Carolina. Pursuant to a federal court order in the Eastern District of Virginia, the website operated under FBI supervision February 20 to March 4, 2015. During that time, the FBI collected information to identify members of Playpen.
Playpen had more than 150,000 members who created and viewed tens of thousands of postings related to child pornography. Images and videos shared through the site were highly categorized according to victim age and gender, as well as the type of sexual activity. The site also included discussion forums that included tips for grooming victims and avoiding detection.
The FBI determined that a user name connected to an IP address operating at HUBBARD’s Middletown residence had accessed Playpen for approximately 13 hours during the monitoring period. On July 16, 2015, the FBI searched HUBBARD’s residence and seized two laptop computers and two external hard drives. Forensic analysis of the computers and hard drives revealed approximately 354 videos and 6,851 images of child pornography, including images and videos of prepubescent minors and images and videos that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct.
HUBBARD was arrested on July 16, 2015. On July 5, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
West Haven Woman Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Distributing NarcoticsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DEBORAH MILLER, 60, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing narcotics.
According to court documents and statements made in court, at approximately 11:00 a.m. on July 4, 2015, an explosion took place on Wintergreen Avenue in Hamden. Responding law enforcement located a deceased white male, who had been wrapped in plastic garbage bag material and bound by rope material, in a wooded area close to where the explosion had occurred. An explosive-type device and debris were also located in close proximity to the body. The victim, who had also sustained three apparent gunshot wounds, was subsequently identified as Edward Brooks, 39, of West Haven.
After West Haven Police informed investigators that Brooks had been residing at 59 Front Avenue in West Haven, and that the residents of 59 Front Avenue, including MILLER, were subjects of an ongoing narcotics investigation, investigators executed a state narcotics search and seizure warrant at 59 Front Avenue and seized numerous items, including pipe bomb making materials that were consistent with the materials found at the Wintergreen Avenue explosion scene, approximately 16 grams of cocaine base (“crack cocaine), approximately 10.6 grams of methamphetamine and narcotics packaging material. Investigators also seized a surveillance DVR, which captured video surveillance from eight cameras placed around the residence.
The investigation revealed that between September 2014 and July 2015, MILLER and others conspired to distribute at least 1.6 kilograms of crack cocaine.
MILLER has been detained since her arrest on July 13, 2015. On April 25, 2016, she pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut State Police and West Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vanessa Richards, Stephen Reynolds and Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss. This investigation and prosecution is being coordinated with the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Ansonia-Milford.
East Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN THOMAS MINTER, also known as “Louch” and “Louch Ramsey,” 28, of East Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to distributing crack cocaine.
This matter stems from a long-term investigation being conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and Hartford Police Department into narcotics trafficking by members and associates of the Westhell and Team Grease groups and group-related violent activity.
According to court documents and statements made in court, MINTER was a member of Team Grease, which was originally called “Wall Street.” In April 2015, investigators conducted two controlled purchases of crack cocaine from MINTER. On April 14, MINTER sold approximately 105 grams of crack in exchange for $2,600 and, on April 24, he sold approximately 248 grams of crack in exchange for $5,200.
MINTER was arrested on April 30, 2015. On that date, a search of MINTER’s East Hartford residence revealed approximately 62 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 93 grams of powder cocaine and approximately $16,000 in cash.
MINTER pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”), an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
MINTER has been detained since his arrest.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and Hartford Police Department. The FBI Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Squad, Major Crimes Unit and Shooting Task Force, and the Capitol Region Emergency Response Team (CREST) have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John H. Durham and Peter S. Jongbloed.
West Haven Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Heroin Involved in Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on October 7, ALYSSA JELLIFFE, 23, of West Haven, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin that was involved in an overdose death in Milford in January 2015.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 12, 2015, a 39-year-old male died from an apparent heroin overdose at a residence in Milford. The investigation, which included analysis of text messages captured from the decedent’s cellular telephone, revealed that JELLIFFE and Christopher Fogler sold the decedent $170 worth of heroin on the evening of January 11, 2015.
On January 16, 2015, a court-authorized search of JELLIFFE and Fogler’s residence revealed approximately 10 bags of heroin and assorted drug paraphernalia, including a digital scale, razor blades and cut straws.
JELLIFFE and Fogler were arrested on January 16, 2015. JELLIFFE has been detained since February 26, 2016, when her bond was revoked.
On July 15, 2016, JELLIFFE pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin.
Fogler pleaded guilty to the same charge and, July 19, 2016, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Daly noted that the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DEA and police departments across Connecticut are working together to investigate and prosecute narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
This investigation was conducted by the DEA’s Bridgeport Task Force and the Milford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alina P. Reynolds.
Stamford Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal Prison for Selling Sawed-Off Shotgun, CocaineRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID JEUNE, also known as “Junie” and “June Bug,” 30, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 40 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for selling a sawed-off shotgun and cocaine.
This matter stems from “Operation Samson,” an investigation headed by the ATF and the Bridgeport and New Haven Police Departments that targeted violent criminals, illegal firearm possession and firearm trafficking. In the spring of 2014, approximately 40 ATF special agents and personnel from Connecticut and across the country were deployed with New Haven and Bridgeport Police to conduct numerous covert operations.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 3, 2014, JEUNE sold a sawed-off Mossberg model Regal 500 shotgun to an undercover agent in exchange for $350. The following day, JEUNE and another individual sold approximately one ounce of cocaine to the undercover agent in exchange for $1,250.
Prior to March 2014, JEUNE had been convicted of felony robbery and larceny offenses.
JEUNE has been detained since his arrest on April 2, 2014. On March 12, 2015, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon and one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, cocaine.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.
Former Stamford Resident Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Orchestrating Murder for Hire SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LARRY TALLEDO-TORREJON, 30, a citizen of Peru last residing in Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for orchestrating a murder for hire scheme. TALLEDO-TORREJON also was ordered to pay a $150,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in early December 2015, TALLEDO-TORREJON, as part of a contract to purchase a restaurant in Stamford for $300,000, provided the seller of the restaurant with $150,000 in cashier checks and an additional $150,000 in checks drawn on bank accounts with insufficient funds. On December 5, TALLEDO-TORREJON directed an individual who owed him $5,000 to follow the manager of the restaurant (“G.R.”) to his home in New York and to murder him. In exchange for doing so, TALLEDO-TORREJON agreed to forgive the $5,000 debt and to pay the individual an additional $5,000 in cash. The individual subsequently contacted law enforcement to report the incident, and then contacted TALLEDO-TORREJON to tell him that he had kidnapped G.R. and was holding him.
On December 7, 2015, TALLEDO-TORREJON provided the individual with a manila folder containing two copies of a receipt that falsely stated that TALLEDO-TORREJON had provided G.R. with $150,000. TALLEDO-TORREJON directed the individual to provide the receipts to G.R., coerce G.R. into signing them, and then kill him. TALLEDO-TORREJON told the individual that his pre-existing debt had been cancelled, and also suggested that they could start a business kidnapping and extorting money from persons.
On December 8, TALLEDO-TORREJON made a complaint with the Stamford Police Department falsely claiming that G.R. had stolen $150,000 that TALLEDO-TORREJON had provided G.R. to complete the purchase of the restaurant.
TALLEDO-TORREJON was arrested on December 8, 2015, after the individual provided him with the receipts signed by G.R., and TALLEDO-TORREJON provided the individual with $500 in partial payment for the murder.
TALLEDO-TORREJON has been detained since his arrest. He pleaded guilty to the offense on June 15, 2016.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
El Paso Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that that CHRISTOPHER CHAVEZ, 40, of El Paso, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a cocaine trafficking organization that transported large amounts of cocaine into Connecticut. CHAVEZ also was ordered to pay a $25,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CHAVEZ’s father, Raul Chavez, headed a cocaine trafficking operation that smuggled cocaine from Mexico into El Paso and then transported the drug to Connecticut and elsewhere. CHRISTOPHER CHAVEZ’s role in the conspiracy typically involved transporting the cocaine from locations in El Paso to a warehouse where it was secreted within the cargo of tractor trailers bound for Connecticut. He also received and delivered hundreds of thousands of dollars to the Sinaloa cartel.
In 2014, the Chavez organization attempted to find an additional source of supply for its Hartford area cocaine customers. In July 2014, a DEA confidential source met Andrew Duron in North Carolina. During the meeting, Duron told the confidential source that he wanted to purchase up to 50 kilograms of cocaine for $28,000 per kilogram. On August 14, 2014, Duron, the confidential source and an undercover DEA agent met in New Jersey where Duron agreed to purchase 25 kilograms of cocaine. In subsequent conversations with the confidential source, Duron stated that he wanted an extra $1000 per kilogram as a side deal. They agreed on a total price of $725,000 for 25 kilograms of cocaine.
On August 23, 2014, Duron met the undercover DEA agent at a location in Wethersfield. Duron told the undercover agent that his associates were in Connecticut and that Duron and the undercover agent would need to travel to a store parking lot near Bradley International Airport to verify that the money was in place. Duron and the undercover agent then drove in separate vehicles to a store parking lot on Kennedy Road in Windsor. Duron met with Raul Chavez and another associate in the store. A short time later, a third associate arrived in a Jeep Wrangler, met the undercover agent in the parking lot, showed him a duffel bag and said it contained “half” of the money. Shortly thereafter, investigators arrived at the scene and arrested Duron, Raul Chavez and his associates. Investigators also recovered from the Jeep a duffel bag containing approximately $284,000 in cash, and a loaded .38 caliber revolver.
After word reached CHRISTOPHER CHAVEZ that his father and others had been arrested, he coordinated the diversion of a shipment of 34 kilograms of cocaine that was en route to Connecticut to a high-level drug distributor in Cleveland, Ohio.
CHRISTOPHER CHAVEZ was arrested in El Paso on August 27, 2015. He has been detained since his arrest. On March 11, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Raul Chavez and Duron also pleaded guilty. On September 22, 2015, Duron, also of El Paso, was sentenced to 84 months of imprisonment. Raul Chavez awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, including personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Newington, and Wethersfield Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Connecticut U.S. Attorney's Office Celebrates Community Policing AwardsRead the Press Release
To commemorate National Community Policing Week, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut hosted a Community Policing Awards Ceremony this afternoon in New Haven that recognized 22 law enforcement officers and community members from cities and towns across the state.
“At heart, Community Policing is a philosophy that each of us, members of law enforcement and communities alike, have a stake in keeping our cities and towns safe and secure places to live,” said U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly. “During National Community Policing Week, we celebrate our commitment to supporting the practice of community policing. Police can never solve public safety problems alone. We encourage active community collaboration to improve safety, build public trust and deepen understanding between police and the communities they serve. The officers and community members recognized today are excellent examples of the best in community policing and community relations. I am confident that their efforts are making meaningful and lasting progress, and it is my great privilege to honor each of them and to thank them for their invaluable work.”
Below is a list of the award winners and the nominations that were submitted on their behalf.
The United States Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut, and with representing the federal government in civil litigation in the District. The District is composed of approximately 64 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and approximately 60 staff members at offices in New Haven, Hartford and Bridgeport.
Beacon Falls Police Department
Officer Caroline O’BarOfficer Caroline O’Bar is a 16-year member of the Beacon Falls Police Department who goes beyond the call of duty. Officer O’Bar networks with businesses and service organizations in town in order to provide for those families in need.
Officer O’Bar currently collects food at Thanksgiving, Easter baskets at Easter, backpacks for children going to school and runs a toy drive at Christmas. In addition, she helps Veterans and their families with their most immediate needs, O’Bar’s first priority is to make sure that everyone is fed and that children have something to open on Christmas.
In the past several years, Officer O’Bar’s hard work and dedication in the Town of Beacon Falls has changed lives for the better.
Officer O’Bar is always exploring new ways to protect and enhance the lives of those who are most vulnerable--juveniles, the elderly, minorities, the poor, and the disabled.
Bristol Police Department
Officer Jace DelucaOfficer Jace Deluca began his law enforcement career with the Bristol Police Department in 2008. In the 8 years since he was hired, he has immersed himself into several community events. Officer Deluca is assigned to the night shift. He devotes his days (while most other night shift officers are sleeping) to volunteering to put together community policing programs in the City of Bristol.
Officer Deluca is a volunteer advisor to the Bristol Police Explorers Program, a youth program that exposes those under 18 to the law enforcement profession. He has also organized “Cop on Top,” a weekend fundraising event that benefits the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Lastly, Officer Deluca is the Bristol liaison to the Special Olympics and as such has organized the Torch Run, Tip a Cop and Car Shows. These events raise money for the Special Olympics and educate the public about the good work of the organization.
Officer DeLuca is a credit to the Bristol Police Department. While on duty he is the true professional. What makes him special is that he takes professionalism a few steps further while he is off duty. Though you won't hear it from him, he truly believes in giving back to the Community he serves. Officer DeLuca is extremely humble. When you praise or acknowledge his performance, he will routinely respond that he doesn't deserve any credit. That the credit goes to the people around him and the Bristol Police Department. That the credit goes to the “kids,” usually referring to the Bristol Police Explorers, because they are the ones doing the “work.” Officer DeLuca has a remarkable way of bringing people together to do good things on and off the job. It’s his actions that speak for him. Officer DeLuca is an exemplary Police Officer and the Bristol Police Department is proud to have him among the rank and file. He and like-minded Officers are projecting us towards excellence and for that we thank him.
Connecticut State Police
Trooper First Class Stephen Pickett
Killingly Resident TrooperThe Connecticut State Police is not your ordinary state police force in that there are approximately 68 towns throughout the state which have no organized municipal law enforcement agency to provide police services; as a result, Connecticut State Troopers are responsible for providing all police services in these jurisdictions. One such jurisdiction is the Town of Killingly which has approximately 16,400 residents and is approximately 358 square miles in size.
Trooper First Class Stephen Pickett is the Killingly Resident State Trooper and has held that position since January of 1997. As a Resident Trooper, the equivalent of a Community Policing Officer, TFC Pickett is heavily vested in the quality of life for all Killingly Residents, has established a respectful rapport with all residents to include habitual criminal offenders, has immersed himself in the day to day happenings from the seemingly inconsequential to the significant, all while fostering a strong relationship with town officials, business owners and the community at large.
TFC Pickett is an individual who carries himself as a consummate professional, day in and day out, routinely outperforming his/her peers and quietly/humbly leading by example, ultimately having an indelibly positive impact on the community he serves. Throughout his almost 22-year tenure assigned to serve the Killingly Community, he has responded to almost 25,000 calls for service and investigated approximately 1800 criminal incidents. And today, just like his first day in uniform on January 23, 1992, he is proactive, enthusiastic, energetic, tenacious, “spit and polished,” physically fit and a role-model which all law enforcement officers should strive to emulate.
Coventry Police Department
Sergeant Michael McDonaghSergeant Michael McDonagh has been a member of the Coventry Police Department for 27 years and is the senior member of the agency. He is assigned as a patrol sergeant. Sergeant McDonagh has been an integral part of the community his entire career. He knows thousands of people in the community and uses his knowledge as both an investigator and a problem-solver. Everyone in our town either knows Sergeant McDonagh, or knows of him. He is active on his off-duty time in many community activities including high school sports. Sgt. McDonagh regularly works at the high school football games. He often goes into the grandstands with the band members and will play various instruments to the amusement of the students and the attendees. The high school band even has a song they dedicate to Sgt. McDonagh at each game.
Sergeant McDonagh maintains close ties with the Coventry School District and regularly communicates with the administration, principals, teachers and students. On a regular basis, he goes into each school and has lunch with the students. He has a special connection with members of the community, especially children and has a great sense of humor which often puts people at ease.
As a strong advocate of our agency and community policing, Sergeant McDonagh’s email signature includes: “Citizens never forget their experiences with Police Officers. You represent not only yourself, but the entire department and the community.”
Farmington Police Department
Officer Joseph P. CapodiferroOfficer Capodiferro recently retired after 26 years of service to the Town of Farmington. He is a 3rd generation Farmington Police Officer and has remained with the Department as a Supernumerary Officer.
We hear so much today about the need to embrace community policing as a department wide philosophy in order to repair relationships with our citizens. At Farmington PD we have lived that philosophy for decades. It’s engrained in who we are as an agency and are proud of the close relationship we have with our community. Officer Capodiferro has been an integral part of developing that relationship; I can comfortably say that he exemplifies the face of community policing in Farmington. Officer Capodiferro truly understands how important it is to be up close and personal with the community he serves.
Officer Capodiferro’s personality, demeanor, and commitment to Farmington made him the perfect choice when we were looking to reintroduce our K-9 program that had been active for decades. It was a position where he truly perfected his community policing skills, carving out his legacy at Farmington PD. We knew we wanted someone who could seamlessly integrate a K-9 into our community. We wanted a dog that could perform all the typical police K-9 functions, yet be social enough to promote a positive feeling among our residents, especially the children, the elderly, and special needs individuals. Some handlers and trainers said it couldn’t or shouldn’t be done, but Officer Capodiferro took on the challenge and excelled. Side by side with his partner Drak, they spent years as a team, building strong bonds between the police department and the community.
Hartford Police Department
Lieutenant Michael Cacioli
Lieutenant Gabriel LaureanoHartford Police Department Lieutenants Gabriel Laureano and Michael Cacioli are longtime members of the Department who continually strive to improve police and community relations. These individuals bear policing responsibility for uniformed patrol and community service efforts in North & South Hartford and, as such, have dedicated themselves to public service, outreach and a commitment to making the City a safer place. Although constantly on call with 24/7 area responsibility, Lieutenants Laureano & Cacioli have embraced their positions and do so at the sacrifice of their personal and family lives. They have formulated and maintained relationships with the faith based community, neighborhood leaders and organizers, business groups, youth groups and peacebuilding groups. Over the course of time, those relationships and the continual dialogue with those groups have decreased the potential for street level violence and anti-police sentiment and have increased the potential for better, constructive and goal oriented cooperation with the police.
Lieutenants Laureano and Cacioli constantly spearhead and oversee initiatives to combat gun and drug related violence, improve neighborhood quality of life and positively interact with area schools. They keep their fingers on the pulse of neighborhood activity, do so with zeal and enthusiasm and continually motivate their personnel to embrace the tenets of professionalism and effective public service. Their ongoing efforts continue to bring noticeable reductions in crime as well as improvements in neighborhood quality of life.
Ledyard Police Department
Officer Rick McSwainOfficer Rick McSwain serves as Ledyard Police Department’s Youth Officer and School Resource Officer. He is a great example of how effective one officer can be in a community while interacting with its youth.
Officer McSwain often can be found helping students and staff in Ledyard’s Public Schools. He has developed tremendous ties and relationships within the school community. He makes safety presentations, eats lunch with students in the schools, and is a 24/7 resource for Ledyard’s youth and families.
In addition to his school based interactions, Rick gives tours of our police department to community groups, scouts, and other youth groups. He is involved with Ledyard’s “Stuff a Cruiser” toy drive in the holiday season. He has been invited to throw out the first pitch on opening day of little league, heads up our participation in Ledyard Children’s Day, and serves on the Ledyard Schools Crisis Team.
He makes appearances without compensation at Ledyard Lions Club meetings, and in June, he was invited to speak at the American Legion Boys’ State Leadership Program at Eastern Connecticut State University. He is also a member of Ledyard’s newly formed Juvenile Review Board for court diversion.
Middletown Police Department
Sergeant Michael LukanikIn October of 2015, the north end of the city experienced a significant increase in violent crime. Sgt. Michael Lukanik was tasked with the assignment of addressing this problem. Sgt. Lukanik conducted an initial threat assessment. The main issues were stemming from a specific one block area known as Wharfside Commons (90+ unit housing complex). Sgt. Lukanik began by meeting with the citizens, NEAT (North End Action Team) and the management team of Wharfside Commons. He identified problematic areas and people. Sgt. Lukanik was critical in implementing directed patrols, adding cameras and fencing in areas of concern, and evicting problematic tenants. He continually meets with the citizens, NEAT and housing management on a monthly basis. He has assigned Police personal to attend meetings, established long term beats and personally monitored his strategy. Sgt. Lukanik deployed a community policing approach in which he encourages citizen partnership, community policing through environmental design and officer involvement. Since the inception of Sgt. Lukanik’s many contributions, violent crime in this area decreased significantly.
Sgt. Michael Lukanik’s passion for his work has resonated throughout the community and made the north end of Middletown a safer and better place to live. Further, his efforts have expanded beyond the north end and are being used as an example for other areas of the City of Middletown.
New Haven Police Department
Officer Elsa BerriosElsa Berrios is a 21-year veteran of the New Haven Police Department. Recently, she “adopted” an 80 year-old Veteran who suffers with mental health challenges. She made regular visits with his clinician and was instrumental in getting him into the VA for treatment and later into the Mary Wade Home where he resides today. Before Officer Berrios intervened, the Veteran had no family support, and was living in squalor in a third floor apartment where he had to crawl up the stairs each day after going to Tip Top Deli for food. The toilet and shower were not in working order and he had holes in his shoes and clothing. He was often taunted by kids on the street and sometimes pushed to the ground.
Due to his mental illness, he was afraid of people and would not accept any food or clothing except from the owner of Tip Top. Once the veteran became familiar with Elsa, who made regular visits to the VA and now the Mary Wade Home, he looks for her to visit. Elsa has purchased much needed items for him, without Elsa, the Veteran would not have any visitors or the “comforts” of home.
There are many families in the Hill that Elsa has helped including one on Asylum St. After meeting the mother, she discovered that her children were lacking in bedding and other essentials. She contacted the Police Academy and recruited the cadets to help this family and provide them with much needed items.
Many kids in the Church Street South Housing Complex have hats and mittens due to Elsa’s kindness. She is always the first to volunteer to help out needy families, especially at the holidays.
Elsa is always, and continues to be, a “go to person” for any resident, officer or supervisor.
Norwalk Police Department
Lieutenant Terrence Blake
Sergeant Sophia Gulino
Officer Felipe TabordaBeginning in January 2016, the Norwalk Police Department (NPD) partnered with Pathways, an alternative high school to create a curriculum to educate its students about policing in a fun and positive manner. The inaugural class was offered as a semester-long elective for 11 students that met for a weekly 2½ hour seminar. The class is taught entirely by members of the NPD, and is principally led by Lieutenant Terrence Blake, Sergeant Sophia Gulino, and Office Felipe Taborda. Scholastically, the program provides the students with insight into law enforcement as a career. More importantly, the program seeks to bridge a gap between the police and younger members of the community, many of whom did not previously hold a positive opinion of law enforcement.
Over the course of the 17-week program, the students have participated in police officer training through academic and practical offerings. For example, the students spent three weeks learning about different roles within the NPD by investigating a mock homicide. This scenario–a domestic violence homicide–was also used as an opportunity to discuss family violence, which is a pervasive issue in many of the kids’ homes.
The NPD team also arranged for the students to meet with key participants in the justice system, including a state’s attorney, a public defender, police chiefs, a Superior Court Judge, and a U.S. District Judge. All of these individuals met with the students in informal settings to discuss the educational and career choices they had made and the hardships they overcame along the way.
The sincere commitment by the NPD to connect with its city’s youth in such a constructive and innovative manner has been an inspiration to all. The program is built on hard work, trust and understanding, and enhanced by healthy doses of laughter and fun. With these critical cornerstones securely in place, the officers and students have begun to tackle the heady and all too often polarizing issue of car stops–but this time in an atmosphere of respect.
Norwalk Police Department
Officer Cesar RamirezOn August 3, 2016, in the wake of officer-involved shootings in Louisiana and Minnesota and the subsequent murders of five police officers in Dallas, the Norwalk Department of Police Service sought to find ways to ease tensions and to promote unity between the community and law enforcement. To that end, Police Officer Cesar Ramirez, a Norwalk resident who has also been a member of the Norwalk Police Department for over 25 years, planned an Interfaith Prayer Vigil.
On the day of the vigil, more than 200 people gathered on the courtyard in front of the police department. The widely diverse crowd joined hands, prayed, and sang together in a great show of solidarity. Representatives from twenty of Norwalk’s faith-based institutions spoke and prayed in English, Spanish, Italian, French, Creole, Hindi, and Hebrew. The event not only fostered a positive dialogue between law enforcement and the community, but also joined together different segments of the community who displayed a great respect for one another’s cultures and beliefs.
Norwich Police Department
Officer Christopher ChastangOfficer Chastang has been a member of the Norwich Police Departments’ Community Policing Unit since its start in 2011.
Officer Chastang engages with a broad spectrum of community members and helps to create a sustainable atmosphere in which the citizens of Norwich can work, play, and raise families. Officer Chastang’s comprehensive approach includes the community in which he serves, and together they focus on the root of problems. He builds partnerships in which officers and citizens are the “problem solvers.” Officer Chastang’s work has been creative and empowering — and as a result has resonated throughout the Norwich Police Department and the City of Norwich. Through his efforts, Norwich Police Department has become a proactive and highly collaborative department.
Officer Chastang has volunteered as a Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) basketball coach and spent his off duty hours away from his family to coach 5-6-year-old Norwich children in the fundamentals of team support, friendships, good sportsmanship, and athletic abilities.
Officer Chastang has spearheaded the National Night Out Event in the City of Norwich for approximately three years. Some of his duties were to plan the entire event, raise donations from local businesses, coordinate the efforts of the vendors, and evaluating each years’ events. The 2016 NNO event was a huge success which brought in over 3,000 citizens which is a direct result of his efforts.
Officer Chastang attends monthly Neighborhood watch meetings and assists those citizens solve problems within their area. He has repeatedly recognized by The St Vincent DePaul “Soup Kitchen” for assisting citizens in need.
Town of Southington
Chris Conlon
Smokin With ChrisChris Conlon, a former West Hartford and Southington Fireman continually gives back to his community. Having worked as a career first responder, he knew he wanted to thank those who protect and serve his community. While he had been thinking about putting on such an event for four years, he knew now was the time to act. On August 29, 2016, Chris Conlon, the owner of Smokin with Chris Restaurant in Southington, held a First Responder Appreciation Night. In an effort to accommodate all shifts of personnel, this event was held throughout the day from 2:00 pm through 8:00 pm. Smokin with Chris provided free food and drink to Southington Police, Fire and EMS personnel and their families. Even his employees volunteered to work on their day off to support local first responders. Overall, Chris served meals to 200 first responders and family members at the event that brought together community and first responders in a genuine show of appreciation.
This is not the first time Chris Conlon has been honored for his community service. In March of 2015 he was awarded the Southington Stars Community Service Award by the United Way of Southington for continually donating food from his restaurant to support local organizations like the Southington Chamber of Commerce, Southington High School Marching Band, the United Way and many others. During that award ceremony, Conlon stated “I’m humbled because there are so many people that do so much more than I do,” said Conlon. “One grain of sand does not make the beach nor does one tree make a forest, but together we are a community, and this is what it’s about.”
Stamford Police Department & Domus Kids, Inc.
Sergeant Joe Kennedy
Francesca PrincipeThe Stamford Police Department has had successful community outreach programs with longevity that improve each year such as our School Resource Officer Camp(co-ed), Mighty Mite basketball(co-ed), Domestic Home Visitation, and a host of others but the girls deserved and needed their own program.
The Stamford Police Department therefore partnered with Domus Kids, Inc. — together they have had a long history of collaborating on many youth initiatives. The Young Girls Leadership program unites middle school aged girls from Domus Chester Addison Community Center with female police officers. The core principal of the program is to promote positive youth/police relationships by promoting positive youth development by enhancing life skills competencies. It seeks to build trust and mutual respect between the youth and officers. The program includes activities designed to increase the opportunity for youth and officers to proactively engage with the larger community through community service events. The youth are expected to assume leadership roles in planning and implementation of these events. One of the most impactful outcomes of the community service events is to make the youth realize that they possess the capacity to be agents of positive change in our community. For youth, program activities will significantly enhance their life skills, competencies and promote better life choices that lead to better outcomes at school and at home, as well as improved interactions with their peers and the larger community.
Stamford Police Department
Officer Jerry JunesOne of the Stamford Police Department’s largest volunteer programs is the Mighty Mites Basketball Program. This program involves hundreds of Stamford children ages 5 through 16 in a variety of programs that are administered by police officers in conjunction with community members, and the corporate world. The main part of this program is basketball where kid’s families act as coaches, and to get the whole family involved girls are the cheerleaders. The corporate world helps in part to subsidize our program. Each year approximately 200 boys and girls participate many of whom are repeat participants in the Mighty Mite Basketball league. Over 50 girls participate as cheerleaders. As you might imagine, the gymnasiums bring together the police officers who act as coaches, mentors, and referees, the families including older siblings, and the guardians cheering and rooting for each other. A good time is had by all during the game and the games are talked about all week long.
By getting to know each other in a relaxed environment, a positive view of law enforcement personnel is reinforced for these youngsters and their families will become more comfortable confiding in officers and sharing concerns with them. The Police Officers benefit too. Spending time with these families gives officers insight into their personalities, backgrounds, struggles and needs that come in handy in future encounters.
Mighty Mites basketball is run for 4 months of the year in two different parts of town in their respective community centers. Each child is given a uniform (which they proudly wear everywhere including to school), backpacks, a basketball, and a trophy.
Suffield Police Department
Sergeant Geoffrey Miner|
Dispatcher Nicholas FasanoDispatcher Fasano and Sergeant Miner are lifelong residents of Suffield and have been friends for several years. In an effort to implement some of the recommendations from the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, they were asked to take charge of our social media accounts.
After last April’s snow storm, Sergeant Miner and Dispatcher Fasano posted booking photos of Chuckles the state groundhog on the Suffield Police Department’s Facebook page indicating that they had arrested him for false statement about predicting an early spring. These postings on Facebook went viral throughout the country and media stations from throughout the area wanted to interview them. They furthered the idea and turned it into a fundraiser for the Lutz Children’s Museum, where Chuckles lives, by having sponsors “Post” his bond. Chuckles was eventually pardoned by the Suffield First Selectwoman. The project drew a large amount of media attention and raised nearly $970 for the museum.
Sergeant Miner and Dispatcher Fasano also started a community policing event called “Chill with a Cop,” which is hosted at our local ice cream shop. Instead of “Coffee with a Cop,” this idea was formed to allow people to come out and join us on hot days in the summer. Sergeant Miner also hosted a Pokémon Go Event, which drew hundreds of people out of their houses to take part. Sergeant Miner is a fellow Pokémon player and was able to interact with the attendees in ways that most of us cannot. This was a safe event for all ages to spend some time with Suffield Police Officers. Sergeant Miner and Dispatcher Fasano are two young and outgoing members of the Suffield Police Department and their community policing contributions have helped bring a lot of positive feedback to the Suffield Police Department.
Windsor Police Department
Officer Joshua AmaroSince taking his role as School Resource Officer (SRO) at Windsor High School, Officer Joshua “Josh” Amaro has quickly become the “ultimate” community policing officer to students, faculty and staff, family members, and all community members in Windsor. Even prior to his appointment as SRO, Officer Amaro began developing ways to communicate in a timely and transparent manner to all members of the community, young and old, via social media. He developed and implemented a “WindsorHighSRO” public Facebook page and @WindsorSRO Twitter feed. Most recently, during August 2016, SRO Amaro received the happy endorsement of Windsor Public School District administrators to create and maintain a webpage on the Windsor Public School website. On these social media applications, SRO Amaro has discussed laws relevant to teenagers and their families such as Teen Driving statutes, Texting and driving laws, Halloween safety tips, bicycle safety, and seatbelt laws among other topics.
A recent video which SRO Amaro created and distributed prior to the start of the school year, depicts various members of the Windsor Police welcoming students back to school. Another video reminds parents of traffic patterns at Windsor High School.
SRO Amaro not only promotes and attends as many community events as he possibly can, he also creates them such as a Video Game Tournament night for students.
SRO Amaro seeks out every opportunity to engage his school based community and the larger community of Windsor. SRO Amaro is not just the well-recognized face of the Windsor Police Department. More significantly, SRO Amaro has fostered relationships and built bridges with youth and community residents through his use of social media and his community involvement. His postings have allowed citizens, especially youth in the multi-cultural community of Windsor, to see police officers as “people” too.
Waterford Man Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LUIS ZAYAS, also known as “Guichan,” 40, of Waterford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 85 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in early 2012, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the U.S. Secret Service and the New London Police Department initiated an investigation to combat the large-scale trafficking of heroin and cocaine from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico into and around southeastern Connecticut. The investigation revealed that certain members of the conspiracy coordinated the shipment of heroin, and sometimes cocaine, via human couriers from the Dominican Republic to the United States. Other members of the conspiracy obtained kilogram-quantities of cocaine in Puerto Rico and then mailed the drug to locations in and around New London where it was sold to distributors and customers. Narcotics were also obtained from sources in New York City and Rhode Island.
ZAYAS and Pedro Rivera, also known as “Cheito,” arranged the shipment of cocaine from sources in Puerto Rico to the New London area. ZAYAS and Rivera then distributed the cocaine to customers in southeastern Connecticut through a network of associates.
More than 100 individuals were charged with federal and state offenses as a result of this investigation.
ZAYAS was arrested on April 3, 2013. On January 29, 2015, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Rivera also pleaded guilty and on December 9, 2015, he was sentenced to 116 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Secret Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Air and Marine; Connecticut State Police; New London Police Department, Norwich Police Department, Waterford Police Department, Groton Town Police Department, East Lyme Police Department and Putnam Police Department. The United States Marshals Service; ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations; Drug Enforcement Administration; HSI Assistant Attaché, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; HSI Arecibo, Puerto Rico Resident Office; Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; Connecticut Department of Correction, Parole and Community Services; and the Groton City, Willimantic, New Haven and Bristol Police Departments have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The federal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah P. Karwan, Alina P. Reynolds and Henry K. Kopel. The state cases were prosecuted by the State’s Attorney for the New London Judicial District and Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Paul Narducci and Stephen Carney.
New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Fentanyl-Laced Cocaine Involved in Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EMETH SOLOMAN, 43, of New Haven, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 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.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 23, 2016, 17 individuals in New Haven overdosed after consuming narcotics. Three of the victims died. An investigation conducted by the DEA and New Haven Police Department revealed that many or all of the victims believed the substance they were consuming was cocaine. However, DEA laboratory testing indicated the cocaine was laced with fentanyl, a powerful opioid that can be at least 50 times more powerful than heroin.
The investigation revealed that SOLOMAN purchased a quantity of the fentanyl-laced cocaine from his supplier, Frank Pina. SOLOMAN intended to, and did, in fact, consume some of the cocaine and sold the remainder to his niece for her consumption. SOLOMAN’s niece overdosed and died.
When questioned by federal law enforcement officers shortly after the overdose death of his niece, SOLOMAN intentionally provided false information concerning his knowledge of Pina’s drug trafficking activities and his involvement in his niece’s overdose death. SOLOMAN’s false statements during an ongoing public health crisis significantly impeded law enforcement’s investigation and efforts to ensure that the lethal cocaine/fentanyl mixture was removed from circulation on the streets of New Haven.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for January 16, 2017, at which time SOLOMAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Pina was arrested on June 27, 2016. On August 4, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 31, 2016.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the New Haven Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Citizen of Colombia Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CARLOS ALBERTO DEOSA-MUNERA, 56, of Colombia, waived indictment and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DEOSA-MUNERA has been previously deported from the U.S. on four occasions. DEOSA-MUNERA, who had been residing in Waterbury, was convicted of sexual assault in the third degree and incarcerated within the Connecticut Department of Correction. Federal immigration officers visited DEOSA-MUNERA at the Department of Correction facility, advised him of his Miranda rights and questioned him. DEOSA-MUNERA admitted that he was born in Colombia, remains a citizen of that country and had been previously deported on multiple occasions.
When he is sentenced, DEOSA-MUNERA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.
This investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Detention and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Waterbury Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Distribution ChargeRead 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, announced that RONALD WEAVER, 38, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin. 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.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 11, 2016, Newtown Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Newtown on the report of a 30-year-old female who was in cardiac arrest. The victim was transported to the hospital where she subsequently died. Medical records and witness interviews revealed that the victim had a history of substance abuse, and the family of the victim turned over to law enforcement several wax folds of heroin, several empty folds and other drug paraphernalia.
The investigation revealed that the victim purchased heroin and other drugs from at least two sources in the days leading up to her death. One of the sources worked as a “runner” who conducted drug transactions for WEAVER.
Between June and August 2016, law enforcement made four controlled purchases of heroin from WEAVER.
WEAVER has been detained since his arrest on August 9, 2016. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill on December 28, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Newtown, Waterbury and Torrington Police Departments. The Task Force includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Wallingford Man Charged with Stealing Bitcoins in Dark Web Phishing 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 MICHAEL RICHO, 34, of Wallingford, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with access device fraud, computer fraud, wire fraud, identity theft and money laundering offenses in connection with a scheme to steal bitcoins in an online phishing scheme.
According to the criminal complaint, 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.
The complaint alleges that RICHO 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 a bank account that RICHO controlled.
The complaint alleges that RICHO had over 10,000 stolen usernames and passwords saved on his computer.
RICHO appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $100,000 bond.
Money laundering carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, access device fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, computer fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Former Financial Advisor Sentenced to 41 Months in Federal Prison for Stealing More Than $1.2 MillionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT N. TRICARICO, 60, formerly of Darien, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 41 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for stealing for than $1.2 million from an elderly client.
Until April 2015, TRICARICO was a registered securities broker with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. He was formerly employed or associated with various financial firms, including RNT Wealth Management, Northstar Wealth Partners, LPL Financial, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from January 2010 to June 2013, TRICARICO acted as a financial advisor for an elderly and infirm victim who had substantial assets. TRICARICO misappropriated more than $1.1 million from the victim by writing numerous checks to himself or for his benefit without the victim’s authorization. TRICARICO also liquidated a coin collection belonging to the victim, and he misappropriated checks made payable to the victim. TRICARICO used the stolen funds to make personal expenditures.
TRICARICO also defrauded two additional victims of $20,000 by falsely representing to them that he would use their investments for a business venture and guaranteed a rate of return. In fact, TRICARICO used the victims’ funds for his own personal use.
Judge Shea ordered TRICARICO to pay restitution in the amount of $1,220,763.90.
On June 16, 2016, TRICARICO pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
At the conclusion of today’s sentencing, TRICARICO, who had been released on bond, was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Greenwich Police Department and Connecticut Department of Banking. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
Ansonia Man Admits Role in Steroid and Prescription Pill Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEFFREY GENTILE, 34, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of using a telephone to facilitate the distribution of amphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
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.
The investigation revealed that Alex Kenyhercz, of Ansonia, purchased anabolic steroids from Santucci and distributed them to others. Kenyhercz also illegally distributed prescription medication, including Roxicodone, Oxycodone, Suboxone and Opana.
In pleading guilty, GENTILE admitted that he obtained steroids from Kenyhercz by paying him, in part, with Adderall, which is an amphetamine.
At the time of this offense, Gentile was a Connecticut Juvenile Detention Officer.
GENTILE was arrested on April 29, 2015. When he is sentenced, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of four years and a fine of up to $250,000.
Santucci and Kenyhercz each pleaded guilty. On August 25, 2016, Santucci was sentenced to 16 months of imprisonment, six months of home confinement, 120 hours of community service and a $5,000 fine. Kenyhercz awaits sentencing.
This matter has been 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.
Rhode Island Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Banks in Connecticut and MassachusettsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT CHADRONET, 38, formerly of East Providence, R.I., pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of bank robbery and admitted that he committed two bank robberies in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CHADRONET used force, violent and intimidation to rob approximately $1,000 from a branch of TD Bank located at 1003 West Main Street in Branford, Conn., on July 27, 2015; approximately $2,329 from a branch of Citizens Bank located at 1187 Boston Post Road in Westbrook, Conn., on August 27, 2015, and approximately $697 from a branch of Citizen’s Bank located at 2991 Cranberry Highway in Wareham, Mass., on September 9, 2015.
CHADRONET is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on December 28, 2016, at which time CHADRONET faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
CHADRONET has been detained since September 10, 2015, when he was arrested on state charges related to a bank robbery that occurred in Milford on August 18, 2015. State charges against CHADRONET for that robbery are pending.
At the time of his criminal conduct CHADRONET was on federal supervised release for a prior bank robbery conviction. He faces supervised release violation proceedings in the District of Rhode Island.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police, Branford Police Department, Milford Police Department and Wareham (Mass.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 34 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Heroin Distribution RingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MIGUEL SOTO, also known as “Fat Boy,” 31, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 34 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a heroin distribution ring.
This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force, FBI and New Haven Police Department into the distribution of heroin in New Haven. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of heroin, revealed that Wilson Vasquez, also known as “Pancho,” obtained bulk quantities of heroin, processed and packaged the drug with several co-conspirators, and then distributed the drug through a network of street-level distributors operating in the area of Ferry Street, Grand Avenue and Blatchley Avenue in New Haven’s Fair Haven neighborhood.
SOTO allowed Vasquez and his associates to use his residence to package heroin for street-level distribution.
During the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 500 grams of raw heroin, three handguns and five vehicles. In addition, bank accounts containing more than $300,000 have been frozen.
SOTO has been detained since his arrest on July 15, 2015. On April 12, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.
Seventeen individuals were charged as a result of this investigation. All 17 pleaded guilty. Vasquez awaits sentencing.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys H. Gordon Hall and Patrick Caruso.
Stafford Springs Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding U.S. VeteransRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN J. SIMON, JR., also known as “Buzzy Simon,” 69, of Stafford Springs, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of mail fraud and one count of structuring currency transactions.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from March 2009 to August 2010, SIMON, a Vietnam War veteran, engaged in a scheme to defraud four military veterans by representing that, in exchange for money, he could assist them in obtaining increased benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”). The veterans suffer from service-related disabilities and/or are chronically ill. SIMON falsely represented that the money the veterans provided to him would be used to pay for the services of an attorney or other expenses. With respect to one veteran, SIMON also falsely told him that he would assist the veteran in obtaining Social Security benefits.
SIMON did not initiate any claims for the four veterans and he did not incur any legal or other expenses on behalf of the veterans. Rather, he kept the money for his personal use.
As part of the plea agreement, SIMON has agreed that he defrauded 11 other military veterans and one non-veteran by representing that he could obtain new or increased benefits from the VA or Social Security Administration.
In total, SIMON defrauded 16 victims of approximately $525,431.
SIMON also structured approximately $36,000 in cash deposits into his bank account from October 2009 to June 2010. The funds structured were payments he had received from the fraud scheme. At the time, SIMON knew that the bank was required to issue a report for a currency transaction in excess of $10,000, and that by conducting his financial transactions in amounts less than $10,000.01, he intended to evade the transaction reporting requirements.
Federal law requires all financial institutions to file a Currency Transaction Report (“CTR”) for currency transactions that exceed $10,000. To evade the filing of a CTR, individuals will often structure their currency transactions so that no single transaction exceeds $10,000. Structuring involves the repeated depositing or withdrawal of amounts of cash less than the $10,000 limit, or the splitting of a cash transaction that exceeds $10,000 into smaller cash transactions in an effort to avoid the reporting requirements. Even if the deposited funds are derived from a legitimate means, financial transactions conducted in this manner are still in violation of federal criminal law.
SIMON was arrested on a criminal complaint on May 15, 2013.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for January 10, 2017, at which time SIMON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.
SIMON has agreed that $210,085.58 that the IRS seized from his bank account in October 2010 will be used to pay restitution to the victims of his criminal conduct.
SIMON was released on bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
Former Wesleyan Student Who Distributed Synthetic Drugs That Caused Overdoses Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIC LONERGAN, 23, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing controlled substances that caused several Wesleyan University students to overdose in 2015.
According to court documents and statements made in court, LONERGAN and Zachary Kramer were students at Wesleyan in Middletown, Connecticut. Beginning in approximately November 2013, LONERGAN began selling a substance he referred to as both “Molly” and MDMA to students on or in the vicinity of the Wesleyan campus. LONERGAN regularly sold Molly from his dorm room, charging approximately $20 per .1 gram, or $200 per gram. LONERGAN also counseled students on how to ingest Molly and other psychedelic drugs. At one point in 2014, after the administration at Wesleyan sent out a campus-wide communication warning of the dangers of ingesting controlled substances like Molly, LONERGAN responded by distributing a pamphlet instructing students on the use of psychedelic drugs.
In approximately September 2014, Kramer began purchasing what he believed to be Molly from LONERGAN and distributed it to students at Wesleyan. At times, LONERGAN used a chemical test on the substance he sold Kramer to prove to him that he was selling Kramer high-quality MDMA.
In September 2014, LONERGAN was the source of Molly for several students who were planning a “rolling” party at Wesleyan, which is a party where guests ingest Molly. He provided several grams of a substance he represented to be MDMA, in bulk, and another student then distributed it to students in .1 gram capsules. At this party, which occurred on September 13, 2014, several students became ill, some seriously, after ingesting the substance provided by LONERGAN. Two of these students were transported to the hospital. After these overdoses, LONERGAN sent electronic communications to several students assuring them that the substance he provided to them was indeed MDMA. One of the students who became ill at the party saved one of the capsules she had purchased and turned it over to the Middletown Police in February 2015. A lab test on the contents of that capsule revealed that it did not contain MDMA, but contained two other controlled substances: AB Fubinaca, a Schedule I controlled substance, and 6-MAPB, an analogue of MDMA.
In approximately December 2014, Kramer became the primary supplier of MDMA at Wesleyan. Kramer typically sold the MDMA in .1 gram quantities for $20 each or he sold it in 5-gram and 10-gram quantities for a discount, charging $100 or more, depending on the customer and the quantity. During this time period, LONERGAN still supplied Kramer with bulk quantities of MDMA. In approximately January 2015, Kramer purchased approximately 45 grams of MDMA from LONERGAN. Kramer broke that quantity into 5 and 10-gram bags and distributed those bags to other students who planned to break down the MDMA into .1 gram capsules, sell those capsules to other Wesleyan students, and pay Kramer for the quantity of the drug he had provided to them.
On February 21, 2015, 11 individuals, including 10 Wesleyan students, overdosed on a substance they believed was MDMA, and many were transported to the hospital. Two of the students were in critical condition, and one of the students had to be revived after his heart stopped. All of these students obtained the purported MDMA through individual distributers who were supplied directly by Kramer.
Although Kramer and some of his distributers destroyed the substance identified as Molly that they had in their possession, one of the distributers did not, and that substance was seized by law enforcement officers and sent to the toxicology laboratory for testing. Laboratory analysis confirmed that the powdered substance contained AB Fubinaca.
LONERGAN and Kramer were arrested by federal authorities on May 22, 2015. On November 30, 2015, LONERGAN pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, MDMA (“Molly”).
Kramer pleaded guilty to the same charge on November 12, 2015. On May 5, 2016, he was sentenced to eight months of home confinement with outpatient drug treatment, four months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release and a $10,000 fine.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Middletown Police Department, with the assistance of the State of Connecticut’s Forensic Science Laboratory.
U.S. Attorney Daly acknowledged the support and assistance of the Middlesex State’s Attorney’s Office, which has prosecuted several state cases stemming from these overdose events.
The federal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Eugene Calistro, who was cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.
Fairfield County Landscaper Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that DONALD BIAGI, Jr., 55, of Fairfield waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, BIAGI is the sole owner of Don Biagi Landscaping. BIAGI, through Don Biagi Landscaping, generated business income by providing landscaping and snowplowing services to commercial and residential customers in Fairfield County. BIAGI regularly negotiated client checks at banks for cash rather than depositing the checks into his business bank accounts. Between 2008 and 2010, BIAGI cashed approximately 574 client checks, ranging in amounts from $10.52 to $15,604.50, in the total amount of approximately $848,750.
BIAGI, who acted as his own bookkeeper, did not disclose to his tax return preparer the client checks he cashed and some of the client checks he deposited into his business account between 2008 and 2010. As a result, a total of $1,321,305 in business gross receipts were not reported on BIAGI’s federal tax returns for 2008, 2009, and 2010, resulting in his substantially under-reporting his taxable income. BIAGI failed to report approximately 62 percent of his business’s gross receipts in 2008, approximately 47 percent of the gross receipts in 2009, and approximately 60 percent of the gross receipts in 2010.
When he is sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello, BIAGI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000. BIAGI also has agreed to repay the U.S. Treasury $445,579 in restitution for the taxes he failed to pay, and additional penalties and interest that have accrued on his unpaid taxes.
A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.
This matter has been investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
Drug Company Manager Charged in Kickback Scheme Related to Fentanyl Spray PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEFFREY PEARLMAN, 49, of Edgewood, N.J., was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint that charges him with engaging in a kickback scheme that defrauded federal healthcare programs.
As alleged in the complaint, from approximately September 2012 until December 2015, PEARLMAN was employed by a pharmaceutical company that manufactured and sold a fentanyl-based sublingual spray that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration solely for the management of breakthrough pain in cancer patients. The company first hired PEARLMAN as a sales representative and subsequently promoted him to the position of District Sales Manager (DSM). As a DSM, PEARLMAN was responsible for managing the company’s sales representatives who called on licensed healthcare providers in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island.
It is alleged that PEARLMAN and the sales representatives he managed induced certain physicians, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physicians’ assistants to prescribe the pharmaceutical company’s fentanyl spray 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 the fentanyl spray 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 the fentanyl spray, 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, with PEARLMAN’s knowledge, so as to make it appear that the programs had an appropriate audience of healthcare professionals.
It is alleged that the pharmaceutical company paid one Connecticut healthcare provider who participated in these sham Speaker Programs a total of approximately $83,000 in illegal kickbacks in order to induce the provider to prescribe the company’s fentanyl spray over similar medications. PEARLMAN authorized these payments.
It is alleged that PEARLMAN personally profited from this scheme through inflated quarterly bonuses he received that were based in large part on the sales results of the sales representatives he managed.
It is further alleged that this illegal kickback scheme caused millions of dollars of losses to federal healthcare programs.
PEARLMAN appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $200,000 bond.
The charge of paying or receiving kickbacks in relation to a federal healthcare program carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing 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
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.
Owner of California Company that Falsely Advertised Mortgage Assistance Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN VESCERA, 60, of Dana Point, Calif., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for false advertising and misusing a government seal in connection with the provision of mortgage modification services.
According to court documents and statements made in court, VESCERA was the President of First One Lending Corporation (“First One”) in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. During the peak of the national mortgage crisis, VESCERA and First One offered home mortgage loan modification assistance to homeowners across the United States, including in Connecticut, who were having difficulty repaying their mortgage loans.
From approximately February 2010 until approximately February 2012, VESCERA and First One solicited clients through television advertisements and infomercials produced by National Media Connection of New London, Conn. These advertisements touted the mortgage modification services of an entity known as the National Mortgage Help Center (“NMHC”).
Matthew Goldreich, of East Lyme, Conn., had incorporated NMHC approximately two months after the U.S. Treasury Department announced that it would partner with financial institutions to reduce struggling homeowners’ monthly mortgage payments through a program called the Home Affordable Modification Program (“HAMP”). HAMP consisted of a number of incentives to encourage homeowners and financial institutions to modify existing loans on owner-occupied primary residences in order to help keep these properties out of foreclosure.
NMHC advertisements misrepresented NMHC as being affiliated with or regulated by the U.S. government and falsely stated that NMHC “help[ed] thousands of homeowners every day.” When viewers called the advertised telephone number, they were connected not to NMHC, which operated only as a front and did not provide mortgage modification services for any homeowners, but to clients of National Media Connection, including First One.
VESCERA and First One used NMHC’s name and logo in First One’s promotional materials, application package and other documents. VESCERA also instructed First One employees to introduce themselves to prospective clients as “with the National Mortgage Help Center.”
First One also misrepresented its status with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”). First One employees were instructed to inform homeowners that “[w]e’re a HUD approved lender and we represent the government loan modification programs.” In addition, certain of First One’s forms claimed that the company provided “HUD . . . Housing Counseling assistance” and bore HUD’s seal. In truth, First One had no affiliation with the government mortgage loan assistance programs and was not licensed or approved by HUD for housing counseling or home mortgage loan modification services.
Through this scheme, 302 victims lost a total of $374,622. Many of these victims were previously compensated after VESCERA and First One paid approximately $1.5 million to the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America in March 2013 to resolve a federal lawsuit in the Central District of California. As part of this criminal case, VESCERA paid restitution of $30,320 to 24 of the victims who were not identified at the time the federal lawsuit was settled.
On May 3, 2016, VESCERA pleaded guilty to one count of misuse of a government seal and one count of false advertising.
Goldreich previously pleaded guilty to one count of false advertising. On November 5, 2015, he was sentenced to two years of probation, including three months of home confinement. He also was ordered to pay a $100,000 fine and $75,794 in restitution.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi Perry and Liam Brennan.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Federal Prison for Gun, Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GEORGE SANCHEZ, also known as “Little G,” 22, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 33 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for firearm and drug offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 28, 2015, a Bridgeport Police Officer performing an inventory search of a vehicle that SANCHEZ had been driving found a loaded .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, a neoprene face mask and approximately 44 bags of heroin. Part of the handgun’s serial number had been scratched off.
SANCHEZ has been detained since his arrest on January 6, 2016. On June 29, 2016, he pleaded to one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
This matter was investigated by the Bridgeport Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alina P. Reynolds.
West Haven Man Charged with Illegally Distributing XanaxRead 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, announced that CLARENCE BELL, also known as “Solo,” 20, of West Haven, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, Xanax, a Schedule IV controlled substance.
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.
As alleged in the complaint, at approximately 6:10 a.m. on May 24, 2016, the West Haven Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in West Haven on report of a sudden death of a 20-year-old male. Upon arrival, the initial responding patrol units determined that the death was suspicious in nature and appeared to be drug related. The investigation, which includes witness interviews and analysis of phone records and surveillance cameras, has revealed that at approximately 10:00 p.m. on May 23, 2016, the victim purchased a quantity of Xanax pills from BELL. The victim them crushed approximately three of pills and snorted the powder.
The victim’s autopsy report states the official cause of death as acute intoxication due to the combined effects of heroin, alprazolam (Xanax) and cocaine.
BELL appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven and was ordered detained.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances, carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five 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 Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the West Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Physical Therapist Pleads Guilty to Obstruction and Tax Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DANIELLE FAUX, 48, of Weston, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of obstruction of a federal audit, and one count of making false statement on a federal income tax return.
According to court documents and statements made in court, FAUX owns and operates Danielle Faux PT, LLC, a physical therapy clinic located at 27 Lois Street in Norwalk. In August 2009, a contractor for the Medicare program conducting an audit of FAUX’s physical therapy practice contacted FAUX and requested records of 40 claims for physical therapy that FAUX had submitted to Medicare. The requested records included appropriate documentation to support the services billed, including the physical therapy progress notes, physical therapy flow sheet/activity sheets, and any additional documentation verifying medical necessity for the physical therapy procedures. Because no patient progress notes or similar records existed that would support many of the Medicare claims, FAUX instructed a physical therapist working for her to create detailed notes in the patient files that were requested in the audit, and FAUX similarly created such records.
As part of her plea, FAUX also admitted that from 2008 through 2011, she skimmed checks and cash proceeds from her physical therapy practice and did not declare the skimmed proceeds on her federal income tax returns. Through this conduct, FAUX avoided paying $77,640 in taxes over the four-year period.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for December 15, 2016, at which time FAUX faces a maximum term of term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000 on the obstruction count, and a maximum term of imprisonment of three years and a fine of up to $100,000 on the tax count.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon.
New Haven Man Admits Committing 6 Bank Robberies in Connecticut and New YorkRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JUAN CRUZ, 38, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to one count of bank robbery and admitted that he committed a total of six bank robberies in Connecticut and New York last year.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CRUZ robbed the Santander Bank at 215 Grand Avenue in New Haven on October 15, 2015; the Wells Fargo Bank at 205 Church Street in New Haven on October 20, November 7 and November 21, 2015; the Bank of America at 157 Church Street in New Haven on November 9, 2015, and the Citizens Bank at 10 North Pearl Street in Albany, N.Y., on November 20, 2015. CRUZ stole a total of approximately $18,830 during the robbery spree.
CRUZ was arrested on November 21, 2015, in Chicopee, Mass. He has been detained since his arrest.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for December 20, 2016, at which time CRUZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, Chicopee (Mass.) Police Department and Albany (N.Y.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
New Jersey Woman Admits Operating Unemployment Benefits Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that THERESA A. FREEMAN, 65, of Atlantic City, N.J., pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud stemming from a scheme to defraud unemployment insurance programs in a “fictitious employer scheme.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, FREEMAN filed incorporation paperwork with the State of Connecticut for “Tribal Organic Products,” which she claimed was an internet business that she operated from an address in Trumbull, Connecticut. The business was, in fact, a fictitious company that did not engage in any business activity. In December 2012, FREEMAN’s son filed a claim with the Connecticut Department of Labor for unemployment insurance benefits, claiming that he was laid off from Tribal Organic Products. Between January 2013 and July 2013, FREEMAN’s son received approximately $13,474 in unemployment insurance benefits from the State of Connecticut.
In pleading guilty, FREEMAN also admitted that she previously operated similar fictitious employer schemes that defrauded both the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industries and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Employment Security of $16,253 and $14,136, respectively.
FREEMAN has a prior federal conviction in the District of South Carolina for mail fraud stemming from similar conduct.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for December 13, 2016, at which time FREEMAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General, Office of the Chief State’s Attorney, Connecticut Department of Labor, Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industries, and North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Employment Security.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Leader of New Haven Heroin Ring Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that WILSON VASQUEZ, also known as “Will” and “Pancho,” 43, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to heading a large heroin distribution ring.
This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force, FBI and New Haven Police Department into the distribution of heroin in New Haven. The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of heroin, revealed that VASQUEZ obtained bulk quantities of heroin, processed and packaged the drug with several co-conspirators, and then distributed the drug through a network of street-level distributors operating in the area of Ferry Street, Grand Avenue and Blatchley Avenue in New Haven’s Fair Haven neighborhood.
During the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 500 grams of raw heroin, three handguns and five vehicles. In addition, bank accounts containing more than $300,000 have been frozen.
Seventeen individuals were charged as a result of this investigation. All 17 have pleaded guilty.
VASQUEZ pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin, an offense that carries a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.
VASQUEZ has been detained since his arrest on July 15, 2015.
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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys H. Gordon Hall and Patrick Caruso.
Cleaning Company Owner Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge Stemming from Employee Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that that ANTHONY DIAZ, 62, of Monroe, waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill to one count of making a false statement to federal agents during an investigation of an employee kickback scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DIAZ is a co-owner of Advantage Cleaning, LLC, which provides custodial services and final cleaning for construction job sites, and he is a manager at Advantage Maintenance, Inc., a janitorial cleaning and maintenance service company. An investigation revealed that undocumented employees of Advantage Cleaning and Advantage Maintenance were required to kick back a large portion of the pay they received for work they performed on prevailing wage jobs to DIAZ. Employees who were paid between $37 and $41 per hour would cash their paychecks and would return approximately $25 for each our worked to DIAZ.
On September 26, 2014, DIAZ was interviewed by special agents from the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. During the interview, DIAZ was questioned about cash kickbacks he had allegedly received and whether Advantage Cleaning or Advantage Maintenance had employed any undocumented workers. DIAZ denied all of the allegations against him and made several false statements.
In pleading guilty, DIAZ admitted that he had received cash kickbacks from his employees.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for January 10, 2017, at which time DIAZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly on the Opioid EpidemicRead the Press Release
The Perfect Storm
Twenty-three-year-old Louis Ahearn was not a heroin addict. Until shortly before his death earlier this year, the Derby resident had never used the drug. A dental procedure and a short search for relief from his pain led him to a local drug dealer who convinced him that heroin was a far cheaper alternative to prescription pills. Two weeks later, the same dealer gave Louis a free bag as payment for a ride. That bag turned out to contain pure fentanyl. Louis died. He was a gentle soul and the light of many lives. The young dealer who gave him the fentanyl is now serving a six-year term in federal prison, while Louis’s family still searches for answers, like so many other families across Connecticut who have experienced similar tragedies.
In 2012, 357 Connecticut residents died from accidental drug overdoses. Fentanyl played a part in only 14 of those deaths; heroin contributed to 195 of the overdose deaths. In 2016, the dynamics have radically changed for the worse. The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner estimates that this year 888 people will die from overdoses, pure heroin will cause only 80 of those deaths, and fentanyl will play a role in a staggering 446 of them. In Connecticut, fentanyl is the largest single contributor to the dramatic rise in opioid-related overdose deaths. This potent and lethal chemical is present in much of the heroin sold on our streets.
This dramatic rise in the use of fentanyl as an additive -- and even replacement for heroin -- comes at a time when opioids are prescribed at high rates for everything from school sports injuries to dental procedures. High school students have easy access to legally prescribed opiates. A sibling is injured in a football game. A friend has his wisdom teeth pulled. A parent is recovering from surgery. A neighbor has chronic back pain. There is no question this medicine can be an excellent tool for pain management, but it is also highly addictive. Four out of five new heroin users started with prescription opioids. As young people abuse opiates, their source of legally prescribed pills inevitably disappears, and they are left to scramble for alternatives. The street price for a 40 milligram oxycodone pill is $40, whereas a street-level heroin dealer distributes individual bags for as little as $5. The teenager who began experimenting with his father’s prescribed Vicodin has now developed a heroin habit. And more and more often, this heroin is mixed with, or replaced by, fentanyl.
In February 2016, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration developed a statewide initiative to combat this epidemic. Together with local police departments, we are investigating overdose deaths across the state and targeting dealers who sell heroin and fentanyl. We have developed a statewide protocol for handling evidence in overdose cases. In the past six months, the DEA has investigated more than 70 overdose deaths in Bridgeport, Danbury, Derby, East Haddam, Greenwich, Groton, Manchester, Middlebury, Middlefield, Monroe, New Haven, New London, Newtown, North Haven, Norwalk, Norwich, Old Saybrook, Shelton, Stamford, Stonington, Torrington, Vernon, Waterford, West Hartford, West Haven, Weston, and Woodbridge. These investigations have resulted in the federal prosecution of over 40 dealers.
But prosecutions alone will never adequately address the underlying problem that increasing numbers of young people quietly are becoming addicted to opioids. Our Office has dedicated significant resources to awareness and prevention, focusing our efforts on high school students and their parents. Across the state, we have encouraged superintendents and principals to incorporate into their curricula the recently-created FBI/DEA documentary entitled Chasing the Dragon, which chronicles the experiences of individuals impacted by the opioid crisis.
President Obama has designated this week Prescription Opioid and Heroin Epidemic Awareness Week in recognition of those we have lost and those struggling with addiction, and in the hope of creating greater awareness throughout our nation of this devastating epidemic. This week and in the weeks to come, our prosecutors will present at schools throughout the state as part of our awareness campaign. This Wednesday, September 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Kennedy High School in Waterbury, we will hold an opioid awareness conference that will include a panel of doctors, and a panel of parents who have lost children to overdoses. Our goal is to educate parents, teachers and students about the consequences of opioid abuse. All are welcome to attend.
Deirdre M. Daly
U.S. Attorney, District of Connecticut
September 19, 2016Redding Woman Admits Stealing More Than $250K from EmployerRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that that LISA LANDMAN, 48, of Redding, waived her right to indictment and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, LANDMAN was the bookkeeper for a Connecticut company. Between November 2010 and November 2013, LANDMAN defrauded her employer by authorizing and initiating at least 33 wire transfers from the company’s business bank account into her own personal credit card account. In total, LANDMAN transferred more than $250,000 from the company’s account to her personal credit card account and used the funds for personal purchases including jewelry, clothing, vacations, spa treatments, fitness equipment and entertainment tickets.
When she is sentenced, LANDMAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Stamford Police Department and the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
East Windsor Woman Charged with Passport FraudRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALIYAH THERESA JULIATE DAVIS, also known as Theresa Juliate Sutherland, 36, of East Windsor, has been charged by criminal complaint with making a false statement on a U.S. passport application.
DAVIS was arrested on September 17, 2016. She appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in Hartford and was ordered detained.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 17, 2014, DAVIS, who was then known as Theresa Sutherland, was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for engaging in a fraud and identity theft scheme at an insurance company where she was employed. As part of her sentence, DAVIS was ordered to pay total restitution of $400,000 to the victim insurance company and three previous employers that she defrauded.
DAVIS has not yet reported to prison to serve her sentence based on her repeated claims of a diagnosis of terminal cancer and heart conditions.
The complaint alleges that, in March 2015, DAVIS changed her name from Theresa Juliate Sutherland to ALIYAH THERESA JULIATE DAVIS without disclosing her federal fraud and identity theft convictions in probate court documents as required. DAVIS subsequently received a new Social Security number and Connecticut driver’s license under her new identity.
The complaint further alleges that, on April 19, 2016, DAVIS submitted an application for a U.S. passport at the U.S. Postal Service facility on Weston Street in Hartford. On the application where it states “Have you ever applied for or been issued a U.S. Passport Book or Passport Card?” DAVIS marked an “X” in the “No” box. In 2007, DAVIS applied for and received a U.S. passport when she was known as Theresa Juliate Sutherland.
The complaint also alleges that the investigation has revealed that many of DAVIS’s recent claims about her health are false. In addition, since her sentence was imposed, DAVIS has been employed at a local insurance company and local hospitals under her new identity, and she continues to receive unemployment compensation under her previous identity. She also took two cruise vacations earlier this year.
If convicted of passport fraud, DAVIS faces 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. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, Office of the Chief State’s Attorney, Connecticut Department of Labor and East Windsor Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Wallingford Man Admits Operating Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSEPH A. CASTELLANO, 59, of Wallingford, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to fraud and money laundering offenses stemming from an investment scheme that defrauded individuals of nearly $1.5 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CASTELLANO operated various entities out of offices in Wallingford, including Casbo Investments, Wallingford Investors Limited Partnership, AIM Realty Investors, and Castellano & Co., LLC. As a Certified Public Accountant and owner of Castellano & Co., LLC, CASTELLANO prepared federal and state tax returns for individuals and local businesses. In connection with his tax preparation business, CASTELLANO established a base of clients to which he offered financial services and investment opportunities in addition to preparing their taxes.
Beginning in approximately July 2007, CASTELLANO falsely represented to victim-investors that he had clients who were in need of capital to fund businesses or real estate development projects, but were unable to secure funding from traditional sources such as financial institutions. CASTELLANO told victim-investors that he would obtain for them a consistent rate of return of between approximately six percent and eight percent annually on their money by taking their money and placing it with, or loaning it to, one or more of his other clients. CASTELLANO, through Casbo Investments, prepared and executed official-looking documents and investment contracts termed “Demand Notes,” which contained a promise to return the principal amount, with interest, at any time.
In fact, there were no actual investments or investment opportunities, and the money was not invested with or loaned to other clients of CASTELLANO. CASTELLANO diverted the funds for his own use and benefit, including making “interest” payments to other victim-investors. CASTELLANO also made false statements to certain victim-investors to explain various delays in the purported interest payments.
Through this scheme, CASTELLANO defrauded more than 10 victim-investors of approximately $1.45 million.
CASTELLANO was arrested on April 6, 2016.
CASTELLANO pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on December 22, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. He is released on a $250,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael McGarry and John Pierpont.
Shelton Attorney Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PETER G. KRUZYNSKI, 50, of Shelton, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with production and possession of child pornography.
According to the criminal complaint, KRUZYNSKI repeatedly engaged in sexual acts with a male victim beginning in 2009, when the victim was 12 years old, and continuing until August 2016, when the victim was 18 years old. KRUZYNSKI also used his Apple iPhone to take photographs of the victim engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The victim was a minor at the time the photographs were taken. KRUZYNSKI threatened to send the photographs to others if the victim did not see him again.
KRUZYNSKI is an attorney with a law office in Shelton.
KRUZYNSKI appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven and was released on a $250,000 bond and electronic monitoring.
KRUZYNSKI was arrested on August 30, 2016 on related state charges.
If convicted of the production of child pornography charge, KRUZYNSKI faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Shelton Police Department, and the Connecticut Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Clinton Man Charged with Murder for HireRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JAMES ERIK GODIKSEN, 54, of Clinton, has been charged by criminal complaint with murder for hire.
As alleged in the complaint, the ATF received information that GODIKSEN was seeking a person who would be willing to kill his former wife. Between September 10 and September 14, GODIKSEN and an ATF special agent acting in an undercover capacity spoke multiple times by phone. During these conversations, GODIKSEN offered to pay the undercover agent $5,000 to murder his “ex-wife,” and provided the agent with a physical description of his former wife, her phone number, her home address, her place of work and the route she typically drove to work. He also told the undercover agent how he would like his former wife to be murdered. GODIKSEN offered the undercover agent additional money if he encountered his former wife’s current boyfriend and killed him, too.
GODIKSEN was arrested on September 14 after he met with the undercover agent and provided him with a “down payment” of $80, some of which was to be used to purchase a knife.
GODIKSEN appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Holly B. Fitzsimmons in New Haven and was ordered detained.
The charge of murder for hire 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clinton Police Department and Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.
Bridgeport Meth Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARK LEIGH-JAMES, 24, of Bridgeport, 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.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July and August 2015, the Fairfield Police Department orchestrated four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from LEIGH-JAMES. The DEA’s Bridgeport Task Force then made two additional controlled purchases of methamphetamine from LEIGH-JAMES. On August 12, 2015, LEIGH-JAMES sold an undercover officer approximately 82.9 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $3,600. On September 18, 2015, LEIGH-JAMES sold a second undercover officer approximately 104 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $8,000. The purity of the methamphetamine sold by LEIGH-JAMES ranged from 98.7 percent to 100 percent.
LEIGH-JAMES was arrested in Bridgeport on October 5, 2015. A search of a backpack LEIGH-JAMES had been holding at revealed approximately 7.5 grams of heroin, and a search of a second backpack located in LEIGH-JAMES’ vehicle revealed a clear plastic bag containing approximately 120 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded Kel-Tec .380 semi-automatic handgun. Agents also found a loaded Charter Arms .44 magnum revolver, which was in a jacket in the vehicle.
The .380 handgun had been reported stolen in Stratford in 2009.
At the time of his arrest, LEIGH-JAMES was on bond for state charges involving the unlawful possession of a firearm and oxycodone pills.
LEIGH-JAMES has been detained since his arrest. On June 24, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This matter was investigated by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, with the assistance of the Fairfield Police Department. The Task Force includes members from the Bridgeport, Stamford, Stratford, Norwalk, Milford and Trumbull Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy C. Brown.
UConn Health Center Pays $184,984 to the Federal Government to Settle Overbilling AllegationsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT HEALTH CENTER (“UConn Health”) has entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal government in which it will pay $184,984 to resolve allegations that it overbilled the Medicare Program.
The government alleges that UConn Health improperly submitted claims to Medicare for certain wound closure procedures. Specifically, the government alleges that UConn Health submitted claims using codes for higher paying wound closure procedures, rather than using codes for the lower paying wound closure procedures that were actually performed. By coding the wound closure procedures improperly, UConn Health received payments from Medicare that it was not entitled to receive.
UConn Health agreed to pay $184,984 to resolve its liability for conduct that occurred from January 1, 2011, to June 2, 2016.
“Providers who bill Medicare must follow the relevant coding rules when submitting claims and the failure to do so will have serious consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The U.S. Attorney’s office will vigorously pursue health care providers who receive payments from Medicare that they are not entitled to receive.”
This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot and Auditor Susan Spiegel.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311.
Two Bristol Residents Arrested for Participating in IRS Impersonation ScamRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Deirdre M. Daly and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Special Agent in Charge William Kalb announced that NANCY FRYE, 50, and DOUGLAS MARTIN, 52, both of Bristol, were arrested today on charges related to their alleged involvement in an IRS impersonation scam.
An IRS impersonation scam is operated by individuals who falsely represent themselves as employees of the IRS to obtain money from victims. Typically, those executing the fraudulent scheme make unsolicited telephone calls to people and tell them that they are IRS agents or officers calling on behalf of the IRS. During the calls, the impersonator tells the call recipient that the recipient has an outstanding debt with the IRS that must be paid immediately. The impersonator then threatens persons with either arrest or a lawsuit if they do not immediately settle the bogus IRS debt. Victims are instructed to wire money to individuals they believe are employees of the IRS in order to avoid the threatened action.
As alleged in court documents, in October 2015, FRYE received phone calls and text messages from individuals who successfully recruited her to pick up money that was wired through MoneyGram and Western Union and to deposit the money into specific bank accounts. FRYE, in turn, recruited MARTIN and others to assist her in picking up wired funds from locations in central Connecticut. FRYE then deposited the money that she collected into the bank accounts.
Between October 2015 and May 2016, FRYE, and others working at her direction, received approximately $547,000 in wired funds. FRYE received approximately $40 per transaction and made approximately $500 per day.
“IRS impersonation scams victimize thousands of innocent people across the country, including many here in Connecticut,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The money generated from these scams is often very significant. Those who perpetrate these crimes frequently hide overseas and can be difficult to track down. But together with our partners from the Treasury Department and the Postal Inspection Service, we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice. This prosecution serves as another opportunity to warn everyone to avoid becoming a victim of this scam. The IRS will never call anyone and demand immediate payment or threaten arrest. If you receive one of these calls, just hang up and report the call to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).”
“Since October 2013, American taxpayers have been subjected to unprecedented attempts to fraudulently obtain money by individuals impersonating Internal Revenue Service employees,” said TIGTA Special Agent in Charge Kalb. “TIGTA has received reports of over 1.6 million impersonation related calls with over 8,600 victims reporting losses of almost $47 million. Victimizing taxpayers by impersonating IRS employees is a serious crime. TIGTA and our law enforcement partners will do everything within our power to ensure that those involved in the impersonation of IRS employees are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
FRYE and MARTIN are each charged by federal criminal complaint with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford and were released on bond. If convicted of the offenses, they face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 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 matter is being investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The U.S. Attorney gratefully acknowledges the assistance provided by the Rocky Hill Police Department, Bristol Police Department, and New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.
U.S. Attorney Daly stated that the investigation is ongoing and encouraged individuals who receive impersonation calls, including those who have been victimized by this scheme, to report the information at https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml.
Registered Sex Offender Charged with Enticing Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead 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 BRYAN WHITE, 39, of New London, with one count of enticement of a minor and one count of committing the offense while being a registered sex offender.
The indictment alleges that in June and July 2016, WHITE used a computer, cellular phone, telephone and an internet-based messaging service to attempt to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. The indictment further alleges that WHITE committed the offense while he was required by law to register as a sex offender.
WHITE has been in state custody since July 5, 2016, when he was arrested on related state charges.
If convicted of enticement of a minor, WHITE faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of life imprisonment life. If convicted of committing the offense while being required to register as a sex offender, WHITE faces a mandatory term of 10 years to run consecutive to any term of imprisonment imposed for the enticement of a minor offense.
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, the Burlington County (N.J.) Prosecutor’s Office, the Florence (N.J.) Township Police Department, the New London Police Department and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
New York Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JORDAN ANATE, also known as “Pills” and “Che Pills,” 26, most recently of the Bronx, N.Y., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for sex trafficking of a minor.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 5, 2015, East Hartford Police encountered an underage girl in a room at a local motel. The victim stated that she had met ANATE in New York and that, beginning in approximately December 2014, she had engaged in acts of prostitution at ANATE’s direction in various locations, including multiple trips to Connecticut.
The investigation revealed that the victim was prostituted by ANATE at hotels in Hartford, Manchester, New Britain and East Hartford. The victim had seen several clients per week, giving all of the money to ANATE.
When ANATE pleaded guilty to the offense on June 9, 2016, he admitted that he knew the victim was under the age of 18.
Judge Bryant ordered ANATE to pay $42,000 in restitution to the victim.
ANATE has been detained since his arrest on March 5, 2015.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, East Hartford Police and West Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala V. Nagala and David E. Novick.
Former West Haven Housing Authority Employee Admits Unlawful Receipt of FundsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN SANDELLA, 54, of Orange, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to receiving unlawful compensation while serving as an employee of the West Haven Housing Authority.
According to court documents and statements made in court, SANDELLA was employed as the Clerk of the Works for the West Haven Housing Authority (“WHHA”), a federally-funded program through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (“HUD”). HUD’s rules and regulations prohibited the WHHA from entering into any contract in which an officer or employee of the WHHA who influenced decisions with respect to the underlying project had an interest.
From March 2009 through January 2012, SANDELLA used his position as Clerk of the Works to influence the WHHA to enter into a plumbing contract and award plumbing jobs to a plumbing company that was owned and operated by a longtime friend and associate of SANDELLA. Specifically, SANDELLA assisted the plumbing company’s owner in preparing applications and bids for these jobs and promoted the company to the WHHA as a qualified plumbing service. In addition, SANDELLA reviewed the work performed by the company at WHHA properties, submitted the company’s invoices to the WHHA for payment, and delivered WHHA payment checks to the company’s owner or deposited those checks himself into the company’s checking account.
Unbeknownst to HUD and the WHHA, the plumbing company’s owner owed private debts to SANDELLA and lacked the means to repay SANDELLA other than with the money paid to the company by the WHHA.
Following the deposit of the WHHA checks into the plumbing company’s checking account, SANDELLA and the company’s owner worked together to direct certain payments out of that same checking account for the benefit of SANDELLA. Payments included checks written to CJM Construction, which was a plumbing contracting business owned and operated by SANDELLA; checks written to an insurance company for insurance policies for SANDELLA and his family, and checks written to the Regional Water Authority for accounts in the name of SANDELLA and his family.
SANDELLA failed to disclose the existence of his financial interest in the contract between the WHHA and the plumbing company.
Pursuant to the contract in which SANDELLA had an undisclosed interest, the WHHA paid $137,004 to the plumbing company. In turn, the plumbing company paid $26,687.26 to and for the benefit of SANDELLA.
SANDELLA pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of compensation with the unlawful intent to defeat the purposes of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, a charge that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of one year. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for December 8, 2016.
SANDELLA has agreed to pay restitution to the WHHA in the amount of $137,004.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Three Hartford Men Charged with Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that RONALD PEREZ, 28, BYRON RIVERA, 26, and MARCUS TYSON, 30, all of Hartford, have been arrested and charged by criminal complaints with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, one kilogram or more of heroin.
As alleged is court documents and statements made in court, on September 13, 2016, members of the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, including the Hartford and East Hartford Police Departments, executed a state search warrant at an apartment at 50 Forest Street in Hartford. PEREZ, RIVERA and TYSON were encountered in living room of the apartment. A search of the apartment revealed approximately 50,000 bags of heroin, approximately 300 grams of unpackaged heroin, three fentanyl patches, scales and other items used in the processing and packaging of heroin, and two handguns.
PEREZ, RIVERA and TYSON appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford and were ordered detained.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, one kilogram or more of heroin carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
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 FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and Hartford Police Department. The FBI Task Force includes members of the U.S. Marshals Service, Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KUWAN RUSS, 37, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 25, 2015, RUSS was stopped by Hartford Police as he operated a vehicle in Hartford. During a pat-down, an officer located a firearm in RUSS’s front right pants pocket. The firearm was a Glock, Model 26, 9 millimeter pistol with a magazine that contained 10 rounds.
Prior to September 2015, RUSS had sustained felony convictions for offenses including robbery in the first degree, criminal attempt to commit assault in the first degree, strangulation in the second degree, and weapons offenses.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
RUSS is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford on December 5, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hartford Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Leaming and Jennifer Laraia.
Overdose Investigation Leads to Heroin Distribution Charges against Bridgeport ManRead 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 JEVAUGHN WATSON, 23, of Bridgeport, was arrested yesterday on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin. 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.
According the complaint, on August 18, 2016, Trumbull Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Trumbull and found an unresponsive 25-year-old female on the floor of a bedroom. The victim was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter. Investigators searched the victim’s pocketbook and found several empty wax folds and some wax folds that contained suspected heroin. Analysis of text messages contained on the victim’s cellphone revealed that the victim had ordered heroin from WATSON several times over the course of approximately two months prior to the victim’s death.
WATSON appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport and was ordered detained.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 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 Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport Resident Office, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Trumbull and Monroe Police Departments, with the assistance of the Bridgeport Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
New York Man Arrested in Stamford Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JUAN QUINONES, 43, of Port Chester, N.Y, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 24, 2015, Stamford Police executed a court-authorized search of a local hotel room where QUINONES was staying and found a loaded Glock .45 caliber pistol and distribution quantities of heroin and crack cocaine. QUINONES was arrested at that time.
QUINONES was previously convicted of felony drug offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for December 6, 2016, at which time QUINONES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
The matter has been investigated by the Stamford Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
East Lyme Fisherman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PETER TORRES, 48, of East Lyme, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to three months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2006 to 2011, TORRES failed to file tax returns and report to the Internal Revenue Service approximately $1.27 million in gross income generated through his work as a commercial fishing boat captain.
On November 30, 2015, TORRES pleaded guilty to one count of attempted tax evasion, admitting that he was issued Forms 1099 that documented the income paid to him for each tax year, but he failed to timely file his tax returns as required and report the income and tax due to the IRS. In his plea agreement, TORRES agreed that the tax loss for this period is between $250,000 and $550,000.
TORRES also admitted that, in an effort to conceal his income from the IRS, he negotiated checks he received as payment for his fishing services by depositing them in the bank and, on the same day, withdrawing cash or obtaining bank checks in varying amounts under $10,000.
As part of his guilty plea, TORRES acknowledged that he attempted to evade the assessment and payment of his taxes for the 2006 through 2011 tax years. He will enter into a payment plan with the IRS to repay the back taxes and applicable penalties and interest.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.
Chiropractor Sentenced to Prison for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PAUL CARPENTER, 65, of Easton, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to two months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for filing false tax returns. Judge Bolden also ordered CARPENTER to perform 100 hours of community service and pay a $30,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CARPENTER operated a chiropractic practice in Bridgeport. For the 2008 and 2009 tax years, CARPENTER intentionally mischaracterized almost $500,000 in personal expenses as deductible business expenses on his Schedule C relating to his chiropractic practice, including college tuition for his children, luxury items such as oriental rugs and paintings, designer clothing, and foreign and domestic travel. He also deducted the cost of groceries, expenses at hair salons and other retail purchases.
For the 2008 tax year, CARPENTER took false deductions totaling $308,084, resulting in a tax loss of $106,395, and for the 2009 tax year, he took false deductions totaling $183,283, resulting in a tax loss of $81,199.
CARPENTER has paid all back taxes, plus interest and penalties.
On May 20, 2016, CARPENTER pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.