Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
“Manche Boy Mafia” Member Convicted of 30 Counts of FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore has found Reginald Lee Black, Jr. (26, Tampa) guilty of 30 counts of fraud, including 1 count of conspiracy, 27 counts of credit card fraud, and 2 counts of aggravated identity theft. Black faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison for the conspiracy count, up to 10 years’ imprisonment for each credit card fraud count, and a mandatory consecutive term of 2 years in federal prison for the identity theft counts. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 19, 2019.
According to court documents, Black conspired with other members of the “Manche Boy Mafia” or “MBM” to buy stolen credit/debit card account numbers on the internet. Black and his conspirators used the stolen information to create counterfeit cards and then used the counterfeit cards to purchase gift cards and other merchandise, including flat-screen televisions, iPhones, and 22-inch rims.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlton C. Gammons.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Punta Gorda Woman Sentenced for Fannie Mae FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell today sentenced Hollie Darlene Dustin (60, Punta Gorda) to six months in federal prison for committing wire fraud against the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae). The court also ordered Dustin to serve a term of three years of supervised release, 100 hours of community service, and to pay restitution in the amount of $34,001.25. As part of her sentence, the court also entered a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $34,001.25, the proceeds of the wire fraud. Dustin had pleaded guilty on June 19, 2018.
According to court documents, Dustin, a licensed real estate broker, owned Home Choice Real Estate (HCRE), a company that contracted with Fannie Mae to manage and perform preservation services on various Fannie Mae foreclosed properties. As part of a Master Listing Agreement with Fannie Mae, Dustin’s company was prohibited from using any vendors that she controlled to perform preservation services on Fannie Mae properties. Dustin fraudulently used ProPreserve, a company that she controlled, to perform preservation services on the properties without Fannie Mae’s knowledge or consent. She then submitted approximately 550 fraudulent ProPreserve invoices for HCRE, which Fannie Mae paid.
Dustin also created inflated ProPreserve invoices for work already performed by other vendors, then submitted those false invoices to Fannie Mae for payment.
Dustin used interstate wires to fraudulently submit the invoices to Fannie Mae.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey F. Michelland.
Federal Judge Sentences Former Pasco County Schools Transportation Manager to Life in Federal Prison for Child Enticement and Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington today sentenced William Matthew Napolitano (35, New Port Richey) to life in federal prison for enticing and coercing a minor to engage in sexual activity, and for possessing child pornography. Napolitano had pleaded guilty on August 29, 2018.
According to court documents, from 2014, through most of 2017, Napolitano—at the time employed by Pasco County Schools as a Transportation Manager—lured a 15-year-old student into a predatory sexual relationship that lasted several years. In addition, Napolitano invited the student to view his collection of child pornography, invited him to watch live productions of child pornography on the internet, and invited him to engage in group sex with other adults and other minors. Napolitano also produced and distributed depictions of the sexual abuse of the student.
A review of Napolitano’s electronic devices revealed his interest in enticing and having sex with children and detailed his pattern of arranging such sexual encounters. Napolitano’s devices also contained thousands of message threads wherein he discussed raping babies and young children, intentionally contracting and spreading the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and incest. He also actively participated in and encouraged others to sexually abuse children for his own viewing pleasure. Napolitano had amassed a large collection of child sex-abuse videos and other sexually explicit material, including infant and toddler pornography, pornography involving young children, and pornography involving feces, bestiality, and sadistic and masochistic conduct.
At the time of his arrest, Napolitano was a Manager of Transportation Services for Pasco County Schools. Before ascending to that position, he was a Transportation Route Specialist (2006–2010) and a school bus driver (2004–2006). From 2001 through most of 2004, Napolitano worked at the YMCA in New Port Richey, Florida, as a childcare worker, child supervisor, and senior program director.
“The atrocities committed by this child predator who was in a trusted position at a school district cannot be undone,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “But our greatest hope is that with this life sentence, we can bring some closure to the victims as they continue in the recovery process.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Advertising Executive Sentenced to Forty Years in Federal Prison for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Kovachevich today sentenced Gary Todd Smith (49, Fayetteville, North Carolina) to 40 years in federal prison for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud. The court also ordered Smith to forfeit $63 million, an amount traceable to proceeds of the offense. Smith had pleaded guilty on June 7, 2017.
According to court records, Smith ran Smith Advertising, which turned into a massive fraud scheme. Smith borrowed money from more than 150 people, and each earlier loan was repaid from subsequent loans. Smith lied about the purpose of the loans, and he and his co-conspirators created fake documents to mask the scheme. Over the course of the five-day sentencing hearing, the court heard from more than 50 victims who described the devastation wrought upon their lives by Smith’s massive fraud scheme. The victims suffered bankruptcies, loss of their homes, loss of retirement funds, and loss of their children’s education funds.
“This was a crime motivated by greed and a desire to fund an extravagant lifestyle,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously prosecute those who defraud and steal from honest, hardworking Americans.”
“This investigation and subsequent sentencing exemplifies the strength of the federal law enforcement collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Patrick Henry, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Tampa Field Office. “Each agency involved brought to bear its talent, resources, and commitment to mission. The Secret Service remains dedicated to aggressively protecting our nation and its citizens from financial fraud.”
“With more than 100 victims in this case, our agents and analysts worked tirelessly to ensure justice was served,” said Eric W. Sporre, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Tampa Division. “This investigation shows how greed can consume everything in its path and why any suspicions of financial fraud should be reported immediately to authorities.”
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas N. Palermo.
Orlando Doctor Agrees to Pay $75,000 to Settle Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Dr. Ajaz Afzal has agreed to pay the United States $75,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the Controlled Substances Act by improperly issuing prescriptions for schedule II drugs.
The settlement relates to Dr. Afzal’s issuance of prescriptions for schedule II drugs while he was out of the country. Schedule II drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse. These drugs are also considered dangerous. According to the settlement agreement, from October 2013 through November 2015, Dr. Afzal issued 108 invalid prescriptions for schedule II drugs in violation of the Controlled Substances Act.
“The United States Attorney’s Office uses every means necessary to prosecute doctors who violate the Controlled Substances Act,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “This settlement highlights our commitment to hold accountable anyone who does not follow the law.”
This settlement resulted from a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy R. Bloor led the investigation.
The settlement resolves the United States’ claims. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Eighteen “Bird Gang” Members and Associates Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms Violations in Hillsborough CountyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the culmination of a long-term investigation of a violent and drug trafficking organization known as the “Bird Gang,” operating primarily in Tampa. As a result, 18 individuals have been charged with various federal firearms and drug offenses. (Please see chart for details). The indictments also notify the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit firearms, cash, and a vehicle, as well as any other property derived from or used in these offenses.
“The charges brought today are another example of our resolve to reduce violent crime in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “Today’s actions reflect the continuous hard work of our Project Safe Neighborhoods Tampa Bay Task Force partners.”
“The arrests today send a clear message that violent gangs will not be tolerated in our communities. The FBI, with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners will continue to work together to rid our communities of drugs and violence,” said Eric W. Sporre Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Tampa Field Office.
“Our city is safer today as a result of these arrests and it will continue to be safer in the future as a result of the partnership between our law enforcement agencies,’’ said Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan. “This year-long operation sends a clear message that we and our partners will not rest until violent gangs are brought to justice.”
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This investigation arose out of a partnership between the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The cases will be prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys Natalie Hirt Adams and Taylor G. Stout.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This investigation is also the result of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
OPERATION BLUE CAST SUMMARY CHART
Name
(Age, Residence)
Charges
Maximum Penalties
Allen Brown
(39, Wimauma)
a/k/a “Jerusalem,”
a/k/a “Shawn,”
a/k/a “Deshon”
- Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone;
- Possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
- Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison;
- Minimum mandatory term of 15 years, and up to life in federal prison.
Edwin Carlon
(24, Ruskin)
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone.
Maximum term of 20 years in federal prison.
Jetavious Gaynor
(48, Tampa)
a/k/a “Cool,”
a/k/a “Breeze”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Minimum mandatory term of 5 years, and up to 40 years in federal prison.
David Jerome Green, Jr.
(36, Tampa)
a/k/a “Woodrow”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Malcolm Rontavis Griffin
(26, Tampa)
a/k/a “Chris”
- Distributing cocaine;
- Conspiring to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine;
- Distributing crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison, per count.
Marvin Grooms
(33, Tampa)
- Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone;
- Distributing heroin.
Maximum term of 40 years in prison, per count.
Cornelius Jones
(26, Tampa)
a/k/a “CJ”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.
Mandatory minimum term of 10 years, and up to life in federal prison.
Tyre Derel Jones
(25, Tampa)
a/k/a “Re-Dub,”
a/k/a “Fat Twin,”
a/k/a “Twerk”
- Conspiring to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine;
- Distributing crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in prison, per count.
Lorenzo Knight
(32, Tampa)
a/k/a “Lo,”
a/k/a “Black”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Jerrod Lee
(38, Tampa)
a/k/a “Jig,”
a/k/a “Mexico”
- Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone;
- Distributing heroin;
- Distributing 10 grams or more of fentanyl (two counts).
- Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
- Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison;
- Minimum mandatory term of 10 years, and up to life in federal prison, per count.
Sheldon Lillie
(36, Tampa)
a/k/a “Skeet,”
a/k/a “Boogie”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Mandatory minimum term of life in federal prison.
Ariscio Morgan
(43, Tampa)
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Bernard Pendleton
(47, Tampa)
a/k/a “Nard”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Deandre Perry
(37, Tampa)
a/k/a “Dee”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Timmy Ramsey
(40, Brandon)
- Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone;
- Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
- Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison;
- Maximum term of 10 years in federal prison.
Anthony Reed, Jr.
(40, Tampa)
a/k/a “Packy”
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison.
Wandra Reynolds
(56, Tampa)
Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 20 years in federal prison.
James Haskell Stephens, IV
(42, Wesley Chapel)
a/k/a “Jamie”
- Conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone;
- Possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
- Maximum term of 40 years in federal prison;
- Maximum term of 10 years in federal prison.
Bradenton Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Downloading Child Pornography from the InternetRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Adam Daniel Young (27, Bradenton) to 10 years and 1 month in federal prison for using the internet to download images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. Young was also sentenced to a lifetime of supervised release and was ordered to register as a sex offender.
Young had pleaded guilty on August 21, 2018.
According to court documents, the FBI began an investigation of Young after an undercover agent downloaded child pornography from Young’s Internet Protocol (IP) address. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Young’s home and found more than 3,500 images and 75 videos depicting child sexual abuse on Young’s laptop computer.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Peresie.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Transnational Methamphetamine-Trafficking Organization Dismantled, Leader Sentenced to More Than Nineteen YearsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven today sentenced Brian Quinonez-Soto (36, California) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. The court also ordered Quinonez-Soto to forfeit $33,214, an amount traceable to proceeds of the offense.
Quinonez-Soto had pleaded guilty on February 12, 2018.
According to court documents and sentencing hearing evidence, Quinonez-Soto, while in California, led a methamphetamine-trafficking organization in the Middle District of Florida. He was held responsible for shipping more than 4.5 kilograms of high-purity methamphetamine, the highest quantity accounted for by the federal sentencing guidelines, into the Middle District of Florida. One of the co-conspirators admitted to receiving 15 pounds of methamphetamine from Quinonez-Soto.
The methamphetamine trafficked by Quinonez-Soto was extremely pure. For instance, the drugs from one of his shipments weighed nearly 450 grams and lab-tested to be 100% pure.
Eight of Quinonez-Soto’s subordinates in his drug-trafficking organization have pleaded guilty and were previously sentenced:
- Crystal Romine sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment on August 10, 2017;
- Toni Lee Platt sentenced to 5 years, 10 months’ imprisonment on November 7, 2017;
- Lovenia Wilson sentenced to 11 years, 3 months’ imprisonment on November 20, 2017;
- Charles Johnson III sentenced to 5 years, 10 months’ imprisonment on April 23, 2018;
- Tea Robert Vandugteren sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment on May 23, 2018;
- Henry Eugene Smith sentenced to 100 months’ imprisonment on June 1, 2018;
- Reyandra Camorlinga sentenced to 3 years’ imprisonment on July 26, 2018; and
- William Piper sentenced to 8 years, 1 month’s imprisonment on September 17, 2018.
This case was investigated by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory T. Nolan.
Tampa Man Charged with Enticing Children on Video Game System to Create and Send Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Kyle Wallace (22, Tampa) has been arrested and charged by a federal criminal complaint with production and attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. If convicted, Wallace faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to 30 years in federal prison, and a potential lifetime of supervision.
According to the
complaint , on November 29, 2018, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Wallace’s home in Tampa. On Wallace’s phone, agents found at least four child-pornography images depicting two different male minors. Wallace admitted that he had persuaded those minors to send him child pornography by, among other things, offering them money and gift cards or credits for games on the Xbox Live video game system. Wallace further admitted to sexually molesting one of the two boys, when the child was only eleven or twelve years old.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Jennifer L. Peresie.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A criminal complaint is only an allegation and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Sanford Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced Jurden Rogers (29, Sanford) to 11 years and 9 months in federal prison for bank robbery and for brandishing of a firearm during the bank robbery. His co-defendant, Jerad Hanks (26, Daytona Beach), previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 9 years and 9 months’ imprisonment for the same offenses.
According to evidence presented at Rogers’s trial, on January 18, 2018, Rogers and Hanks robbed a Seacoast Bank in Sanford. Rogers backed up the getaway car up to the front entrance of the bank and Hanks exited the vehicle wearing a ski mask and holding a shotgun. Hanks then entered the bank and brandished the shotgun at tellers while demanding cash. After robbing the bank tellers of over $2,300, Hanks returned to the waiting getaway car, and Rogers drove them to a nearby apartment complex. When law enforcement officers located Rogers and Hanks at the apartment complex later that day, Rogers hid his half of the robbery proceeds in the waste pipe of his toilet and tried to escape out of a third-story apartment window.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sanford Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt. Assistant United States Attorney Nathan W. Hill assisted with the prosecution.
Real Estate Broker Convicted of Bank Fraud in Orlando Area Mortgage SchemeRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that a federal jury has found Geo Geovanni (49, Moultrie, Georgia) guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and three counts of bank fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years’ imprisonment for each count. His sentencing hearing has been scheduled for February 25, 2019.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Geovanni was a real estate broker who owned his own brokerage firm based in Orlando. Between May and August 2008, Geovanni sold condominium units to buyers at The Landing, located in Altamonte Springs, Florida. Geovanni engaged in a conspiracy to conceal from mortgage lenders sales incentives that he provided to the buyers. These undisclosed incentives included making the buyers’ down payments and paying kickbacks after closing. As a result of his actions, Geovanni helped cause the loss of approximately $761,150 to JP Morgan Chase Bank and Wells Fargo Bank when the mortgages involved in the fraudulent transactions went into foreclosure.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor and Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Capone.
Ocala Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Prison for Heroin and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore has sentenced Santonio Juvon Jackson (35, Ocala) to 20 years in federal prison for possession, distribution, and conspiracy to possess and distribute heroin and fentanyl. A federal jury had found him guilty on June 13, 2018.
According to court documents, Jackson conspired with others to deliver 167.2 grams of heroin and fentanyl in the Ocala area.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Downloading Child Sex Abuse Videos and Images from the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Christopher Michael Picher (age 26, Jacksonville) to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for using the internet to download videos and images depicting child sexual abuse. Picher was also sentenced to a lifetime of supervised release and was ordered to register as a sex offender. Picher has been in custody since his arrest on March 22, 2018.
According to court documents, in early 2018, agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted an undercover child exploitation investigation. The agents determined that an account with an online data storage company and an account with a popular online mobile messaging app were both being used to receive, distribute, and store child pornography. Further investigation revealed that Picher was the user associated with these accounts. On March 22, 2018, HSI and FBI agents and other law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant at Picher’s residence, he was subsequently arrested.
During an interview, Picher admitted that he had viewed child pornography using a mobile messaging app, and that he knew that pictures of child pornography could be posted within the group or users could send private messages. Subsequent forensic analyses of Picher’s smartphone revealed that it contained at least 15 videos and 1,486 images depicting child pornography.
“This case is an example of how criminals are using social media to victimize young children,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “This child predator thought he could remain anonymous as he viewed child pornography, but HSI special agents and our law enforcement partners found him and he will be held accountable for his crimes.”
“This sentence should serve as a warning to those who seek to exploit children, whether in our community or online,” said Charles P. Spencer, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “The FBI Jacksonville Division and our law enforcement partners will stop at nothing to identify child predators, and seek truth and justice for their innocent victims.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Fort Myers Men Indicted for A Drug Trafficking Conspiracy That Included the Killing of an InformantRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Robert Lee Ward (50, Fort Myers) with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and tampering with an informant by killing him. The indictment also charges Dalton Kelvin McGriff (49, Fort Myers) with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The drug conspiracy charge is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The tampering with an informant by killing offense is punishable by a maximum sentence of life imprisonment or death. The Justice Department will later determine if it will seek the death penalty in this particular case.
According to the
indictment , from approximately 1996 to November 2018, Ward and McGriff conspired with others to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in the Middle District of Florida and elsewhere. The conspirators sold cocaine in and around Fort Myers, Panama City and elsewhere, and killed or threatened to kill suspected informants in furtherance of the conspiracy. The indictment also alleges that Ward aided in the killing of a confidential informant on January 7, 2013, in Fort Myers.An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fort Myers Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Sinacore and Christopher Murray.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This investigation is also the result of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Lake Mary Man Sentenced for Stealing Supplemental Security Income BenefitsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron today sentenced Goebels Cyriaque (52, Lake Mary) to 10 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for theft of government property. As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment in the amount of $98,796.20, the proceeds of the crime, and ordered Cyriaque to pay restitution.
Cyriaque had pleaded guilty on August 14, 2018.
According to court documents, Cyriaque’s cousin, J.E., was a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiary. J.E. passed away between March and April 1998 in Haiti. J.E.’s death was never reported to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Consequently, the SSA continued to make benefit payments to the deceased individual.
Cyriaque was a joint account holder on the account into which J.E.’s SSI benefits were deposited. From March 1998 through November 2017, Cyriaque accessed the funds and used them for personal expenses. In total, he stole or converted $98,796.20 in SSI benefits to which he was not entitled.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Jacksonville Beach Man Sentenced to Five Years for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Harvey Schlesinger today sentenced Daniel Dwain Lundeby (42, Jacksonville Beach) to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Lundeby had pleaded guilty on March 15, 2018.
According to court documents, on August 9, 2017, Lundeby was a passenger in a truck that was stopped by the Jacksonville’s Sheriff’s Office for a traffic offense. After the driver gave consent to search the truck, officers located a backpack that contained a loaded handgun, a small amount of methamphetamine, and Lundeby’s wallet and identification. Lundeby was arrested at the scene. At the time, Lundeby had multiple prior felony convictions, including burglary, distribution of heroin, eluding police, and receiving stolen property and therefore was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Senior Member of “Manche Boy Mafia” Gang Sentenced to More Than Eleven Years in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore today sentenced Equanzick Howell a/k/a “Pookie,” “Big Pook,” and “Pook Pook” (31, Tampa) to 11 years and 2 months in federal prison for theft of government property and aggravated identity theft. Howell had pleaded guilty on August 16, 2018.
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2018, Howell, who was a senior member of the Manche Boy Mafia or “MBM” gang, committed tax fraud, credit card fraud, and identity theft in the Tampa Bay area. Between March and June 2013, Howell filed 12 fraudulent tax returns, including one in his own name, and directed that the refunds be loaded onto his H&R Block card. All of the returns, except for Howell’s own return, were filed using identities stolen from individuals who were deceased, elderly, and/or severely mentally disabled. Howell used the H&R Block account to make ATM withdrawals and purchases from Tampa-area retailers and restaurants, including a $2,500 payment to a cosmetic surgery center where Howell’s girlfriend received a cosmetic procedure.
For the 2012, 2013, and 2014 tax years, Howell and those working with him made false claims to the IRS for tax refunds to which they were not entitled in the amount of a least $976,000 and, as a result, received approximately $140,000 in fraudulently obtained tax refunds.
Investigators also learned that, starting in early 2015, members of MBM, including Howell, began purchasing stolen credit and debit card account numbers online from various websites, many of which use bitcoin as their currency. Once the members of this conspiracy purchased the stolen account numbers, they or someone working with them created counterfeit credit cards. The conspirators typically used the counterfeit credit cards to purchase gift cards and electronics, which they kept or later sold for cash. Howell also used counterfeit credit cards to obtain gift cards, which were used to purchase firearms and ammunition. To date, investigators have determined that Howell was responsible for approximately $1.1 million in intended or attempted purchases with counterfeit credit cards and stolen account information.
“The sentencing of Equanzick Howell represents the tireless efforts of dedicated IRS Special Agents, in coordination with the FBI and Tampa Police Department, to eradicate the scourge of stolen identity related tax fraud,” stated Special Agent in Charge Mary Hammond of IRS Criminal Investigation. “Howell and his gang heaped untold nightmarish anxiety on their victims, which surely any of us would feel upon learning we had become the target of an identity thief. We are firmly committed to teaming up with our law enforcement partners to pursue any individual and dismantle any organization brazen enough to attempt this heinous crime.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Receiving Child Pornography over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Craig Harry Lipinski (50, Jacksonville) to eight years and one month in federal prison for knowingly receiving images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children from the internet. Lipinski was also sentenced to serve a seven-year term of supervised release and ordered to register as a sex offender.
Lipinski had pleaded guilty on June 5, 2018.
According to court documents and testimony, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted an undercover child exploitation investigation and determined that a host computer connected to Lipinski’s residence was using a file-sharing program to share videos of child pornography over the internet. On January 30, 2018, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at Lipinski’s Jacksonville residence and made contact with him. At that time, agents observed that a computer at the residence was actively downloading files using the same program. Some of the files contained the terms “teen” and “young” in their titles.
During an interview with law enforcement, Lipinski stated that he had downloaded movies from the file-sharing program, and that he “probably downloaded some miscellaneous, some inappropriate stuff.” A forensic examination of Lipinski’s computer media revealed that it contained at least 206 videos and 8,755 images depicting children being sexually abused. At sentencing, Lipinski admitted that he viewed child pornography because of “sexual curiosity” and for his own “sexual gratification.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Federal Jury Finds Armed Career Criminal Guilty on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that a federal jury has found Sean Justin Owens (35, Jacksonville) guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Owens faces a mandatory minimum term of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 26, 2019.
Owens was indicted on February 21, 2018.
According to testimony presented at trial, Owens was found to be in possession of a firearm after officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) investigated his illegally parked vehicle. As the officers approached the parked vehicle, Owens quickly left the car and headed toward a nearby residence. When the officers checked the vehicle tag, it was not associated with any vehicle. As one of the officers tried to obtain the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), he saw a firearm on the front console. Owens’s driver license was inside his vehicle, confirming his identity. In addition, an occupant of the home Owens had entered after leaving the vehicle confirmed that the vehicle belonged to Owens.
At the time of this incident, Owens had multiple prior felony convictions and, therefore, was prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 14 Years for Illegal Re-Entry and Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Ramon Lopez-Alvarado (59, Valles, Mexico) to 14 years in federal prison for illegal re-entry into the United States and failure to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Lopez-Alvarado pleaded guilty to failure to register as a sex offender on July 27, 2018. A federal jury found him guilty of illegal re-entry on August 7, 2018.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Lopez-Alvarado, an alien of the United States who had previously been removed from the country in 2000, 2009, and 2013, was found to be back in the Orlando area in March 2018. At the time, Lopez-Alvarado had prior felony convictions for committing lewd acts on a child and failing to register as a sex offender. When he returned to the United States, he again failed to register as a sex offender as required by SORNA.
SORNA is part of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006. The Adam Walsh Act also provides for the use of federal law enforcement resources, including the United States Marshals Service, to assist state and local authorities in locating and apprehending non-compliant sex offenders.
“This sentencing represents law enforcement partners working together to make our communities and our nation safer,” said acting Miami Field Office Director Jim Martin. “This criminal alien will now be held accountable for his actions.”
“The United States Marshals Service will remain steadfast in its pursuit to ensure that convicted sex offenders adhere to the registration requirements clearly outlined in the Adam Walsh Child Protection Act,” said U.S. Marshal William “Bill” Berger for the Middle District of Florida.
This case was investigated by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement ERO and the United States Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kara M. Wick.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Thirty-Nine “Unforgiven” and “United Aryan Brotherhood” Gang Members and Associates Indicted for Arms and Drug Trafficking in Pasco CountyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the culmination of a long-term investigation, dubbed “Operation Blackjack,” into arms and narcotics trafficking activities, centered in Pasco County, Florida. As a result, 39 individuals have been charged with various federal firearms and drug violations. (Please see chart for details). The indictments also notify the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms used in these offenses and any proceeds traceable to the offenses.
“We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to prosecute those who persist in purveying violent crime and drug trafficking on our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “We are committed to working with our partners to render our communities safe for our citizens in the Middle District of Florida.”
“ATF’s primary focus is protecting the public by reducing violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Daryl McCrary. “ATF continues to aggressively pursue violent offenders and will work with our law enforcement partners to protect and serve our communities.”
"The Pasco Sheriff's Office is proud of the partnership it has with the Department of Justice,” said Sheriff Chris Nocco. “Taking illegally possessed guns and criminals off the street will have a positive impact on the safety of our community."
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
Operation Blackjack arose out of a partnership between the United States Attorney’s Office, the State Attorney’s Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. The cases will be prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office’s Violent Crimes and Narcotics Section.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This investigation is also the result of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Defendant (Age)
Charges Maximum PenaltiesMichael Baun (29)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Jade Blair (25)
Spring Hill, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Nicholas Bollman (24)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Jonathan Budowski* (47)
Bushnell, FL
- Possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
- Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon;
- Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
- Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment;
- Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment;
- Minimum mandatory term of imprisonment of 5 years, and up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to any other sentence of imprisonment.
Bradley Cox (31)
Palmetto, FL
- Conspiring to possess with intent to distribute heroin;
- Possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl;
- Possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment, per count.
Crystal Davis (26)
Tampa, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Donald Dussell, a/k/a “Dino” (41)
Hudson, FL
- Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon (8 counts);
- Distributing heroin;
- Distributing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.
- Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count;
- Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment;
- Minimum mandatory term of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.
Kurt Gell* (39)
Bartow, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment.
Melissa James (33)
New Port Richey, FL
Possessing with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Minimum mandatory term of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 40 years’ imprisonment.
Breanna Knights (21)
New Port Richey, FL
- Distributing heroin;
- Distributing crack cocaine.
Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment, per count.
Jerry Koezeno* (30)
New Port Richey, FL
- Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon;
- Distributing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (2 counts).
Pleaded guilty on October 3, 2018.
Sentencing set for January 3, 2019.
- Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
- Minimum mandatory of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, per count.
Joshua Koezeno (25)
New Port Richey, FL
Possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Minimum mandatory term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.
James Thomas Lang, III (32)
Tampa, FL
- Conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine;
- Distributing heroin and fentanyl (two counts);
- Distributing methamphetamine;
- Distributing heroin (two counts)
- Minimum Mandatory of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.
As to remaining counts, maximum term of 30 years' imprisonment, per count.
James Laughery (44)
New Port Richey, FLPossessing a firearm as a convicted felon (4 counts).
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count.
Stephen Kenneth Lore* (48)
Hudson, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Sentenced to 15 years and 8 months’ imprisonment.
Jamie Manz (40)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon (2 counts).
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count.
Andre Maytum (34)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Chastity McBride (35)
New Port Richey, FL
- Conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Mandatory minimum term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, per count.
Stephanie McDonald* (35)
New Port Richey, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Sentencing scheduled for 12/18/2018.
Minimum mandatory term of imprisonment of 5 years, and up to life imprisonment.
Skyler McMillion (33)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Jacob Montgomery (25)
New Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Richard Morman (31)
New Port Richey, FL
- Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon;
- Possessing a pipe bomb;
- Possessing pipe bombs.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count.
Arnold Gerard Nelson, Jr. (32)
Tampa, FL
- Conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, and 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine;
- Distributing heroin and fentanyl (three counts);
- Distributing methamphetamine;
- Distributing heroin (2 counts).
- Minimum mandatory term of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 40 years’ imprisonment;
All other counts:
Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment, per count.
William Ohrmund (43), a/k/a “Billy the Kid”*
Port Richey, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Bobby Osborne (33)
Hudson, FL
- Conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Minimum mandatory term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, per count.
Chad Michael Overend (37)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Ryan Perrin (32)
Palm Harbor, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon (2 counts).
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count.
Randi Potter (44)
New Port Richey, FL
1. Possessing with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine;
2. Possessing with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine;
3. Possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
4. Possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
As to counts 1 and 2 : Minimum Mandatory term of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment;
- Minimum mandatory term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment;
4. Maximum term of 30 years’ imprisonment.
John Christopher Roberts* (35)
Orlando, FL
Pleaded guilty to:
- Conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine;
- Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Sentencing set for 1/6/2019.
- Maximum term of 20 years' imprisonment;
- Minimum mandatory term of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.
Justin Ruth (28)
New Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon (2 counts).
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment, per count.
Anthony Steve* (37)
Port Richey, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment.
Keith Jason Stewart (29)
Hudson, FL
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (2 counts);
- Possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon.
- Minimum mandatory term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, per count;
- Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
George Susick* (29)
Spring Hill, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment.
Joseph Ward* (46)
New Port Richey, FL
Found guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
Sentenced to 4 years and 3 months’ imprisonment.
David Weyde* (30)
Port Richey, FL
Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and to possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun.
Sentenced to 4 years and 3 months’ imprisonment.
Gary Webb, a/k/a “Superman” (40)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
Larry Dean Wilson, Jr. (41)
Land O’Lakes, FL
- Distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (2 counts);
- Distributing marijuana;
- Mandatory minimum term of 20 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, per count;
- Maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years;
Michael Wilson* (45)
Spring Hill, FL
Convicted at trial of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
Sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Andrew Windsor (34)
Port Richey, FL
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
Maximum term of 10 years' imprisonment.
* Charged prior to takedown operation.Former Tax Preparer Sentenced to Three Years for Identity Theft-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Celia Yvette Gamet to three years in federal prison for theft of government money and aggravated identity theft.
Gamet had pleaded guilty on March 23, 2018.
According to court documents, from 2012 until 2016, Gamet was a tax preparer for HK Tax Service in Orlando. During that period, Gamet used her position as a tax preparer to steal personal identification information of others, some of whom were dependents of HK Tax’s clients. Unbeknownst to the HK Tax clients, and without their authority, Gamet used many of the dependents’ personal identification information to file false tax returns.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily C. L. Chang.
Former Owner of Stenotype Institute Pleads Guilty to Failing to Refund Federal Student Aid FundsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Gloria Wiley (72, Dansville, KY) has pleaded guilty to a charge of failure to refund federally insured student aid funds, commonly referred to as Stafford Loans and Pell Grants. Wiley faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. As part of her plea agreement, Wiley has agreed to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution to affected students, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
According to the
plea agreement , Wiley was the owner of Stenotype Institute of Jacksonville, Inc.—a Jacksonville-based stenography school that provided professional education to individuals pursuing stenography careers, including court reporting and medical transcription. Stenotype was authorized to receive federal student aid funds from the U.S. Department of Education on behalf of its students to cover tuition, fees, and living expense stipends. Excess funds drawn on behalf of students were required to be refunded to the U.S. Department of Education or to the student within 45 days.Beginning in June 2015, instead of refunding the excess refunds, Stenotype began tracking the amounts owed in a spreadsheet. Meanwhile, Wiley continued to draw funds from the school for her personal use. In total, Wiley and Stenotype held approximately $290,000 in refunds due to the U.S. Department of Education and to former students, and $9,000 due to the Department of Veterans Affairs, none of which have ever been paid. Stenotype ceased operations in March 2016, shortly after a program review by the U.S. Department of Education.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
Nassau County Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Pornography Using Hidden Bathroom CamerasRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Charles Cory Thornton (38, Yulee) to 23 years in federal prison for using hidden cameras to produce pornographic images and videos of four children. Thornton was also sentenced to serve a lifetime term of supervised release, and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to the victims of his offenses.
Thornton had pleaded guilty on November 3, 2017, and has been in custody since his arrest on July 27, 2017.
According to court documents, on July 20, 2017, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Thornton’s residence based on suspected online child exploitation activity. When interviewed, Thornton admitted that he had been searching for child pornography online since 2012, and that he was sexually attracted to children. FBI agents seized several cameras and other computer media from Thornton’s residence. Forensic analyses of these items revealed that from January 2007 through August 2010, Thornton had produced at least 88 videos of four different children while they changed clothes in the bathrooms of two different residences in Florida and Virginia. Thornton surreptitiously recorded these videos using tiny cameras he had hidden in different spots in the bathrooms. Thornton admitted that his ultimate goal was to capture close-up, explicit footage of the children, then transfer the videos to his computer for his own sexual gratification.
A forensic examination of Thornton’s computer also revealed that he had used the internet to download, collect, and make available for sharing approximately 800,000 images and 9,400 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, some as young as two years of age.
“The FBI Jacksonville Division is committed to protecting children in this community,” said Carlton L. Peeples, Assistant Special Agent in Charge. “This case is just one example of our tireless efforts to identify predators and seek justice for their innocent victims.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Fruitland Park Man Pleads Guilty to Sending Interstate ThreatsRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Richard Mel Phillips (36, Fruitland Park) has pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce. Phillips faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Phillips sent a series of threatening phone calls and voicemails to members of the U.S. Congress. In the most recent of these voicemails, Phillips threatened to travel to a member of Congress’s home district to kill the Congressperson, and threatened to “slaughter” any law enforcement agents that were sent to Phillips’ home. In a subsequent interview with the FBI, Phillips admitted to making the threatening voicemail.
This case was investigated by the FBI (Ocala Resident Agency). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
California Man Receives 30-Month Sentence for Telemarketing SchemeRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Roy Dalton, Jr. today sentenced Naif Wedad Nazer (39, Laguna Niguel, CA) to two years and six months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. The Court also ordered Nazer to forfeit $811,162.06, the proceeds of the offense.
Nazer had pleaded guilty on June 20, 2018.
According to court documents, between 2011 and 2015, Nazer founded and operated a series of 10 different businesses, each of which engaged in cold-calling timeshare owners across the United States and fraudulently inducing them to pay advance fees for services that the businesses never intended to render. Specifically, Nazer, and others that he recruited for this scheme, made a series of false claims to victims, including that Nazer’s businesses:
- would help the owner market his or her timeshare;
- had identified buyers to purchase the timeshare;
- would facilitate the sale of the timeshare; and
- would refund the advance fee within a prescribed time period if the timeshare sale did not go through.
Victims of this fraud conspiracy were located throughout the United States.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily C. L. Chang.
Putnam County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge of Accessing Child Pornography over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Jack Edward Armey (69, Interlachen) has pleaded guilty to accessing videos depicting child pornography using the internet. Armey faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, and a potential life term of supervised release. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on September 8, 2016, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Armey’s home, in connection with an undercover internet investigation during which an FBI analyst had downloaded videos of child pornography that were being shared by a computer traced to Armey’s residence. During an interview, Armey admitted that he had accessed and viewed videos depicting child pornography, that he had used certain terms to search for child pornography, and that he was specifically attracted to 12 to 14-year-old girls, but knew that viewing such material is illegal.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lake Mary Man Convicted of Mail Fraud Involving Scheme to Defraud Ebay and PaypalRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Brian R. Kucharski (28, Lake Mary) has pleaded guilty to mail fraud. Kucharski faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Kucharski created eBay accounts using stolen and fraudulently obtained personal identifying information, including the names and dates of birth of over 500 individuals. Kucharski negotiated the fraudulent sale of fictitious products, predominantly gift cards, through eBay. The eBay customers paid for the items through fraudulent PayPal accounts that were created by Kucharski. Instead of mailing the purchased items to the customers, Kucharski used the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to disguise his fraudulent activities by mailing random items to other individuals, and using the USPS tracking numbers to represent to eBay and its customers that he had mailed the purchased items. Ultimately, the victims never received the items and eBay routinely denied their demands for a refund.
Postal customers all over the United States became concerned after they received priority mail packages containing random items of no value. As a result of complaints made to local police departments and post offices, investigators identified Kucharski as the perpetrator of the scheme.
Further, Kucharski used the fraudulently obtained proceeds of his illegal activities to purchase precious metals, which were delivered to him via the U.S. mail.
This case was investigated by U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilianys Rivera Miranda.
Jury Finds Texas Man Guilty for Role in Complex Nigerian Money Laundering RingRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Okechuwku Desmond Amadi (39, Garland, TX) guilty of conspiracy to commit money laundering and individual counts of money laundering. Amadi faces a maximum penalty of 60 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been set.
Amadi was indicted on September 19, 2017. He was arrested on September 28, 2017, at John F. Kennedy International Airport, in New York City, after returning from a trip to Nigeria.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Amadi worked with an international criminal organization based in Nigeria that defrauded dozens of victims across the United States and then laundered proceeds of the fraud through a complex network of bank accounts. The criminal organization, known as the Neo Black Movement of Africa, or the Black Axe Group, coordinated fraud and money laundering activity throughout the globe via cells or “zones” in Nigeria, Canada, the United States, and elsewhere.
Black Axe fraud schemes took various forms. Many of the fraud victims were elderly, widowed or divorced women who had developed relationships with fake suitors on dating websites. These victims were convinced to wire money, which often consisted of their retirement savings and cash taken out from their home equity, to bank accounts in the United States as part of a supposed investment opportunity. Other victims included title companies that were defrauded with fake cashier’s checks during phony real estate transactions.
Victims were instructed to wire their money into accounts held by U.S.-based conspirators, known as “money mules,” and the funds were then quickly moved to other accounts in the United States and around the world before the victims could discover the fraud. Bank records presented at trial indicated that, from 2012 to 2015, several million dollars in wire transfers were laundered. Amadi, a real estate investor and insurance broker in Texas, used his bank accounts to launder more than $833,000 in fraud proceeds that victims had sent to accounts controlled by an associate of his in the Dallas area. Amadi wired much of that money overseas, including to Canada and Nigeria, to promote the conspiracy and conceal the source of the funds.
This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from various federal and local law enforcement partners throughout the country, including the Toronto Police Service and the Toronto Strategic Partnership in Ontario, Canada. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick Scruggs and Diego Novaes.
Repeat Offender Sentenced for Controlled Substance OffenseRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Andrew Daniel Hill (29, Jacksonville) to four years and eight months in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute MDMA and for violating the terms of his supervised release, which he was serving after a 2013 federal conviction for possessing with the intent to distribute methylone. Hill was previously sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment in connection with the 2013 conviction.
Hill had pleaded guilty on July 31, 2018.
According to court documents, in April 2018, agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted an international mail parcel destined for a mailbox rented in Hill’s name at a shipping center and mailbox rental location in Jacksonville. Law enforcement discovered the parcel contained 112 grams of a white powder and rocky crystalline substance, which was later tested and confirmed to be MDMA. When Hill arrived to pick up the package, he was arrested. A search of Hill’s text messages revealed that he had bragged about his new source of supply in Canada and that he intended to sell the substance.
“This repeat offender continued to import dangerous drugs into our country and our communities,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “Partnering with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, allows us to ensure that sentencings like this continue to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Karase.
Palm Coast Man Indicted for Federal Firearm and Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Jerard Keaton Davis (33, Palm Coast) with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute it. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, and up life, in federal prison. Davis was arrested and ordered detained pending trial.
According to court documents, while executing a search warrant, law enforcement officers found Davis in possession of a .380 caliber pistol and crack cocaine. At the time, Davis had multiple prior felony drug convictions and, therefore, was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Mesrobian.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Members of Fraudulent Jamaican Sweepstakes Ring Convicted of Conspiracy, Money Laundering, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that a federal jury has found Nadine Bromfield Alexander (39, Orlando) and Shameer Hassan (45, Kissimmee) guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and three counts of aggravated identity theft. The jury also found Hassan guilty of eight counts of money laundering. They each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each of the conspiracy charges, and a mandatory minimum of two years for the aggravated identity theft charges. Hassan also faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on each of the money laundering charges. The sentencing hearings are scheduled for January 21, 2019.
Alexander and Hassan were indicted on May 31, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Alexander and Hassan participated in a fraudulent sweepstakes scheme that operated in the Middle District of Florida and Jamaica. Members of the conspiracy targeted victims throughout the United States, many whom were elderly, and falsely informed them that they had won a multi-million dollar prize in a sweepstakes contest. The conspirators told the victims to wire funds to “representatives” in Orlando to prepay fees and taxes on the prize money. Upon receipt of the funds, other members of the conspiracy converted the funds to money orders and cash. They then paid Hassan, who operated several money transfer businesses, to wire the fraud proceeds to Jamaica.
Alexander stole the personal identity information belonging to more than 35 individuals from her workplace and gave it to her co-conspirators. Hassan used the stolen information to launder the funds. In less than two years, Hassan and his co-conspirators transferred more than $3 million in funds obtained from victims to conspirators in Jamaica.
This case was investigated by the SCIRS Federal Financial Crimes Task Force, whose members include the IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Cloud Police Department, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Winter Park Police Department, the Casselberry Police Department, the Kissimmee Police Department, the Maitland Police Department, the Palm Bay Police Department, and the U.S. Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Karen L. Gable and Roger B. Handberg.
Three Indian Nationals Indicted for Extortion and Wire Fraud Relating to IRS Impersonation ScamsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Nishitkumar Patel (31, Tampa), Hemalkumar Shah (27, Tampa), and Sharvil Patel (22, Tampa) with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and extortion, and substantive counts of wire fraud and extortion. The indictment also charges Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel with money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Each of the three defendants faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count of wire fraud conspiracy, extortion conspiracy, wire fraud, and extortion. Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel face an additional penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison for money laundering, and a minimum mandatory consecutive two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of at least $2.27 million, the proceeds of the wire fraud and extortion conspiracies.
According to the
indictment , from 2014 through at least 2016, the defendants conspired with India-based call centers to extort money from U.S. residents by impersonating IRS officers. The defendants misled their victims to believe that they owed money to the IRS and would be arrested and fined if they did not pay their alleged back taxes immediately, so the victims would pay the defendants. The defendants collected the fraud proceeds by (1) withdrawing cash from prepaid cards purchased and funded by victims; (2) hiring other conspirators (runners) to retrieve money wired by the victims to those runners; and/or (3) hiring runners to open bank accounts into which victims deposited fraud proceeds.In order to collect the fraud proceeds, the defendants provided the runners with the victims’ names, locations, and amount paid. The defendants directed the runners to retrieve the fraud proceeds in cash, and remit it to the defendants, often less a payment to the runner for opening the account or conducting the transaction.
On October 23, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the home of Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel. Among other items, they seized approximately $50,000 in cash, hundreds of bank and wire transfer receipts, and 20 electronic devices.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel K. Jones.
Texas Man Who Traveled to Tampa to Have Sex with 12-Year-Old Girl Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington today sentenced Benjamin Michael Tschirhart (35, Dallas, TX) to 11 years in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Tschirhart had pleaded guilty on August 1, 2018.
According to court documents, Tschirhart, using the internet alias “jabberwockysuperfly,” contacted an undercover agent who was posing as a woman that was looking for a man to train her notional 12-year old daughter for sex. Over the course of one month, Tschirhart discussed his sexual desires and preferences for children and made plans to train and groom the “child” for sex.
Toward the end of April 2018, Tschirhart and the undercover agent made plans for Tschirhart to travel to Tampa to have sex with the “child.” On April 30, 2018, Tschirhart disembarked an Amtrak train in Tampa. The next day, Tschirhart arrived at the agreed upon location at the agreed upon time, where he was arrested. He had in his possession condoms and lubrication, as well as Skittles and Airheads—the “child’s” favorite candy.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tampa Man Sentenced to Twenty-Seven Months’ Imprisonment for Lying to Avoid RestitutionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Jason Anthony Martinez (38, Tampa) to an additional three months’ imprisonment for a total of 27 months’ imprisonment for lying to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Financial Litigation Unit and U.S. Probation to avoid his restitution obligation. In addition, he was sentenced to an additional two years of supervised release, extending his post-incarceration supervision to a total of five years.
According to the plea agreement, Martinez was previously convicted in a mortgage-related fraud case and ordered to pay $3,008,551.01 in restitution. On October 24, 2017, Martinez signed and submitted a Financial Disclosure Form, upon which he falsely claimed a net income that was approximately half his actual net income and failed to disclose a number of credit accounts. This false information materially and adversely affected the resulting restitution-related payment calculations in his prior case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, recognizing the critical importance of recovering restitution for victims, has a Financial Litigation Unit that collects criminal monetary penalties, including restitution, imposed on criminal defendants by the U.S. District Court as part of his or her sentence. One of the tools used by the Unit to collect restitution is the Financial Disclosure Statement, which requires defendants to truthfully disclose, among other things, their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Economic Crimes Section. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas N. Palermo.
Jacksonville Rolling 20s Gang Members and Affiliates Indicted on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of indictments charging Jacksonville residents Natario Bernard Peterson, Dashawn Leon Rose, Jacoby Devonta Hartley, Kirkland George Lawrence, Bruce Marcell Wilson, Keron Jodan Taylor, and Bryant Lloyd Wright with federal drug and firearms charges. The indictments also notify the defendants that United States intends to forfeit the firearms used in these offenses and any proceeds traceable to the offenses. If convicted on these charges, these defendants face the following minimum and maximum penalties:
Name (age)
Charges
Maximum Penalties
Natario Bernard Peterson,
a/k/a “Nite Ryda”
(24)
- Sale of a firearm to a convicted felon.
- Distribution of crack cocaine (3 counts).
- Up to 10 years in federal prison.
- Up to 20 years in federal prison per count.
Dashawn Leon Rose, a/k/a “Whop”
(21)
- Distribution of crack cocaine.
- Possession of a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime.
- Up to 20 years in federal prison.
- Minimum mandatory 5 years, and up to life in federal prison.
Jacoby Devonta Hartley, a/k/a “Lil’ Coby”
(22)
Distribution of crack cocaine.
Up to 20 years in federal prison.
Kirkland George Lawrence, a/k/a “Killa”
(33)
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Up to 10 years in federal prison.
Bruce Marcell Wilson
(38)
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (2 counts).
- Distribution of a controlled substance analogue.
- Up to 10 years in federal prison, per count.
- Up to 20 years in federal prison.
Keron Jodan Taylor
(33)
Distribution of a controlled substance analogue.
Up to 20 years in federal prison.
Bryant Lloyd Wright
(29)
- Distribution of cocaine (2 counts).
- Distribution of heroin.
- Up to 30 years in federal prison, per count.
- Up to 30 years in federal prison.
According to the indictments, at various times in 2018, these individuals distributed controlled substances and controlled substance analogues and were illegally in possession of firearms or illegally disposed of firearms to a convicted felon.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and David Mesrobian.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Seminole Hard Rock CasinoRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Dirk Lawrence Davis (25, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to robbery and to brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 7 years, and up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has been set for February 6, 2019.
According to court documents, on February 2, 2018, Davis entered the poker room of the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Tampa. He walked up to the teller window, brandished a firearm, and stated, “I don’t want to cause a scene. Give me hundreds.” The teller complied, giving Davis $20,000 in cash. Davis fled the casino on foot. Surveillance cameras captured the robbery. Multiple friends and family members of Davis identified him to law enforcement after seeing the surveillance footage on the news.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Seminole Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Ruskin Man Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Jeffrey Perry (56, Ruskin) has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Perry faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Perry was involved in promoting and seeking investors in Life Link Travel, Inc. Perry indicated to investors that Life Link was going to open an online travel club portal and website. He often appealed to investors’ religious beliefs, telling them that their profits from Life Link would allow them to donate to worthy religious charities.
Between 2009 and 2014, Perry promoted this investment opportunity to various investors. Most of the funds came through wire transfers from investors outside of Florida, into Perry’s bank accounts in Florida. The Life Link website and portal never commenced operation.
Investors were unaware that the large majority of funds that Perry had persuaded them to “invest” in Life Link actually funded Perry’s gambling and other personal expenses.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
Riverview Man Arrested for Defrauding Local Credit UnionsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Richard E. Bowe (40, Riverview) with four counts of making false statements to federally insured credit unions. If convicted, Bowe faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The indictment also notifies Bowe that the United States intends to forfeit $96,184.13, which is alleged to be the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct.
According to the indictment, between January and early March 2015, Bowe sought a number of loans from credit unions. In his loan applications, he falsely indicated that he was employed by the United States Army Contracting Command as a Deputy Inspector General, and that he was earning a monthly salary in excess of $14,000. Bowe also falsified information about his military service and VA benefits.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department, the United States Department of Veteran’s Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigation Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
St. Petersburg Man Involved in Shootout Pleads Guilty to Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Lavonta Hill (27, St. Petersburg) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on January 25, 2017, at approximately 3:45 a.m., Hill was involved in a shootout in a residential area on 15th Avenue South, near 16th Street South, in St. Petersburg. Shortly after the shooting, St. Petersburg Police Department (SPPD) officers found Hill on the ground in the parking lot of a nearby liquor store, bleeding from his head and one arm. Hill, who at the time was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition, denied knowing where the shooting occurred, who shot him, or why. He was taken to a hospital and treated for gunshot wounds.
Further investigation by SPPD determined that the shooting had occurred in an area on 15th Street South encompassing several houses, where at least 62 rounds of ammunition had been fired. In the front yard of one of the residences, an officer found a blue recycling container with blood smeared on it. Under the container, the officer found a firearm with blood on it and investigators discovered a trail of blood drops leading from that residence to the liquor store parking lot, ending at the spot where the officers had found Hill. A surveillance video from the grocery store showed a man staggering across the parking lot and crossing the street toward the liquor store at approximately 3:46 a.m., and witnesses described seeing Hill stumble and sway as he approached the liquor store. DNA from the blood on the firearm and recycling bin matched Hill’s DNA and a firearms and ballistics expert determined that two of the cartridge cases from the shooting scene were fired from the firearm linked to Hill.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Petersburg Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sinacore.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
St. Augustine Man Charged with Using the Internet to Entice and Meet A Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Brian Ray Dunlap (age 66, St. Augustine) has been arrested and charged by a federal criminal complaint with using the internet to attempt to entice a child to engage in sexual activity. Dunlap faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. He is currently detained pending a detention hearing.
According to the
criminal complaint , on October 6, 2018, a detective with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, who was posing online as a custodial family member of two children, ages 9 and 12, received an email message from Dunlap, who identified himself as “Brian.” Between October 6 and October 9, 2018, Dunlap and the undercover detective exchanged emails and text messages about Dunlap meeting the “children” for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with them. Dunlap provided the undercover detective with specific details about the sexual acts that he wished to perform on the two “children.”According to the complaint, on October 9, 2018, Dunlap traveled to a shopping area in St. Johns County to meet the undercover detective, and sent a photo of himself so that he could be recognized. After his arrival there, he was arrested.
This case was investigated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
United States Alleges Florida Law Firm Discriminated Against Hispanic Homeowners with A Predatory Loan Modification and Foreclosure Rescue Services TeamRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL - United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that the United States filed a lawsuit yesterday, alleging that a Florida legal services provider and two of its officers violated the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) by intentionally discriminating against Hispanic homeowners by targeting them with a predatory mortgage loan modification and foreclosure rescue services scheme. The Defendants named in the lawsuit are Advocate Law Groups of Florida, P.A; attorney, Jon B. Lindeman, Jr.; and his wife, Ephigenia K. Lindeman. Advocate Law Groups of Florida, P.A., is based in Miami Lakes, Florida, and has offices in, among other places, Orlando and Tampa, Florida.
According to the Complaint allegations, from 2009 through at least 2015, the Defendants deliberately targeted the Complainants and other homeowners with an unfair and predatory loan modification and foreclosure rescue services scheme because of their Hispanic national origin. During this time period, the Defendants purposefully targeted Hispanic homeowners with Spanish-language advertising that falsely promised to cut their mortgage payments in half. In client meetings, the Defendants promised lower payments in a short timeframe in exchange for thousands of dollars of upfront fees and additional, continuing monthly fees. The Defendants also instructed their clients to stop making monthly mortgage payments and to stop communicating with their lenders, placing their clients’ homes at risk of foreclosure. Additionally, the Defendants sent to the Complainants a package of documents, written in English, that were sent to the bank on their behalf, but provided no translation of the documents. These documents contained untrue statements, including an offer to the bank to return the Complainants’ homes in exchange for a rescission of the mortgage without the Complainants’ consent to do so. Despite charging high fees, the Defendants did little or nothing actually to obtain loan modifications.
This lawsuit arose as a result of three complaints filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by the Defendants’ former clients. After conducting an investigation, HUD issued a charge of discrimination and referred the case to the Justice Department. This case is being prosecuted jointly with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the Civil Rights Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
“Enforcement of civil rights in the housing arena is a point of focus for our Civil Division. The predatory conduct described in this Complaint cannot go unaddressed, and we will take whatever steps are necessary to protect our district’s residents from this kind of discriminatory practice,” said United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez.
Anyone with information on the loan modification and foreclosure rescue services provided by Advocate Law Groups of Florida, P.A., should contact the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division at 800-896-7743 and leave a message (for English, press 1 and select mailbox 93; for Spanish, press 2 and select mailbox 7).
November 2018 ElectionsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Maria Chapa Lopez announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Robert Mosakowski will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 6, 2018, general election. AUSA Mosakowski has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Middle District of Florida, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Chapa Lopez said, “Every citizen should be free to vote without interference or discrimination and to have their vote count, without the fear that it will be stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the electoral process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 6, 2018, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Chapa Lopez stated that AUSA/DEO Mosakowski will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (813) 274-6129.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. Local FBI field offices can be reached by the public at (813) 253-1000 (Tampa Division) or (904) 248-7000 (Jacksonville Division).
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
Former Department of Defense Employee Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Entice A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Mohammad Abdul Malek (67, St. Marys, GA) today pleaded guilty to attempted enticement and coercion of a minor. Malek faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, between August 23 and August 26, 2018, Malek engaged in email and text communications with an undercover detective posing as a 13 year-old girl. Malek asked for photos of the “child” and told her he wanted to teach her about “making love.” Malek was advised and acknowledged that the “child” was a minor, and suggested that they meet to engage in sex. On August 26, 2018, Malek traveled to Jacksonville to meet the “child,” and was arrested by officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Orlando Man Found Guilty of Firearm and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal jury has found Willie Tom Johnson (29, Orlando) guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 10, 2019.
Johnson was charged in a superseding indictment on September 26, 2018.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on January 26, 2018, deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office conducted a stop of a vehicle with a license plate that had been reported stolen. Johnson, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, fled on foot from officers, leaving behind approximately 135 grams of crack and powder cocaine, as well as a loaded firearm, a digital scale, and various other evidence. At the time, Johnson had a prior felony conviction and therefore was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Jacksonville Real Estate Investor Sentenced to Federal Prison for Passing More Than $250,000 in Fraudulent Treasury ChecksRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Neil Andre Butler (47, Jacksonville) to 15 months in federal prison for possessing and passing fraudulent government securities—specifically, four U.S. Treasury checks. Butler was found guilty on July 20, 2018, following a bench trial.
According to court documents, Butler was a real estate investor who borrowed funds to buy distressed properties, intending to refurbish and “flip” them for a profit. When his business began to fail, in an effort to stave off his creditors, Butler manufactured and mailed four fraudulent checks to his creditors. The checks totaled over $250,000 and were purportedly payable by the United States Treasury. Throughout the proceedings, Butler asserted various defenses associated with the so-called “Sovereign Citizen” movement, including denying that the court had jurisdiction over his case.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
Palm Coast Man Sentenced for Possession and Transfer of Glock Auto SwitchesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Robert Miguel Castillo (45, Palm Coast) to three years and four months in federal prison for possession and transfer of machine guns. Castillo had pleaded guilty on August 6, 2018.
According to court documents, Castillo sold 10 Glock auto switches to a co-conspirator, Chad Howard Talbot, who then resold the switches to a convicted felon. Glock auto switches are a firearm accessory designed to convert a Glock handgun from semi-automatic to automatic fire.
Talbot previously pleaded guilty for his role in this case. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 14, 2018.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Bayliss, on assignment from the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, ICE.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Former Middle School Teacher Sentenced to More Than 21 Years After Traveling from Dubai to Florida to Have Sex with ChildRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich today sentenced William Brinson Ball (40, Dubai) to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor for sex and transporting child pornography. The Court also ordered Ball to forfeit an iPhone and $5,000, which were used in the commission of the offenses.
Ball had pleaded guilty on April 30, 2018.
According to court documents, between January and February 14, 2018, Ball communicated with an undercover Homeland Security Investigations agent posing as the father of a seven-year-old girl. During those communications, Ball sent child-pornographic videos, described the sexual encounter that he wanted to have with the “child,” and arranged to travel from Dubai to Tampa for the purpose of sexually abusing the seven-year-old “child.” After negotiating a price, Ball paid the undercover agent $5,000 to have a sexual encounter with the “child.”
Ball arrived in Orlando on Valentine’s Day, rented a car, and drove to the meeting location in Tampa. Upon his arrest, agents seized from Ball’s belongings, a stuffed animal that Ball had purchased for the child, various lubricants, sexual devices, and condoms. A forensic analysis of Ball’s cellular phone revealed that Ball possessed over 500 child-pornographic images and videos, the majority of which depicted violent, sadistic, or masochistic conduct.
Although Ball is an American citizen, he resided in Dubai, Qatar, and Japan, where he worked as a middle school music teacher.
“This child predator, who was also a teacher overseas, traveled to our community intending to have sex with a seven-year-old,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero. “Instead, our HSI special agents stopped him in his tracks, and now he will be held accountable.”
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions Recognizes Department Employees and Others for Their Service at 66th Annual Attorney General AwardsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Attorney General Jeff Sessions recognized 244 department employees for their distinguished public service yesterday at the 66th Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony. Thirty-six other individuals outside of the department were also honored for their work. This annual ceremony recognizes employees and other individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, leadership, and service to the Department of Justice and the American people. This year’s award includes an award for exceptional heroism to U.S. Marshal Senior Inspector Basilio S. Perez, Jr., for his courageous actions to protect and aid victims of the October 1, 2017, mass shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Service in the Department of Justice is more than a normal job; it is a calling to the highest standards of professionalism,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “That is true for all of the 115,000 Department of Justice employees. But it is especially true for these award winners. And so I want to thank them and their families for their exemplary service to this Department and to the American people. They have made this Department proud.”
“I am really proud of Anita Cream for her outstanding contributions to our Office and the Department,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez.
This year’s program honors individuals across the department and our federal, state, local, and tribal partners for their self-less efforts, protecting our national security and our civil rights, addressing rising violent crime in our communities, going after gangs and those trafficking in dangerous narcotics and human beings. The awards also honor the work of civil and environmental litigation, which enforces the rule of law and upholds our Constitution. They also recognize employees whose ideas and efforts save taxpayer dollars and help our government operate more effectively and efficiently, among other contributions to public safety and good governance.
In the Middle District of Florida, Asset Forfeiture Chief Anita Cream was recognized for the oral and written guidance she provided in response to the Supreme Court’s opinion in Honeycutt v. United States of America. Her involvement substantially helped prosecutors understand how to pursue criminal forfeiture in light of the Court’s ruling in the case, which reversed decades of criminal forfeiture practice.
Jacksonville Man Charged with FEMA Fraud Involving Tropical Storm Debby, Hurricanes Matthew and IrmaRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Lepoleon Spikes (46, Jacksonville) with five counts of wire fraud involving fraudulent disaster assistance applications made to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Spikes faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The indictment also notifies Spikes that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of $57,689.19, the proceeds of the alleged wire fraud.
Spikes was arrested earlier today and made his initial appearance in federal court. His trial is set for December 3, 2018.
According to the
indictment , in 2012, after Tropical Storm Debby, Spikes applied to FEMA for disaster assistance. In his application, he falsely claimed that he needed rental assistance because of damage to his home caused by Tropical Storm Debby. This false application resulted in Spikes receiving $24,870.38 in disaster assistance from FEMA. After Hurricane Matthew in 2016, Spikes again applied to FEMA for disaster assistance. He falsely claimed damage to his residence and requested rental assistance. This false application resulted in Spikes receiving $12,016.11 in disaster assistance from FEMA. In 2017, Spikes applied for disaster assistance from FEMA, stating that Hurricane Irma damaged his home. He falsely claimed that he needed rental assistance. This false application resulted in him receiving $20,802.70 in disaster assistance.An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.